Experience Madison & UW-Madison by staying in this ‘Coastal Living’ inspired lake front cottage. Downtown Madison and campus events are 15 minutes away, by car, Uber, or taxi. Fully licensed!
Relax on the wood deck that overlooks the lake, enjoy the large lawn, and go swimming, boating, fishing, or kayaking from the pier. Hiking and bike trails are practically right outside the back door. The new Lower Yahara River Trail is less than two blocks away; it connects McFarland to Madison and includes the longest boardwalk bridge constructed solely for non-motorized transportation in North America!
This beautiful, newly redesigned and rebuilt cottage on Lake Waubesa, in McFarland, Wisconsin is a 15 minute drive or Uber ride from downtown Madison, a 5 minute walk to restaurants, bars and shops in McFarland, and minutes away from the outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and other amazing activities Madison and the surrounding areas have to offer.
The living room, dining room, kitchen, first floor bedroom and the upstairs master bedroom have lake views and unparalleled sunsets.
Two first floor bedrooms, two contemporary bathrooms, a living room with TV, dining room with a large table for easy entertaining, and an entry mud room. The upstairs master bedroom has vintage wood beams and the best sunset views on Lake Waubesa. The charming, fully-equipped gourmet kitchen has white cupboards, granite counter tops, and is outfitted with stainless steel appliances that include a dishwasher. All rooms are very spacious.
Huge windows offer breathtaking views of the lake from almost every room. The illuminated Wisconsin State Capitol can be seen at night — along with other lights that twinkle around the lake.
This quintessential lake home — recently renovated by a renowned local interior designer —honors the aesthetics of lake living with vintage furnishings, nautical accessories, comfy furniture, and soft grey colors.
Boat owners are responsible for any damages to the dock. Pets are not allowed for any reason and can result in forfeiture of the entire deposit.
Also note that we are limited to six total guests; this includes overnights, parties and / or events at the property. This is controlled by village ordinance and limited by the owner for the comfort of all our guests. ANY LEASE VIOLATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO THE FORFEITURE OF THE ENTIRE DEPOSIT.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Place used sheets, towels on main bathroom floor.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please follow the check-out procedure as listed in the binder on the kitchen counter.
Violation of these rules will result in forfeiture of the security deposit.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 847785vb
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
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
About the area
McFarland
Located in McFarland, this cottage is near a water park and on the beach. Barrymore Theatre and Madison Museum of Contemporary Art are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Annie Stewart Memorial Fountain and Memorial Union Terrace. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Alliant Energy Center or Camp Randall Stadium. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, or try out other outdoor activities such as ice skating and sledging.
University of Wisconsin-Madison - 16 min drive - 15.6 km
Camp Randall Stadium - 17 min drive - 16.0 km
Getting around
Madison Station - 13 min drive
Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) - 19 min drive
Restaurants
Taco Bell - 6 min drive
McDonald's - 15 min walk
Arby's - 5 min drive
Dutch Mill Sports Club - 5 min drive
Parkside Pub - 2 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Madison & ~UW~-Madison Area Lakefront Home pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Madison & ~UW~-Madison Area Lakefront Home?
As of 17 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Madison & ~UW~-Madison Area Lakefront Home on 24 Jul 2026 start from £629, 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 Madison & ~UW~-Madison Area Lakefront Home?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Madison & ~UW~-Madison Area Lakefront Home?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Madison & ~UW~-Madison Area Lakefront Home?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Madison & ~UW~-Madison Area Lakefront Home located?
Nestled on the beach, this McFarland cottage is within 3 mi (5 km) of Lake Waubesa, Capital Springs State Recreation Area and Aldo Leopold Nature Center. McFarland Dog Park and Monona Dog Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Our stay at the lake house in McFarlan was absolutely wonderful. It was even better than the pictures, which is rare to say. The property was beautifully appointed, exceptionally clean, and thoughtfully designed with everything we needed for a comfortable and relaxing stay. The location was perfect — quiet, peaceful, and right on the lake, with the kind of setting that makes you slow down and truly enjoy where you are. It felt private, serene, and beautifully maintained. Honestly, the whole experience made me want a lakehouse just like it for myself.We would absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a beautiful, peaceful getaway.
What a lovely place to spend a few days with family! There was so much to do within a short distance but we loved being able to just chill on the water. We had a wonderful stay and can’t wait to visit again. Would highly recommend!
The cottage is a great location, hiking trail, restaurants and pubs in walking distance, and short drive to Madison. It is well-furnished, comfortable and is located on the water with great views. My friends and I would highly recommend this property.
What a lovely home with great design. We enjoyed 3 days of fishing, exploring Madison and relaxing on the back deck. Fantastic accommodations all around and especially amazing for my 2 year old who was spoiled with her own room, pack n play and loved running around the backyard.
We had a wonderful weekend here with family. A beautiful place to stay with gorgeous views of the lake. The house was super clean and felt like home. We cannot wait to go back again! Jennifer was amazing!
The property is fantastic! Great views of the lake and very close to a lot of outdoor activities. We enjoyed the house and views - would highly recommend staying at this property.
Tim L.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Oct 2020
Thanks so much for your wonderful review. We are so glad you enjoyed your stay and hope you will come and stay again.
Wonderful accommodations with beautiful view. Great open space and kitchen allowed us to prepare a full Thanksgiving dinner for the family. We appreciated the visit from the bald eagles too!
This house was ideal. Jennifer decorated it for Christmas and it was just perfect! The size, space, decorations and location were just want we wanted. I would highly recommend this spot.
We loved our three evenings at this lake house, watching wildlife and enjoying the sunsets over water. Very comfortable home and great location with proximity to park and boardwalk.
Lee E.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
About the host
Hosted by Jennifer
Locally renowned interior designer has long owned a 100-year old family home and cottage in the area.
Why they chose this property
- 2 hours from Chicago - 15 minutes from downtown Madison, the state capitol, UW campus, State Street, Camp Randall, the Farmer’s Market - 5 minutes away from the Village of McFarland — grocery stores, liquor stores, pharmacies, drug store, restaurants, and gas stations, etc. - less than 2 blocks from the new Lower Yahara River Trail, connecting McFarland to the Madison area's vast network of bike paths - Internet / wifi & NetFlix - California closets - Lake pier - Additional Street parking - No pets - Wheel chair accessible - Non-Smoking - Minimum Age Limit: 25 - Children welcome - Sleeps 6 Access to Madison by boat or bicycle. Wrought iron beds, wicker baskets, a twig bench, and retro light fixtures are a few of the authentic details.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests