Entire home

Brian Boru's White House Cttge On The Lake ~ Ann Arbor ~ Kayaks ~ Pontoon Avail

Photo gallery for Brian Boru's White House Cttge On The Lake ~ Ann Arbor ~ Kayaks ~ Pontoon Avail

Exterior
Lake
Dining
Interior
Terrace/patio

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 12

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio

Explore the area

View map
Whitmore Lake, MI
  • Place, The Links at Whitmore Lake
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, University of Michigan
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, Michigan Stadium
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Airport, Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)
    ‪35 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

bedroom 3_Suite2(upstairs)

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 1_suite1(downstairs)

1 Queen Bed and 2 Single Bunk Beds

Bedroom 2_Suite2(upstairs)

2 Queen Beds

Family room (upstairs)

1 Double Bed and 1 Queen Bed

Living room (downstairs)

1 Double Bed

Sunroom

1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom downstairs

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom upstairs

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Brian Boru's White House Cttge On The Lake ~ Ann Arbor ~ Kayaks ~ Pontoon Avail

Full air conditioning. A very special, cozy & accommodating family vacation rental and inviting lakefront property with views of Nature on the Lake from every window. Located 10 minutes from downtown Ann Arbor, its enchanted PRIVATE all-sports lake is filled with wildlife and the best fishing in the county, say local fishermen. Its beautiful vistas include all sides of the Lake. Ideal for family reunions/vacations or intimate R&R for guests. A northern Michigan-like setting. 4 kayaks, a canoe and paddle boat are included with the rental, and pontoon boat available separately. Easy access to expressway, Ann Arbor, Brighton, local grocers & eateries. Our home is also a wonderful winter retreat or holiday vacation destination, with Mt. Brightening ski resort 10 min away, Ice fishing on the lake, cross-country skiing in nearby parks and holiday decorations during the holiday season. It's also ideal for a business retreat.

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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

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Events

No events allowed

Being quiet is required after 10pm.

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Pets

No pets allowed

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:

Load and start the dishwasher

Strip any used beds and gather used towels

Take out the rubbish

Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Loud noise/music must cease outside by dark, 11 inside. No daytime guests permitted unless by special exception fee arrangement made prior with host.

If the host receives a complaint from a neighbor for violation of noise, parking or other, guest will be charged $150 per complaint.

If the police are called to the house for any legitimate reason the guests will be charged $500.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 7873825
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: Being quiet is required after 10pm.
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

Whitmore Lake

Located in Whitmore Lake, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Island Lake State Recreation Area and Brighton State Recreation Area reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Leslie Science & Nature Center and Ann Arbor Hands On Museum. Power Center for the Performing Arts and Nichols Arboretum are also worth visiting.
Map
Whitmore Lake, MI

What's nearby

  • The Links at Whitmore Lake - 2 min drive - 2.1 km
  • University of Michigan - 10 min drive - 20.1 km
  • Michigan Stadium - 14 min drive - 19.6 km
  • Briarwood Mall - 17 min drive - 33.9 km
  • Henry Ford Museum - 45 min drive - 82.0 km

Getting around

  • Ann Arbor Station - 11 min drive
  • Ann Arbor, MI (ARB-Ann Arbor Municipal) - 24 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Hamburg Pub - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Biggby Coffee - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Domino's Pizza - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Two Tostadas - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Brian Boru's White House Cttge On The Lake ~ Ann Arbor ~ Kayaks ~ Pontoon Avail pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Brian Boru's White House Cttge On The Lake ~ Ann Arbor ~ Kayaks ~ Pontoon Avail?

As of 15 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Brian Boru's White House Cttge On The Lake ~ Ann Arbor ~ Kayaks ~ Pontoon Avail on 22 May 2026 start from NZ$1,071, 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 Brian Boru's White House Cttge On The Lake ~ Ann Arbor ~ Kayaks ~ Pontoon Avail?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Brian Boru's White House Cttge On The Lake ~ Ann Arbor ~ Kayaks ~ Pontoon Avail?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Brian Boru's White House Cttge On The Lake ~ Ann Arbor ~ Kayaks ~ Pontoon Avail?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Brian Boru's White House Cttge On The Lake ~ Ann Arbor ~ Kayaks ~ Pontoon Avail located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 1.2 mi (1.9 km) from The Links at Whitmore Lake and within 9 miles (15 km) of Huron River and Legacy Center Sports Complex. Island Lake State Recreation Area and Indian Trail Golf Center 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. 36 out of 38 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 38 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 38 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 38 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Douglas R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Brian is great!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 October 2025
Michael and his group were terrific guests, respectful of my property, House Rules, left the place neat and tidy and were great guests in all other matters during their stay. I would highly recommend Michael to other hosts.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

jeff w.

