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Magical, stunning, secluded retreat on idyllic Lake Medora!

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Magical, stunning, secluded retreat on idyllic Lake Medora!

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Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Outdoor dining
Exterior
2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, internet, bed sheets
View from property

Overview of Magical, stunning, secluded retreat on idyllic Lake Medora!

Reviews
10

Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Lake viewLake viewLake view

Check out the area

Map
Copper Harbor, MI
  • AirportHancock, MI (CMX-Houghton County Memorial)57 min drive

Space details

2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, sleeps 4
130 sq m
Bedroom 1
    2 queen beds
Bedroom 2
    1 child bed
Bathroom 1
    Bathtub

Room options

About the area

Mohawk

On the beach.You'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Lake Medora and 9 miles (15 km) of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park. Also within 9 miles (15 km) are Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary and Into the Woods Mini Golf & Gardens.

Getting around

  • Hancock, MI (CMX-Houghton County Memorial) - 58 min drive

Restaurants

  • Mariner North - 24 min drive
  • Brickside Brewery - 24 min drive
  • Keweenaw Mountain Lodge - 23 min drive
  • Jamsen's Fish Market - 24 min drive
  • Harbor Haus Restaurant - 24 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Magical, stunning, secluded retreat on idyllic Lake Medora!

Summary:  Magical, secluded 2 bedroom, 2.5 baths stone and wood cabin on beautiful rocky point on Lake Medora in the rugged Keweenaw Peninsula of Michigan's Upper Peninsula; 2500 ft shoreline; own 1+ mile trail on 13 acres.

"Jaw dropping beautiful. Simply amazing."- John D., Sept. 2021

“An incredibly cozy and thoughtfully built and designed cabin, closer to my ideal of what a lake cabin should be than I have ever seen.”  - Rick M., June, 2021 

Listed as one of top vacation rentals in Michigan's U.P. - Trips to Discover, 2021, Top 12 Luxury Cabin Rentals in Michigan - Trip 101.  Featured in Cabin Life.

Social Media:  Anam Cara Cabin anamcaracabin.com, 5-star reviews (81 out of81).

ANAM CARA DESCRIPTION
At the end of a winding gravel road, you’ll be welcomed by perennial gardens and a stone path that leads to a secluded waterfront cabin, on a rocky, wooded peninsula, that seems lifted straight out of a fairy tale. 

“I feel like I stepped into a magical fairytale cottage.  Stunning!!” texted a recent guest upon arrival.  

Great, we love to hear that, but let's set things straight: this is not some pretentious, luxury property with over-the-top, created-to-impress decor. On the contrary, when we built this cabin and the other structures on this property of 13 acres and about 1/2 mile of shoreline, we simply wanted to create a comfortable, sustainable cabin that harmonized with its gorgeous setting and honored the land, so that we and our family could enjoy it for generations to come. Our recipe was a simple combination of thoughtfulness, creativity, playfulness, artistry and collaboration. After a decade of sharing it with friends and family, and hearing time and again - "This place is magical!"- we began sharing it with others starting in the summer of 2021.

With its quiet beauty and charm, Anam Cara is ideal for finding comfort, balance and connection: silent sports outdoor activities, exploration, contemplation and relaxation. No matter the season, it'll be captivating: summertime water activities, beautiful gardens, berry picking and mountain biking; the fiery splendor of autumn and its quiet hush; the magic of deep winter snows that carpet the land. 

The cozy stone/wood/bark cabin has an open first floor plan with 200+ degree lake views, leather window seats, a wood-burning fireplace, modern kitchen with all the conveniences, a living area for dining and lounging, and a half-bath. On the lake side, there’s an expansive enclosed porch that’s perfect for enjoying your evening cocktail. The second floor has two sun-filled bedrooms with queen beds and two luxurious bathrooms. And then there's the unique artistic details that make this an inspiring, one-of-a-kind property; including 88 handmade lamps/illuminated panels. A comment from a guest who works with architects: “If you’re contemplating building a home or cabin, spend a week at this amazing place. It’ll be the best investment you’ll ever make.”

The 13 acre property, with its 2500 feet of waterfront, can keep you busy for the week. Enjoy cooking over an open fire by the fire pit, or lounge around on the lakeside deck. Shower au naturel in the outdoor shower, surrounded by flowers and forest views. A delightful trail, over one mile long, winds through the property - perfect for mountain biking, hiking, running, snowshoeing or x-skiing. Choose either of two sandy coves for wading and swimming. You can jump off the dock for a refreshing swim or sunbathe on the lichen-covered rocky point. There are two canoes for guests. [NOTE: there is also a 3-season timber frame structure on a second point, about 0.15 miles away, right off the trail and with its own driveway, that can be rented separately (inquire if you're interested)]. 

Lake Medora is a beautiful, peaceful 700 acre lake with several picturesque islands, perfect for exploring and picnics.

There are tons of nearby attractions. You'll find world-class mountain biking in nearby Copper Harbor, a town that seems lifted straight off the set of "Northern Exposure" with its one-room schoolhouse and its combination of northwoods/Maine Coast feel. It's the gateway to Isle Royale (the least visited of all National Parks...and the most re-visited!). Beachcomb for agates and driftwood along Lake Superior's coastline, gape at the ancient, towering white pines in the Estivant Pines sanctuary, or tour the many waterfalls of the Keweenaw Peninsula. 

In winter head to Mount Bohemia, often listed as one of the top 10 ski destinations in North America. There are nearby groomed x-country ski trails. The Keweenaw Peninsula has some of the deepest, most reliable snow in the entire US. It's a winter wonderland! 
[NOTE: For rentals between Nov. 1 thru April 30th, please contact us 1st so we can discuss winter access and conditions - your safety and comfort come first! Let's have a phone conversation to make certain you are adequately informed and prepared. You have a range of options: We can provide snow clearing so you can drive right up to our cabin door, but this may be an extra cost depending upon your length of stay. Or you can ski or snowshoe to the cabin - about a half-mile across the frozen lake or 1.6 miles along Washington Mine Road when the lake isn't frozen. Another option: you can arrive via snowmobile, either your own or a rented vehicle. During our most recent winter of 2022-2023 all of our guest took advantage of the snow clearing option and drove right up to our front door.]

"Anam Cara" means soul friend in Gaelic and the name summarizes this unique property, where it's almost impossible not to fall in love with the beauty and feel of this magical place.

Property manager

David Moss and Colleen Beaman

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach

Ski

  • Ski-in/ski-out access

Internet

  • Internet access

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Spices
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Dining room

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Porch or lanai
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Gravel flooring in public areas
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • On the waterfront
  • In a rural location

Things to do

  • Kayak on site

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Local artist showcase
  • Local culture & ecosystem education
  • No plastic coffee stirrers
  • Unit size: 1400 sq ft (130 sq m)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Please contact us to discuss before booking.

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
This property accepts cash
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. This property accepts cash. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit in each accommodation. Contactless check-in is available.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property
Secluded Fairytale Waterfront Luxury Cabin
Secluded luxury fairytale waterfront cabin
424301

Magical, stunning, secluded retreat on idyllic Lake Medora! Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 31 out of 31 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 31 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 31 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 31 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 31 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique, secluded lake cabin off the beaten path
This property is located on picturesque Lake Medora and a mile and a half off the beaten path on an old mining road, with a view of Brockway Mountain. The cabin is very clean and well equipped with standard necessities. The owner has obviously put much thought and effort into having a unique cabin indoor lighting experience, some custom made lights very cool, some a nice try, but interesting to say the least. The cabin is on a secluded point facing NE with viewing NW to SE (good star gazing coverage). A love seat and foot rest (recommended) in front of the fireplace would be a nice addition to the amenities after a fun day exploring the Copper Harbor area. The cabin has a three season porch and a screened in porch for different weather conditions. The owners are quick to respond to questions or needs.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing and Beautiful
We had an amazing four-day stay at Anam Cara. The house was exactly as described. Everything worked great. The hosts were very communicative and bent over backwards to make sure we had a great stay. I highly recommend the property to anyone looking for a beautiful respite and to relax in nature. The house had all the necessary amenities and then some. The paths are lovely for walks. The lakeshore is breathtaking in the fall. The giant eagles nest has to be seen to be believed. 10/10 would return. Thanks for a great vacation!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Catherine F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Hansel & Gretel’s Cottage realized
If peace & quiet, exploring the outdoors, and a cottage out of a storybook are to your liking, this place is for you. With Fall color in full display, a plethora of fungi to seek out and the haunting sounds of the loons calling, there was no reason to leave this amazing place. The attention to detail and marriage to all things nature; twas a feast for the eyes and soul. Owners were responsive, kind and left a beautiful basket of treats. Best Vrbo rental yet .
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer S., Golden/CO

Liked: Cleanliness
Top Notch
Anam Cara was amazing. We enjoyed coming back to the house everyday after exploring the local trails. The property and the house were just as stated in the pictures, description and reviews. Would definitely return. Added bonus, we were able to meet and talk with Colleen.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Maureen H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful
We had a lovely week in the Keweenaw Peninsula. Anam Caram is a beautiful home and we spent many hours delighted by the many lanterns and thoughtfully created home. We spent much time walking the trails, foraging, fishing. It was a perfect getaway with just the right amount of comfort, rest, explorstion and beauty. Thank you for such attention to detail!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

David P.

Liked: Cleanliness
A slice of heaven
Our stay at this VRBO cottage in the Keweenaw Peninsula was an enchanting experience that exceeded all our expectations. The combination of stunning views, serene privacy, and modern comforts created an unforgettable retreat. The immaculate cleanliness and attention to detail further enhanced our enjoyment, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature. Whether seeking tranquility or adventure, this cottage is an ideal choice for anyone yearning to escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. We can wholeheartedly recommend this hidden oasis to anyone seeking a magical getaway in Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carrie R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing
Treat yourself and don’t miss the opportunity to experience this special place. The house and the property are absolutely amazing, and we hope to revisit it in the summer months. The owner is so helpful and accessible. Their knowledge of the area is immense and several suggestions for whatever you may want to do. Thank you for such a special and fun getaway!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeff G.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Stunning Retreat
Anam Cara is an amazingly beautiful and thoughtfully designed cottage in a spectacular, remote setting. The long, pretty, slow speed entry road and driveway (we were there during the height of the fall color season) make you feel like you have this this whole large lake to yourself. David and Colleen sited their cottage to slip gently into the mature woodland on their point, and with the lake on three sides there is always the glimmer of light on the water from every window, which gives a very special quality to staying there. Every convenience has been provided for, and the quality of the design and creativity and character brought to this cottage is unsurpassed in our experience of rental homes - real artistry! The trails on the property are a treat, as is sitting out on the rocky point soaking up the surroundings . We will certainly be going back, and can’t recommend it highly enough - what a magical place!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Keri V.

Liked: Cleanliness
Simply Amazing
WOW is all we can say! The property was amazing and beyond perfect. We have rented several houses over the years and this one is #1. The owners were super, very informative, and helpful. Loved that they stayed in contact with us every step of the way. It was a great experience! Wish all owners were this way. The house was unbelievable. It is remote and so peaceful. We never heard a car or even a dog bark. We loved having our coffee on the dock each morning while watching the sunrise. We even could see the sunset from the rock in the evenings. My husband caught several walleye, perch, and small mouth bass from dock and we loved being at the beach swimming and watching the chipmunks and squirrels. We saw ducks, deer, loons, cranes, otters, and beavers. We walked the many trails and loved the flowers around the house. The outdoor shower was GREAT! So much to do at the house, we hated to even leave to explore the surrounding area. Normally we do not return to places we have been before but this will be the one exception! Thank you for the hospitality and sharing beautiful Anam Cara with us for the week.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

James M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Anam Cara, a little bit of UP heaven.
Anam Cara is a wonderful place to spend time. Quiet, peaceful and well thought out. My wife and I spent a week there. We appreciated the well equipped kitchen with sharp knives (nobody as of yet has used them to chop firewood) and nice cookware that has not been in the dishwasher (never put aluminum cookware in the dishwasher) Especially pleasant is the lake facing enclosed porch and the lake deck built between two rock outcrops. The cabin is on one of four contiguous lots that the owners have along the lake, so there's plenty of space right on the property for exploring and a lot more on the other side of Washington Mine Road for hiking on what looks like ATV/snowmobile trails. The town of Copper Harbor is an easy drive from the property. It has a great general store that is remarkably well stocked for such a small out of the way town (we got Hungarian paprika there, really. In a town of 100 permanent residents. Amazing) Try the brew pub across the street from the store for locally brewed beer. After that take a drive up to Brockway Mountian lookout and find Anam Cara with your binoculars. When you're at Anam Cara, you can see the lookout from the lake deck. Thanks Dave and Colleen for a very pleasant stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022