Feirin De--a Magnificent Old Home on Lake Michigan

Our multi-family group enjoyed our stay there. We were there for 3 days and put each family unit into each bedroom, one family into the granny house. The pictures don't show it, but basically the granny house and main house are separated from each other by a garage and walkway, so not too far apart (but not close enough for all baby monitors - we tried!). There was a child booster seat and a pack n play in an upstairs closet, which turned out to be very helpful for babies! :) The overall property was clean but a little old - kind of like going to grandma's cottage. So not the most updated or new, but definitely great (except the kitchen was updated and beautiful, like the owners say).

Our group went into town once and to North Beach, which was FABULOUS for kids (playground, swings, very clean sand, lots of open space to run around -- but also pay $10 to park). We liked the fire pit out at the end of the property near the bluff, and the small play set was suitable for our little kids (some old swings and an old wood climbing structure, plus a small wooden bunk house that they liked playing in, too). The yard needed to be mowed, and the outside wasn't very well kept up, but the owners communicated that they were going to get to that for later this summer, so I hope they stuck to that for other guests who stay there!

First let me say that the owners were just delightful. Wonderful people! I rated this property 2 stars because of the pool - which was in fairly decent shape - brought the number of stars up from 1 (I'm told the pool is being redone this fall). Unfortunately, this rustic cottage appears to be a bit neglected. I don't think the cleaning crew is doing their job - many cobwebs and spiders all over the house inside. Had to spend a bit of time cleaning when we arrived. Bushes outside are overgrown. One of the porches was unusable and in need of repair. That said, if this cottage got a lot of TLC and some really deep cleaning , it could be a good rental in the future for some renters who are truly looking for a rustic experience with beautiful sunsets on Lake Michigan.

Situated on a bluff in South Haven, Michigan, this property affords a spectacular view of Lake Michigan with a nightly show of sunsets. While very close to downtown and grocery stores and restaurants, it is out of the way and generally very quiet (except for lawn-mowing day). This is a large lot with flat areas where lawn games like corn hole, croquet, or bocce ball work; and the younger kids can play Hide 'n Seek. Since we were on the "early" side for usual Michigan weather, we were happy for the well-maintained, heated pool. As it happened, the week was warm as were the beaches. Nearby there was charter fishing, kayaking, biking, surf -board rentals and, for golfers, golf. There are plenty of beds --enough for 19--but most rooms require sharing. The bathrooms served 16 of us well. We enjoyed the multiple tables for sharing meals or games; the CD collection and the good speakers; and the large TV which was equipped with a DVD player. There is a throw-back Video rental place in town. The kitchen is superbly supplied, We brought along some things, but found out we could have relied completely on what was there. The owners are easy to work with and very accommodating. There is a house phone currently available to use for making calls anywhere in the U.S. Cell coverage can be a bit spotty. There are many books, games, puzzles, and even craft supplies. Being the senior members of our group, we stayed in the newer Granny House which also had its own kitchen. There is a freezer in the garage too.

We loved the "homey" atmosphere---not all glass and granite and white carpets like some rentals flaunt. This was a place to relax, read, cook, gather. In short: be on vacation!

Ah, Feirin De!!! How we LOVE this house. My family has vacationed here for years and we absolutely can say there is no other home that suits us as well!

The large house and attached smaller "granny house" (for newlyweds or oldsters that want a little more quiet) are so family friendly it is like walking in to your own home.

When we arrive it's like visiting an old friend and all the beauty of the lake overcomes the hassles of every day life. We have seen other properties in South Haven, but none compare to Feirin De. The rooms are spacious and the dining room table seats at least 12! The front and back stairs take you back in time......reading the history of this house is fascinating. We often hope for a rainy day so we can sit on the screened porch and play board games, and lounge by the fireplace in the living room. With the new kitchen and new pergola on the deck, this VRBO is a place you will return to time and again.

My family drives 18 hours from Colorado once a year to be able to spend a week at this magnificent old home. It's THAT worth it! If you like waking up to the smell of coffee and the sound of laughter coming from the kitchen every morning, this place is for you. If you like cool breezes blowing gently while you relax on the porch, deep into a juicy book, this place is for you. If you like sitting pool side with a cold beverage while watching the kids play in the water (or taking a refreshing dip yourself!), this place is for you. If you like delicious meals shared among family and friends, all seated at the same big table, this place is for you. If you love sitting on the bluff, high above the Eastern shore of Lake Michigan, watching the sunset and reflecting on what a good life it is, THEN THIS PLACE IS FOR YOU!