Entire home

Adult retreat with modern feel

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 41200 sq ft

Popular amenities

Dryer
Barbecue grill
Washer
Kitchen

Explore the area

Empire, MI

Philip A. Hart Visitor Center
‪6 min walk‬
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
‪8 min walk‬
Empire Bluff Trail
‪16 min walk‬
Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
‪47 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Garden

Dining area

About this property

Adult retreat with modern feel

Max. occupancy is 4 people! The house rents Sat. to Sat. in June, July and August.
A Northern Getaway is a new house, decorated in a fresh decor! This house is well equipped and features a full kitchen and a dining table that seats four and a relaxing living room. An entry hall, half bath and laundry facilities round out the first floor level. Upstairs are two bedrooms with attached bathrooms each. The house is best suited for 4 adults or 2 adults with 2 children 15 or older as the house has no extra space to play or watch TV.
Bed linens, bath and kitchen towels will be provided.
Dish soap, dishwasher tabs, garbage bags and hand soap will be at the cottage. Please bring any toiletries to last you through your stay.
Paper towels, toilet paper will be supplied at the beginning of your stay to get you started.
Empire offers a great Lake Michigan beach with picnic tables and fire pits and another beach on South Bar Lake. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore invites you to explore the many trails and beaches and the new bicycle trail from Empire to Good Harbor Beach (E-Bikes are available for rent nearby). The beach is in walking distance (about a mile+) and the park headquarters are also nearby. The house has a deck with patio seating and a view into the nearby meadow.
Empire is in the center of it all- visit wineries, go kayaking, hiking or biking, enjoy the many beaches, go shopping in the many quaint villages nearby or take road trips through Leelanau County, Old Mission Peninsula or south of Empire (Frankfort, Point Betsie).
The house is accessed by stairs from the parking spot, there is a staircase in the house as well. Trailers of any kind can not be accommodated at the property.

Property manager

Martina Dorn

Premier Host

Languages

English, German

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washing machine

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

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Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning

House Rules

Check in after 5:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Adults only

The house is best suited for adults, max. 4 people

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

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 and remove leftover food and drinks

Turn off the lights and lock the doors

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

No more more than 4 adults; the house does not accommodate children or extra guests.

Booking Traveler MUST: -be part of the group staying in the property.

No bonfires on premises, quiet time 10:00 pm to 8 am

Important information

You need to know

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 are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances 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

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

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

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. Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum and Burnett Park are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

View more Holiday homes in Empire

Empire, MI

What's nearby

Philip A. Hart Visitor Center - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
Empire Bluff Trail - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive - 7 min drive - 7.2 km
Little Glen Lake - 9 min drive - 9.4 km

Getting around

Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 43 min drive

Restaurants

‪Shipwreck Cafe - ‬8 min walk
‪Joes Friendly Tavern - ‬11 min walk
‪Food For Thought - ‬7 min drive
‪Trattoria Funistrada - ‬13 min drive
‪Empire Village Pizza & Spirits - ‬10 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Adult retreat with modern feel pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Adult retreat with modern feel?

Check-in begins at 5:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Adult retreat with modern feel?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Adult retreat with modern feel located?

Situated in Empire, this holiday home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Philip A. Hart Visitor Center, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and Lake Michigan. Empire Bluff Trail is 1 mi (1.5 km) away.

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Daniel M.

8 Jul, 2025

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

Loved our stay

This is a perfect place for a getaway. Close to downtown and lake Michigan.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Vickie F.

16 Aug, 2025

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

The hosts were very friendly and attentive. It was very comfortable for two couples, each with private bath. Very clean and well appointed.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

David M.

23 Aug, 2025

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

Great location. Very well equipped house. We enjoyed seeing the deer around the house, very close.

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

wilma k.

9 Aug, 2025

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

Wonderful stay! Martina and Falk were the best hosts. The place was exactly as the pictures and description. Price was so much better than other rentals in the area. Had everything we needed.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael H.

4 Aug, 2025

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

The house was clean and had a wonderful views of the Sleeping Bear on one side and a forest on the other. The garden and outdoor sitting area were gorgeous and filled with native wildflowers. The hosts were proactively communicative and were friendly and welcoming when we arrived but not intrusive.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephen B.

30 Jul, 2025

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

Great home in an even greater location!good wifi which is great cause cell service is nonexistant in many parts up there.loved kitchen and living room.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patricia S.

14 Jul, 2025

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

Accommodations were comfortable, clean, & functional. Great location. We were in Empire to explore the area & nearby towns. Riding our rental e-bikes from Martina & Falk was the highlight. Perfect way to explore the area on a dedicated trail up to Glen Arbor & beyond!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Donna Y.

30 Jun, 2025

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

Perfect

We love the Empire area. The house is located near the beach and other attractions.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michal D.

26 Jul, 2025

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

Very clean house. Perfect for 2 couples. Great location. Martina and Falk are great hosts. They live next door, they are always available should you need assistance. They also have e-bike rental for those who would like to explore many trails originating in Empire. This house is also perfect for those who prefer to explore on foot with trails starting literally steps away. Empire has a very nice beach with boat launch providing access to Lake Michigan and South Bar Lake. The beach is very nice and clean. It is also perfect for watching sunsets and having a bonfire.

Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daniel M.

8 Jul, 2024

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

Great location in Empire

We've stayed here a few times and love it. Good location, a perfect host, and a nice place to stay for a week. We'll be back.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

David S.

28 Jun, 2024

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

great stay in Empire

the property was clean and roomy and the kitchen was well stocked. the owners are very accommodating, helpful and friendly.

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donna Y.

25 Jul, 2024

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

Excellent

Property was very clean and situated near everything we wanted to do.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sandy T.

19 Aug, 2024

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

Family Meetup

Loved our stay. Property is well kept with lots of amenities and centrally located to where we wanted to be. Instructions were clear and easy to follow. Would definitely stay again but would like to stay longer!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen M.

19 Jul, 2024

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

Great location

Extremely clean! Roomy! Great location for Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

DELBERT M.

21 Jun, 2022

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

Superb Stay

Great location AND host! Many amenities within walking distance. Host is cheerful, helpful, and all around awesome. We were totally delighted with our stay.

Stayed 17 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Daniel M., Berkley MI

10 Jul, 2023

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

Had a great stay!

Stayed here for a week and loved it! Perfect place for a getaway, Our host was awesome. She lived next door, and was accommodating and helpful. Great location on M22. Short walk to downtown Empire. Close to the dunes, beaches and walking trails.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cecile W.

25 Jul, 2023

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

We love Empire

The house is perfectly located for bike riding and going to see the sunset on the beach. Empire is a very sweet small town and we enjoyed our stay. The house is very clean, comfortable, and quiet.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sue T.

30 Jul, 2024

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

A great place

We really enjoyed our stay at this cottage. The house is very thoughtfully laid out. The place is immaculate. We didn’t prepare many meals at home, but the kitchen seemed well stocked. And it was so close to town and the beach. In the mornings, and in the evenings, we liked to sit out on the patio or sit in the Adirondack chairs near the wildflowers. It’s a beautiful and peaceful spot.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dianne W.

20 Aug, 2023

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

Location, location, location!

The house was lovely, and the kitchen was well out-fitted. The host was friendly and very helpful. We visit Leelanau often, but this was our first stay in Empire, and we loved it. Close to Sleeping Bear Dunes, the park visitor center, hiking trails, a Lake Michigan beach, and Platte River canoeing. It's a perfect location for visiting this area, and much quieter than towns further north.

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ronda G.

6 Aug, 2023

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

Clean home and great host

Very clean home with stairs to bedrooms. Bedrooms upstairs have window AC. Close to Empire Beach and Empire Bluff trail. Great communication with host.

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ben J.

6 Aug, 2023

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

Empire MI getaway

The rental was immaculate and comfortable, the hosts reside next-door and were friendly and responsive to any needs we had. The rental is walking distance to the Empire beach, a wonderful ice cream and chocolate shop, and the headquarters of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It also sits at the beginning of a very lengthy and scenic bike trail.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Anthony B.

26 Jul, 2023

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

Empire stay

The owner was very strict about who stays in the house. It could have easily accommodated the addition of my 2 young Grandchildren, but she adamantly stated no when I asked if they could stay with us.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

David J.

28 Aug, 2024

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

Great Spot and Location for Sleeping Bear

We had a great stay at this location in Empire, which is a short drive from all major locations for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Empire is very quiet and everything closes early, but Glen Arbor has a few places to eat and drink and is a 12 minute drive. The cottage is big and can accommodate a small family of 4-5 with no problems. The owner greeted us and gave us a quick walkthrough and then left us alone. However she is right next door and easy to reach if there is a question. She also provided a beach parking pass if you want to go to the local beach (not a part of Sleeping Bear), which was greatly appreciated. Two important notes. One is this is the only VRBO I've stayed at where I had to provide my own sheets and towels. We drove here so this was not a problem for us, but if you're flying here then you should know this. Second is you have to walk up a short flight of steep steps to get to the house. Again, not a problem for us but if you have mobility issues you should know before you book.

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sheryl Z.

10 Oct, 2023

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

Great place!

Great location! Clean, and roomy.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Betsey J., Phoenix

3 Sept, 2022

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

We love Empire

We visit Empire every year to see family and this was a nice place to stay. A little further from the beach/town than optimal - but a very short drive. Sparkling clean, comfortable beds, lots of space. First experience bringing our own towels and sheets - but with family nearby we were able to borrow most. Enjoyed the deer frequenting the back yard. Kitchen and grill adequate for home cooked meals. Host very responsive and friendly. Bottom line - we would stay here again.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022