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Private Lakefront, Dog Friendly w/HOT TUB Home!SWIM/SKI/RELAX!

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The Unsalted Mermaid Lakeside Retreat
Sit on the dock and watch all the sunsets
Enjoy sun sets from the dock after a long day of boating, swimming, kayaking, and water-skiing.
Very private lot
Lots of space to gather to listen to the birds, watch wildlife and oversee the breathtaking Intermediate Lake!

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 15

Popular amenities

  • Spa pool on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View map
Central Lake, MI
  • Place, Intermediate Lake
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Torch Lake
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, Boyne Mountain
    ‪37 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪55 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 15)

Primary Main Floor

1 King Bed

Upstairs

+4
4 Single Beds, 2 Double Beds and 2 Single Bunk Beds

Walkout Level

1 Double Bed and 1 Queen Bed

Walkout Level

2 Queen Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Private Lakefront, Dog Friendly w/HOT TUB Home!SWIM/SKI/RELAX!

The Unsalted Mermaid is sure to bring you, your family, and friends and unforgettable Northern Michigan vacation. This home sits on over 2 acres of private land leading to 100ft of your own private lakefront on all-sports Intermediate Lake! With over 2500sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and multiple gathering spaces inside and out. There is plenty of room for large extended families or multiple families. Equipped with a brand new 7 person hot tub (11/2024) to add to your relaxation vacation!
Enjoy fishing off the private dock, swimming in the hard sandy bottom water, kayaking with the Loons ( complimentary), paddle boarding, boating, and nightly bonfires. The Unsalted Mermaid is sure to fulfill all of you expectations of an “up-north experience”! Enjoy winter's skiing at Shanty Creek 6.7 miles, Boyne 25 miles, Nub Nob 50 miles!

Intermediate Lake is part of Northern Michigan’s Upper Chain of Lakes, offering over 9 miles of shoreline and 1500 acres. Torch Lake, Northern Michigan’s Lower Chain of Lakes is within minutes of the Unsalted Mermaid, but is not connected. The small quaint towns of Central Lake and Bellaire offer a variety of restaurants, boutiques, hiking/biking trails, wineries, farmer markets, orchards, breweries (Home of the infamous Shorts Brewery) and distilleries. The stars at night light up the sky and the sunsets never disappoint!

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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

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2592679vb
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 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

Central Lake

Located in Central Lake, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Short's Brewing Company and The Chief Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Torch Lake and Lake Michigan. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and don't miss out on the sledging and ice skating.
View more Holiday homes in Central LakeOpens in a new window
Map
Central Lake, MI

What's nearby

  • Intermediate Lake - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Torch Lake - 15 min drive - 15.6 km
  • Boyne Mountain - 37 min drive - 45.1 km
  • Traverse City Beach - 49 min drive - 70.2 km
  • Front Street - 54 min drive - 75.6 km

Getting around

  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 57 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Short's Brewing Company - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪M88 Morning Grind - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Shanty Creek Resorts - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Toonies Fish & Steakhouse - ‬14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Private Lakefront, Dog Friendly w/HOT TUB Home!SWIM/SKI/RELAX! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking at Private Lakefront, Dog Friendly w/HOT TUB Home!SWIM/SKI/RELAX!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Private Lakefront, Dog Friendly w/HOT TUB Home!SWIM/SKI/RELAX!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Private Lakefront, Dog Friendly w/HOT TUB Home!SWIM/SKI/RELAX!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Private Lakefront, Dog Friendly w/HOT TUB Home!SWIM/SKI/RELAX! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 0.6 mi (1 km) from Intermediate Lake and within 6 miles (10 km) of Short's Brewing Company and Beals Lake. The Chief Golf Course and Lake Bellaire are also within 9 miles (15 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. 19 out of 20 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 20 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 20 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 20 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 20 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dirk H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an amazing time! The views and property were both great. It was nice and quiet inside when some but others were awake, beds were comfy, all the amenities we could need! Thank you for the stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa C.

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

Family Vacay

The Unsalted Mermaid was exactly as described and my entire family had a great time over the July 4th weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

jeff f.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thank you so much for allowing us to stay in this lovely home. Great location for everything from golf to boating, which is what we do. Great communication and just awesome people, and this coming from a Buckeye.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John M.

