Quiet Retreat in the woods, near Empire Beach

Just the most amazing place we've been to! Best host we've ever had, hands down. A hand-crafted paradise built with love and care and a very peaceful lovely woods to call home for a while.

We love Michigan, live here and travel north often. To find this place was a gift. Hughthir was a great host and was in constant communication with us regarding our stay. The drive into this property is breathtaking, the house/cabin is quaint and peaceful with a lot of rich history. One morning I saw a bald eagle fly over the lake it overlooks. You step back a bit when visiting this “rustic” property. It was built with care and our family would absolutely recommend this rare find. Thank you, Hughthir! Hope to see you next year!

This was a beautiful experience for myself and 8 yr old grand daugher. Shes a budding artist. Lol. She loved the cabin which oozed of love and artistic qualities. While we werent out exploring the surrounding areas of Sleeping Bear Dunes attractions, she was engulfed in quietness to work on her arts and crafts non stop. Great bonding for us. I also enjoyed the environment to unplug and read.

This is a unique stay with a deep family history. My wife and I loved staying here. It was quiet and very peaceful...a perfect get away! The owner who built the house, cabin and sheds was an incredible host who made himself available and was both helpful and a pleasure to talk to. We look forward to going back!

Our family Fall Getaway in Hughthir’s lovely place was one of THE BEST experiences we’ve had in a VRBO—setting, property, home feng sui, convenient location (between our beloved Empire and the activity of Traverse City) and Hughthir’s hospitality ALL converged for this “rave review”.!

Our second visit was even better than the first! From the peaceful surroundings with lots of wildlife to Hughthir’s excellent ability to be available but not intrusive to the feeling of peace one gets when immersed in architectural greatness this place doesn’t disappoint.

Beautiful cabin in lovely surroundings. Hughthir has crafted an amazing cabin, which he graciously shares with the rest of us. All other reviewers have eloquently and accurately described this charming cabin and attuned host. Our stay was a welcome balm during a difficult year.

Uniquely comfortable and charming house sited adjacent to a small lake is a wonderful and relaxingly calm place to stay. Hughthir is a relaxed, but prompt and attentive host.

The online pictures do not do justice to this home. We absolutely loved our stay and can’t wait to go back next year. Everything about this home is perfect and provides the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation.

My wife and I had a great time here! Location is perfect and property is nice and cozy. Hugh was great!