Magical Storybook Charm Right on the Big Bay of Lake Michigan!

Once a crafts building for a girls camp one hundred years ago, this unique cottage has a high end furnishings, a beautiful, marble countered kitchen with new stainless appliances, 13' ceilings and a charming mix of country French & rustic knotty pine decor. The kitchen and bathrooms have all been recently remodeled and are in like-new condition. Please note the garage and efficiency apartment above are not included in the rental and might be occupied during your visit. Your cottage will remain locked from any efficiency occupant, and your privacy will be guaranteed. Amenities include a 2 person Kayak, 2 bicycles, Premium Cable TV, and WI-FI. Situated in a woods of pine and hardwoods, the cottage and detached deck look over a private beach of sand and pebbles (the world's best Petoskey stone hunting!). It is located at the northwest end of Grand Traverse Bay, on the east side of the bay. The village of Northport is 6 miles south, and the historic lighthouse and museum are only 2 miles north. The fantastic view from the cottage looks across the water to the town of Charlevoix, with Lake Michigan and islands to the north. The typically calm waters on this side of Leelanau Peninsula makes for safe swimming and a small boat can be launched from a boat launch a short distance away. General Description: From 'The Stone', explore the peninsula dubbed 'The most beautiful place in America' by ABC in 2011! The cottage's name is derived from the original name of the structure when it was part of 'Camp Cahoe', 100 years ago. We are situated on a double lot in the woods with 120' of private beachfront. A detached deck overlooking the low (6') bluff is the most perfect morning coffee-and-paper wake up spot, as well as cocktails or dining al fresco. Why 'The Stone'?: This is a very special, beautifully appointed home for the discerning client. Designed by Think Design, voted West Michigan's Best Interior Design Firm 5 years running, ('Grand Rapids Magazine') it provides an ambience not often seen in rental properties. The storybook esthetic and charm of this historic property make it a Leelanau County treasure. The stone and shake entry with travertine floors is a new feature, as is the stunning country French kitchen with Carrara marble counters and new stainless appliances. The fine furnishings combine antiques with high end furnishings from Baker, Henredon, Tomlinson and more. If you are drawn to beauty and character in a vacation property, this is for you; on the other hand, if you prefer something rough-and-tumble for younger children, where you don't have to worry about damage to heirloom accessories or the like, this isn't suitable. There are two cozy bedrooms; one with a queen bed and one an antique full sized 4 poster. The charming, light filled kitchen boasts Carrara marble counter tops, hand painted tile backsplash (made by the owner), custom cabinetry, all new hi end appliances including an Electrolux range, dishwasher, coffee maker, food processor, blender, and just about every cooking implement needed for cooking gourmet meals in this foodie region. A wood burning stove adds to the charm. There are 2 large, newly designed full baths and a laundry room with newer washer and dryer. Please provide your own towels, bedding is provided, Exploring the fantastic and unique Leelanau peninsula is a must and offers so much it's hard to name it all. Choose from a variety of spectacular golf courses, including an Arnold Palmer designed course south of Leeland... the famous fish town known for it's fine dining, historic wharf, waterfall and shopping. Northport also has it's new, solar powered 9 hole course. Fantastic scenery. For wine lovers, this is the region of Michigan that is producing an amazing variety of fine wines from dozens of producers now gaining national recognition. You can spend days discovering them all. Activities: There are deep woods hiking/bicycling trails with groomed paths and unexpected boardwalks just seconds from the cottage. More extensive hiking trails going up to a spectacular platform overlooking Lake Michigan and the Fox Islands are just 2 miles north and south. For 'Foodies', this is the place that renowned chef Mario Batali calls his second home; he lives just a mile away and is a regular at the Northport farmers market and local restaurants. He has published lists of his favorite food finds in Northern MI, and 3 of them are in Northport! We all appreciate the locally raised produce and meats found on the Leelanau Peninsula, and each little town has it's own Farmers Market on successive days. A perfect day consists of a drive through Northport, stopping at Barb's bakery for coffee and baked goods, then on towards Leland. Shop in Leland's historic Fish Town, exploring the shops in the old fish shanties and smoke houses. Go on to Glen Arbor and stop in any one of its gourmet restaurants or local pubs for lunch ( don't forget to stop into Cherry Republic) before embarking onto Sleeping Bear Dunes. Take in Pierce Stocking Drive, and explore this legendary, breathtaking spot. Hike, bike, or see the scenery from the car, it is unforgettable. A 40 minute drive will take you to Traverse City for a little night life or a feast at one of the famous restaurants there. From fine gourmet food to the best burgers and home brew, it's all available here. A 40 minute drive up the coast takes you back to The Stone, where lazy, leisurely relaxation and beauty awaits. The Stone provides Cable TV, DVD, Bluetooth, WI-FI, 2 bikes, a 2 seater kayak, deck, large beach, 4 zero gravity lounge chairs; a playground and tennis court are nearby. Activities: NEW! 9 hole golf course just north of the village of Northport, 6 miles away, and a new 6 lane bowling alley and arcade in town! There are deep woods hiking/bicycling trails with groomed paths and unexpected boardwalks just seconds from the cottage. More extensive hiking trails going up to a spectacular platform overlooking Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands are just 2 mikes south. Swimming, kayaking, biking, hiking, fishing, wine tasting, more golf 20 min. away, eagle watching, nearby tennis courts, art galleries, large marina 6 miles south in Northport, Petosky stone hunting, and beach fires permitted during low hazard times. Don't forget to read about the history of The Stone in our information book, and view the photos from a century ago! One of our favorite 4 person activities is a combination kayak/bicycle trip to the lighthouse. 2 people paddle the 2 miles (as the crow flies) in the kayak, while the other 2 bike the distance. After a lovely picnic (BYO) and tour of the historic Northport lighthouse, trade equipment and paddle / bike back! This property is ideal for 2 couples or a family of four who appreciate finer things. No pets, please. **There is a new addition this year comprised of a garage with a studio above - this portion is not part of the rental space.