Union Pier-Alex Cottage Union Pier

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ALEX COTTAGE (Union Pier) Sleeps 4, Great family fun, 2 Bedrooms/1 Bath cottage steps from Lake Michigan
Bedrooms

2

Baths

1

Sleeps

4

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ALEX COTTAGE
SLEEPS: 4 
BEDROOMS: 2  
BATHROOMS: 1
PARKING SPOT: 1
*STEPS FROM LAKEFRONT (LAKE MICHIGAN)
*SWIMMING ON PROPERTY
*PLAYGROUND ONSITE
*3 OTHER CABINS SURROUND THE ALEX COTTAGE THAT ARE AVAILABLE TO REN
*NOT AVAILABLE APRIL 2020

The Alex Cottage is located steps away from your private Lake Michigan beach, so scoop up the little ones and walk on down! The Alex Cottage is a cozy ranch, fully-renovated with all your major appliances and Wi-Fi. Sleeping 4, there are 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom in this home. In addition, there is a grill for your convenience on the patio. It is a peaceful and quiet place, away from the street and has a convenient parking. In addition, The Alex has a grassy area with playground for small children. This is a good vacation spot for small families or couples.



Linens, beach towels and all supplies are on-hand. Enjoy the sunsets, stroll along Lakeshore Dr., visit galleries in New Buffalo, go shopping at Lighthouse Place, visit the Zoo in Michigan City or just simply soak your feet in the tranquil lake. 
 


**Parking is at a premium at our Union Pier location.  While we do not have an on-site parking attendant, please keep the neighbors in mind and park as close together, and as close to the cottages as possible. 
Rent all 4 cottages grouped closely together for a 10% discount.  (1 night stays do not apply.)


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Air Conditioning: There is a window air conditioning unit.


ATV's: None are allowed onsite.

Animals: You will see birds, deer, squirrels, racoons, and of course fish.
 


Bathroom:


     Bathroom #1: Full bathroom with shower
 


Beach/Swimming: You will walk around another cabin and down stairs in order to get to the private stretch of Lake Michigan beach used by our Union Pier Cottages. Swimming is divine on Lake Michigan. The 2019 Lake Michigan water level is very high. Therefore, the beach is not as wide has it has been in the recent past.  Each year is slightly different when it comes to nature.


Bedroom Configuration:


   Bedroom #1: 1 Queen


   Bedroom #2:  2 Twins which can be converted to a King upon request



Boats:  There are no boats that come with this rental. However, if you are interested in Fishing for Steelhead (Trout) you can do so in the St. Joseph River (25 minutes from the cabin) in October, November (Kory at Boozer's Guide Service says that November is the best month), December, March and April.  Discounted weekend rates if book a guide in conjunction with your lodging.


Bugs: Typical Michigan bugs


Cell phone service: Good!

Distances:
              * Notre Dame University: 35 minutes (28 miles)
              * Chicago: 90 minutes (82 miles)
              * Detroit: 3 hours (170 miles)
              * Traverse City: 2 hours and 30 minutes (135 miles)               

Dock: No dock


Grill: Yes and it is propane! Fuel is provided.

Grocery Store: In New Buffalo, just minutes away.


Handicap Friendly: Yes in terms of there is a very small step to enter the cottage and it is only one floor, however, it is an extremely cozy space and would not work well with wheelchairs. Also, you need to walk down steps in order to get to Lake Michigan.

Internet:  There is basic internet (wi-fi) service here. Our Internet service is not high speed and does not normally do well with streaming or large files.

Linens: Yes, we provide your sheets and linens. Just like a hotel, the beds will be made for you upon arrival. If you are fussy about the thread count of your sheets, just let me know, and I’ll make sure we leave a bed open for your sheets. We have just the basic sheets, pillows, pillow cases and bath towels.

Parking: Guests of the Alex will be provided one parking space next to the cottage. Parking is extremely tight.  There is not any street parking. Please be respectful the neighbors and not park in front of any other house but the Alex.  The only place to park an extra car would be at the Four Winds Casino, in New Buffalo.

