Entire home

Unique Private Island Home on Midwest Sport Lake with Pontoon Boat included!

Photo gallery for Unique Private Island Home on Midwest Sport Lake with Pontoon Boat included!

A covered outdoor seating area with wicker furniture and a view of a lake.
A bedroom with a stone wall, a bed with a gray duvet, a dresser, a mirror, and a window with a view of greenery.
A spacious kitchen with wooden flooring, a central island, and white cabinetry.
A living room with two black leather sofas, a wooden ceiling, stone walls, a kitchen area with a bar, and a dining table.
A kitchen with a large island, white cabinets, a stone wall, and a wooden ceiling.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
This vacation home offers space for 15 guests with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. It features lake views and a patio for outdoor enjoyment. Families can enjoy nearby activities like fishing, game walks, and motorboating, while attractions such as Bishop Island and Sylvan Lake await exploration.

Highlights

  • Beach equipment
    A rare find — beach equipment ready to go for your days by the sea.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Sylvan Lake
4 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 15

Popular amenities

  • Barbecue
  • Air-conditioning
  • Patio
  • Onsite parking available
  • Washing machine
  • Internet

Explore the area

View map
Rome City, IN
  • Place, Bishop Island
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Sylvan Lake
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Twin Island
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Airport, Goshen, IN (GSH-Goshen Municipal)
    ‪35 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 15)

Bedroom 2

1 Double Sofa Bed and 1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Queen Beds

Bedroom 4

2 Single Bunk Beds

Master

1 King Bed

3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bedroom 4 bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Main floor bathroom

Toilet

Master bedroom

Toilet · Shower only

Second floor hall bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Unique Private Island Home on Midwest Sport Lake with Pontoon Boat included!

Grape Island Getaway, locally known as Bishop Island, is a unique, private island with a beautiful stone home built in 1900. It is the perfect landing place for a family vacation. You and your guests will be the only ones on the 4.2 acre island! It truly is a PRIVATE ISLAND. It may only be accessed by boat. Due to the midwest winters, Grape Island Getaway is only available May through October each year.

Although the exterior maintains the 1900 charm, the interior is newly renovated and can comfortably sleep up to 15 people. Main floor has primary bedroom with ensuite, a gorgeous kitchen including: double ovens, an induction cooktop, and plenty of space to cook and hang out, a dining area, fireplace and living room with leather reclining couches. Upstairs you'll find three bedrooms, including a kids' bunk room with its own bathroom, and another bathroom. Internet is included as well.

Outside there are plenty of activities to keep everyone happily busy. The 669 acre lake has pristine water, and should you choose to rent the island, you will have full access to a pontoon boat for the duration of your stay (pontoon rental alone would be $200 a day!) With 2000 feet of shoreline, Grape Island Getaway has prime fishing - make sure to bring fishing poles to catch walleye, blue gill, crappie, and large mouth bass-perfect for a fish fry. Not into fishing? There is a great sandy shore for swimming or launching kayaks - three are included. You will not be disappointed with Grape Island Getaway!

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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
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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
Outside only

Important information

You need to know

Property # 1625354vb
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 and a first aid kit
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

About the area

Rome City

Located in Rome City, this holiday home is on a lake. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Chain O' Lakes State Park and Sylvan Lake, while Gene Stratton-Porter State Historic Site and Mid-America Windmill Museum are cultural highlights. Looking to get your feet wet? Power boating and fishing adventures can be found near the property.
View more Holiday homes in Rome CityOpens in a new window
Map
Rome City, IN

What's nearby

  • Bishop Island - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Sylvan Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Twin Island - 16 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Blue Gate Theater - 32 min drive - 43.8 km
  • Lake Wawasee - 37 min drive - 49.8 km

Getting around

  • Waterloo Station - 34 min drive
  • Goshen, IN (GSH-Goshen Municipal) - 35 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Twin Six Restaurant - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Jim's Pizza - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Scott's Fuel Center - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Unique Private Island Home on Midwest Sport Lake with Pontoon Boat included! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Unique Private Island Home on Midwest Sport Lake with Pontoon Boat included!?

As of 23 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Unique Private Island Home on Midwest Sport Lake with Pontoon Boat included! on 22 Oct 2026 start from AU$2,487, 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 Unique Private Island Home on Midwest Sport Lake with Pontoon Boat included!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Unique Private Island Home on Midwest Sport Lake with Pontoon Boat included!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Unique Private Island Home on Midwest Sport Lake with Pontoon Boat included!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Unique Private Island Home on Midwest Sport Lake with Pontoon Boat included! located?