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

great setting and close to AA!

Brian was a very nice host and we enjoyed our stay. It’s a beautiful setting!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 September 2024
Great group / family! Welcome back anytime!!!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alexa A.

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

Weekend on the lake

Brian’s property was absolutely beautiful and a wonderful place to stay for the weekend. the lake was perfect and kept us busy all day. the area surrounding had lots of good restaurants and things to do. highly recommend staying here!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 July 2025
Alexa and the rest of her large group were terrific guests; who left my place spotless, I'm very pleased to say! They were friendly, communicative, responsible and very appreciative / respectful of our family oriented space right on the Lakeshore of a beautiful, intimate, private Lake,10 minutes outside of Ann Arbor. They are welcome back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David S.

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

Atmosphere was unparalled

Everyone enjoyed their stay
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 8 August 2022
Dave & MaryJane and their terrific family were a pleasure to host. They left our Lakehome very neat & how they found it. They're welcome back anytime.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kim C.

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

Enjoyed Comfortable & Roomy Cottage

Good location for UofM football game weekend for group to enjoy lake activities & bbq
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 16 September 2023
Kim and Bob and their family were terrific guests and are welcome back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Greg H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a great time! Sleeps 12 easily. Big deck, 2 grills, kayaks paddle boats, or just floating, whole family had a wonderful time!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 July 2025
Nice group whose family enjoyed all the various aspects of the property and its design for family recreation. Welcome back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristin J.

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

Wonderful!

We have a great stay! Brian was a wonderful host. The lake is beautiful!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 16 October 2023
Kristin's family were very nice, easy to deal with, and terrific conversationalists. Welcome back anytime.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julia T.

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

The best, in every way possible!

Perfect!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 8 May 2020
Let me say in brief that Julie n her group were perfect in every regard. I would recommend her to all. It was my pleasure to host her. She and party were so quiet it was as if they were never here at all!.. Highly recommended!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mike K.

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

Great Time

We were in town for the football game and the place was even closer than we thought, despite feeling like we were nowhere near the city.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 November 2024
Mike's group were top-tier guests across the board and are welcome back anytime! I would recommend them to all other hosts.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pavo H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property is located on a lake, just wish we had more time for outdoor activities. We did have a bon fire though. Brian was a great host.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 October 2025
Really enjoyed hosting Pavo and his group of friends for several days of multiple U lofM sporting events; one of whom was quite a good pianist who played my piano every night of their stay. I so enjoyed Pavo sharing their nightly jam sessions via video with me,; as I like it when good musicians play our piano in our Great Room that is designed for group gatherings. Terrific bunch of guys who left my home tidy; were respectful of my neighbors on the lake and our house rules. They're welcome back anytime which Pavo intends to do in the future. I highly recommend Pavo & his friends to my fellow hosts
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Don S.

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

Family reunion at the lake

Three brothers with spouses and grand nephew in tow enjoyed three days at the lake. This house is very large with a lot of areas to spend time with each other and to find some solitude. The lake is beautiful. We would love to come again sometime
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 30 July 2024
Don, his brothers and family were a delight to host. They took advantage of our home, its location and all that our lakefront has to offer while continuing their family reunion that they had just attended for an additional 3 days. Very nice people, respectful of our space, and are welcome back anytime! Highly recommended to other hosts!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thiago G.

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

writing retreat

The house is fantastic, with an almost 360° view of the lake. We stayed for three days with a group of academics for a writing retreat, and the location is ideal for balancing both academic and recreational activities. Highly recommended!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emmett B.

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

Great stay on the lake

The house was very nice, and quite interesting. The property was right on the lake and was quite beautiful. It is quite close to the neighbors, so not the spot if you want to get rowdy. The host, Brian, was very accommodating and pleasant to deal with.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 8 August 2023
Great group of guys, welcome back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Vimal M.

