Quiet Retreat in the woods, near Empire Beach

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Most favorited
Welcome to Hughthir's Artist Retreat!
Photo by John Finn, 2015
Main-floor Kitchen. Lots of counter-space, gas stove.
Photo by John Finn.
View of Kitchen/Dining Rooms and Living Room in background.  Photo by John Finn.
Add-on Cabin for your extra family/guests. Photo by John Finn.
Photo by John Finn
review stars
10Outstanding
(99 Ratings)
Guests loved the unique stay with deep family history, peaceful surroundings, and the incredible craftsmanship of the cabin. The host, Hughthir, was attentive, friendly, and made their experience unforgettable.
From real guest reviews summarized by AI
Don't miss out! Price and availability may change
10 / 10
Outstanding(99 Ratings)

House in Sleeping Bear Dunes, MI

4 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath

Reasons to book

Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Well priced for this locationPriced under area average
Book with confidenceWe partner with the top travel sites so you know you're getting a great deal on the perfect rental

About this house rental

Our retreat is located on 120 acres of beautiful wooded land in Leelanau county. To arrive you drive on a well maintained two track through a lovely woods. When you step out of your car, you truly understand the notion of 'getting away.'

House is a 1200 sq ft timber frame,mortice and tenon frame, with stress skin panels. Custom made cabinets. House is a simple yet elegant design.

The kitchen is nicely equipped, with a nice collection of cook books. Also a nice collection of reading books. A good place for quiet contemplation.

The house comfortably sleeps four guests.

There is good hiking right out the front door!

We are located 9 miles to Empire Beach, and 18 miles from Traverse City.


This region is renowned for its natural beauty, the spectacular sand beaches of Lake Michigan, the vineyards and cherry orchards of Leelanau County. The closest golf course is four miles away. Empire is the gateway to the 70,000 acre national park, Sleeping Bear Dunes. No shortage of skiing, hiking, beach combing, canoeing, fishing and peace and quiet.

We are located only twenty minutes to Traverse City, which offers many fine dining possibilities as well as the newly renovated State Theater, home of the Traverse City Film Festival.

An additional timber framed guest cabin is available, a stones throw from the house. For an additional $75 you may have use of this cabin.

There is a cordwood sauna also available. It is wood fired. You can take advantage of a nice hot sauna by arranging with your host, for an additional rate of $60.

If you are looking for the peace and quiet of the woods, this is an ideal place to be.

Amenities at Quiet Retreat in the woods, near Empire Beach

Non-smoking
No pets allowed
Family friendly

Map of Sleeping Bear Dunes, MI


Ratings and reviews

10 / 10
Outstanding(99 Ratings)
review starsSummary of reviews
Guests loved the unique stay with deep family history, peaceful surroundings, and the incredible craftsmanship of the cabin. The host, Hughthir, was attentive, friendly, and made their experience unforgettable.
From real guest reviews summarized by AI
10 / 10Outstanding·Aug 2025
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.
10 / 10Outstanding·Jul 2025
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!
10 / 10Outstanding·Jun 2025
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.
5 / 10·Aug 2021
Really great place, very relaxing and beautiful surroundings. Comfortable cabin with everything you need.

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FAQs

Is parking included with this house?

Parking is not specified as an available amenity at Quiet Retreat in the woods, near Empire Beach. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.

Is there a pool at this house?

We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.

Is Quiet Retreat in the woods, near Empire Beach pet friendly?

Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"

What amenities are available at Quiet Retreat in the woods, near Empire Beach?

We found 3 amenities for this rental. This includes non-smoking, no pets allowed, and family friendly.