Entire home

Private Retreat in the Woods

Lakefront holiday home with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for Private Retreat in the Woods

Great Room
Dinning Room table
Great Room
Great Room
Great Room TV view

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8185.8 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
Ellison Bay, WI
  • Place, Sister Bay Beach
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Place, Sister Bay Marina
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Place, Newport State Park
    ‪20 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1 - First Floor

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2 - First Floor

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3 - 2nd Floor

1 Queen Bed

Loft

2 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Dining area

About this property

Private Retreat in the Woods

Come stay with us and enjoy our newly remodeled 1st floor Bathroom and Zone control Air Conditioner. A/C will be in our Great Room and 2nd Floor Bedroom.

Our home feels like a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life! It is bright, cozy and charming. The wall of windows into the woods in the living room is a wonderful place to do some wildlife watching. Better yet, head outside to the private outdoor deck looking over the woods and listen to the birds sing.

The marina is owned and operated by Dept of Natual Resources, as well as the large grass area along lake Michigan. There is one fire pit area in front for anyone to use and options for launching your kayak to enjoy the Mink River Sanctuary.



Sleeps 8

3 bedrooms with queen beds and a loft with 2 twin beds. Upstairs there is one bedroom, a loft area and a full bath. Downstairs there are two bedrooms and a full bath. Wood floors throughout the downstairs.

The Cedar house has two family spaces, our Four Seasons room and our Great room both are separated by a door
There is a large dining table to enjoy meals together, as well as a place to gather to solve a puzzle or play board games. The kitchen counter has four new barstools.

Please understand we do NOT provide the following:
PET STAY
GARAGE ACCESS
WASHER AND DRYER
NO FIRES outside except to make food in the grill (please note we do not provide charcoal)

Many of our returning guests do not realize that Rowley's Bay Resort burned to the ground in September 2023. While we have no affiliation with RBR we were sad to see this happen. We hoping to see new owners in the near future.

Door County Adventures is still operating at the marina for rentals of kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, as well as zip line and Segway tours and many excursions. Rowley’s Bay flows into the gentle Mink River, where you can spot minks, ducks, butterflies, dragonflies, and other wildlife. We are located at the end of a cul-de-sac. We have free internet access for guests. We have recommendations and brochures at the property upon your arrival. We are happy to make other suggestions or answer questions through email, messages, texts or phone calls. We want to make sure our guests have a wonderful stay. Please note majority homes are full time residence, and we are strict regarding our quiet hours!

Here’s some helpful tips to Door County we will provide more during your stay

Restaurants suggestions:
Al Johnson's with the goats on the roof
Husby's (America food)
Wild Tomatoes
Chop's for incredible steaks
Alexander's Salmon and many other tasty items on the menu
PC Junction to have your food delivered by a miniature train
White Gull Inn (Breakfast)
Wilson's or Door County/ Ice Cream Factory
Tell us what's your favorite place

Things to do
Spring/Summer/Fall: swim/hike/bike in the five state parks, and 19 county parks that Door County has to offer. Bike from our house to Gills Rock. Check out all of the Door County Land Trusts for even more hiking possibilities. Gaze at the stars at Newport State Park, which was recognized as one of only 49 international Dark Sky Parks. Watch the sunset from the outdoor stage at Waterfront Park in Sister Bay. Check out the new tower, an engineering feat, at Peninsula State Park. Golf at the many courses or try some miniature golf if that is more your speed. Watch live plays at the Peninsula Players Theater, Northern Sky Theater, Door Shakespeare or Third Avenue Playhouse. Attend live music concerts at numerous venues, including Birch Creek, Midsummer Music Festival and Peninsula Players. Many towns have weekly outdoor music concerts. Tour Cana Island and Eagle Bluff lighthouses. Ride the ferries to Washington Island and Rock Island. Cruise on a sailboat or tour boat. Rent a pontoon boat, a speed boat or a jet ski. Enjoy fishing on Lake Michigan or Green Bay on a fishing charter. Attend an outdoor movie at Skyway Drive In. Enjoy the many festivals on the weekends. Sign up for a bike race or a run. Take a cooking class at Savory Spoon or an art course at various art studios. Go cherry picking. Spend time horseback riding or rent an ATV. Take the trolley tour. Walk through Edgewood Orchard Galleries to see all the amazing outdoor sculptures for sale. Relax at Nicolet Beach or rent a bicycle or paddle boat/paddle board/canoe/kayak there. Take photos at the crooked road (near the north ferry launch). The options for activities are limitless in Door County.