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

Perfect lakefront property

Brian takes a lot of effort in ensuring his guests' comfort! The place has everything you need to live the lake life - clean, plenty of extra supplies, space and only a half hour drive from Ann Arbor. Will be coming back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 27 June 2023
Vimal, his family and friends are first rate guests who are welcome back anytime. Too bad he lives on the far side of Ann Arbor; otherwise, if he lived closer to campus or on the near side it only takes 10 minutes to get here. At any rate, it takes less time to drive here than to drive from one side of Ann Arbor to the other. I look forward to hosting Vimal l and his group again in the future and strongly recommend him to any other host!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

donna m.

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

Family Lake Day

Brian was a terrific host. He took time to show us all around and was so welcoming. The house and activities fit our family perfectly - we brought our boat for tubing, and the kayaks and paddle boat provided were a big hit. Our family had a lovely weekend at the lake - highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 30 August 2023
Terrific guests in every respect! The exact type of family I enjoy renting to who are welcome back anytime..
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leah O.

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

True to promises

Quirky lake house had essentials for our weekend stay. Spacious for larger gatherings. HUGE deck. A forgiving small lake to enjoy water sport and relaxation.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 30 July 2024
Leah, Jen & the rest of their repeat visiting group left our lakehouse clean, were respectful of the house rules, were good guests who availed themselves of all that there is to do at our lakefront home and on the lake. They are welcome back anytime and I would recommend them to any host!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Casey K.

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

Brian Boru's Lake House

Clean house on Horseshoe Lake with all the amenities to make for an outstanding weekend! Several kayaks, canoes and paddleboat to use. Good fishing with large mouth bass and northern pike. Plenty of beds for larger groups. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 23 July 2024
Casey & his group were a good group of guys who were respectful of my home, house rules and our welcome back anytime. I recommend them to other hosts!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark H.

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

Getaway in a quiet community

The house sits right on the lake. The scenery is beautiful. We were lucky enough to be there in the fall! Brian gave us a tour of the house and a few pointers on how to keep things running right. We spent our mornings on the deck and our evenings around the ping pong table. We had a great time!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 November 2022
Great group of guys and it was really nice to meet Mark's grandfather who was with his family of fellas out for a football weekend reunion. Welcome back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

KATHY Y.

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

Perfect family lake house vacation

The older house is charming and unique, having a few delightful surprises. Bed situation was just right for our family of 10. The yard is spacious. Pontoon boat is a must do, and paddle boat and kayaks are perfect for this small lake. Really couldn't ask for anything better.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 July 2023
Kathy and her family were very appreciative guests who enjoyed my lake house and all its amenities. They are welcome back any time.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

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

Great property and friendly host

We had a lot of fun here. Brian was very friendly and accommodating. The only thing that could be improved is making policies and expectations clear - Brian couldn't meet us for check-in (fair), instead sent many rules and paragraphs over email, but it would be easier for everyone if the check-out procedures, house rules, etc. were posted in the house or on the property listing.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 10 August 2023
Actually, in 5 years of being a Premier Host, I have never experienced a situation like I unfortunately have recently with Timothy. Beginning with my check-in policy: it is clearly stated in my listing that it is 3pm. Unless this poses a problem for the guest and is communicated to me prior so that I can make alternate arrangements, I meet the guests at 3 pm. As our lakehouse is quite large, 3000 sq.', I prefer to meet & greet our guests in order to give them a brief tour, provide them with information & answer any questions they may have. There is also a binder of information in the bookcase in the Great Room, which experience has taught me doesn't get read very often. Timothy's communication was very poor. While he acknowledged my reminder email that I would be meeting him at 3 pm for check-in, it wasn't until more than a couple hours after the 3 pm check-in time that I had been there waiting for him to arrive, that he finally responded to my new request for his ETA, which he then informed me wouldn't be for several more hours later. I was unable to wait any longer and therefore texted him some of the more important check-in information. That isn't such a big deal to me, but what followed is. My House Rules are clearly posted on my listing in several places, and specifically under the "House Rules" section which I always ask every guest to be sure to review. Timothy decided that he didn't need to follow them and instead quite arrogantly informed me afterwards, when I discovered that he had broken them, that he felt entitled to do so; which I am compelled to say that no one is entitled to break our House Rules. If a potential guest doesn't agree with them beforehand then they shouldn't book our lovely home on the lake. What Timothy did was dishonest and unfair. I work very hard at providing my guests the best possible experience I can offer them. I've worked long & hard at renovating our lakehouse these past 22 years and take great pride in it. It is not a party pad for college kids to get wild in, as it is in a residential neighborhood with limited parking, and my neighbors' privacy is of utmost importance to me. I turn away more guests than I accept because I want to be certain that my neighbors are respected in all ways. One reason I do so is often because the guest wants to have a big party or event at my home, which I don't allow and therefore restrict the number of guests permitted unless I make an exception beforehand for more "overnight guests." For this reason, I prohibit "day-time guests" unless prior arrangements have also been made with me, and I feel assured that the group size will be reasonable & respectful of my neighbors. I also do not allow pets, which is clearly stated, as family members are highly allergic to them. This is all clearly stated in my listing & under the House Rules section. Timothy, however, felt entitled to disregard my House Rules and invited a large group of daytime guests each of the days during their stay throughout the week; and I understand an even larger group with a dog over on the weekend Saturday for a BBQ party; while only paying the base rate for the rental of our property which provides for 1 to 7 guests, which also turned out to be more than he had booked or paid for to stay. I am very disappointed that someone would try to cheat us in this way, and therefore am very sorry to have to say that I would never allow him back, and would advise other Hosts not to as well. I have never said that in the past 5 years of being a Premier Host. Sadly, Brian Boru
Verified

