Glen Arbor Barnhouse on the Crystal River, short walk to town & Lake Michigan.
House in Glen Arbor, MI
8 guests · 3 bedrooms · 3 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Top-tier experienceOne of the higher cost properties in the area
Includes essentialsKitchen or Kitchenette, Internet / Wifi, Parking and more
About this house rental
Get back to basics at the Glen Arbor Barnhouse located on the pristine Crystal River. The private drive takes you along the slough of the Crystal River where you might catch sight of the abundant wildlife. Take a short walk down the road and you’ll find the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan which offer breathtaking views of North and South Manitou Islands and beautiful sunsets. A short trip to town offers abundant shopping and restaurants. The centralized location of the Barnhouse between Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City ensures access to all the area has to offer.
The unique layout of the barnhouse lends itself to incredible character. It has recently been remodeled with modern updates but still keeping with the rustic nature of its surroundings. There are three open floors which wind around a central fireplace. The main floor includes a dining room and kitchen with quartz counter-tops, two sinks, and a second beverage refrigerator. It also includes the master bedroom suite, laundry room, and a half bath. The charming living room contains a sleeper sofa (queen) with a cozy gas fireplace. The second floor includes a bunk room (2 twins and 2 fulls), a full bathroom, and an open game room containing 2 CordaRoy's convertible bean bags (2 fulls). The third floor bedroom or “Birds Nest” (queen) offers spectacular views of the surroundings.
The Barnhouse is surrounded by a boardwalk, giving easy access to the back deck which is equipped with a patio table and chairs for outdoor lounging. There is also a gas grill for barbecuing and a wooded side lot for bonfires and games. Enjoy the Crystal River by wading in the shallow water, fishing off the dock, or kayaking (4 kayaks) down the river. Enjoy the peacefulness and beauty of Northern Michigan while staying at the Glen Arbor Barnhouse.
Area Attractions: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, Alligator Hill Trail, Empire Bluffs, Pyramid Point, Dune Climb, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Sleeping Bear Point Trail, Glen Haven, Glen Lake, Charter Fishing, Wine tasting, Bike and Kayak rental available in Glen Arbor, multiple local restaurants and shopping, Port Oneida Historic District, Leland or “Fishtown” (north), Empire (south)
Firewood available, 2 TV's, High Speed Internet, Linens and towels, HE Washer/Dryer, 4 Kayaks
The unique layout of the barnhouse lends itself to incredible character. It has recently been remodeled with modern updates but still keeping with the rustic nature of its surroundings. There are three open floors which wind around a central fireplace. The main floor includes a dining room and kitchen with quartz counter-tops, two sinks, and a second beverage refrigerator. It also includes the master bedroom suite, laundry room, and a half bath. The charming living room contains a sleeper sofa (queen) with a cozy gas fireplace. The second floor includes a bunk room (2 twins and 2 fulls), a full bathroom, and an open game room containing 2 CordaRoy's convertible bean bags (2 fulls). The third floor bedroom or “Birds Nest” (queen) offers spectacular views of the surroundings.
The Barnhouse is surrounded by a boardwalk, giving easy access to the back deck which is equipped with a patio table and chairs for outdoor lounging. There is also a gas grill for barbecuing and a wooded side lot for bonfires and games. Enjoy the Crystal River by wading in the shallow water, fishing off the dock, or kayaking (4 kayaks) down the river. Enjoy the peacefulness and beauty of Northern Michigan while staying at the Glen Arbor Barnhouse.
Area Attractions: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, Alligator Hill Trail, Empire Bluffs, Pyramid Point, Dune Climb, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Sleeping Bear Point Trail, Glen Haven, Glen Lake, Charter Fishing, Wine tasting, Bike and Kayak rental available in Glen Arbor, multiple local restaurants and shopping, Port Oneida Historic District, Leland or “Fishtown” (north), Empire (south)
Firewood available, 2 TV's, High Speed Internet, Linens and towels, HE Washer/Dryer, 4 Kayaks
Amenities
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Map of Glen Arbor, MI
$$$$
Ratings and reviews
4.0 / 5.0
We stayed for a week with our two teens and my daughter joined us with her husband for a few days. Then my two teens each had a friend join them for the rest of the trip.
You can’t beat this location. Quiet and peaceful but a very short walk to Glen Arbor or to the glorious beach. The area reminds me of what East Hampton and Sag Harbor were like 30 years ago. Pristine and stunning. We loved the back deck and the dock area along the Creek.
Note that there is no AC, which would be totally fine if not for humidity, which makes the entire house damp and musty inside. Also note that the water is on a septic system/not city water.
The location is unbeatable and our hosts were helpful!