Pets: No pets are allowed at any of our Union Pier Cottages

Privacy: There are cottages right next door.


Snowmobiling:  Not the ideal place for snowmobiling. Can not ride from house to trails and there is no room for parking a trailer. 


Space:  Ranch style home, cozy.


Televisions: Living room has a TV with basic Comcast Cable.


Towels: Yes, we provide towels.  It's always good to bring extra though.

Washer and dryer:  There is not a washer/dryer onsite. However, there is a laundry mat in New Buffalo just 10 minutes away

Winery Tours: The closest starting point to the cottage is in New Buffalo, approximately 5-10 minutes south. 
Round Barn Winery: A brewery/distillery and a winery all combined in one trip. Just 14 miles from the Union Pier Cottages, about a 20 minute drive.
Saint Julian Winery: Enjoy a great glass of wine at this local vineyard.

Amenities

Property/indoor Amenities
  • Air conditioner unit (window or portable unit)
  • Basic paper products included.
  • Cable- Satellite TV
  • Ceiling fans
  • Firewood is provided.
  • Heat: Furnace
  • Internet/ WI FI
  • Linens & towels included
Kitchen Amenities
  • Coffee maker
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Standard kitchenware & utensils
  • Stove
  • Toaster
Outdoor Amenities
  • Deck/patio
  • Grill-propane
  • Patio chairs
  • Playground on site
  • Sandy Beach
  • Swimming on property
  • Walkway to Lake-Private Beach
Local Amenities
  • Winery
Special Features
  • AirBnB Rounding Adjustment
Show All

Season Period Min.Stay Nightly Weekly
11/02/2019 - 01/03/2021 2 $119.00
01/04/2021 - 01/03/2022 2 $0.00

Reviews

Alex Cottage is a hidden gem!
We couldn't have been more pleased with our stay at Alex Cottage. The cottage itself was clean and cheery, and the beach access was a big bonus!

FVR RESPONSE
Susan, pleasing our guests is our #1 goal, so thank you for that!  It was great having you as our guest and we hope to work with you again.
Susan
Aug 2020
Very nice cottage near the beach
The cottage is an updated two bedroom beach house steps away from Lake Michigan. It is exactly the right size for a family of four. There is a gas grill and an outdoor table. We really enjoyed our stay.

FVR RESPONSE
Adam, we love hearing that you enjoyed staying at Grace Cottage.  There really is nothing better than being right on Lake Michigan.  We hope to work with you again!
Adam
Jun 2020
Excellent stay
My boyfriend and I had a fabulous stay over Memorial Day Weekend! The cabin is located in a prime location- just steps away from the boardwalk to the beach!! It is equipped with all you need and quite comfortable. We will be back. Wonderful stay!


FVR RESPONSE
Nicole, we love hearing that you had an excellent stay!  Alex Cottage is right on Lake Michigan, where guests have a private beach.  The sunsets and sunrises are hard to beat!  The cottage sleeps 4 and is the perfect getaway for small families or couples.  We look forward to your return!
Nicole
May 2020
5 stars
Great customer service

FVR RESPONSE
Eraldo, thank you for the compliment on our customer service.  Excellence in customer service is our #1 priority at Freshwater Vacation Rentals.  We hope that Alex cottage fit your needs.  It sleeps 4 and is just steps from Lake Michigan.  This is a good vacation spot for small families or couples.  We look forward to working with you again!
Eraldo
Feb 2020
Great, cozy, convenient location


FVR RESPONSE
Hermelinda, we are so happy that you enjoyed your stay at Alex Cottage.  It is wonderful to be right on Lake Michigan, with its magnificent winter power.  Snowmobile trails are nearby.  We'd love to have you come back again.
Hermelinda
Jan 2020
This was a great pick for a quiet getaway. Close to the beach and lots of local locations to eat. Easy drive to the Lighthouse Outlet shopping and nearby museums. Will be booking again.

