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

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Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
A modern living room with a sofa, coffee table, and a dining area with a bar.
A red house with a hot tub, outdoor furniture, and a flag.
A wooden cabin interior with a blue door, a fire extinguisher, a chair, and a small table with a bottle.
Exterior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 683 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Spa pool
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Traverse City, MI
  • Place, Forest Lakes
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Arbutus Lake
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, beach near Barbeau Drive
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪15 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Traverse City

At this cottage you'll be 3.5 km (2.2 mi) from Forest Lakes and 3.9 km (2.4 mi) from Arbutus Lake. .Accommodation features a washing machine, free WiFi and a fireplace. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A patio, a living room and a fenced private garden are also available.
View more Cottages in Traverse CityOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Forest Lakes - 3 min drive - 3.7 km
  • Arbutus Lake - 3 min drive - 4.8 km
  • beach near Barbeau Drive - 3 min drive - 4.8 km
  • beach near Arbutus Lake - 6 min drive - 6.6 km
  • Spider Lake - 7 min drive - 8.0 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Culver's - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Burger King - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Peegeo's - ‬16 min drive

About this property

Entire place

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

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 $85 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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Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach towels

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby
  • Snowboarding nearby

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Car recommended
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Chef service
  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Fenced yard
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 2 accessible parking spaces
  • In-room accessibility
  • No lift (single-level property)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking
  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: Smoking inside any buidling will result in removal

Services and conveniences

  • Concierge services
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Bicycles
  • Kayak
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Canoeing nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

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

General

  • Bicycles
  • Electric car charging station
  • Garden
  • Unit size: 890 square feet

Policies

Check-in

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

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

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.

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
    • Service animals are exempt from fees.
  • Note from host: Please email or call owner to discuss your pets.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Kids have a blast here!!

Events

Events allowed
Please contact prior to booking!!

Smoking

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

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
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. Parties and events are allowed on site. Note from host: Please contact prior to booking!! For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector in all accommodation.

Property Registration Number 2021-0011

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

Property is also known as

Boardman River Cottage 2 Bedroom 1 Bath Steps Away Banks River
Boardman River Cottage 2 Bedroom 1 Bath Steps Away Banks River
Boardman River 2 Bedroom 1 Bath Steps Away Banks River

Frequently asked questions

Are there any beaches close to Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river?

The closest beach to Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river is Traverse City Beach (11.3 km).

Does Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river have a pool?

No, this cottage doesn't have a pool.

What luxury perks are available at Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river?

This property features 1 hot tub, as well as a fireplace and a living room.

What makes Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river a romantic place to stay?

1 hot tub, fireplaces, and private patios all help set the scene for a sizzling getaway at Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river.

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

You bet! With amenities such as laundry facilities and a BBQ, as well as children's dinnerware and children's books, it's no surprise that Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river is a winner with our family travellers.

Is there a private hot tub at Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river?

Yep, there is a hot tub.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river?

No, Boardman River Cottage, 2 bedroom 1 Bath steps away from the banks of the river does not offer an airport shuttle service.

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

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.

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

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 232 out of 240 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 240 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 240 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 240 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 240 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

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

Christine S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay at the boardman river cottage. Everything was exactly as pictured and John provided all the details needed for our stay. Location was perfect right on the river and our boys enjoyed fishing everyday. We would love to come back and stay again.
Stayed 4 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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
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

Mark V.

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

Great, cozy spot near Traverse City

Great little spot near everything, yet quiet & perfectly remote. Would definitely stay again!! Love the property, the river, & the ambiance…
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
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

Harry F.

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

Great stay

I had a wonderful time with my partner and service dog. It’s beautiful and cozy and I would definitely come back.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
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