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

Great stay

We had 6 adults and 3 kids that all enjoyed our stay. The house was as advertised. The location is perfect to enjoy boating, hiking, biking, and much more.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steven C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was one of the best vacations we ever had. The house was perfect for all my grand babies and kids. I think Intermediate Lake is a hidden Gem and the Unsalted Mermaid the icing on the cake. The host Tracey kept us well informed, accessible and just awesome to deal with. We have already booked for next year and the entire family can't wait. It was comfortable, loads of fun for all ages. I don't think the TV even came on except to watch the Lions
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

brant t.

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

Unsalted mermaid

Had a great stay. Tracey was fantastic with communication.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura P.

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

Great gathering spot

Three families from three states enjoyed the location of this lovely home on Intermediate Lake. Peaceful location with lovely views and nice lake access. Very responsive owner. Definitely recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Aug 2023
Thanks Laura for your review, I'll be in touch next summer!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brandon D.

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

A+ experience

Communication was awesome, place was as advertised and zero complaints. A+ experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shannon S.

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

Fabulous ski getaway!

We had a great time at the Unsalted Mermaid! 3 families from school enjoyed the spacious home, played games, explored the outside space with walkie talkies, had a cool kids-only bunk room, each parent had their own bedroom, and it was less than 20 minutes from skiing and tubing at Schuss Mountain. Everyone is counting down the days until we can return.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amber M.

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

Beautiful

We loved this property. The house was huge. The bedrooms were big as well. Loved the view . Kayaking was fun as well! Loved how many chairs there were. Also they provided the wood. Will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Aug 2023
Amber, thank you for your review looking forward to hosting you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jake B.

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

Great place to stay for a big group

This VRBO was perfect for our group! There was plenty of room and the sleeping situation was the best I’ve had for a group over 10 people. The only thing I would knock on it is the trip down to the lake. If you prepare to head down though you can be set by the water for hours. The view on the lake at sunset was the highlight of the property! Would 100% recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Aug 2023
I’m so happy that you enjoyed your stay! As the listing and pictures show it is about 200 ft down the boardwalk to the lake. I agree sunsets are the best there!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather M.

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

Amazing!

We just spent a week at the Unsalted Mermaid. It is a very special spot for sure. We celebrated the 4th of July with family. The home is very accommodating. We had everything we needed. The lake and surrounding nature is beautiful. We kayaked, paddle boarded, swam and rented a pontoon to enjoy Intermediate Lake. We enjoyed fires and fireworks. Family members went in to Bellaire, Central Lake, Elk Rapids, Charlevoix and Traverse City during our stay…such a great location!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa K.

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

Absolutely Wonderful Experience!

The Unsalted Mermaid surpassed all our expectations. We came for a family trip and had the best time ever. The home is beautiful and spacious. The lake has a sandy bottom and we kayaked every day. Tracey helped us get in touch with a place to rent a pontoon boat at well. We would book again in a heartbeat! Communication was spectacular, easy check in and check out. Thank you for helping us make some beautiful family memories in Northern Michigan!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Aug 2023
Lisa I'm so happy that you all enjoyed your stay! Thank you for your review, I hope to host your family again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eric S.

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

Family vacation

House and property were as advertised. Tracey was very responsive to any needs. The lake itself was not very crowded, which made it great for watersports. The distance from the lake was not an issue for us due to elevated walkway. The only negative for me was that the bass fishing was very difficult, as it appeared the lake was sprayed for weeds, which can't be controlled by Tracey! The kids loved the zip line and seeing deer and turkey often. Overall, it was great for 3 generations from age 2 to 65 and we would love to return!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Aug 2023
Thank you for the review! I hope to host you all again and hopefully the fish are biting! :-)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen K.

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

A wonderful family vacation

The Unsalted Mermaid was, quoting my 6 yr old grandson, "The Best Cabin Ever"!!! The cabin was very clean and so well stocked with even more than we needed....even sippy cups for the baby. There was space for all. The kitchen was well appointed. Tons of (comfie) beds. And the full size washer/dryer was a huge bonus. What we really loved was the covered deck outside the main floor slider door.....it was completely safe for both the kids and the dogs, allowing us all to gather around the large table for meals and for the kids to play safely. The lake was shallow for a long way out and the dock was great. No sand for beach toys at the lake front, but the sand at the beach volleyball court and the zip line kept the grandsons busy. Tracey was a great host....very responsive and great communication.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Aug 2023
Thank you Karen for your review, I hope to host you all again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sonali B.