5.0 / 5.0
What a beautiful home in which to enjoy Glen Arbor! Every little detail was perfect. Our check-in was easy, the amenities were fabulous, and we couldn’t have asked for a better house to stay at while we enjoyed the beach. The sunsets were breathtaking at the end of Bay Lane every night. Thank you Eric and family for a wonderful vacation home for our family!
5.0 / 5.0
We like it so much we rented this wonderful home for next year.
Everything was perfect.
My only suggestion would be to have an earlier check in time.
Eric was so gracious and willing to take my calls to answer any questions I might have had.
Betty
5.0 / 5.0
This was our second time renting this beautiful home, and we made more wonderful memories! The location is great - removed from any hustle and bustle, right on the Crystal River, and surrounded by nature (chipmunks, deer, and squirrels a-plenty!). The home is very well-stocked for all seasons. The fireplace is a delight and warms the whole home. The kitchen is ready for any meal to be cooked, and there is a whole closet full of fans, bedding, and pillows so you can tweak your comfort zone. This time, we enjoyed the firepit (though we did have to buy firewood - there were only rounds on the property and the rain took care of any smaller rounds that might have been useful), biking, hiking, kayaking, dune-climbing, family board games, movies, chartered fishing, and the local park for tennis.
Thank you again!
5.0 / 5.0
My wife and I stayed here with our 2 young kids (baby and toddler) we loved the house and location. The house was clean, well furnished and stocked with everything we needed. The location on the crystal river was so nice and fun for our kids too, easy 1 min drive into town for food etc. We will stay here again for sure.
5.0 / 5.0
This is a great, unique family house with everything you need in a great location very close to beach, Glen Arbor, and Sleeping Bear Dunes! Newly renovated and spotless. Great hosts who are very responsive without being intrusive! We will definitely rent again and hope to return to the area again soon!!
5.0 / 5.0
A perfect week in a beautiful home
The photos of this home don't do it justice. It is absolutely stunning. It was everything we could have wanted in a vacation home and more. The whole place was spotless with all the comforts of home, check-in was easy, the beds were comfy, and there were directions laid out for everything so there was little to question. Eric was quick to answer any questions that I did have about local kayaking conditions/tips, and I have no doubt he (and Marcy) would have been on top of anything else that might have cropped up. We cooked in all week because the kitchen was well equipped, enjoyed the on-site kayaks, utilized the firepit for s'mores, and spent a night or two in front of the indoor fireplace on their cozy couches/chairs watching a movie. Being there at the time of year we were, leaving the windows open at night allowed cool air to circulate for a solid night's sleep. However, there is a whole closet full of fans and extra blankets for those who run cooler or warmer. These hosts thought of everything, and I want to thank them for a wonderful vacation :) We hope to be back!
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful home! Fantastic location.
Unfortunately we had to cut our stay short however the home did not disappoint. Home had all the amenities and comforts of home. The privacy was also very nice. Enjoyed sitting by the river drinking my morning coffee.
5.0 / 5.0
Favorite Glen Arbor Location
Great time as always, can't wait to return!
5.0 / 5.0
Such a great place!
We have stayed at several different homes in the Glen Arbor area over the years and this was by far the best! Everything about the house was adorable. Loved the layout, the doors and shutters (you have to see them in real life to get it!), the location, the cleanliness, etc. It was just perfect! Eric was immediately responsive to any questions we had and was very nice. We would absolutely stay here again in the future. Thank you for sharing your home with us!
3.0 / 5.0
Charm minus comfort
I so wanted to love this property. The photos and the 5 star reviews convinced me to book it. The home is very cute. Unique layout and character. But we didn’t sleep the entire week. The home was so uncomfortably hot. We read that it didn’t need air conditioning because of its location in the trees, which sounds reasonable. But after a week of temps in the 80s and high humidity, we may as well have gone camping. We used the fans in the home and opened the windows, but I ended up on the couch every night because the master bedroom was so stuffy and the bed wasn’t very comfortable. The only other bummers were on-again, off-again hot water, (the owner was very responsive and sent the plumber right away. The plumber couldn’t find an issue, but we found that some showers turned cold out of nowhere), and loss of power on the last morning that set us packing and getting ready in the dark. There was a lot of outdoor space though which was great. And the kayaks were a bonus. I can’t say we’ll go back there again. I certainly wouldn’t pay those prices again for 7 hot and sleepless nights.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful home. Great location
This home is fantastic. It is well appointed and architecturally interesting. Our kids loved the bunk room! We enjoyed the outdoor spaces just as much as the indoor spaces. The oversized deck, fire pit, kayaks and dock on the river provided lots of entertainment for our kids. The location is ideal. Walking distance or a very short drive to so much-kayaking the river, Lake Michigan beach, downtown Glen Arbor, biking trail to sleeping bear dunes, plenty of hiking trails, Glen Lake, etc. We hope to book again for another vacation Up North.
5.0 / 5.0
The owner was great and we all loved the house.
