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Torch Lake Cottage • Screened-Porch • Historic Family Retreat • Walk to Alden

Photo gallery for Torch Lake Cottage • Screened-Porch • Historic Family Retreat • Walk to Alden

Screened porch overlooking the lake — everyone’s favorite place to gather.
Notice person on standup paddle board on the lake - so peaceful
Lakeside fire pit for relaxed evenings, stories, and s’mores
Light-filled room with lake views — comfortable for gathering in any weather
Cottage at Golden Hour

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 91500 sq ft

Popular amenities

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

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 9)

East Bedroom

1 Single Bunk Bed

Living Room

1 Double Futon

Master bedroom - south west corner

1 Queen Bed

Northeast Bedroom

2 Single Beds

Northwest Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Torch Lake Cottage • Screened-Porch • Historic Family Retreat • Walk to Alden

This is a true Northern Michigan family cottage — built in the early 1900s and cared for by our family for generations. We offer it to a limited number of guests each season who are looking for a peaceful stay on the lake: morning coffee on the porch, long swims, shared meals, and time to settle into the rhythm of the water.

While the cottage retains its historic character, the bathrooms, kitchen, and major systems have been updated over time to ensure comfort for today’s families (one bathroom was redone in 2026). Additional improvements (including refinished wood floors and new pine walls and ceilings in several bedrooms renovated in 2025) — add comfort while preserving the cottage’s original character.

The heart of the cottage is the screened-in porch, open to the lake on three sides. It’s everyone’s favorite place to read, nap, watch Torch's famous “Caribbean blue” bands shift throughout the day, or sip an evening glass of wine as the sunset pours warm light across the water.

Inside, the large, light-filled living room with its stone fireplace is a comfortable gathering place for cooler evenings or rainy days. Bedrooms are cozy and simple, with classic cottage furnishings and antiques.

Outdoors, you’ll find a dock, firepit by the water, lakeside sun deck, and a second patio with grill near the kitchen. Sandy shallows extend out from the shoreline, and a mooring buoy is available for your boat (jet skis are not permitted, out of respect for neighbors and the quiet nature of the area).

The cottage sits among mature trees in a peaceful stretch of privately owned homes, yet the town of Alden — with restaurants, shops, playgrounds, and tennis courts — is just a 15-minute walk away.

This cottage is best suited for
- Families and multi-generation groups
- Guests who appreciate the charm of an older cottage
- Visitors looking for a quiet, residential setting
- Those planning to settle in and enjoy the lake for a full week in summer or a shorter stay in the quieter seasons.

It may not be the right fit if you’re looking for
- A party atmosphere
- A newly built or luxury property
- A high-turnover vacation setting

Because this is a family heirloom, we ask guests to treat the property, the lake, and our neighbors with care.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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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:
Strip any used beds
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Clean the grill thoroughly if you used it
Turn off any fans, heaters, or thermostats you used
Please notify us when you leave
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
No firearms
No jet skis allowed on the property (out of respect for our neighbors and the peaceful area)
Outside quiet hours: 11 PM – 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

About the area

Alden

Located in Alden, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Twisted Fish Gallery and Guntzviller's Spirit of the Woods Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Elk Rapids District Library and Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Cottages in AldenOpens in a new window
Map
Alden, MI

What's nearby

  • Torch Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Torch Lake Park - 4 min drive - 4.3 km
  • Traverse City Beach - 36 min drive - 42.9 km
  • Front Street - 43 min drive - 48.0 km
  • Boyne Mountain - 45 min drive - 68.2 km

Getting around

  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 41 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Oasis Tavern - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Shanty Creek Resorts - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Dockside - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪Blue Water Bistro & Pizzeria - Torch Lake Pizza - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Torch Lake Cottage • Screened-Porch • Historic Family Retreat • Walk to Alden pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Torch Lake Cottage • Screened-Porch • Historic Family Retreat • Walk to Alden?

As of 17 Mar, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Torch Lake Cottage • Screened-Porch • Historic Family Retreat • Walk to Alden on 24 May, 2026 start from S$794, 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 Cottage • Screened-Porch • Historic Family Retreat • Walk to Alden?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Torch Lake Cottage • Screened-Porch • Historic Family Retreat • Walk to Alden?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Torch Lake Cottage • Screened-Porch • Historic Family Retreat • Walk to Alden?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Torch Lake Cottage • Screened-Porch • Historic Family Retreat • Walk to Alden located?

Situated in Alden, this golf cottage is 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Torch Lake and 1.9 mi (3 km) from Torch Lake Park. Grass River Natural Area and Clam River are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.4

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. 9 out of 13 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 13 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 13 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 13 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 13 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

8/10 Good

Nina N.

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

Cute little place with inviting sun porch. Kitchen was well equipped

Owner was very responsive to requests my renters.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Micky A.

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

Torch lake-Alden rental

Charming cottage within walking distance of Alden Michigan. The place was VERY clean and the kitchen well stocked with all needed utensils and kitchen items!! Bathrooms VERY clean as well and plenty of sitting areas for guests. We had 2 nights with 11 guests and everyone had a bed and extra bedding was provided! Great dock with ample deck chairs and a mooring buoy which held our 24’ master craft boat all week long!
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carly S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We were booked to stay in this cottage, however due to a maintenance issue, Nan reached out a couple of days before and offered us their other cabin, located right next door. She and her family offered to move so that we could stay there and not be disturbed by the maintenance workers. So while I cannot speak to this cabin, I can say that Nan was an excellent host and her property was clean, well-stocked and lovely. Would happily rent either cabin from her again.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

janet p.