FVR response: 
Lawrence, the very best review a guest can give is to say that they will be returning, so thank you for that!  Alex Cottage is a gem.  Sleeping 6 and just steps from Lake Michigan, this cottage is the perfect getaway in any season.  We look forward to your return.
Lawrence
Dec 2019
The Alex cottage was a great place to stay for our family of five. Our three children (6, 5, 1) slept in one room and my wife and I in the other. Everything necessary for a short stay was provided and met our needs. The wifi could be better and the kitchen wasn't spotless but that was only a minor inconvenience. The cottage was less than 300 feet from the beach and only a few miles from multiple restaurants, bars and natural attractions. We really enjoyed our stay and would love to come back. Thanks!

FVR response:
James, we would love to have you return!  Thanks for taking the time to write this review of the Alex.  It's a great spot for many of the reasons that you stated.  It's a 2 bedroom 1 bathroom that sleep 4 adults.  We are sorry to hear about the kitchen not being up to your standards for cleanliness.  In the future, when we work together, if you find any issues, please let us know immediately and we will rectify it right away.  It is our #1 priority to make certain that our guests are pleased with their stay
James
Dec 2019
Adorable cottage ! Loved it

Freshwater Vacation Rentals Response
Lisa we are so glad that you loved staying at the Alex Cottage.  Overlooking Lake Michigan, Alex Cottage is a 2 bedroom, 1 bath that sleeps 4.  It is a peaceful and quiet place to stay.  We hope you come back again.
Lisa
Nov 2019
The Alex
Hello. I enjoyed my stay at the Alex. The cabin was warm and clean and provided all essentials to make my stay comfortable. You could include a pair of scissors as there was none to be found. Also, the walkways were littered with leaves and was dangerously slippery after the rain started. Maybe a good gardener could be utilized for the Fall season. I believe it is your responsibility to keep your clients safe from household and exterior dangers. Tripping and falling injuries and the aftermath are alive and well on your sidewalks and walkways. I would definitely stay at your cabin again, with the stipulation that walkways are clear of debris.

FVR response:
Phyllis, we are happy that you enjoyed your stay at the Alex Cottage on Lake Michigan.  This 2 bedroom, 1 bath sleeps 4 and includes a private Lake Michigan beach.  It is peaceful and quiet.  Thanks for your recommendations for improvement.  We will get scissors, and we will make every attempt to keep the walks clear .  We'd love to work with you again. 
Phyllis
Nov 2019
Amazing places & great service
My family rented the four beach houses all together for a wonderful weekend together. The property is gorgeous, the accommodations were perfect, and every interaction I had with Freshwater was outstanding. Even on the day it poured rain, we had a great time!

Freshwater Vacation Rentals Response
John, renting all 4 cottages in Union Pier is such a great thing to do for large groups.  We are so glad that you all enjoyed yourselves, and we look forward to seeing you again!
John
Nov 2019
Alex Cottage is comfortable and clean and offers wonderful access to the path to the beach. Great amenities (fully stocked kitchen, 2 nice bedrooms, skylights everywhere, nice dining and living rooms). We completely relaxed and enjoyed our time there and will absolutely return next year!


Freshwater Vacation Rentals Response
Melinda, thanks for this great review.  Nothing beats staying at a property right on Lake Michigan.  The sunrises and sunsets are the best.  We'll look for your return. 
Melinda
Oct 2019
Alex Cottage-- very basic, great location
Being right by the beach was such a fun experience for our family-- we usually stay in houses that are a little further inland. The cottage was VERY basic, but that is what fits our budget if we want this location. There were some issues with towels, which was a bit frustrating since there isn't laundry at this location. The cleaners left 3 regular towels and 1 beach towel for the four of us, because they needed to launder the rest. Shouldn't they plan ahead knowing they'll need to take towels away to wash? We did have our own beach towels, but just one day at the beach and they were a mess. Thankfully we just stayed two nights. Any longer and I would need to rent a house with laundry, because days at the lake with kids are wet/sandy/messy. The house was clean, but a bit beat up. Clean beds, and basics for the kitchen made it easy to cook our own meals. It varies from house to house, but this house you'll need to bring EVERYTHING for cooking... even coffee filters and oil. I might stay again if it was just 1-2 nights, but will probably look somewhere else next visit.

