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Enjoy peacefulness & nature in our pet friendly cottage along the St. Joe River.

Photo gallery for Enjoy peacefulness & nature in our pet friendly cottage along the St. Joe River.

Open field at the end of the trail to the river. Bring your watercraft!
Yard fire pit with river view
Trail from the cottage to the river.
Private Road to Cottage.
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washer/dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Sodus, MI
  • Place, Lake Michigan College
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Andrews University
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, 12 Corners Vineyards
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Airport, South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.)
    ‪31 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Enjoy peacefulness & nature in our pet friendly cottage along the St. Joe River.

This two bedroom home with central AC and clean, sanitized, comfortable accommodations is under 2 hours from Chicago. On the St Joe River, this wooded setting on 10+ acres is great for a relaxing retreat or fun with friends and family. The 1000 ft. of river front is easily accessed from a nature walking trail through the wooded property or enjoy the view from the screened porch. Bring your fishing poles, tubes or Kayaks. 15 minutes to downtown St. Joe, award-winning Silver Beach, and Harbor Shores Golf Club and many other fun distractions. The Cottage sleeps 4 with one queen and one full bed. Fresh linens and towels are provided.

This cottage is a real charmer. The setting feels remote, but you will have easy access to shopping, downtown St. Joe and the Arts District in Benton Harbor. Awesome beaches, antiquing, winery tours, breweries, restaurants, barn sales, ad golfing are all close by.

Some of the best activities are on the property: fishing is right at your doorstep, hiking through the forest, a ball game in the open field, building a cool fort, hanging out in the storybook playhouse (see photos) or simply wading in the plastic kiddie's pool. Great spot to enjoy a good book, play board games, cook a nice meal or just enjoy a campfire.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

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

Pets allowed: limit 2 total

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number C18000035646
Property # 756698vb
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 first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Benton Harbor

Located in Benton Harbor, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and Silver Beach. Box Factory for the Arts and FuzzyButz Pet Bakery are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and water tubing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hunting and horse riding.
View more Cottages in Benton HarborOpens in a new window
Map
Sodus, MI

What's nearby

  • Lake Michigan College - 5 min drive - 6.7 km
  • Andrews University - 8 min drive - 14.8 km
  • 12 Corners Vineyards - 9 min drive - 13.0 km
  • Grand Mere State Park - 9 min drive - 16.9 km
  • Silver Beach - 11 min drive - 13.4 km

Getting around

  • St. Joseph-Benton Harbor Station - 12 min drive
  • South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.) - 35 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Chick-Fil-A - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Good Fortune Restaurant - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Grand Crossing Bar & Grill - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪La Perla Produce - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Enjoy peacefulness & nature in our pet friendly cottage along the St. Joe River. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total).

How much is parking at Enjoy peacefulness & nature in our pet friendly cottage along the St. Joe River.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Enjoy peacefulness & nature in our pet friendly cottage along the St. Joe River.?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Enjoy peacefulness & nature in our pet friendly cottage along the St. Joe River.?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Enjoy peacefulness & nature in our pet friendly cottage along the St. Joe River. located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within 6 miles (10 km) of Intercare Community Health Network, Lake Michigan College and Corewell Health Lakeland Hospitals St. Joseph Hospital. Harbor Shores Golf Club and St. Joseph Dog Park 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.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 98 out of 103 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 103 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 103 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 103 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 103 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maria C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic property! Great amenities, and super close to St. Joseph
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

JOEL F.

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

Clean, modern, convenient

Great location to travel to local tourist spots
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a very nice stay. The house was very clean and well appointed. It had everything we needed. The hosts were very helpful and quick to respond to our questions. The location is great, close to everything and there are lots of activities in the area. Would definitely consider staying here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anne C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great time. Our hosts were phenomenal. Thanks for letting us stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey W.

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

Loved it!

Great house in a great location. Feels secluded, but is close by anything you need. Would definitely book again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alise W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had such a great girls trip because of our place! The owners were super communicative and gave us great details on what to expect. The place was clean and had great features! We loved being off the beaten path but still close to St. Joseph & Benton Harbor. If we ever come back, we know where we’re staying.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diane Q.

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

Warm Welcome

This is a great place to stay with your pup. From dog treats and toys to shampoo, towels and an outdoor shower you both will feel right at home!
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn Q.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute cottage in the woods, with views of and access to the river. Great screened porch for viewing birds and enjoying quiet time. Lots to do in the area. Nice public parks and beaches in St. Joe/Benton Harbor.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brenna S.

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

Fabulous Cottage

Beautiful cottage, Nice area to relax but still close to the beach and shops. The trail to the river was great Wonderful vacation spot!.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Evan J.

