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Countryside gem right by the lake!

Photo gallery for Countryside gem right by the lake!

perfect place to make memories!
3 nice kayaks with paddles and lifejackets included in rental price!
Campfire to enjoy the stillness
Bring your winter toys for lots of fun!
Aerial view

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Garage parking available
    Enjoy the convenience of garage parking - a rare offering in the area.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
3 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Garage parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio
  • Internet access

Explore the area

View map
Balsam Lake, WI
  • Place, Long Lake
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Place, Loveless Lake
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Place, Little Butternut Lake
    ‪13 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bed area 3 - Upstairs in Open Space

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 1 - downstairs

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2 - upstairs

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1 - downstairs

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Countryside gem right by the lake!

ASK US ABOUT OUR DISCOUNT FOR A 7 NIGHT BOOKING!

Do you enjoy wide open spaces, starry nights, swimming, kayaking and fishing? Look no further, we have it all! Come enjoy the stillness of rural country life. Our cozy cottage offers a birds eye view of Half Moon Lake where the loon call is enchanting & relaxation with family and friends is perfection! The surrounding communities are a blend of lush countryside , lakes, parks, & small town charm. The house is surrounded by farm fields, quiet country roads and mother nature!

The house has 2 Queen beds, 1 full bed, 1 full bathroom and one half bathroom. The house has 2 living areas - both with TVs and DVD players. You'll find an electric fireplace in the downstairs living area. Full kitchen with dining area. Outdoor seating. Firepit (ask us about wood availability) - S'mores supplies included! We have thought of everything to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Summer & Fall:
Activities: Fishing, water sports, swimming, hunting, hiking, biking, campfires, etc!
Included with your stay is the user-friendly kayak cart (on wheels) to pull 2 kayaks down to the beach. You can put the kayaks in at the sandy beach and away you go to explore the day away! Be sure to find and explore Tamarack Bay - a family favorite. No need to be an expert kayaker - it is easy for beginners too! Kayaks can be used anytime between April and October.

The house is about 2 easy blocks from Half Moon Beach / Lake - just a walk down the paved road! There is a sandy beach - very few weeds and the lake is great for swimming! Also at the beach is a swing set, picnic shelter, charcoal BBQ grill, fishing dock and boat launch. It is a quiet beach - lots of room to spread out and de-stress.

Winter:
Activities: Fishing, snowmobiling, hiking, campfires, etc!

Half Moon Lake (and Balsam lake just a few minutes away) is perfect for ice fishing!

Bring your outdoor recreational toys for any season! Lots of fun to be had.

We are located in rural Balsam Lake, Wisconsin. Within minutes, there is a variety of entertainment options, restaurants, coffee shops, and antique shops. We are near Milltown, WI; Taylors Falls, WI and St. Croix Falls, WI.

This rental is perfect for any type of group - friends retreat, couples getaway, family time, contractors, crafters, fishermen, hunters, boaters, etc!

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
So many great things for the kids to explore!
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Events

No events allowed
Small gatherings are ok!
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 1398973vb
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
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: small gatherings are ok!
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the area

Balsam Lake

Located in Balsam Lake, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a lake. Frederic Museum and St. Croix Festival Theatre are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Luck Golf Course and Frederic Golf Course. Fawn Doe Rosa Wildlife Educational Park and Polk County Fairgrounds are also worth visiting. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and don't miss out on the sledging and snowmobiling.
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Map
Balsam Lake, WI

What's nearby

  • Long Lake - 12 min drive - 12.5 km
  • Loveless Lake - 12 min drive - 13.2 km
  • Little Butternut Lake - 13 min drive - 15.4 km
  • Little Bass Lake - 13 min drive - 13.9 km
  • Big Butternut Lake - 14 min drive - 16.9 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Milltown Drive-Inn - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Balsam Lake Brewery & Market - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Eagle Lounge - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Hack's Pub - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Balsam Lake Lodge & Supper Club - ‬14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Countryside gem right by the lake! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Countryside gem right by the lake!?

As of 19 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Countryside gem right by the lake! on 5 October 2026 start from NZ$359, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Countryside gem right by the lake!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Countryside gem right by the lake!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Countryside gem right by the lake!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Countryside gem right by the lake! located?

