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Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river

Photo gallery for Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river

Back of cottage patio area.
Front Of Cottage
Kitchen and Breakfast bar
Kitchen and breakfast bar
Bathroom

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 682.7 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer

Explore the area

View map
Traverse City, MI
  • Place, Forest Lakes
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Arbutus Lake
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Spider Lake
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪13 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

2 Single Bunk Beds

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

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

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river

East Bay Township Short Term Rental License Number: EBT-STR003162

Welcome to River Life Paradise, a cozy 2-bedroom, 1-bath cottage tucked into 18 acres of private forested land with 2,600+ feet of direct frontage on the Boardman River — just 10 miles from downtown Traverse City. Enjoy a relaxing getaway surrounded by nature with a year-round hot tub, outdoor patio, fire pit, hiking trails, and access to world-class fishing and paddling right outside your door.
Perfect for couples, families, or outdoor enthusiasts, this home offers the best of both worlds: peaceful seclusion and easy access to Northern Michigan’s top destinations.
🛏 Property Details:
2 bedrooms (sleeps up to 6)
1 full bathroom
Open floor plan with fully equipped kitchen
with washer & dryer on site.
Central heat and Mini Split A/C
High-speed WiFi + Internet TV (Hulu, Netflix, Amazon)
🌲 Outdoor Features:
Private hot tub (open all year)
Large patio overlooking the Boardman River
Bonfire pit, BBQ grill, and patio table
On-site hiking trail through peaceful woods
50 feet from the riverbank for swimming, paddling & fishing
🎣 Activities On-Site & Nearby:
Kayaking, tubing & canoeing (equipment available upon request)
Blue Ribbon trout fishing (Brown & Brook trout)
Swimming in the crystal-clear Boardman River
Bird watching, mushroom hunting & wildlife viewing
Access to ATV & snowmobile trails (1/4 mile away)
Just minutes from Brown Bridge Quiet Area hiking trails
Ranch Rudolph (horseback riding, snowmobile rentals & dining)
🐾 Pet Friendly
We welcome up to 2 dogs for a one-time $75 pet fee. With acres of trails and river access, your pets will love the stay as much as you do.
🧭 Explore the Traverse City Area
Located just 10 miles from your cottage door, Traverse City is one of Michigan’s most popular destinations, known for its natural beauty, food scene, and vibrant events. Make the most of your trip with these local activities:
🍷 Wineries & Breweries
Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail – scenic drive + award-winning tastings
Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail
Dozens of local craft breweries & cideries including Right Brain Brewery, The Workshop Brewing Company, and Hop Lot
🍽 Dining & Shopping
Local favorites: Trattoria Stella, The Cook’s House, and Boathouse Restaurant
Eclectic downtown with boutique shopping, art galleries, and live music
🏖 Beaches & Parks
Clinch Park Beach (downtown)
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – hike the dunes or take in the lake views
Traverse City State Park – sandy beach, picnicking, and paved trails
🎉 Events & Seasonal Activities
National Cherry Festival (July)
Traverse City Film Festival (summer)
Fall Color Tours on scenic M-22
Winter fun: snowshoeing, skiing at Crystal Mountain (40 mins), and ice fishing
⛳ Golf & Recreation
Championship golf courses nearby including The Bear at Grand Traverse Resort
Mountain biking, paddle boarding, sailing, and more
✅ Amenities:
Hot Tub
Full Kitchen w/ Dishwasher
Washer & Dryer
Central Air & Heat
High-Speed WiFi + Streaming TV
Patio + Fire Pit + BBQ Grill
Private Trails
Parking for Multiple Vehicles
Whether you're casting a line into the river, sipping wine along the peninsula, stargazing from the hot tub, or exploring the dunes and beaches of Lake Michigan, River Life Paradise is your gateway to a perfect Pure Michigan experience.
🗓 Book your stay today – dates fill quickly, especially in peak seasons!
Keywords: Traverse City, Boardman River, Cottage Rental, Hot Tub, Pet Friendly, Waterfront, Kayaking, Fishing, Hiking, Wine Tasting, Cherry Festival, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Northern Michigan Getaway, VRBO Michigan, Snowmobiling, Cabin River Life Paradise – Waterfront Cottage Near Traverse City with Hot Tub, Pet Friendly,

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Kids have a blast here!!
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Events

Events allowed
Please contact prior to booking!!
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Pets

Pets allowed
Please email or call owner to discuss your pets.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking inside any buidling will result in removal

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights
Clean all dishes, pots pans, and glasses and place back in cabinets where found
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

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
Parties and events are allowed on site
Note from host: Please contact prior to booking!!
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
Property Registration Number 2021-0011

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Traverse City

Located in Traverse City, this cottage is near a water park and on the waterfront. Shoppers can check out Front Street, while everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Michigan and Traverse City Beach. Centre Ice Arena and Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Cottages in Traverse CityOpens in a new window
Map
Traverse City, MI

What's nearby

  • Forest Lakes - 3 min drive - 2.6 km
  • Arbutus Lake - 3 min drive - 2.9 km
  • Spider Lake - 6 min drive - 7.2 km
  • Rennie Lake - 8 min drive - 9.0 km
  • Turtle Creek Stadium - 13 min drive - 13.1 km

Getting around

  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Culver's - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Burger King - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Samsara - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river?

As of 28 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river on 12 Apr 2026 start from AU$251, 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 Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is 2.2 mi (3.5 km) from Forest Lakes and 2.4 mi (3.9 km) from Arbutus Lake. Spider Lake and Rennie 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.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 224 out of 232 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 232 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 232 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 232 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 232 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alli V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is our third year staying here! We love it so much & the host is great. The cottage is so homey and we enjoy relaxing in the hot tub!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susie W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Easy to stay with easy contact and instruction. Beautiful spot!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashley M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved this property and location! Cozy, private and had everything we need! John was super accommodating as well. We will definitely be back if not for a long term rental in the future.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cassy P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was very helpful and welcoming. Cabin was absolutely amazing. Couldn’t have been a better girls getaway with my friends. Hot tub felt great with the chilly weather. Definitely will be back again in the future for another trip.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cathy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cottage is clean, comfy, and cozy! Highly recommend! Quiet and relaxing atmosphere.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent experience! Beautiful property. Super friendly & helpful hosts.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Monica K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay! The house was clean, the location was near many places (drive in, sleeping bear sand dunes, grocery, downtown tc) the backyard was nice & fenced in with the river a few feet away and the communication with management was great. It is on community shared property which turned out to be fine!We had a wonderful time!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

kim s.

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

Girls weekend

We had so much looking forward to staying here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Super easy check-in. All kitchen utilities included.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dennis S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Really nice two bedroom cottage just a few steps from the Boardman River. Comfortable sitting areas, both inside and out. Kitchen was fully equipped and functional. Main bedroom was nice sized and comfortable. We had a delightful time.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rick C.

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

Spring Break up North

Great place and Great stay. Very cozy.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lawrence G.

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

Very Positive Stay

We had a very positive experience staying at the cottage. John was so accommodating and an excellent host.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Caterina T.

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

Family Getaway

We had a great stay! The place was clean, hot tub was nice to relax in. The location was near by great restaurants and some public lakes we tried out. We will definitely be back in the summer time.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
John is very helpful and congenial. He is Avery kind person!
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandy H.

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

peaceful, dog-friendly river cottage

the cottage was beautifully updated and clean. Host attention to detail was impeccable (all supplies for both guests and dg were ample). We were grateful for the secure riverfront area for our dog. Host was extremely easy to access with questions.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a beautiful and comfortable property in an amazing area of Michigan! This cottage is exceptionally appointed, with premium linens, kitchenware, condiments and bathroom needs. Everything is provided and clearly marked for guest use. The property is well-kept and quiet, with easy backyard access to the Boardman River. John provided us with wonderful day trip and restaurant suggestions in the Leelanau Peninsula. Downtown Traverse City was a short 15 min.drive away and there were several grocery stores even closer. As many others have mentioned, the hot tub is not to be missed!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather D.

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

Christmas trip

We got a weekend away for our daughter and her future husband for Christmas. They loved it! Thank you.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barb K.

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

Great property! Right on the Boardman River

We spent a week at the property and loved it! It’s quiet, peaceful, fully stocked and 50 feet from the Boardman River. We took advantage of the hot tub every night. The bbq grill was great and the fire pit was a welcome feature. The Brown Bridge Quiet Area trails are only a few miles away. Beautiful place to hike.
Right on the river
Tall pines in front of cottage
Back of cottage
Flowers growing next to the river
Stayed 6 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katherine T.

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

Relaxing with great location

Wonderful relaxing property in a great location
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff G.

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

Great Weekend Getaway

Highly recommend! Great location, great house and great management. Perfect spot for a weekend recharge!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda O.

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

Family loved it

Great few days away
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katherine S.

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

Very satisfied

Clean and quiet and the owner was very responsive. Would stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Neva A.

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

Loved our stay

Pretty awesome property. Everything was immaculate and we all, including our dogs, enjoyed our time here
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jon Y.

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

Hope to come back!

We enjoyed our stay at the River Cottage. Very relaxing and the Hot Tub was great! Clean and good location.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kendra B.

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

Great place to celebrate a birthday!

Loved the river and enjoyed a cold dip! All the details were thought out, great place to stay and close to downtown!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024

About the host

Hosted by John Jury

Host profile image
John and Agnes have been married since 2002. John grew up in the suburbs of Chicago and Agnes is from Poland and Canada. They have an 11 year old boy. They are avid campers and love nature. They are onsite and there to help you with anything you may need during your stay. They are also very good at just allowing you to enjoy your time without interruptions. Your enjoyment is their utmost goal.

What makes this property unique

Private setting with lots of space and incredible view of the Boardman River. We will make sure your stay is enjoyable and memorable.

Languages:

English, French, Polish

Premier Host

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