Private Retreat in the Woods

Photo gallery for Private Retreat in the Woods

A log cabin interior with a wooden ceiling, large windows, a sofa, a coffee table, and a television.
A wooden dining area with a round table and chairs, a wooden cabinet, and a ceiling fan.
A cozy log cabin interior with a high ceiling, wooden walls, and multiple windows offering views of the surrounding forest.
A kitchen with wooden cabinets, granite countertops, a black stove, and large windows.
Deck overlooking private woods

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Family fun awaits
    Top-rated for families.
  • 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.
Sleeps 83 bedrooms4 beds

Popular amenities

  • Garage parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Ellison Bay, WI
  • Place, Linden Gallery
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, The Clearing Folk School
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Ellison Bluff State Natural Area
    ‪10 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

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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

Property Registration Number 32-56-0447-00
Property # 2086685vb
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Ellison Bay

Located in Ellison Bay, this holiday home is on a river. Linden Gallery and Frykman Studio Gallery are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include The Skyway Drive-In Theatre and Historic Noble House. Travelling with kids? Consider Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf and Trueblood Performing Arts Center. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing and skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as snowmobiling and sledging.
Map
Ellison Bay, WI

What's nearby

  • Linden Gallery - 7 min drive - 7.2 km
  • The Clearing Folk School - 8 min drive - 8.3 km
  • Ellison Bluff State Natural Area - 10 min drive - 9.4 km
  • Sister Bay Beach - 13 min drive - 14.1 km
  • Sister Bay Marina - 13 min drive - 14.5 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Husby's Food & Spirits - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Sister Bay Bowl - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Wild Tomato - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Savor BBQ & Taphouse - ‬14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Private Retreat in the Woods pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Private Retreat in the Woods?

As of 2 August 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private Retreat in the Woods on 3 November 2026 start from NZ$1,956, 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 Private Retreat in the Woods?

On-site parking is available at the 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. Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf and Sister Bay Beach are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

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. 113 out of 126 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 126 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 126 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 126 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 126 reviews

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

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Puja S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A beautiful, cozy cabin retreat! We loved the warm wood interior and peaceful setting. It was close to Sister Bay, Fish Creek, and everything we wanted to explore. Perfect for a family getaway—we can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ashley W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cedar house was perfect for our family to stay for a week. It had all the essentials and was nicely kept.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 19 July 2026
Thank you Ashley, I'm so happy you had a wonderful time. I hope you choose us again on your next visit to Door County.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ryan K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice place, cool location, saw deer in the morning!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 19 July 2026
Ryan, thank you for the review, hope to see you and your family again next time you're in Door County
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Janet R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Warm and cozy home with plenty of room. Don’t know if they spray for mosquitoes but we were not bothered by them and were able to enjoy sitting outside.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 19 July 2026
Thank you Janet for your review. We do not spray for mosquitoes. Glad you found our little spot of paradise. Look forward to having you again. You were fantastic guests.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tim L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
As much as I loved the great room, it's the view of the trees through the windows and how peaceful and quiet the area is that really sold me. We would stay there again.The kitchen had everything we needed to cook with, the fireplace was wonderful and the beds we used were comfortable. Very clean.Thank you.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 19 July 2026
Thank you Tim for your note. I enjoyed having you as guest. We look forward to having you again soon.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nikki S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our recent stay in Ellison Bay, Wisconsin was absolutely wonderful. This house is beautifully tucked back into the woods, creating a peaceful and relaxing setting while still feeling warm and welcoming. Everything we could have needed was at our figer tips and the house was exceptionally clean, spacious, and thoughtfully maintained. From the moment we arrived, we felt right at home. The beautiful surroundings and cozy atmosphere made it the perfect getaway. We would definitely stay again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing Door County retreat. The owners were by far our favorite yo work with. Thank you for sharing yiur beautiful home with us.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 13 May 2026
Thank you Nikki for the kind comments. We too absolutely love Door County: You were exceptional guest and look forward to your return
Verified review

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

John M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The fireplace was super cozy!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ashley P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This cabin was so cute and cozy! It felt so much like a home. The fireplace was so nice to be able to use. It also came equipped with lots of baking and cooking utensils which came in handy! The location is perfect and in such a cute area while being close to all the surrounding towns. I loved staying here and would definitely recommend it to anyone! We also got to see lots of deer just right outside the home!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Brenda S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful home in the woods. Welcoming and all the comforts of home. Three of us there for a girls get away and had everything that we needed. The house is well organized and had anything you could possibly think you needed. Comfortable beds, extra pillows and towels. They even provided a bundle of firewood for our first fire if we so desired. We would happily stay again. Very clean as well.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 December 2025
Thank you Brenda, glad you enjoyed your time in Door County. I hope you think of us again when visiting.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Jill P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Remote and quiet
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Deborah S.

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

Very pleasant stay

Comfy and cozy stay in a quiet, wooded area with easy access to parks, kayaking, shopping, and dining.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2022
Deborah we enjoyed having you stay with us. Thank you for your review hope you think of us again in the future
Verified review

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

sharon l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely gorgeous. Lovely home there were four of us retired ladies staying there. It was perfect.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

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
Response from VrboOwner on 3 September 2025
Thank you for your review, glad you enjoyed your stay
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

kathryn r.

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

Beautiful retreat

Cozy home surrounded by beatiful conifers. Quiet, safe neighborhood.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

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

Quick get away

Lovely place. Enjoyed the location
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 5 November 2024
Thank you Debra for the review
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Michael C.

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

Great relaxing stay in Door County

Smooth check in and check out! Beautiful location in the woods. Great place to read a book, play a puzzle or walk down to the lake
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Linda C.

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

Girls trip

Great place for girls trip. Big enough to hang out and not too far away from parks, shopping, and dining
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 3 October 2024
Hello Linda Thank you for the review and I'm so happy you and the gals had a great time. If you return back to DC please think of us again. Karl
Verified review

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
Response from VrboOwner on 3 October 2024
Thank you, John, for the review, please keep us in your mind in regard to staying with us again Karl
Verified review

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lana W.

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

Weekend

Great girls get away. Comfortable and clean. We enjoyed our long weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sophia O.

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

Lovely place!

Quiet area, close to the bay to listen to the ice creak, great fireplace. Lovely place for a winter retreat
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 27 January 2023
Sophia, yes agree the fireplace is wonderful in the Winter! We enjoyed your stay and hope you return again soon. Thank you Karl
Verified review

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

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
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