Freshwater Vacation Rentals Response
Erin, being right on Lake MIchigan is a big plus.  There is nothing like Lake Michigan beaches and sunsets/sunrises.  We apologize for the towel issue.  Typically plenty of towels are left for the guests.  We will speak with our cleaners about this.  We have many properties throughout MIchigan, so we hope that we can find you the perfect place for next time.
Erin
Aug 2019
Fantastic home within steps of the beach! We loved our stay.

Freshwater Vacation Rentals Response
Rachel, there is nothing better than having access to Lake Michigan and those fabulous beaches.  The Alex Cottage is a cozy ranch, fully-renovated with all your major appliances and Wi-Fi.  We hope to see you again!
Rachel
Aug 2019
Nice beach getaway
Nice property. Playground set was nice to have right next door. A little spendy, but we were very comfortable and had a great time.

FRESHWATER RESPONSE:
Sara, we are happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay at Alex Cottage.  One can not beat staying at a cottage right on Lake Michigan.  The sunsets and sunrises and the fabulous beach are simply the best.  We hope to see you again soon
Sara
Jun 2019
Cozy, quiet yet kid friendly

Cozy little cottage set in wooded area but close enough to others to feel safe. Kid friendly area, they met new friends while there. Only problem was we didn't have a long enough stay. Bring what you need since there isn't a McDonalds or Walmart in sight. Loved the short walk out the back door to the beach.  Fun couple of days while the weather was nice. Loved the convenience of the beach. Would have liked to know more kid friendly restaurant options. All in all it was a lot of fun.


FRESHWATER RESPONSE:
Deana, we are so glad that you enjoyed the Alex.  There is so much to do when you are right on Lake Michigan.  The beaches are the best, and the grassy area with playground for small children gives children lots to do.  We hope to see you back again for a longer stay!
Deana
Jun 2019
Quaint, comfortable cottage
Great experience from start to finish. Location is ideal, close to beach, quiet neighborhood, walk to restaurants and ice cream. The cottage was very clean, comfortable and cozy for our family of four. When we return to Union Pier, this cottage will be our #1 choice.

FRESHWATER RESPONSE:
Catherine, we love that Alex Cottage is your #1 choice in Union-Pier!  It is a great cottage and being right on Lake Michigan is the best.  We look forward to your return.
Catherine
Jun 2019
Quaint cottage, attentive owner
When we arrived, the cottage was spotless, and there was a bouquet of fresh flowers and a bottle of local wine waiting for us. Our only complaint was that the hot water didn't last long enough to fill the bath tub, so I couldn't take a hot bath, and we encountered plumbing issues on day two of our stay. When we called the owner at 11pm when our toilet overflowed, she immediately answered and addressed the problem. She was very attentive and made sure we walked away happy. Overall, the cottage is cute, the beach is just steps away and is lovely, and cute restaurants and shops are just a mile away.


FRESHWATER RESPONSE:
Mandie, we are so happy that you enjoyed your stay at Alex Cottage.  There is nothing better than having Lake Michigan at your doorstep!  We are sorry that you had to deal with plumbing issues, and we appreciate your positive comments about how we handled the issue.  Our guests' comfort is our #1 priority.  We hope to work with you again in the near future.

 
Amanda
Apr 2019
Comfortable and Close to the Water
This was an excellent and cozy little cottage: very clean, very well maintained. It's also right on the water. My family and I had a wonderful stay. We intend to return!


FRESHWATER RESPONSE:
P, we are happy that you and your family enjoyed staying at Union Pier-Alex Cottage.  Being right on Lake Michigan is pretty special.  We look forward to working with you again in the future.
P
Oct 2018
It was fantastic!! very quaint little place, great location would go back again.