Winter: Snowshoeing, sledding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, fat tire biking, ice skating and hiking. Rentals are available in Fish Creek and other locations. Bowling at Sister Bay Bowl. Attend the many winter festivals on weekends throughout the season. Photograph or check out the ice shoves of Door Bluff Headlands Park and the Cave Point County Park icicles. Hang at our house in front of the cozy fire with a good book. Stay home and play board games, checkers or complete a puzzle.

Year round: Shop at interesting boutiques and art galleries. Attend concerts or plays at Door County Auditorium, Third Avenue Playhouse and the new indoor Northern Sky Theater. Create art at Hands on Art Studio. Dine at amazing restaurants. Spa days are a must. Winery, distillery and brewery tours.

Door County bans chain stores and restaurants, which keeps the charm alive. You will only see them in Sturgeon Bay.

Thank you
Karl

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Perfect for families
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No Smoking

Important information

You need to know

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
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number 32-56-0447-00

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Ellison Bay

Located in Ellison Bay, this holiday home is on a river. Linden Gallery and Ellison Bay Pottery Studios are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Sister Bay Marina and Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Ellison Bay, WI

What's nearby

  • Sister Bay Beach - 17 min drive - 13.4 km
  • Waterfront Park - 17 min drive - 13.4 km
  • Sister Bay Marina - 17 min drive - 13.8 km
  • Newport State Park - 20 min drive - 17.3 km
  • Peninsula State Park - 28 min drive - 23.1 km

Getting around

  • Green Bay, WI (GRB-Austin Straubel Intl.) - 105 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Stabbur Beer Garden - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Husby's Food & Spirits - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Wild Tomato - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Boathouse on the Bay - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Private Retreat in the Woods pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Private Retreat in the Woods?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Private Retreat in the Woods?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Private Retreat in the Woods located?

This family-friendly Ellison Bay holiday home is located on a river, 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Lake Michigan, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Ellison Bluff State Natural Area and Linden Gallery. Ellison Bay Pottery Studios and The Clearing Folk School are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 98 out of 110 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 110 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 110 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 110 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 110 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay, great location, great price!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

jankelton

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This house was incredible for my husband and I, my three teenagers and my parents. We were in town for three days for a wedding. The kitchen is extremely well appointed and easy to make great meals. 10 minute walk to the pier for fishing, which my son really enjoyed!The back porch and view of the woods is really relaxing and a wonderful place for coffee or evening cocktails.The host is super responsive and pleasant!I have no complaints and we would absolutely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Suzann K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was good except the coffee pot…it took about 1 1/2 hour to brew!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

sally h.

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

Beautiful cabin!

This is a cabin that quickly made us feel at home! Everything you need on a peaceful quiet street. We really enjoyed how swift it was to check in & everything was as described! Thank you for sharing your beautiful cabin in the woods with us!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

John D.

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

Long weekend getaway

Beautiful in the woods cottage. Great upper Door County location.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan G.

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

Private retreat in Rowley Bay

Very quiet and peaceful. The house was clean and nicely equipped - we enjoyed our stay
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Miriam G.

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

Girls getaway

Loved our stay at Private Retreat in the Woods! And so convenient for our day trips to explore Door County. Would definitely stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tracy G.

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

House in Rowley’s Bay

We really enjoyed the layout of the house for 6 people. The fireplace was wonderful for the cool evenings. This location of DC is quieter and beautiful.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rose M.

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

The property was exactly as shown on the web. The cabin was spacious and located in a quiet peace.

Karl was very quick to respond to questions and provided a lot of helpful information about the local area.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

8/10 Good

Shari F.

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

Couples getaway

We enjoyed our stay. There was adequate room for all 6 of us. We had everything we needed. We plan to reserve this peaceful cabin in the woods again next year ! Overall a great place.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

April W.

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

Beautiful cabin home in the woods

This a beautiful northwoods home. It is very spacious. The beds are comfortable. The bathrooms are new with radiant heating in the floor in the first floor bathroom. This home is the perfect quiet place to relax.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Crystal C.

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

Great trip

We had a wonderful stay. Thank you so much for having us. The house is very close to a resort, so we enjoyed a morning walk for coffee and the bakery. We took advantage of the closemess of the lake to fish and kayaking.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

George O.