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

Exactly as listing depicts!

We had a great time at the unsalted mermaid. The best part of the house was all the amenities it offered. With the lake, kayaks, games, and volleyball court, there was plenty to do and keep everyone amused for an extended family vacation. The kitchen was well stocked, and there were plenty of beds for all 14 of us to sleep comfortably. The house was represented well in the listing, and the pictures do the house justice. We loved that there were chairs everywhere so that we did not have to move extra chairs downstairs or to the dock. There were a few chairs that were broken down by the dock. But it wasn’t a big deal as there were so many other chairs to use. We really appreciated that there was already a wood pile there to build a fire so we didn’t even have to run out and find wood. Temperature in the upstairs room was definitely an issue as we could not cool the house more without freezing out the downstairs. Tracey did provide multiple fans and we were able to keep the room cooler with windows open as the temperature went into the 50s at night. However, I could see how it would be difficult to sleep up there when it’s a particularly hot week. Overall, we loved the lake and had a fantastic family vacation there. We would absolutely stay again. Thank you, Tracey, for taking care of the property so well, and for all the communication so that our check-in and checkout could go smoothly.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Aug 2023
Thank you for being great guests! Im glad that you enjoyed your stay, I hope to host you again!
Verified

8/10 Good

John L.

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

July 8-15 2023

Most all enjoyed the stay. AC worked good on the main floor. Lower level was very cold. Upstairs bedroom was not very cool. We brought our own window AC for that room.Need to obtain a window room AC. Thermostat only on the main floor. Nice to have campfire provided. Washer and Dryer worked great. Extra small frig in lower level was an added bonus. One lounge chair on upper deck was broke. Metal stools around counter in kitchen were loose. We tighted up two of them. The fourth stool was broke(missing bolt on bottom leg).Two lights over the dining room table were burned out as well as the outdoor light on the lower deck. Bathroom tub in main floor was not draining well. Would appreciated a wall clock on main floor. TVs and Internet worked fine.There was a small leak in the water line dispenser on the frig in the kitchen. Numerous night lights out on deck to water. Swim area was great. Diaappointed no fishing off the dock especially for the kids) By the way fishing was terrible on the lake during the week. Grill worked great. Could use some new chairs around table on upper deck. Some were sagging. Looks like a little TLC needed around the place. Someone should case the place in between rentals for minor repairs. Lawn mowing should be done after guests check out. Lawn was being cut one evening during our dinner time. Was not fond of the walk to the dock on the water. Most of us would like to return rent again perhaps.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Aug 2023
Thanks John for your review, I'll be sure to address those fixes.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed for a ski weekend. House was clean and plenty of towels. The hot tub was great after a long cold day of skiing.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katherine B.

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

Love this lake

The house was really nice and comfortable. So light and bright. We love this lake and will be back again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Enjoyed our time

We did have a fantastic time while there. The Unsalted Mermaid was clean and had plenty of room. Nice private area. The lake was beautiful, water crystal clear. Would have like more of a sandy beach. Nice to have the two fire pits close to the house and by the water. Kayaking was nice and across the lake was the sand bar. We would recommend trying to find something to put down in place of the wood chips.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

About the host

Hosted by Tracey Wittke

Host profile image
My family moved to Northern Michigan over twenty years ago from a suburb of Detroit. I started investing in properties within the charming towns of Bellaire and Central Lake after we fell in love with Intermediate Lake. We plan on one day retiring there.

Why they chose this property

Intermediate Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes I’ve ever seen. Other than the magical color, sunrises and sunsets it also warms up quickly. My boys have been able to swim in it from Memorial Day through September! The unsalted Mermaid is about 250 steps from the water, making it nice with littles.

What makes this property unique

The Unsalted Mermaid allows for 2-3 families to sleep comfortably. The setup includes upstairs and downstairs living space and bedrooms. The property is situated on 2acres with only one neighbor on one side. It also offers 100ft of private lakeshore for all my guests to enjoy.

Languages:

English

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