FRESHWATER RESPONSE:

Samantha, we are so glad that Alex Cottage worked out so well for you.  Having access to Lake Michigan during the summer is simply the best!  We do hope to see you again.
Samantha
Aug 2018
Cute Cabin
This is a nice, cute cabin and very close to a wonderful beach. The owners were great about answering questions. We had a terrific time!

FRESHWATER RESPONSE:

Anne, we're so glad that you enjoyed the Alex Cottage, and that you had a good time. Lake Michigan makes it easy to forget about everything except relaxing!
Anne
Jul 2018
Alex Cottage
We loved staying here and plan to come back next year. The cottage was clean, bright, cozy and it was so close to the beach! We enjoyed the big kitchen area and we cooked most of our meals there. It was very peaceful and relaxing We also enjoyed the short walk to the bakery and coffee shop.

FRESHWATER RESPONSE:
The town is so convenient and quaint. We are happy you enjoyed your stay and hope to host you next year!
 
Pat
Sep 2017
Alex Cottage in Union Pier
Alex Cottage is great. It is bright and airy, clean, comfortable, and a short walk to the beach. With air conditioning and wifi, it met all the needs of our family. We would use it again in the future.

FRESHWATER RESPONSE:
  We are happy you enjoyed your stay! We hope you do reserve with us again. We have already opened up 2018 for the Union Pier properties...so let us know!
 
Cindy
Jul 2017
Just Perfect for a little weekend away
I stayed in this house with 4 other girls and we all slept fine, even with one bathroom. Its so close to the beach (walking about 25 steps away), grocery and little restaurant nearby (Frankies for Martinis), we just had a blast. The owners are very easy to get ahold of no matter what time of day. Its close to the other houses we had no problem fitting our large party of 14 between the 2 houses (Grace cottage). I wish we had better weather, but we made the best of it. I would defiantly stay here again. The area is so cute, easy to get too and plenty of walking for us to look at. For a girls trip, this is the place!
Jordan
May 2017
Perfect little getaway
I stayed here with 4 other ladies, no problem. The house is so cute, its just perfect to sleep, eat and hangout. Its literally 30 steps from the beach. The other rentals are on the same grounds to where you can just walk house to house, as we did. The couch pulled out and the owners were very helpful all times of the day to order pizza, get house codes and how to leave the house. Its located close to town for groceries, restaurants and markets. The kitchen is big enough to eat around with others and lots of kitchen counter space. The bathroom is large as there is only one but you can make it work. If your looking for a little place to just getaway thats on the beach this is your place. We loved this place and I hope to stay here again!
Jordan
May 2017
Great Time
We have been staying at the Alex Cottage for our girls weekend for the past five years, and have enjoyed every minute of it. It's a nice cozy cottage that works well for us! We plan on going there for many years to come!
Mary Jo
Sep 2016
Great small family cottage
Being from Kentucky we do not get to visit Lake Michigan as much as we would like, so when we discovered the Alex Cottsge we were excited to bring the family up for an extended weekend visit. The beach access was a perfect proximity when making trips up and down from the cottage with a 9 week, 2 year old and 5 year old. The bedrooms were a decent size for our family of five and the bathroom was large enough to help our young kids get ready for bedtime. All of which you wouldn't expect from a smaller cottage. The eating area was fun for the kids and great way to eat as a family each night. Freshwater rentals were so great to work with that I would recommend this cottage to any family, so much that our extended family is already working to book the larger Brandon cottage for our 2017 summer vacation.
Sasha
Jun 2016
Great Place
The only thing I would say that could use a little improvement is the cleaning of the place. Other that that is was a great location and has everything that you need. All of the people were great to deal with and very helpful. Thanks so much for the good time.
Jeffrey
Apr 2016
Great Place
The only thing I would say that could use a little improvement is the cleaning of the place. Other that that is was a great location and has everything that you need. All of the people were great to deal with and very helpful. Thanks so much for the good time.
Jeffrey
Apr 2016


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