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

Excellent week!

We've been to this property many times over the years and are never disappointed. A great place to gather family for dinner and devotions. We just loved it!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jenny A.

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

Perfect rustic cabin

We stayed 3 nights with our girls. Beds were very comfortable and the kitchen had all we needed. Thanks for sharing your piece of door county :)
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lawrence H.

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

Late August in Door County

Five adults and one six year old were a perfect fit for this lovely house close to wooded area with no neighbors in sight when on the back deck. The upstairs bedroom with the door allowed for the six year old to go to sleep and stay asleep while we played games at the table. Pretty good star gazing from the back deck. And well equipped kitchen.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

George O.

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

Celebrations and Cards

We’ve been enjoying this house for 20 years now. Wess is a wonderful host! My only regret is that we’ve never met in person! We celebrated our daughter’s 40th playing cards!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paul W., Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

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

Perfect

This house was perfect for our three couples. Well stocked, clean, rustic, charming. The host Karl responded immediately to questions. A definite stay for our group next year!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Pat H.

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

RELAXING!!!

Our stay in Door County was wonderful! the house was so quiet and very nice if we ever come back would stay there again! the bakery at the resort very nice and our host was very understanding as we had a few health problems come up but it all worked out well! Thankyou!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Terri G.

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

Comfortable and Cozy

We enjoyed our stay at Rowley's Bay. Karl was wonderfully responsive and a great host. The furnishings were fantastic and the beds very comfortable. We enjoyed the fireplace and the private wooded backyard. Plenty of hiking and biking close to the property and at the state parks. I would certainly visit again!
Stayed 6 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Richard M.

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

Fantastic place to stay!

This was an amazing property! We came all the way from West Virginia and the hospitality of the property owner was great. The location was incredibly scenic and we loved our time here. It’s close to so many great wineries, cideries, breweries, and the water. The only thing we had some difficulties with is the coffee maker. It takes awhile to brew a pot, but other than that you’ll love staying at this property.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

glory l.

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

FAB

This lovely home is well appointed. Kitchen has everything you would possibly want. Very comfy beds, plenty of dressers/closet space. Birds and deer right up to the patio off the dining room and love the large windows to see all of the surrounding beauty, very private!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary Ann S.

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

Door Visit

Wonderful The dishwasher was leaking so we didn’t use it. The property manager came when called.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Gary B.

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

Quiet and Cozy

The home is located off the beaten path which is exactly what we like! It’s steeped in nature, quiet, roomy, and has a lovely fireplace. We love coming in the fall making cozy fires. Kitchen is equipped for cooking in. Living area is comfy. The separate breeze way between the house and garage makes a nice second living space. It was a quiet place to read on a nice couch while the family was doing their thing in the living room. It’s a bit of a trip to shopping and restaurants. We plan that into our day, so it’s no big deal. Unfortunately, Grandmas Bakery is gone. Breakfast is different now, but we have wonderful memories. We enjoyed making new memories at this quiet and cozy destination.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andy K.

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

Cozy Cabin

Highly recommend. Fantastic communication with the host. Our group of 6 (two seniors 80+, two teens, and two 40-somethings) so enjoyed our stay and the amenities were great. Flat entry access to the cabin, first-level bedroom and bathroom, & easy access shower made this property extra delightful for my parents. The fireplace was so cozy - especially on our very snowy and cold long weekend visit. We easily made all our meals during our 3-day stay. The breezeway between the cabin and garage was a great "winter gear & stuff" storage area and space to get ready/undo for the outdoors. Loved the space for 6 to eat very comfortably and for family games/puzzles. Had a great time relaxing here.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

David A.

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

Surprise Proposal

We were in Door County for a surprise engagement for my daughter. It went perfectly. We hosted family at the house. That, too, went very well. The property is clean, nestled into a beautiful wood-surrounded setting. Well-appointed. No concerns. Very accommodating owner. Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

About the host

Hosted by Karl Vogt

Host profile image
We have rented our property for 20 years, with many satisfied guests. We have set up the house with our guests in mind.

Why they chose this property

The location is incredible with Lake Michigan within walking distance. The Mink River flows into Lake Michigan at Rowley's Bay, making for easy kayaking and canoeing.

What makes this property unique

The access to water and winter sports, activities and restaurants. The peacefulness of being in the woods. .

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests