The Dragonfly Cottage Lakefront Vintage Cottage - private beach, dog friendly, kayaks, paddleboat

Welcome to The Dragonfly Cottage – your perfect Northern Michigan lakefront getaway. This 5-bedroom, dog-friendly cottage sits just steps (25 to be exact!) from the gentle shores of Intermediate Lake. Every day here begins with coffee on the dock and ends with golden sunsets over the lake and s’mores under a canopy of stars. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, multigenerational vacation, or a group retreat, our vintage cottage offers the charm of yesteryear with the comfort and convenience of today.

25 Steps to the Lake – Private Beach & Dock
Step outside and feel the sand between your toes on your private backyard beach. The lake’s shallow entry is ideal for kids and pups to splash safely, while further out a 75-foot drop-off depth makes for great fishing right off the 90-ft private dock. We provide free watercraft – two kayaks, a canoe, and a paddleboat – so your family can paddle the Chain-of-Lakes, look for turtles, or enjoy a serene morning ride. In the evenings, gather by the lakeside fire pit (we provide firewood and marshmallow kits) and watch the sunset paint the sky. Fairy lights in the trees and the call of loons create an unforgettable ambiance.

Cozy Vintage Charm & Modern Comfort
Built in the 1960s and lovingly updated, The Dragonfly Cottage wraps you in nostalgic charm without sacrificing comfort. Exposed wood beams, a vintage Star Wars pinball machine, and a record player give the living room a retro vibe, while high-speed Wi-Fi and a 55” smart TV let you stream or work remotely. The dining area features a handcrafted table with lake views. The kitchen blends retro style with modern function: full-size appliances, 2024-updated countertops and fixtures, a stocked coffee bar, and pantry staples.

Room for Everyone – Family-Friendly Amenities
With 5 bedrooms plus a loft, the home sleeps up to 12 guests. The main floor includes a king bedroom with lake view and two full bedrooms. Upstairs has another king room and a large room with two queen beds. The loft offers a daybed with trundle and a game nook. For families: a Pack ’n Play, books, sand toys, and outlet covers. For pups: a dog bed, crates, bowls, leash, tie-out, toys, and waste bags. Two full bathrooms (one with tub/shower, one newly renovated with walk-in shower) include towels and extra essentials.

Fun for All Ages – Rain or Shine
Indoors: board games, puzzles, pinball, and loft gaming space. Outdoors: lawn games, hammocks, fishing gear, and a lakeside fire pit (with wood and s’mores kits included). The Wi-Fi supports multiple devices—but you might forget the screens once you’re here.

Year-Round Northern Michigan Beauty
Summer means swimming, paddling, and boat rentals (with dock delivery). Fall offers leaf-peeping, apple orchards, and cider donuts. Winter brings ice fishing and skiing at Schuss Mountain (15 mins away), with cozy fires waiting after. Spring is quiet, peaceful, and filled with wildflowers, birds, and hiking.

Explore the Area – “Up North” Adventures
Located in Central Lake, the cottage is minutes from downtown Bellaire (Short’s Brewery, shops), Torch Lake (15 mins), and Shanty Creek for golf or skiing. Charlevoix, Traverse City, and Sleeping Bear Dunes are easy day trips. We provide a guidebook with our favorite restaurants, trails, beaches, and local gems.

Peace of Mind & House Rules
This is a cherished family home—not a party house. Quiet hours 10PM–7AM. No parties or events. Primary renter must be 25+. Exterior cameras at entry points for safety. Professionally cleaned and maintained. We’re always just a message away if you need anything.

Come experience lakefront living at The Dragonfly Cottage—where childhood memories are made catching fireflies by the water, and every generation finds something to love.


Important to Know: To maintain our peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere, no parties or events are allowed (and the primary renter must be age 25+). Quiet hours are in effect from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM to respect our neighbors and the tranquil lakeside setting. For security, we have exterior cameras on entry points (monitoring the driveway and front door). The cottage uses well water; it’s clean and fine for cooking and bathing, though you may wish to bring bottled water for drinking if you prefer. Also, since we’re right on the lake, please supervise children and pets near the water – there’s no lifeguard on duty, so all water activities are at your own risk.

Rates & Availability

Cancellation Policy: One hundred percent (100.00%) of the total booking charges (less $50.00 cancellation fee) will be refunded if the cancellation is made more than 65 days prior to the arrival date of the reservation. For cancellations made within 65 days prior to the arrival date, no refund will be issued.

Location

Central Lake, Michigan

Amenities

Guest Reviews