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

Quick getaway

We had an absolutely wonderful time! While the town seems kind of busy, this property was far enough away and secluded that you didn’t even notice. Very quiet very peaceful… We slept better here than we do at home! Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amber R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had such a wonderful stay at this cottage for our anniversary! It’s tucked away in a quiet, wooded setting right on the St. Joe River, so it felt peaceful and relaxing but was still close to downtown St. Joe, so we could enjoy the restaurants and Silver Beach. The cottage was super clean, comfortable, and had everything we needed. We cooked a few meals and really enjoyed slowing down. Our two dogs had the best time splashing and swimming in the river. Such a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy time together—we can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brandon Z.

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

Beach trip

The house was very nice and clean. They had everything you needed just incase you forgot anything. The property is nice and secluded. It was also located within a 1/2 hour from restaurants and beaches. It was also nice that we were able to bring our dog.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jen D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property. The owners are very quick to respond to anything you might need or problems. Very nice peopleThank you again
Picture of us in front of the rental.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Holly R.

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

Great get away

Loved the place. Close to beach but felt like you were in the woods. The playhouse was a big hit for our toddler.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ivanka S.

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

We had a wonderful stay

Everything was organized and clean when we arrived, the hosts were very gracious and available when needed. The location is nice and quiet and has some great views of both nature and wildlife. Thank you again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Doris M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The rest of my family couldn’t make it out there so I went alone. I felt safe, comfortable, cozy, and found the home had everything one could want. The outside was dreamy and full of trees. I was one with nature. The trail to the river was gorgeous as was the river!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mandy M.

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

Relaxing

This is a great property tucked away in the woods
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian M.

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

Low key fam vacation

Just what we wanted. Great location close to St. Joseph and ice cream
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Jeff H.

Great vacation cottage for St. Joseph / Lake Michigan visit

Cottage was well-equipped, clean, and had everything we needed for our visit. The location is convenient for St. Joseph / Lake Michigan beach and attractions, but also off the beaten path enough to be a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the town and lakefront on a busy summer weekend.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2023
Jeff, We appreciate your kind review and pointing out "the quiet retreat" from St. Joe and the beaches. They're great to visit, but it's nice to chill in peace and quiet at the end of the day. Thank you, Mike and Joe
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chanahl K.

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

Beautiful weekend get away

This property was beautiful and the walk down to to the river was perfect for our dogs to splash and enjoy themselves as well! The cottage was very clean and Mike and Joe supplied basically everything we needed for a comfortable stay. We would definitely come back and would recommend this place to anyone looking for a nice, peacuful get away!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2023
So glad you and your dogs enjoyed your visit. Please come back and tell your friends!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Magda M.

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

Lovely cottage

We spent three weeks at the cabin and enjoyed very much. The house is comfortable, the kitchen is well equipped and the surrounding area is beautiful. Loved our walks on the trail and seeing wild life! The location is convenient to shops, restaurants, St. Joseph and other attractions. Thank you for your hospitality!
Stayed 20 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tish M.

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

Beautiful and Serene

This was a perfectly laid out cottage. For it's size it was very spacious. The owners are great and were available to help with anything you may need. The house had everything you needed.Very close to town and to stores and restaurants. Beautiful property!
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Natalia F.

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

Nice place

This place is a really peaceful, lots of birds, deer family always around with a cute baby :). House clean and comfortable, outside area - wonderful, beautiful view. Not so far from Michigan lake beach around 15 min drive. Nice cafes .. I would definitely recommend this place 👍
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Sept, 2023
Thanks Natalia!! We hope you return!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stanley L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Although the website description of the cottage was very accurate, the description didn't adequately quantify or qualify the property surrounding the cottage. Nestled in nearly ten acres of fields, woods and gardens, the location was very peaceful, tranquil and relaxing.The cottage was extremely clean, and well-appointed, as advertised. The interactions with the hosts were friendly, helpful, and went way beyond our expectations. When we return to the area, we will try to get this gem of a home for our stay. (AI was NOT used for the making of this review!)
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Lovely Wooded Setting

This was a charming cottage, well stocked with all we needed and more. The owners were attentive and kind. We loved the retro vibe and it was newly updated. Very thoughtful touches such as a fire built and ready to light complete with smores makings. Great stay and hope to return.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

About the host

Hosted by Mike Hillgamyer

Host profile image

We moved here full time after retiring in 2014. We live in another home at the far end of the property, so we are here if you need anything, but far enough away to ensure your privacy. We love the beautiful and serene nature that the property offers and know that you will love it as well.

Why they chose this property

The main house was built in 1939 and we are its third owners. We first bought a home next door and got to know the previous owners over time. When they chose assisted living nearby, they offered to sell us this property which we so loved to visit. We were enthralled with the setting and how remote it felt while offering easy access to everything we need. We truly enjoy its proximity to Chicago where we visit family and friends often.

What makes this property unique

Secluded peace and quiet with loads of wildlife, comfortable central air and heat, clean and functional living spaces, large eat-in kitchen with plates, flatware, serving pieces, pot/pans and cooking utensils, washer/dryer, near a great many fun outdoor activities, attractions, shopping, local events and festivals, winery tours, farm stands and antiquing!

Languages:

English

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