This is a fantastic place to stay.
5.0 / 5.0
Fantastic getaway
We loved our trip to Glen Arbor. The farmhouse was the perfect mix of luxury in a natural/woodsy environment. We got out on the kayak almost every day after lunch. Definitely worth the trip.
5.0 / 5.0
GLen Arbor2021
House was clean large and on Crystal River which was great for fishing and wading . Amazing kitchen and up to date laundry which needed for grandkids. Also close to town and short drive to Fishtown. Only issue we had was door lock which owner was quick to help resolve.
5.0 / 5.0
Michigan spring break
Booked this property last-minute. Absolutely gorgeous and unique architecture. Perfect COVID getaway, huge yard , fire pit , woods , river. Spotless and top of the line. Kids loved the bunk room. Quick drive to Sleeping Bear. Will be coming back to enjoy summer / fall here!
5.0 / 5.0
Perfect Family Getaway
Glen Arbor Barnhouse is a beautiful home in an even more beautiful location. Our family felt right at home enjoying the perfectly appointed bedrooms, cozy living spaces, and incredible surrounding property. The booking process was organized and Eric was very responsive answering any questions we had and provided suggestions of how to make our stay even better. We look forward to our return to the Glen Arbor Barnhouse.
5.0 / 5.0
Great house, great location!
We were looking for a easy get away for our family during COVID. This property met and exceeded our needs. We were able to kayak, fish, have a campfire on property while Lake Michigan and Glen Arbor are short walks away. The house itself is unique and cozy.
2.5 / 5.0
Eric was great to work with, he answered all questions quickly and check in was super easy. Loved being on the river. The house was very fun and would stay there again.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful home, well appointed
Lovely lovely property. Spotlessly clean, well appointed and wonderful location.
5.0 / 5.0
Lux Camping Vibes
Eric was great to work with, he answered all questions quickly and check in was super easy.
Loved being on the river. The house was very fun and would stay there again.
5.0 / 5.0
Amazing Weekend Getaway
The cabin was absolutely amazing. It exceeded all of our expectations and we are already talking about when we can go back.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful Glen Arbor River House
Wonderful property. Impeccably decorated. Location on the river is perfect. Kayaks provided were a definite bonus. We really enjoyed our stay and would certainly book again.
5.0 / 5.0
Great property and location
Wonderful visit and access to surrounding attractions.
5.0 / 5.0
Up North Getaway
Beautiful home on the banks of the Crystal River. Home was beautifully appointed. Eric was very responsive host. Will rent this home again!!
5.0 / 5.0
Amazing home!
We stayed for two weeks and had an incredible time. The home is beautifully fully furnished on an incredible piece of land, right on the river and a 5 minute walk to the beach. The owner was there for us to answer questions and was very gracious. We would definitely stay there again!
5.0 / 5.0
Great mini winter vacation
House was great! Very clean and had everything we needed. We really enjoyed the area and stayed busy with several outdoor winter activities. Great location to enjoy the town of Glen Arbor less than 5 minutes away along with all the attractions in the area.
5.0 / 5.0
Peaceful and Beautiful
We loved our stay at this property. Eric was very responsive and helpful during our stay. Lake Michigan is a short walk from the house and the house is beautifully decorated and immaculate!
5.0 / 5.0
Exceptional Property and Host
As good as the pictures. Location is excellent too. Would definitely stay here again.
5.0 / 5.0
Close to town and Lake MI
This new home is close to Glen Arbor with all its small town Up North charm. Close enough to walk to Lake MI beach and on the Crystal River. Four kayaks and a fire pit make for great family time. The owner is responsive and the property is newly renovated, so in great condition. The loft bedroom was the favorite among our teenagers.
5.0 / 5.0
A little piece of heaven...
Our family loved the house with its cool features and thoughtful touches. The property itself is ideal- close to everything but tucked away so it feels like you are away from any hustle and bustle. Lake Michigan is down the road 1/4 of a mile with a private beach area to enjoy, and town isn’t much farther away.
The kids loved using the kayaks and the river is shallow so no fear of scary incidents for mama. Fire pit was enjoyed and there was plenty of wood provided. We also saw a lot of deer in the area.
The beds are comfy and all the details Marcy put into the house make it the perfect get away. Modern appliances and windows everywhere.
Eric and Marcy were also gracious and available to answer any questions. We can’t wait to go back!
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Glen Arbor?
The average price for a rental in Glen Arbor is $508 per night. This rental is $759 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Glen Arbor Barnhouse on the Crystal River, short walk to town & Lake Michigan. . 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 Glen Arbor Barnhouse on the Crystal River, short walk to town & Lake Michigan. pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Glen Arbor Barnhouse on the Crystal River, short walk to town & Lake Michigan. ?
We found 8 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, parking, and laundry.
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