Torch Lake Cottage Screened-Porch Walk to Alden Historic Family Retreat | Cottage in Alden
5 Bedroom Cottage in Alden
This is a true Northern Michigan family cottage — built in the early 1900s and cared for by our family for generations. We offer it to a limited number of guests each season who are looking for a peaceful stay on the lake: morning coffee on the porch, long swims, shared meals, and time to settle into the rhythm of the water.
While the cottage retains its historic character, the bathrooms, kitchen, and major systems have been updated over time to ensure comfort for today’s families (one bathroom was redone in 2026). Additional improvements (including refinished wood floors and new pine walls and ceilings in several bedrooms renovated in 2025) — add comfort while preserving the cottage’s original character.
The heart of the cottage is the screened-in porch, open to the lake on three sides. It’s everyone’s favorite place to read, nap, watch Torch's famous “Caribbean blue” bands shift throughout the day, or sip an evening glass of wine as the sunset pours warm light across the water.
Inside, the large, light-filled living room with its stone fireplace is a comfortable gathering place for cooler evenings or rainy days. Bedrooms are cozy and simple, with classic cottage furnishings and antiques.
Outdoors, you’ll find a dock, firepit by the water, lakeside sun deck, and a second patio with grill near the kitchen. Sandy shallows extend out from the shoreline, and a mooring buoy is available for your boat (jet skis are not permitted, out of respect for neighbors and the quiet nature of the area).
The cottage sits among mature trees in a peaceful stretch of privately owned homes, yet the town of Alden — with restaurants, shops, playgrounds, and tennis courts — is just a 15-minute walk away.
This cottage is best suited for
- Families and multi-generation groups
- Guests who appreciate the charm of an older cottage
- Visitors looking for a quiet, residential setting
- Those planning to settle in and enjoy the lake for a full week in summer or a shorter stay in the quieter seasons.
It may not be the right fit if you’re looking for
- A party atmosphere
- A newly built or luxury property
- A high-turnover vacation setting
Because this is a family heirloom, we ask guests to treat the property, the lake, and our neighbors with care.
Torch Lake Cottage Screened-Porch Walk to Alden Historic Family Retreat is located in Alden. Torch Lake Cottage Screened-Porch Walk to Alden Historic Family Retreat provides accommodation, featuring Balcony/Terrace, Security/Safety, Internet, among other amenities. This Cottage features Balcony/Terrace, Security/Safety, Internet, to make your stay a comfortable one.
Torch Lake Cottage Screened-Porch Walk to Alden Historic Family Retreat has 5 Bedrooms , 2 Bathrooms, and max occupancy of 9 people. The minimum rental for this property is 1 nights, but this can change depending on the season you plan on staying. Previous guests have given good rated it, and VRBO labeled it a top-rated Cottage because of the excellent services rendered by the owner or manager of this Cottage, and has consistently provided great experiences for their guests. Most families or guests that use it recommend it to their friends and some of them are repeat guests. Cottage has a friendly neighborhood, and the Alden has interesting places to visit. If you want to learn more about the Cottage in Alden, such as places to visit and things to do nearby, you can check below to learn more.
Amenities
Facility Overview
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Heating
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Towels provided
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Bathtub or shower
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Hair dryer
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2 bathrooms
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Soap
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Toilet paper
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Sofa bed
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Bed sheets provided
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5 bedrooms
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Dining table
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Living room
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Fireplace
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Electric kettle
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Microwave
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Stovetop
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Coffee/tea maker
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Refrigerator
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Coffee grinder
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Cookware/dishes/utensils
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Oven
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Dishwasher
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Laundry facilities
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Washing machine and dryer
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Beach sun loungers
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Onsite parking
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No pets allowed
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Smoke-free property
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If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
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Hardwood flooring in public areas
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Kayaking nearby
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Cycling nearby
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Power boating nearby
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Water skiing nearby
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Basketball nearby
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Fishing nearby
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Birdwatching nearby
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Swimming nearby
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Winery tours nearby
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Smart TV
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Books
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Games
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Unit size: 1500 sq ft (139 sq m)
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Near a hospital
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On the waterfront
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In a rural location
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On the lake
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Next to a golf course
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In a village
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Desk
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Desk chair
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Children's books
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Children's games
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Iron/ironing board
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Free WiFi
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Patio
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Barbecue grill
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Garden
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Fire extinguisher
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Smoke detector installed (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
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First aid kit
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Deadbolt lock
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No carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector or gas appliances on the property)
Policies
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 host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed 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
Reviews
FAQ's
Is this Alden cottage pet-friendly for guests?
No, pets are not allowed at this property. Check the guest reviews to learn what guests had to share.
Does the Alden cottage have a swimming pool?
No, this Alden cottage does not have a swimming pool. Check the Facility Overview section for details about the pool and other available facilities.
How much does it cost per night to stay in Alden cottage?
Best-rates for the Alden cottage starts from $707 per night with includes Child Friendly, Parking, Kitchen, Balcony/Terrace, Security/Safety, Internet, TV, View, Ocean View, Bedding/Linens, Wellness Facilities, Fireplace/Heating, Barbecue/Outdoor Cooking, Laundry, Sports/Activities, Guest Services, Entertainment with all other facilities. matches every traveler with their perfect accommodation, whether you are traveling with a group, friends, family, or pets.
Is Alden cottage a family-friendly place to stay?
Based on the information we have received from the owner or our partner, this is considered to be a family-friendly property. Families have rated this cottage Good or guests have recommended them suitable for families. As reported by the owner or manager, the cottage has specified that children are welcome. Please see details about suitability for your family or inquire with the property to learn more.
Is the Alden cottage wheelchair accessible or offer services for disabled guests?
Based on the information received from our partner, the Alden cottage has not specified they are wheelchair accessible. Likewise, there is not an elevator specified as being available at the property. Specific accessibility details may be addressed in the property details section of this page.
What is the minimum night stay policy for the Alden cottage?
Based on the information reported by the owner or manager, the Alden cottage indicates 1 day stay policy at this cottage. Guests are cautioned that the minimum stay policy may differ based on seasonality or availability and may be at the discretion of the owner or manager.
What cancellation policy is in place for Alden cottage?
Guests are cautioned that the cancellation policy may differ based on seasonality, availability, or current travel restrictions. Guests should also be aware that this policy may be subject to change and should be confirmed prior to booking. More details may be available on this page in the property description. However, early check-in or late check-out can sometimes be negotiated between the guest and the owner or the manager of this property.