Studley Cottage: Lake Michigan Waterfront Home for Generations

Studley Cottage

Welcome to Studley Cottage, a cherished lakeside home where generations have come together to relax, reconnect, and create lasting memories for over a century.

Nestled along the bluff in the historic Pier Cove community of Fennville, this beloved retreat offers the kind of peaceful, picturesque escape that’s become increasingly rare. From the moment you arrive, the views of Lake Michigan steal your breath and set the tone for a stay defined by natural beauty, quiet moments, and a sense of timeless charm.

Originally part of the summer neighborhood established in the late 1800s by renowned landscape architect O.C. Simonds, the cottage has been lovingly preserved and thoughtfully updated over the years. It was even featured in the 2007 Saugatuck-Douglas Heritage Festival & Home Tour. Today, it blends historic character with modern comfort in a way that feels effortless.

The main house is available year-round and features an open layout designed for gathering. In the cooler months, the seasonal wood-burning fireplace becomes the heart of the home, while in summer, the expansive deck invites long, lingering meals under the sky. Whether you're curled up on the sofa with a favorite book or watching a Lake Michigan sunset splash color across the water, the experience here is always centered around comfort, connection, and awe-inspiring views.

The kitchen, updated with stainless appliances, stone countertops, and an apron-front farmhouse sink, makes preparing meals feel like a joy rather than a chore. It flows into the dining area, where windows frame the lake and mealtime becomes a shared ritual of beauty and good company.

Just beyond is the main living area, with cozy seating and a warm, welcoming feel. An adjacent family room offers even more space to gather, relax, or simply sit and watch the water, with expansive windows that make it feel like you’re floating just above the shoreline.

From the main living spaces, step outside to the large deck, which includes both covered and open-air areas with views you won’t soon forget. There’s even a more private, covered porch on the north side of the home for quiet morning coffees or evening conversation.

Upstairs, the primary bedroom is a peaceful sanctuary, complete with a king bed, full lake views, and an ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower. Three additional bedrooms – two with queen beds and one with a twin – share another updated full bathroom with a shower and tub combination. Each room has been thoughtfully arranged with restful simplicity in mind, allowing the natural surroundings and the lake breeze to take center stage.

The lower level of the main house, accessible only by going outside and down a set of exterior stairs, provides a perfect getaway space for anyone who enjoys a bit more privacy. It includes a large open room with a king bed, futon, TV area, and its own updated bathroom with walk-in shower, plus access to a laundry room and a convenient outdoor shower available during the summer months. Even this lower level maintains a connection to the lake, with windows that offer glimpses of the water and allow in the natural light.

In the summer months, the historic carriage house opens to expand your accommodations, creating room for up to 14 guests total. This charming, detached space includes two bedrooms – one with a queen bed and kitchenette overlooking the lake, and another with twin beds – as well as a full bathroom with a shower. While the carriage house doesn’t have heat and is only available in warmer seasons, each bedroom is cooled with air conditioning and filled with simple comforts and nostalgia. It’s a special place to spend a quiet morning, watch the sunset, or listen to the waves with the windows open.

The outdoor experience at Studley Cottage is just as memorable as the indoor one. With private stairs down to your own sandy beach, and a small landing partway down where you can pause, sit, and take in the panoramic views, it’s easy to see why this stretch of shoreline is so coveted.

Located just minutes from Pier Cove Beach and a short drive from Fennville, Saugatuck, Douglas, Glenn, and South Haven, you’ll have easy access to an abundance of small-town charm. Spend your days exploring local wineries, tasting craft brews, browsing art galleries and antique shops, catching a show at the theater, or hiking one of the many nearby trails. Or simply stay in and let the lake be your entertainment.

With Smart TVs for streaming, wireless internet to keep you connected, and all the comforts of home, Studley Cottage is more than just a vacation rental. It’s a place where families come together, where traditions are born, and where the simple joys of nature, water, and togetherness come to life.

Whether you’re visiting in the crisp, colorful days of fall, the snowy quiet of winter, or the long, golden days of summer, your time here is sure to be remembered – just as it has been for over 100 years.

Please Note
The two bedrooms and one bathroom above the garage do not have heating so they are closed during the winter. If you're looking to visit from November 1 - May 1, please see the listing for just the main house.
The lower level of the main house is only accessible by going outside. There is no interior access between the main and lower levels.
This home is nestled in a beautiful natural setting where wildlife and insects are part of the charm. Routine pest control services are in place to ensure the comfort of our guests, but on occasion, a curious critter may make its way inside, especially if doors are left open. If you notice any evidence of pests indoors, please notify our office promptly so we can address the situation.
This home is on a septic system. Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Flushing anything else can cause the system to back up, which is an unpleasant and costly issue. Guests may be held financially responsible for any damage or service calls resulting from improper use.
This home uses well water, which comes directly from the ground and is perfectly safe to drink. However, if you're used to city water, it may taste or smell different. Due to the high mineral content in our area, the water can sometimes leave an orange tint on white tubs, toilets, and linens washed at the home.

Studley Cottage
Waterfront on Lake Michigan
200 Feet of Beach Frontage
Private Stairs to the Beach
Located on Prestigious Lakeshore Drive
Amazing Full Water and Sunset Views
Spacious Deck with Outdoor Furniture
Brick Patio with Gas BBQ Grill
Sunroom Overlooking Lake Michigan
Smart TVs
Wireless Internet
Fully Equipped Updated Galley Kitchen
Dishwasher
Microwave
Coffee Maker
Toaster
Gas Range
Apron Front Sink
Stone Counters
Formal Dining Area
Additional Dining in Sunroom
Family Room / Bedroom on Lower Level
Laundry Room with Washer & Dryer
Off-Street Parking
Main House has Central Heat and Air Conditioning
Carriage House has Wall AC Units in Bedrooms
Beach Toys and Chairs Available

Main House Main Level
1 Half Bathroom

Main House Upper Level
Primary Bedroom (King)
Primary Ensuite (Shower)
3 Guest Bedrooms (Queen, Queen, Twin)
1 Full Guest Bathroom (Shower Tub Combo)

Main House Lower Level
Family Room / Bedroom (King, Futon)
1 Full Bathroom (Shower)

Carriage House
Front Bedroom (Queen) with Kitchenette & Lake Views
Back Bedroom (2 Twin) with Desk
1 Full Bathroom (Shower)