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Torch Lake Waterfront Cottage - Your New Happy Place

Photo gallery for Torch Lake Waterfront Cottage - Your New Happy Place

Lakeside - view of cabin
Front yard looking west
Paddle boards, Kayaks, Canoe on storage rack
Fire Pit and wood supply
Fire Pit at dusk

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
5 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 102375 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Bellaire, MI
  • Place, Torch Lake
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Schuss Mountain
  • Place, Front Street
    ‪58 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪59 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Birch Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

Sailing Bunkroom

2 Single Bunk Beds

Trillium Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Woodland Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

First Floor Bathroom

Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Second Floor Bathroom

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Dining area

About this property

Torch Lake Waterfront Cottage - Your New Happy Place

Looking for an amazing place to spend your vacation this summer? We invite you to spend a restful week in Northern Michigan on the third most beautiful lake in the world at our newly updated, comfortable family cottage on the lakefront.

The first floor features a kitchen with all new appliances that has easy service from kitchen to dining area. The large family dining table easily accommodates 12 people for meals. The downstairs living/dining area has a stunning view of the lake with a window wall across the entire front of the house. You will love sitting at the table with your cup of coffee watching the lake every morning.

The spacious living room has a stunning rock fire place with plenty of comfortable seating and blankets. There’s a smart tv with Apple TV attached for those cool evenings or rainy days and a cupboard full of board games for those who have a competitive spirit. Attached off the dining area is a sun porch with a door that can be closed. Perfect for those days you have to do some remote work or if you just need a quiet place to sit and read.

The cottage has a spacious wrap around deck with furniture that is perfect for sitting and soaking in the sun and the view at all hours of the day. A hammock tucked under the trees overlooks the lake and is the best place for reading….or for taking a nap. An outdoor swing overlooks the dock and is a favorite place to sit and watch the sun go down while sipping on a glass of wine from a local winery. Your kids will love roasting marshmallows at the fire pit on chilly evenings.

The lake is literally 50 feet from the front deck; there you have access to a small waterfront beach, a large sandbox with sand toys for the kids, a canoe, and a couple of poke boats. There’s also a dock with a bench and a tie-out anchor for your boat. The swimming is unparalleled as is boating, sailing, skiing, and tubing with your own boat. There are boat rental places around the lake and a few public boat launches if you decide to bring your own.

Torch Lake is conveniently located close to Traverse City, Leelanau, Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes, Charlevoix, and Petoskey. There are several very good hiking trails close by and the options for different day trips are endless. If golfing is your hobby there are 10 world-class golf courses within close driving distance. The local breweries, wineries, and restaurants feature delicious and unique food and drink. You definitely won’t want to miss out on the fresh fruit that changes with the seasons from the surrounding nearby orchards.

Come experience the "Caribbean" of North America with a crystal clear lake and the best sunsets in Michigan. You'll be coming back for years to come.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Lake view

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
House is not child-proof: See below for details.
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Events

No events allowed
Need to subdue outside noise by 11:00PM
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
House is NOT child-proof: open electrical outlets, cleaning chemicals under all sinks, breakable objects w/i reach, many board games with small pieces
The property has a sloping drop off near the water and the lake itself has a gradual drop off. Please be aware with small children.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Need to subdue outside noise by 11:00PM
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number 31-6545478

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Bellaire

Located in Bellaire, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Short's Brewing Company and The Chief Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Torch Lake and Lake Michigan. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Cottages in BellaireOpens in a new window
Map
Bellaire, MI

What's nearby

  • Torch Lake - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Lake Bellaire - 8 min drive - 9.8 km
  • Boyne Mountain - 48 min drive - 53.6 km
  • Traverse City Beach - 51 min drive - 61.2 km
  • Front Street - 58 min drive - 66.3 km

Getting around

  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 47 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Short's Brewing Company - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪M88 Morning Grind - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Toonies Fish & Steakhouse - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Dockside - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Torch Lake Waterfront Cottage - Your New Happy Place pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Torch Lake Waterfront Cottage - Your New Happy Place?