Situated on a lake, this holiday home is within 9 miles (15 km) of Camp Douglas Lake, Big Butternut Lake and Big Butternut Lake Park. Loveless Lake and Long Lake are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 89 out of 90 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 90 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 90 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 90 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 90 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Todd F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place out in the country. Hosts had everything well stocked. Even had cookie dough in the freezer for people to make cookies. This is a 100% perfect rental. Would certainly recommend this place.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 4 May 2026
So glad that the cottage worked well for your weekend activities and we appreciate your group leaving everything in perfect shape. Thank you so much-
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tyler B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an incredible stay at the sisters lodge. You can clearly see they have put much time and effort into their space, have thought of every need, and even notated all possible questions on plaques through the house for ease. The blankets were plenty, wild life abundant and peace at maximum. I could want for nothing during my stay at the Whispering Pines. We will certainly be visiting again. Thank you!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dawn J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice, clean, cozy farmhouse with many amenities.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debora B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A cozy country home nestled by Half Moon Lake and farm fields. This is a clean home ready to enjoy. The interior is cozy and spacious. Set up for guest with everything you need.The outdoors is waiting for you to enjoy the deck area, a camp fire or just relax in a lawn chair. For that special get away this home hits all the marks for relaxation and rest.Thank You Brenda Well done!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joe K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stay here every year to get away from the hustle and bustle. It’s a great place the whole family to unwind. No neighbors and just peace a quiet.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alyssa N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic home! Comfy beds and lots of amenities/well stocked kitchen
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a wonderful stay at this beautiful property. I celebrated my 40th with my sisters and a couple close friends and it was the perfect size for our needs. Wish we would’ve booked a longer stay, definitely next time!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We very much enjoyed our stay. we were visiting friends nearby and everything was perfect for our needs. Comfortable, quiet, and in the middle of a cornfield. The host was super easy to communicate with and let us check in early. Highly recomend.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debora B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing country home

Always a relaxing event to stay at whispering pines. This country home is set up to give visitors a clean, comfortable cozy stay. Loved the local cafes and restaurants.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely Property

My brother and I were very pleased with our stay. The property was well kept and beautiful inside and outside. The owners have added lovely thoughtful touches and were amazing to work with!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Darlene M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quite peaceful homey place to stay

We have stayed here since 2020 @enjoyed more every time we came. Very nice place
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jean S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fishing weekend

Very nice place. Close to neighboring towns
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Allen S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great property!!

This is a great property in a great location. Peaceful and quiet. Close to lakes and several towns. I've stayed here several times and have always loved it.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 June 2022
It's always exciting to see previous guests returning to Pines That Whisper and enjoying the opportunities to relax and explore the nearby lakes, and towns close by to explore. Thank you for taking great care of the cottage during your stay. Come Back and See Us Soon!! Three Sisters, Brenda, Beth and Barbara
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Little Yellow House

We love staying at the “little yellow house” when we come to Balsam Lake for an annual family reunion. The accommodations are perfect for our needs and the personal, homey touches are greatly appreciated.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bill M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

House

Had everything anyone needs to have a great stay. Would definitely book again when in area.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carrie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Balsam Lake Winterfest Getaway

Property was very clean, organized & cozy. I loved the laminated helpful notes throughout the home. Location was easy to get to town for events as well. Would definitely stay here again :)
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Little yellow house

We enjoyed our stay over the weekend. The host (Brenda) was very sweet and showed us around. This house is very kid friendly with lots of games and puzzles. We will definitely be coming back to rent the little yellow house.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The little yellow house

This is our second stay at the little yellow house as my granddaughter calls it and we again found it perfect for our needs. Lots of little homey touches and the perfect location close to my sister’s lake home for our family reunion.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

BARBARA D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fishing trip.

Everything was very clean. The extra "touches" throuout the house were wonderful. Very good location .
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Henry B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Reunion visit

Nice homey older farm house. Will need to return with grandkids to enjoy he Lake!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tami O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Countryside Gem

As always, Brenda is such a gracious host!! I would recommend staying at her place, it has everything you need!! Thank you and hope to be back next year!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Justin W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hidden Gem

Excellent, thoughtful, and accommodating hosts! The property is secluded and beautiful; within 5 minutes of 2 lakes. We will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patrick H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very relaxing

It is a very clean and enjoyable place to unwind. We were able to watch the deer in the fields while drinking our coffee in the morning and while winding down before bed.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wedding reception for friend

We were here for wedding reception for son of college friend. The house is cozy, clean, near lake, nice kitchen, living room with fireplace & couches and the bed was comfortable. VERY satisfied.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emily C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great weekend away!

This place is a beautiful oasis in the country! The check in process was seamless and Brenda was a wonderful host. The house had a beautiful open lawn, wide open skies, and a space filled with thoughtful amenities. The beach was steps away and we had the best time. Thank you for the great weekend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 17 June 2020
Thank you to our recent guests. There was no doubt that this country getaway was a perfect retreat! Emily & friends said the quiet surroundings & starry night skies were amazing!

About the host

Hosted by Brenda Strilzuk

Host profile image
This property is owned by three sisters - Beth, Brenda & Barbara.

Why they chose this property

This property has been owned by our family on and off since the 1950's.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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