This family-friendly Rome City holiday home is located on a lake, just steps away from Sylvan Lake and Bishop Island. Twin Island and The Way College of Biblical Research are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

9.6

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. 54 out of 66 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 11 out of 66 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 66 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 66 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 66 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful island home, very unique experience. Hope to return again in the near future.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful old historic home, great for big families and easy to use. Really nice kitchen, bedrooms and bathrooms. Loved the big enclosed porch area, lots of play room. Having the pontoon available made it extra special.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2026
Thank you for the kind review. We are happy to offer a home with history and space to make memories. We hope you come back again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
*
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our family had a great stay at this property! The house was clean and stocked with everything we needed. The kids had a fun time on the kayaks and fishing on the dock. The included pontoon boat was fun for cruising around the lake. It was a cool experience to be on our own private island!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2026
Your review is what we hoped for when we brought the house back to life :) Having this space to share with our families as well as our guests is truly special. I hope your memories are filled with relaxation and laughter. Please come stay with us again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was just as listed. We really enjoyed being the only people on the island and our trip was a unique, wonderful experience. There were many items provided (boat, kayaks, linens, towels, kitchen cookware, soap and shampoo, etc.) and the host was very quick to respond to all communication. We made some wonderful memories and would love to return!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2026
Thank you! We strive to think of all the things guests need as well as some they want. We are so glad your experience was pleasant and full of memories. We hope to see you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect place to get together with my friends and their families. The grownups thought the privacy and cool house were great. The kids say the boat was the best part. Will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2026
Thank you for sharing your family and friends with us. We would love to have you back!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved this house. The size and amenities were amazing. The kitchen was to die for. A little wonky on some of the fans and lighting. The pontoon provided is basic but gets the job done. It’s a hike from the water to the house but we had young kids that carried the loads for us. Communication was great. We would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2026
Thank you for sharing pictures! It looks like a great group! We are so happy you took advantage of the amenities and created fun memories. Please come back again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The early 1900 house on Bishop island was full of history mixed with modern convivences, The house porch was the biggest hit as we all gathered on the screened in porch to reminisce and share life stories with each other. All together we had 22 people show up for our miny 49th and 50th pledge classes reunion of Rochdale Co-op Purdue University. Thanks again
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2026
We are so glad you enjoyed your time together! The porch is a great space to gather. How cool that you are still in touch with so many people from that time in your life! We would love to have you back!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The home is beautiful and clean. Very spacious bedrooms. Lake views were amazing. Large and beautiful kitchen. Plenty of room for everyone. Screened in porch was very nice to sit on during the rainy days.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 29 May 2026
Thank you for the kind review. We take pride in our piece of heaven and would love to have you back anytime. Take care!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our family had a wonderful stay. The house was clean, comfortable, and beautifully maintained, with everything we needed for a relaxing vacation. The layout was spacious and even with 15 of us we didn’t feel cramped.The lake itself was one of the highlights of our trip. The fish were practically jumping on the kids hooks by the dock. Which made a great first time fishing experience for them. We also enjoyed the fire pit and making of smores of course! As others have mentioned, do be mindful of the poison ivy. I can tell they are working to get rid of it but that takes time and there is plenty of area that’s clear of it. The owner was great. From the booking process to check-out, Kristi was fast, easy and helpful in her responses to any questions.We couldn’t have asked for a better vacation spot and would gladly return in the future. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a relaxing lakeside getaway!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2026
Thank you for your kindness! We love the pictures! Looks like your group was able to make use of all the island has to offer and have a comfortable place to land at night. We would love to have you back!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a perfectly historic and beautiful get away.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2025
Thank you! We hope we've kept the history alive while also providing modern comfort.
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness
We booked the home for two nights, but upon arriving we immediately saw two live cockroaches in the home, and at least 15 dead throughout the upstairs bedrooms and hallways. We reached out to the owner who was quick to respond in stating that they were just wood roaches and came with the seasons changing. She offered to send a cleaner the following day, but we had young kids in our group and did not feel comfortable staying even a night so we found different accommodations. We did end up using the boat on the lake and were glad to have access to it. We requested a 50% refund considering we did not use the house at all, but ended up settling for a refund a little less than 1/3 of our cost. The concept is a great idea, the amenities are great, but there remains an issue of maintenance and pests.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 13 June 2026
Thank you for your feedback. We are sorry that the condition of the home did not meet your expectations. The insects observed were wood roaches, which are common in heavily wooded and waterfront environments and are different from household-infesting cockroaches. The property had been professionally treated prior to your arrival, and when you contacted us, we immediately offered to have our cleaning professional return to vacuum and re-clean the home. That offer was declined, as the decision had already been made to seek alternative lodging - without giving us the opportunity to rectify the problem. The home is professionally cleaned between guests, regularly maintained, and receives ongoing pest-control treatments. While we understand your concern, the presence of some insects is an unavoidable reality of a private island property surrounded by water, trees, and natural habitat. You were provided with early check-in, access to a private pontoon boat for two days, and full use of the property's amenities. Comparable boat rentals in the area typically cost between $400 and $800 per day alone. In addition, the rental includes exclusive access to a private 4-acre island, a swim beach, swim platform, kayaks, and the surrounding outdoor recreational areas. We value all guest feedback and remain committed to providing a unique and enjoyable island experience while continually improving the property for future visitors.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

family get away

although we were only 30 minutes from home it was a great place to stay and relax.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug 2022
Thank you! We think it is pretty relaxing, too. Have a great year!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Sylvan Cellars Concert Weekend