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

Beautiful views

We enjoyed our stay at this cozy cottage on Torch Lake. The location was perfect as we spent most days on the water. The cottage was well appointed and comfortable. The views were amazing. Communication with owner was quick and friendly. We would return.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Marie L.

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

Torch Lake Garden Cottage

Our first VRBO get away with family. Enjoyed the large family room inside and the attached outdoor sunroom where we could enjoy seeing the lake and watch the sunrise and sunset. We enjoyed our stay, however the bedrooms and bathrooms had a few bug webs on lights and in wall corners, so just not quite as clean as I hoped it would be. Owner is very nice to work with.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Judi S.

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

Gardner cottage

We enjoyed our week @ TL immensely. The Gardner cottage has a superb location--steps to the beach and a pleasant walk to Alden. We enjoyed good weather for the most part, tho a bit cooler this year. It was just the two of us this time--no problem settling in. You have thought of everything to supply the Gardner Cottage --such a treat to use the French china! Thanks so very much for your graciousness.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda S.

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

Windows windows and more windows

Wonderful stay in a Torch Lake cabin that was so much more than anticipated. Hidden away off the main road , every room had lake views from big windows, sitting standing or laying down you could see the lake. spacious rooms bigger than expected The porch was THE place to be. Windows galore, with unobstructed views, and great seating or you could be outside on the water deck lounging in chairs. I had planned to visit lots of local lakes , I did very little because I had all I needed right here . Kayaked or walked to lovely Alden village , total relaxation, with a bonus of nighty sunsets. An extra was that it was not like a property bought just to rent, they obviously stay here and leave everything they need , for guests to use , from books, spices, printers , lots of cookware, kayak and more . Very responsive to my questions about restaurants in the area. I like adventures and don’t usually go to the same place twice ,I would come back to this cabin for sure and already looking at availability for next year. this would be an excellent location for a company retreat renting this home along with the property next door.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jo G.

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

location

Beautiful location with amazing sun sets. The home was well stocked with everything you could possibly need. The property manager was very accommodating and wonderful to work with.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Todd E.

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

Perfect sunsets, unbelievably close to the water

I have spent summer vacations at Torch my whole life and have never been so close to the lake. The water is great, with the normal rocky shore quickly becoming almost purely sandy swimming area, sloping slowly deeper far beyond the buoy. We saw loons every night at sunset and had wonderful deck and grassy areas to view them while talking. The weather was great while we were there and we were able to keep the windows open most of the time to enjoy the sounds of the lake. While there are neighbors, it was mostly secluded and all interactions were positive. The cabin is well equipped and it was easy for everyone to get in and out and relax. Definitely a great experience! The owners were very responsive and great to work with, without being intrusive. Highly recommend staying with them if you have the chance.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aaron P.

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

Great time

I think everyone in our group really enjoyed the cottage feel. The location is secluded and hidden away which makes it feel like your in the middle of a forest. Plenty of room for 11 people. We had 2 rainy days which was unfortunate but the size of the living room table and the awesome front porch was perfect for playing cards and games with the kids. The firepit was great for a couple chilly nights. But the best of all is being on the water. You can touch 100-200 yds out from the shore. The dock seems a little flimsy in spots but that would be the only minor complaint. The proximity to Alden, Dockside and Butches Tackle and Marine was convenient as well. Overall, we would definitely return and was a great family vacation spot for our group of 11. The owners are quick to respond if you need to reach them for any reason.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Richard M.

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

family cottage week

We had a great time at this property. Loved the location close to bottom of lake sand bar and not far from Clam lake to water ski. We enjoyed gathering in the family room area and seating was ample at the large kitchen table. The beds were comfortable and kitchen was well equipped.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

tim c.

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

excellent location

beautiful property
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shelley L.

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

Beautiful views

Property was right on the lake with beautiful views. Home was very well stocked with everything you need. We only needed to buy our groceries. Owner was very helpful and responsive when we needed her. Highly recommend this home for staying on Torch Lake. We were a group of 9 people and the house accommodated us quite comfortably.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by Nan Reed Twiss

Host profile image
My great grandparents, the Gardners, bought this property back in the eighteen hundreds, and it's been the beloved summer home to generations of my family. Although my grandmother's brother sold this cottage to the Comfort family in 1925, we are delighted to bring the cottage back into the family. We still own my grandmother's cottage next door, and even though I've lived on both coasts of the US, in Europe and in Asia, I've never missed a summer on Torch. It is without a doubt my happy place.

Although I can no longer spend every summer on the lake as I did as a child, our family of five treasures the three weeks we save for ourselves. Scared though I was to share the cottage with strangers, so far, renters have treated the place beautifully.

Why they chose this property

I was lucky enough to inherit the gem next door and couldn't resist bringing the Comfort Cottage back into the family. Torch Lake is an extraordinarily beautiful lake, more beautiful than any I've ever seen. The colors are like the Caribbean, and the water is so clear you can see the bottom all the way out to the drop-off. The sandy bottom makes it especially beautiful. The area is so peaceful if it's peace you're looking for... and yet, if you want activity, you don't have to go far at all for inland entertainment. There are lots of artist's towns nearby, nice shops, some great restaurants, golfing, hiking...and the town of Alden is a brief walk away.

What makes this property unique

The cottage is right on the water, so we sleep to the sound of waves lapping the shore. We watch the sunsets from our porch or patio that look out over the water. The swimming is great for children since it stays shallow for a long way. We love to swim, sail, walk or bike into town. There's so much to do in the area, but honestly, we're so happy at the cottage and on the lake, we generally just stay there.
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