Entire home

Mallard Duck Retreat at the Lake

Photo gallery for Mallard Duck Retreat at the Lake

Ducks crossing at Dusk
Nothing better than backyard nights with twinkling lights!
The living room is completed with 65-inch TV with Roku on a built-in fireplace for extra heat and ambiance and for those cold winter nights.
We have a pull-out couch for extra sleeping space!
The living room has a couch with a chaise and converts into a full-size bed to sleep two extra guests.
Reviews
10 out of 10 Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaceOutdoor space
  • KitchenKitchenKitchen

Enjoy the area

Map
Houghton Lake, MI
  • Popular LocationHoughton Lake9 min walk
  • Popular LocationPineview Highlands Golf Course4 min drive
  • AirportRoscommon County – Blodgett Memorial Airport (HTL)15 min drive
  • Popular LocationSouth Higgins Lake State Park22 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen

About this property

Mallard Duck Retreat at the Lake

Summary:
Enjoy Northern Michigan at Mallard Duck Retreat in Houghton Lake, Michigan! Welcome, this cozy cottage is within walking distance of the largest inland lake in Michigan on a quiet street with lake-end access. The retreat is perfectly set up for guests to enjoy outdoor activities. We are calling all lake lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This home has a true cottage atmosphere. The highlight of the space is the private backyard perfect for relaxing, entertaining, libations, and stargazing.

The Space:
The Mallard Duck Retreat has 2 bedrooms and sleeper sofa in the main cottage AND has super sweet bunkhouse in the backyard complete with heat/AC that can sleep 5 comfortably- perfect for the kiddos.

While the home is equipped to host up to 5 adults and 5 children (bunkhouse beds), we think a perfect group size is 4-6 people in the main home. We’re happy to host all 10, but keep in mind it will be little bit cozier and will be utilizing the bunkhouse for sleeping.

There is one full bathroom (small shower/no bath) complete with all your toiletry needs and other grooming essentials. The living room has a couch with a chaise and converts into a full-size bed (bedding and pillows in the primary bedroom closet) to sleep two extra guests. The living room is completed with 65-inch TV with Roku on a built-in fireplace for extra heat and ambiance and for those cold winter nights. The full-sized kitchen is equipped with all major appliances and a sweet coffee station.

Is that a cloud you’re sleeping on? Nope, that’s the just memory foam mattress in the primary bedroom and for the traditionalist there is a standard mattress in the second bedroom. We also have different types of pillows for different needs. Thoughtfulness and comfort were indeed placed on providing a peaceful sleep in the retreat.

The cottage is situated on two lots with a fenced-in backyard and very private. The backyard boasts two deck and sweet bunkhouse and porch. There is a gas grill available for all your BBQ needs. Check out the pictures of the unique outdoor firepit… can we say S’mores and libations! Firewood is available in the garage.

Guest Access:
-- Double Lot – Perfect for Entertaining
-- Large Garage – lots of space for toy storage
-- Ample Parking
-- RV Parking Available with Electrical Hookup (Additional Cost)
-- Bunkhouse: Sleeps 5 –dedicated area for the children (ladder/loft/. bunkbed = fall risk) OR a secluded work space (mesh wifi) complete with MiniSplit Heating & Cooling
-- Full Kitchen
-- 2 Outdoor Decks for Entertaining
-- Close Access to Trail Head
-- Lake End Access
-- Kayaks Available for Use (2) & Bicycles
-- Smart TVs in every room (including bunkhouse) complete with Roku
-- Mesh System: High Speed Wifi 300 Mbps
-- Central Heating
-- Laundromat less than 0.5 miles away
-- Mid Term Stays Allowed – Weekly & Monthly Discounts
-- Full-Size Mirror and Makeup Mirror
-- Unique private outdoor firepit (wood available upon request)
-- Outdoor BBQ Grill
-- Seasonal AC Unit for those hot summer nights
-- Easy Keyless Self Check-In /Smart Lock
-- Spacious backyard situated on 2 lots

The Neighborhood:
Houghton Lake, Michigan, United States

The cottage is in the heart of Houghton Lake, MI with a short walk down the street to the lake with lake access. Enjoy the views of the lake from the front deck.

The cottage is on a road across the street from Camping World and you can literally walk to Buccilli’s Pizza... yum. The cottage is a short drive from Walmart with grocery store pickup and Family Fare with Door Dash.

There are also many great local spots to get a meal and beverages within walking distance.

The Mallard Duck Retreat is conveniently located less than ½ mile from the trail head perfect you ORV'ers :)

Getting Around:
There is enough parking on the long-driveway, deep garage and a second lot that can accommodate four vehicles and extra parking for an RV, travel trailer, etc.

Distances:
* Detroit: 3 hours and 15 minutes (190 miles)
* Grand Rapids: 2 hours 10 minutes (130 miles)
* Lansing: 2 hours (125 miles)
* Saginaw: 1 hour and 45 minutes (105 miles)
* Traverse City: 1 hour (60 miles)
* Mackinac Bridge: 1 hour 10 minutes (100 miles)

Public Boat Launch about 7 miles away

Other Things to Note:
Sure, eating at all the great restaurants in town is fun, but sometimes we need a home cooked meal. The home comes with a full dining table and chairs. Prepare meals in a fully equipped kitchen with plenty of plate ware, pots/pans, complimentary coffee bar (tea, decaf, regular, flavorings), spice racks, microwave, toaster, kettle, and brita water pitcher (cottage has well water).