We had a great stay the 100 year old stone cottage, it had a really great kitchen and common area for our group. The Pontoon boat access over to The Bishop’s Island and the rest of the lake made our stay relaxing and peaceful. As an added bonus, we were just a couple minutes from the Sylvan Cellars Event center for a full weekend of fun. Highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 July 2025
Thank you for your thoughtful feedback! We enjoyed having you and hope to have you back next summer!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Yearly Lake Trip

Property was nice and spacious. Everything we needed was available.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Getaway

My family and I had a great time at this island lake house. The kitchen and living area is great. The kids loved the swimming area. Game nights on the porch overlooking the lake were perfect. The owner was very responsive.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 19 July 2021
Thank you! We hope you and your family had a chance to relax and reconnect. The porch is one our favorite places, too. Please tell others about us and come back when you can!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Island Trip

Our family had a great time on Grape Island. The accommodations were great and having access to a boat for the week was wonderful. Being on an island is not as challenging as you imagine because the trip to the mainland is 2-3 minutes. We would recommend this location to everyone!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 9 July 2022
Thank you so much for the kind review. We are so glad you picked us and had a great time. We strive to make our guests feel comfortable at our home. Hopefully you made many happy memories. Take care~
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Unforgettable

We had an excellent time and made memories that will last a lifetime!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Overall a great experience for a quiet getaway. The views were amazing and having a boat made the trip so much more fun. The facilities themselves were a mashup of rustic and modern. Providing old country charm with modern appliances. The only concern is the cleaning fee/check out. Despite a 300 cleaning fee we had to empty all the garbage, take it to the main land, wash all the dishes, strip all the beds, and move all the towels.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Wonderful Getaway

This is a beautiful and historic property. It’s like stepping back in time, but with all the modern conveniences. The house itself is beautiful and spacious. Having the whole private island to yourself is amazing. The use of the pontoon to explore Sylvan Lake, go fishing or make a trip to the store was so nice. Highly recommend for a family getaway!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Oct 2022
Thank you! We try to have everything a guest could need to truly experience the lake and island. It is a great place for families and get togethers with lots of space, games and amenities. Take care!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Island Getaway for Family Vacation

We had a great time on the island making memories with our grown kids and grandkids. The littles enjoyed swimming, fishing, and playing in the sand. My sons-in-law even set up a "treasure hunt" for the kids to find a treasure chest with fake jewels buried in the sand. They loved it. It was a great place to relax and fun to explore the lake.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 July 2022
Thank you for letting us know about your adventures. The treasure hunt is a great idea! Take care, we hope to have you back.
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Bishops Island

This is a private historic home with all the modern conveniences. Outside is private with room to roam, swim, boating, and kayaks.The owners are very friendly and helpful. The kids especially loved everything about the island. Being over 70, I had issues getting from the boat to the house. The steep incline of the pathway made it especially difficult to haul our coolers etc. to the house. A wagon or pulley system would solve the problem. Overall this place is beautiful, private,and relaxing.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family vacation

We enjoyed our stay so much. The home was perfect for our late family of 12. The kids had a blast as well as the adults. The only issues we could mention to improve on would be the outdoor furniture was not really useable and the beach area could use some seating. Nothing that impacted the overall experience. Four stars all the way, we would book again! This family recommends this property!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

One of our coolest trips ever!

This is an amazing spot - we had three couples and a couple younger children and we thoroughly enjoyed the island. It was so fun to explore the lake on the pontoon, which you can take to the market or ice cream shop (when it's open, we were late in the season). The nice big yard is great for playing ball and we spent every dry evening by the fire pit - a wonderfully relaxing spot at night. Beautiful kitchen, plenty of spices and pans and things I don't expect to find at a VRBO. Quick responses from owner when little questions came up - we hope to be back again!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Relaxing

The overall stay was very relaxing with little to worry about. Privacy and quiet were every moment. The owner very responsive to our questions. The web description said extra refrigerator and hot tub. When asked about it was explained by owner. This did not disrupt the fun that we had and great experience at the house and lake.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 July 2024
Thank you for the kind review! We, too, love the relaxed private feeling of the island. We'd love to have you back!

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