As of 28 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Torch Lake Waterfront Cottage - Your New Happy Place on 14 Jun 2026 start from £744, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Torch Lake Waterfront Cottage - Your New Happy Place?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Torch Lake Waterfront Cottage - Your New Happy Place?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Torch Lake Waterfront Cottage - Your New Happy Place?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Torch Lake Waterfront Cottage - Your New Happy Place located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Torch Lake and within 6 miles (10 km) of Intermediate Lake and Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area Trailhead. Lake Bellaire and Clam Lake are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 10 out of 10 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 10 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
CarVer house is located in a nice area of Torch Lake, wooded and quiet. We appreciated all the provided "toys", and used the canoe, kayaks and paddle boards every day. Swimming access is good. We brought our sailboat, and it was easy to launch at a public access and tie onto the mooring buoy right in front of the dock at the house. Sailing was excellent! Everything was generously provided, lots of towels, papergoods, even firewood and lifejackets.Everything was clean, well stocked kitchen with new appliances, comfortable beds. Helpful and informative hosts. A great stay!
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gayle P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our multi-generational family (5 adults,4 children under the age of 5 enjoyed our stay. There was an abundance of sand toys and the sand area and water entry was great for the little guys. The kitchen and eating area were large and well supplied. The laundry ,coat room was great with the second refrigerator. The docking of our boat was easy. We loved the location on Torch Lake and highly recommend this home. The host was responsive to all questions.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is our 3rd year staying at CarVer house. We absolutely love our time at this peaceful cabin. This is the first year traveling with our new baby. It was so nice to have the travel crib available so we didn't need to bring one with us! The lake was beautiful and peaceful. It's a quick drive to Bellaire for restaurants and grocery store and to a couple farm stores, Royal Farms and Friske Farms for fresh produce and delicious PIES. We had a couple rainy days. The cabin had everything we needed as a group of 10 to keep busy on a rainy day from TV to games. If you're looking for a peaceful vacation away from the city, this is the place!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joseph S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our second year here. It was as much fun as the first year. I love the location and amenities. Great host.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richelle J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our family had an amazing time at this vacation rental! The house had everything that we needed to prepare meals, be on the lake, have a campfire, and play some family games. The owner was responsive and ensured we had what we needed. We would definitely recommend this place to anyone wanting to spend time on a beautiful lake and enjoy nature and quality family time.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle and Dave D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our second year staying at Carl’s cottage and it really is our new happy place! The house fits 4 adult couples very comfortably and there were so nice upgrades from last year. Great area, away from the more crowded areas on the south end of the lake, yet easily accessible to towns and restaurants. We enjoyed hiking on the trails nearby, which we had not done last year. Highly recommended this cottage!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Idyllic week at Torch Lake

We had an absolutely incredible time at the CarVer house! The cabin is nestled in the trees right on Torch Lake. We spent our days relaxing, swimming, or going out on one of the paddle boards, poke boats, or canoe. There was lots to do in the area with a scenic drive to Charlevoix or other towns around the lake, but we truly didn't need to leave the little paradise made at this home. The house and the low night light lake was the perfect location to view the Perseids meteor shower. We even got to see the Northern Lights one night and got a visit from a bald eagle. The location is also perfect to watch the sunset from the dock immediately to the west. The kitchen was well equipped to prep meals for 10. If you don't want to cook, there are great restaurants like Shorts or Dockside in Bellaire a quick drive away. And don't miss out on a pie from Friske Farms! The sink in every bedroom was so convenient for getting ready in the morning or for bed. If the weather turns to rain, it doesn't stay that way for long. The living room was there for the respite with very comfy furniture and AppleTV for entertainment. It has only been a few days since we got back to the city and we can't wait to book another trip back!
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle and Dave D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent family vacation spot!

We were looking for a place for a family trip with my three adult children and their significant others, and this place was perfect! The property is a little secluded from the main road and between little towns, and this is exactly what we were looking for. There are neighboring cabins but not too close. The house was very clean and had plenty of sleeping room and public space for the eight of us. There is no air conditioning but there are so many windows that it was never an issue. Carl provided more necessities than any other place I've stayed in, including toilet paper, paper towels, dish detergent, towels, etc. He even let us use the firewood on the property! He was also very responsive with any questions we had. We rented a boat for a few days and were able to moor it to the buoy on the property without issue. We definitely would love to come back to this property!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joseph S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Dtay on Torch Lake!

Great place to stay. It had so many amenities. Plenty to do in the beautiful Torch Lake. Kitchen was well furnished and the new appliances were a nice surprise. Plenty of rom for the 10 of us to spread out, both inside and outside.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Definitely A Happy Place

We have rented in this area for over 50 years, and this house is one of the nicest. The house itself was very comfortable and nicely appointed with furniture and appliances. We were especially impressed with having a sink in every room, we've never seen that before, but it was a wonderful convenience. There was a lot of space for everyone to enjoy whatever activity they wanted, both inside and outside. They provided a lot of nice bath amenities, an abundance of fluffy towels, and plenty of kitchen supplies. We were a family of 7, but the beds can easily handle10. A floating raft and paddle boats were available for extra fun. Highly rated!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

About the host

Hosted by Carl Bertsche Jr.

Host profile image
CarVer Haus was built in 1983 and completely renovated in 2023. The cottage was originally built by Carl and Verna Bertsche. Carl Sr. started coming to Torch Lake on the train from Cincinnati, Ohio in 1928 when he was 7 years old. Four generations of the Bertsche Family have been vacationing on Torch Lake since 1928.

Our family has built wonderful memories here over the last century and we hope that your stay is the beginning of many wonderful memories for you and your family too.

What makes this property unique

CarVer Haus sits directly on Torch Lake with 100 feet of lakefront including a small beach and dock. If you're looking for a place to stay that is directly on the lake then this is the place for you.

Follow us on Instagram @carverhaus

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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