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Charming Lakefront Cottage

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An outdoor deck with wicker furniture, a table, and a view of a lake and buildings in the background.
Smart TV, fireplace, books, offices
A cabin with a deck and stairs leading to a porch, surrounded by trees.
A grassy park area with a small shed, a few chairs, and a toy vehicle.
Pool

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 8149 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View map
Vandalia, MI
  • Place, Donnell Lake
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, University of Notre Dame
    ‪38 min drive‬
  • Place, Notre Dame Stadium
    ‪43 min drive‬
  • Airport, South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.)
    ‪44 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Vandalia

At this cottage you'll be steps from Donnell Lake and 3.6 km (2.3 mi) from Paradise 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 balcony or patio, a living room and a dining area are also available. .Spend the day at the beach where you'll find sunloungers, and enjoy the on-site Hot tub. Added amenities include free Wi-Fi in public areas and laundry facilities.
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What's nearby

  • Donnell Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • University of Notre Dame - 38 min drive - 58.0 km
  • Notre Dame Stadium - 43 min drive - 63.3 km
  • Four Winds Casino South Bend - 47 min drive - 77.3 km
  • Shipshewana Flea Market - 48 min drive - 68.2 km

Getting around

  • Dowagiac Station - 26 min drive
  • South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Porky's - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪The Twirl - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Sherry Lee's Bar and Grill - ‬5 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.

Charming Lakefront Cottage

Here at The Cottage, life was made to be lived outside. Across our vast property are several seating areas for coffee or cocktails - including a stone patio with built-in bonfire pit, outdoor dining and enclosed deck overlooking the yard and lake, and an incredible patio/pergola with couches literally next to the water and beach. A hot tub, gas grill, and space for yard games round out a perfect vacation spent in the Michigan fresh air.

Winter fun included: perfect hill for sledding, ice fishing on Donnell Lake, snowshoeing trails, bonfires, hot tubbing, and Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area only 15 minutes away.

BONUSES:
*A million stars, and even more birds (including the nest directly below the porch!)
*The opportunity to walk out your door to the lake (we recommend a cup of coffee or glass of wine on the pier)
*Fishing and campfires. Hiking trails 5 minutes away. Swimming. Floating. Grilling. Lounging lakeside. Hot tubbing. Friendly neighbors.
*A lake full of fish, turtles, frogs, swans, geese, and deer nearby

-- THE PROPERTY --

1,400 Sq Ft | Large Deck & Patio | Multiple Desk Workspaces | Perfect for Families

Bedroom 1: King Bed, 2 Twin Beds | Bedroom 2: Queen Bed | 3 Seasons Porch / Office: Futon

OUTDOOR LIVING: Private dock with gorgeous Donnell Lake views, stone patio with fire pit, lakeside patio with pergola, outdoor dining area, gas grill, .5 acre yard, kayaks

INDOOR LIVING: Smart TV, wood-burning fireplace, 6-person dining table + kids table, sliding glass doors, books, board games, kids toys

KITCHEN: Fully equipped, drip coffee maker, blender, toaster, spices, dishware/flatware, no dishwasher

GENERAL: High-speed internet, heat & window air conditioning, hair dryer, linens, towels

FAQ: Outdoor stairs required for access, firewood not provided, bathroom on 1st floor, washer/dryer in basement

PARKING: Driveway (3 vehicles)

-- THE LOCATION --

OPT OUTSIDE: Donnell Lake (on-site), Stevens Memorial Park (7.4 miles), Swiss Valley Ski Area (8.2 miles), Rolling Hills Shooting Preserve (8.6 miles), Fred Russ State Forest (11.7 miles), Spirit Springs Sanctuary (13.6 miles)

THINGS TO SEE & DO: Pioneer Log Cabin Museum (7.0 miles), Southwestern Michigan College (13.7 miles), Spruce Ridge Golf Club (14.3 miles), Elks Golf Course (15.0 miles), Dowagiac Area History Museum (15.0 miles), Heddon Museum (15.6 miles), Four Winds Casino (17.8 miles), University of Notre Dame (27.0 miles)

NEARBY TOWNS: Vandalia (1.4 miles), Cassopolis (6.5 miles), Dowagiac (15.1 miles), Three Rivers (16.2 miles), South Bend (28.1 miles), Shipshewana (33.4 miles), Benton Harbor (39.0 miles), Kalamazoo (42.1 miles)

AIRPORT: South Bend International Airport (31.8 miles)

-- POLICIES --
- No smoking
- Small dogs allowed at owner's discretion
- No events, parties, or large gatherings
- Must be at least 25 years old to book
- Additional fees and taxes may apply
- Photo ID may be required upon check-in
- NOTE: The property requires stairs and may be difficult for guests with limited mobility

Similar properties

House (3 Bedrooms) | Front of property
Waterfront Vandalia House w/ Dock on Donnell Lake!
Vandalia
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
Waterfront Vandalia House w/ Dock on Donnell Lake!

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby
  • Snowboarding nearby

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

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

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Dock
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Gas grill
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio
  • Yard

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Computer monitor
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Office

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • Up to 9 kg per pet

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 3 steps to reach entrance
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Pickleball
  • Snow sports gear
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Cycling 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
  • Sledding nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks 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)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 1,600 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
Contactless check-out

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:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Close and lock all windows.
Leave all used sheets and towels (including kitchen and beach towels) in front of the washing machine in the basement.
Completely empty fridge / cupboards of food brought by you, leave trash in green trashcan.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

The outdoor shed remains locked for personal use and should NOT be entered.

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 20 lb per pet)
    • Service animals are exempt from fees.
  • Note from host: Dogs will be approved on a case-by-case basis.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
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
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 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. On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. Long-term renters welcome. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit and a deadbolt lock in all accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

Does Charming Lakefront Cottage have a pool?

