Hemma is a Scandinavian word for home—and that’s exactly how this space feels. Welcome to The Sleeping Bear Hemma, a thoughtfully designed, Scandinavian-inspired retreat tucked into the peaceful woods of Empire, right in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
This brand-new construction home blends clean Nordic design with modern comfort, creating a calm, cozy atmosphere surrounded by nature. Despite its serene, wooded setting, the home is centrally located—perfect for exploring beaches, trails, dunes, and charming nearby towns.
Spend your days adventuring through Sleeping Bear Dunes, hiking, biking, or enjoying Lake Michigan, then return to The Hemma to relax and unwind in the quiet of the forest. With abundant amenities, a tranquil setting, and an inviting, home-like feel, this unique space is designed to help you slow down, recharge, and truly feel at home.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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Check-in 4:00 PM, Check-out 10:00 AM, $100/hr charge for late check-out, max occupancy is 8 adults or 9 with children, only registered guests allowed
Only park in the driveway or garage, no hunting or discharging firearms, no fireworks, no smoking/vaping inside
No pets, sauna use at own risk, do not tamper with exterior security cameras
Important information
You need to know
Property # 5070447vb
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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: ABSOLUTELY NO PARTIES OR EVENTS!
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 and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Empire
Empire is home to this holiday home. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Lake Michigan. Burnett Park and Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum are also worth visiting. Kayaking and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and cycling nearby.
Philip A. Hart Visitor Center - 8 min drive - 10.5 km
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - 9 min drive - 10.9 km
Little Glen Lake - 10 min drive - 11.1 km
Empire Bluff Trail - 12 min drive - 12.7 km
Getting around
Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 40 min drive
Restaurants
Pegtown Station - 13 min drive
Art's Tavern - 16 min drive
Cherry Republic - 16 min drive
La Becasse - 10 min drive
Broomstack Kitchen And Taphouse - 13 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is The Sleeping Bear Hemma pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at The Sleeping Bear Hemma?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Sleeping Bear Hemma?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Sleeping Bear Hemma?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is The Sleeping Bear Hemma located?
Situated in Empire, this holiday home is within 6 miles (10 km) of Glen Lake, Garey Lake and Polack Lake. Philip A. Hart Visitor Center and Little Glen 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.
We really enjoyed our stay at Sleeping Bear Hemma! The house is beautiful, comfortable, clean and it had everything we needed. The sauna and heated floors were awesome during a cold winter weekend!
Jenny D.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Erica H.
3 Feb 2026
Cozy Modern/Scandinavian Getaway
We went up as two families, eager to be close to some skiing and peacefulness. This place exceeded our expectations. From the lovely view, peaceful surroundings, and amazing amenities, we found ourselves able to relax and connect. Some of our favorite things about this place was the winter-wonderland view from the main room, the radiant heating in the floor, the kitchen supplies, and the design of the house (bedrooms and bathroom off of the main hallway and the living room/space/kitchen at the end. The garage could easily fit a truck and a SUV with a topper as well which was nice in the winter. All in all, while we were here in the winter, we could all easily imagine it being just as lovely in the summer and look forward to staying here again!
Erica H.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Kurt H.
15 Mar 2026
Very cozy and very inviting
It was a very cozy place very inviting felt like home to us. We really enjoyed our stay for our honeymoon. Thank you for a great experience
Kurt H.
About the host
Your host
We are Jill and Eric Hune. We live in Rockford, MI with our 2 kids. Eric is into building and mountain biking. Jill is into home design and early morning workouts. We fell in love with the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore many years ago. We decided to take a risk and build a new home in Empire to share with our family and friends new and old.
Why they chose this property
First is the atmosphere...the home is nestled in a private development featuring large secluded wooded lots. The home sits on almost 3 acres with tons of wildlife, tall trees, and peace and quite. Next is location. We are 5 minutes to Empire Beach in downtown Empire, 10 minutes to Glen Abror, 30 minutes to both Traverse City and Crystal Mountain.
What makes this property unique
• True Scandinavian-Inspired Retreat – Hemma means “home,” and every detail reflects cozy Nordic design that feels warm, calming, and intentional. • Prime Location in Sleeping Bear Dunes – Stay right in the heart of the National Lakeshore with easy access to beaches, dunes, trails, and nearby towns. • Peacefully Secluded, Yet Central – Built in the quiet woods of Empire, offering privacy and nature without sacrificing convenience. • Brand-New Construction – Modern, clean, and thoughtfully designed with comfort and quality in mind. • Perfect Balance of Adventure & Relaxation – Explore all day, then unwind in total tranquility surrounded by trees and wildlife. • Amenity-Rich for a Stress-Free Stay – Fully equipped for short or extended stays so you can truly relax and feel at home. • Designed to Refresh & Reconnect – A space that encourages slowing down, unplugging, and enjoying nature—inside and out.