The decks have tables and seating with lounge seating to enjoy that lake air. There are additional camping chairs, beach blankets, kayaks (2), life jackets, and several outdoor games like Giant Jenga and bocci ball to enjoy. There is also a gas grill available for use.

Furthermore, we have compiled a list of things to do and places to go such as golf courses, marinas, hiking trails, snowmobile trails, beaches, restaurants and bars, and more.

Camera disclosure: For the security of our guests and maintaining the safety of our home we have two outdoor cameras that face the driveway and one facing second lot and are actively recording with the sound turned off.

If you have any questions we didn’t answer, please don’t hesitate to ask. We would be happy to provide you with any information that we can make your stay a memorable 5 star stay.

We treat our guests like friends so don’t hesitate to reach out. Thanks for reading, we’re happy to have you.
Kindly, Clint & Steph

Interaction with Guests:
I will be available via phone/texting throughout your stay for any needs/questions/concerns.

We treat our guests like friends, so don’t hesitate to reach out. Thanks for reading, we’re happy to have you.

Property manager

Stephanie Mallord
Premier Host
Premier Host

Languages

English

Amenities

Kitchen
Outdoor space

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 24
Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
House Expectations: Check-In: 4PM - 1AM Check-Out: 10AM No smoking No parties or events whatsoever No Pets allowed (except for service animals)

Damage and incidentals

You will be responsible for any damage to the rental property caused by you or your party during your stay.

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Prudenville

This holiday home is located in Prudenville. White Deer Country Club and Pineview Highlands Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore South Higgins Lake State Park and Huron-Manistee National Forest.
Map
Houghton Lake, MI

What's nearby

  • Houghton Lake - 9 min walk
  • Pineview Highlands Golf Course - 4 min drive
  • Quest Golf Club - 12 min drive
  • South Higgins Lake State Park - 22 min drive
  • North Higgins Lake State Park - 26 min drive

Restaurants

  • McDonald's - 2 min drive
  • McDonald's - 12 min drive
  • Back Door Saloon - 6 min drive
  • MJ's Eatery - 10 min drive
  • Taco Bell - 12 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Mallard Duck Retreat at the Lake pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Mallard Duck Retreat at the Lake?

As of 17 May 2024, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Mallard Duck Retreat at the Lake on 12 June 2024 start from NZ$382.14, 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.

What time is check-in at Mallard Duck Retreat at the Lake?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Mallard Duck Retreat at the Lake?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Mallard Duck Retreat at the Lake located?

Situated in Prudenville, this holiday home is 0.4 mi (0.7 km) from Houghton Lake and within 3 miles (5 km) of White Deer Country Club and Pineview Highlands Golf Course. Quest Golf Club and South Higgins Lake State Park are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 13 out of 13 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 13 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 13 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 13 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 13 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.4/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Levi B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Making Memories at The Mallords
This house was better than the pictures and the hosts were incredibly warm and thorough in every sense of the word. There were so many thoughtful little extras all through the home as well. They had device chargers, little snacks and treats were waiting for us, and the kids LOVED the bunk house. The water was beautiful of course and the location is a perfect hub for a myriad of things to do. The best part about our stay was how at home and welcoming it felt. Thank you Stephanie & Clinton for hosting us, we will definitely be back again!!!
Stayed 13 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kristi S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Above expectations
This place was everything it promised and more! The host was very accommodating as well. The house had every thing we needed to feel right at home. Plenty of sleeping options to accommodate my group, everyone said their beds were comfy. Many nice touches that made our stay better than expected such as, chargers in the bedrooms, bikes and games. You really get the sense that the host has put a lot of thought into making this place great for guest.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sue-Ethel F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
So clean!!!
This was the cleanest vacation rental I have ever stayed in. The kitchen was very well stocked. We enjoyed our stay so much, we skipped half of our event so that we could stay at the house longer. It was very cozy and welcoming. We will be back next year!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazingly well appointed
Spectacular. Had extra amenities that you don't normally find at a VRBO.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sharon H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Adorable place
Stayed at the Mallard Duck Retreat for 4 nights just to get away and relax. The place is adorable inside just like the pictures. So many little extra touches to the decor and amenities provided with the house. The backyard and fire pit were great to use each night. Very large double lot at property. Had access to use the garage, too. Steph was wonderful to work with. She was very responsive and accommodating! If the weather would’ve been nicer everything would’ve been perfect for us.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

About the host

Hosted by Stephanie Mallord

Host profile image
Welcome to the Mallard Duck Retreat! I hope your journey was pleasant and comfortable. Allow us to introduce ourselves to you – Clint & Steph Mallord. We are both in the healthcare field as an NP & RRT. Some of our hobbies include travel (obviously), and we are self proclaimed "foodies" and we reside in Midland, Michigan with our 3 cats. It's our goal to making sure our guests have a 5-star stay at our cozy cottage. We love it here and wanted to share our retreat with others!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

Premier Host
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