No, this cottage doesn't have a pool.

What luxury perks are available at Charming Lakefront Cottage?

This property features 1 hot tub, as well as a fireplace and a private yard.

What makes Charming Lakefront Cottage a romantic place to stay?

1 hot tub, fireplaces, and private balconies all help set the scene for a sizzling getaway at Charming Lakefront Cottage.

Is Charming Lakefront Cottage family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as a playground, laundry facilities and children's books, it's no surprise that Charming Lakefront Cottage is a winner with our family travellers.

Is there a private hot tub at Charming Lakefront Cottage?

Yep, there is a hot tub.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Charming Lakefront Cottage?

No, Charming Lakefront Cottage does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Charming Lakefront Cottage?

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

Charming Lakefront Cottage Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 14 out of 16 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 16 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 16 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 16 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 16 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified

8/10 Good

Pamela W.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
We enjoyed our stay. Had great weather and a wonderful visit with our friends. Thank you.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey G.

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

Loved our stay!

The cottage was perfect for our family. Clean, cozy and the views of the sunset are incredible! Would highly recommend, we will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gretchen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
House is adorable and lake is the cutest. Had a great time watching the boats and jet skiers. Went swimming in the lake and enjoyed the fire pit.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carrie S.

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

Perfect Cabin!

We had an awesome stay at your cabin. We definitely would/will stay there again. Everything we needed...
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeanne S.

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

Awesome cottage experience!

Plenty of outdoor fun for adults and kids, spaces for privacy and quiet also. Donnell Lake is clean and not too busy. We swam and paddled kayaks. Good wifi also!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jim W.

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

Wonderful Donnell Lake

Wonderful property on Donnell Lake. Very nice cottage on a big lot with lots of sun & shade. Everything was as advertised. Nice deck at the house and lakeside as well.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alicia H.

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

Just as it was described

The house was clean and had all the essentials. It was small and had to watch my head going upstairs but otherwise a nice place to stay on the water
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Allison H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was the best BABY FRIENDLY home we’ve been to. They had a baby monitor, black out curtains, changing table, crib, AND rocking chairs. They even had baby gates blocking the back porch so we could enjoy coffee without them sneaking out. We had all the kitchen supplies, books, toys, towels we needed. We plan on coming back next year! Ali was easy to communicate with and easygoing.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Courtney F.

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

Absolutely perfect weekend

The cottage was so peaceful and in such a perfect location. I’ve never stayed at a rental home that was as perfectly stocked with literally everything you might need before. Right down to the bug spray, meat thermometer, and all the in betweens. Definitely recommend renting this home if you want to have stress free and fun vacation. Host is the sweetest too!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susanna E.

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

A charming, comfortable cottage

The cottage is charmingly vintage but still quite comfortable. The hosts include thoughtful touches like spices, toiletries, fishing rods, laundry soap, etc., that aren't necessary certainly but that make for a welcoming stay. Donnell Lake is a quite busy little lake and wasn't our favorite for our quiet little paddleboards and sailboat, but we were also there over Labor Day, so it's probably not always quiet so busy. I certainly wouldn't hesitate to recommend staying at the cottage, though. The seating and beds were comfy and the views were lovely.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephen A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic property. Probably one of the best yards and locations on Donnell Lake. Double lot. Huge yard for volleyball, frisbee, etc. Huge fire pit on the patio. Great deck with baby gates and a great view of the lake. Hot tub with nice view. Very cute house with a northern lake house feel. House is well stocked and generally feels like someone lives there with all the basics. Window ACs kept the whole house very comfortable even though temperatures were in upper 80’s. However you should be outside much of the time swimming, playing, paddling, and potentially boating.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tabitha S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was clean and cozy upon arrival. The shade waterside is really nice. The fire pit area is fun with littles for roasting marshmallows. The hot tub was great for our cooler days and a great perk with littles that got too cold, but still wanted to swim. The hosts were responsive and helpful with any issues that arose. This house has everything you need with little kids and family. The checkout directions are reasonable and clear. Do not plan to bring your own watercraft to use with the dock without inquiring with hosts before booking. We worked out something, but it was a little concerning at first. Air is window AC and can be a bit loud. Do not have on eco unless you want it to turn on and off all night. ;-)
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beth L.

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

The perfect staycation away from home!

We absolutely loved our stay here! The house was so cute and charming, super comfortable, clean, and had everything we needed for a nice long weekend away. We felt like we were staying in a friend's cottage vs a rental. We treated the house as such too, with respect! Communication from the owner was excellent as well and they made the process very easy. The covered porch at the waterfront was lovely, and we were so grateful to be able to use the kayaks so we didn't have to bring own. The house is nestled in a cove which made it the perfect spot for the kids to swim, kayak, and use our own paddleboards without worrying about boats going by. The mini beach was awesome and our pup was able to swim for the first time ever! The pier was perfect to fish from, with nice chairs to sit and enjoy morning coffee from. The firepit was amazing! Neighbors are really nice and welcoming too! We had an amazing weekend and will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara G.

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

(Nearly) Everything We Needed

Beds were comfortable. Washer and dryer worked well. Gas grill is not fancy, but it works. We brought a Brita filter and found one to use at the cottage, but the tap water was surprisingly tasty. None of the pans have lids, oddly enough. Basement stairs are tricky - needs a railing - so we avoided using the microwave in the basement. We appreciated the hook to keep little ones out. We could have used a clothesline (maybe it was hiding) for the beach towels we brought. Good selection of vacation reading; I enjoyed The Rose Code! Our littles found toys to play with (I hope the cleaner found the little ambulance; we looked everywhere!) A restful week - and the 6 year old taught himself to kayak! (We brought our own life jackets.)
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kelly M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Mary K.

Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

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