10/10 Excellent

June S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great host! Flexible, kind, informative! Loved the area and the house! It was perfect for us. There may be things that other people care about that we easily overlooked; if you are difficult or overly picky… move on… if you want to chill with your friends and family on the lake in a great location. Look no further. Really look at the rooming situation for your gathering; had all 12 of us gone we would have had difficulty with privacy/sleeping arrangements.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Brian’s lake cottage was so homey with beautiful views of the lake everywhere you looked! The place is well stocked with everything you need for a fun time at the lake-games, kayaks, water toys, grill etc. We particularly enjoyed eating our meals on the spacious deck. As for practical details, we appreciated that you could adjust the air/heating units for different temperatures in different areas of the house…really helpful for our family who find it hard to agree on the thermostat! Brian was super accommodating and responsive as a host, answering all my messages promptly and helping us out with questions. He really went above and beyond to make sure our stay was enjoyable. Great place!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 July 2025
Lindsey and her family word terrific guests and are welcome back anytime! They left the house tidy; cleaned up after themselves;; were pleasant friendly people who enjoyed & appreciated the many aspects of Family that are designed into our Lakehouse. They enjoyed the lake and all it has to offer for a fun and relaxing vacation. I highly recommend them to any other host!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jacob M.

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

Roomy Lakehouse for Bachelor Party Weekend

I stayed here with a group of 9 guys for my friend's bachelor party weekend, and we had a great time! Plenty of beds for everyone, tons of space, and a beautiful view of the lake. Brian was great about communication and set clear rules and expectations up front that our group had no issues with. He met us for check in to walk us through the house, showed us how the speakers in the rec room worked, and even gave us some recommendations for local restaurants. Would absolutely recommend Brian's lake house to others.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 October 2022
Great group of guys! Would recommend Jacob and his friends to any other hosts.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katie J.

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

Whitmore Lake

Brian was an excellent host. He met us at the house when we arrived and showed us around. We were in town for family weekend in Ann Arbor and hit up the football game. The drive back and forth was about 15min. Property was beautiful, would love to come when the weather is warmer to enjoy the lake. House was clean and offered plenty of room for 10 guests.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 21 November 2023
Katie and her group were terrific guests and are welcome back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David W.

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

Sparty Golf Outing

The property was in great shape, in a great location, close to everything we needed for 8 guys on a golf outing!! Brian was an Awesome Host! He even went out and bought an electric tea kettle because one of the guys wanted to make some tea! He left great written instructions about the property and even walked us through the house and yard to show us all the little details! Golf courses were plentiful as well as great restaurants- all within 5-20 minutes away! Thanks Brian for accommodating us - we hope to stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 21 August 2024
Terrific group of guys and guests taking advantage of the many golf courses in the immediate area. Welcome back anytime, which they say they're looking forward to as well for an extended stay!

About the host

Hosted by Brian

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Languages:

English, French

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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