The blissful surroundings capture the essence- Elysian-In the northwestern lower peninsula. The Manistee River hosts this classic cottage where the trails and fly-fishing opportunities are endless. Lying in the hammock overlooking the river allows your soul to connect with nature.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Air Conditioning: There is no A/C at this property.
ATV's: ATV's not not permitted to be used on the property, but South Blue Bear Trail is located 1 to 2 miles east off of M-72! There is a parking area right at the beginning of the trail off of M-72.
Animals: Fox, coyote, squirrels, bear, and eagles are native to the area.
Bathrooms: Main Level: Full bath with shower and tub. Upper Level: Full bath with shower.
Beach/Swimming: This property does not have a typical beachfront, and is best suited for wading in to fly-fish. The best area for sandy beach swimming is Bear Lake in Kalkaska County. It is 7 miles (8 minute drive) from property.
Bedroom Configurations: Master Bedroom: King Bed Bedroom #2: Queen Bed
Boats: Boats are not provided at this property, but guests are welcome to bring their own or rent a one! Please note, this property does not have a dock, so kayaks and canoes are best suited. Shel- Haven Canoe/Kayak Livery is located 3 minutes away for rentals! If you wish to kayak or canoe down the Au Sable River, check out Ray's Canoe & Fly Factory! If you do wish to bring a trailerable boat, Lake Margrethe and Bear Lake are minutes away!
Bugs: Mosquitoes are common in the summer time.
Cable: Yes! This property is serviced by Charter for cable.
Cell Phone Service: All major cell services providers should work in this area, but WiFi calling is recommended
Coffee Maker: 2 drip coffee makers are available at the property, filters, assorted creamers and sugar are provided.
Distances: * Detroit: 3 hours (212 miles) * Grand Rapids: 2 hours and 18 min. (153 miles) * Lansing: 2 hours and 15 minutes (151 miles) * Mackinac Bridge: 1 hours and 30 min.(90 miles) * Shel-Haven Canoe/Kayak Livery on M-72 is 3 minutes (1 mile) * Traverse City: 1 hours away (44 miles)
Dock: There is no dock at this property. There is a scenic deck behind cottage, on the river side with a patio table and chairs to sit and take in the beauty of the river. There are also stairs to wade into the Manistee River for those wanting to fly fish.
Drinking Water: Well water is used at this property. Some guests may want to bring bottled water for their stay.
Drugs/Smoking/Fireworks: Freshwater does not permit illegal drugs of any kind on the property. Due to the location of the properties, smoking is strongly discouraged around the home and strictly prohibited in the home. Fireworks are prohibited at a Freshwater location for the safety of all persons in and around the property, even if it is legal in that city.
Fireplace: The fireplace is currently out of service.
Fire-pit: There is a chimenea. Please be vigilant with fires, this area is heavily wooded with pine trees.
Fishing: Fly fishing is the only fishing allowed on the property. If you wish to fish in a lake, Lake Margrethe, Bear Lake, and Otsego Lake have a variety of fish, including trout, bass, perch, and walleye. Hanson Hills - 9 min drive west off of M72 has a child's fishing pond (catch and release).
Fishing License: A license is required in order to fish in Michigan.
Fishing Poles: Bring your poles, this property does not provide fishing gear.
Golf: Grayling Country Club - 14 minutes (8.8 miles) Fox Run Country Club - 17 minutes (13.1 miles) Black Bear Golf Club - 46 minutes (46.6 miles)
Grill: There are 2 grills provided, one is propane and the other is a Weber charcoal grill. Both are located in the garage. A spare propane tank is provided, however you will need to provide charcoal and lighter fluid for the charcoal grill.
Grocery Store: Family Fare Supermarket is 14 minutes away (8.6 miles), it is located on I-75 Business almost as soon as you exit I-75 for I-75 Bus. There is also a Save-A-Lot right across the street from Family Fare.
Handicap Friendly: This property is not handicap friendly
Heat: Boiler system with baseboard heating.
Hiking/Bicycle Trails: There are many hiking and bicycle trails near this cottage, including the Grayling Bicycle Turnpike which takes you to Hartwick Pines and is highly rated. Hanson Hills off of M-72 has miles of mountain bike trails.
Hunting: Not permitted on the property. Please follow all state and local guidelines.
Internet: There is internet at this property with the capability of streaming.
Linens: Yes, we provide your sheets and linens. Just like a hotel, the beds will be made for you upon arrival. We have just the basic sheets, pillows, pillowcases, and bath towels.
Parking: 2 vehicles can fit in the drive way, with one additional spot in the garage.
Pets: Pets are not allowed at this property.
Privacy: There are neighbors on both sides.
Space: A-frame style home.
Seniors: Seniors are welcome, but please be aware that there are front steps, a staircase to access the bedrooms, and steps down to the waterfront.
Televisions: There is a 32" TV with cable at the property
Towels: All bath and kitchen towels will be provided during your stay. This cottage also provides Beach towels in case you forget yours!
Washer and Dryer: Yes! There is a washer and dryer for guest use, detergent is provided.
Wood: Please bring firewood for your stay
Favorite local attractions
Hartwick Pines State Park- 4.8/5 Stars 3612 State Park Drive Grayling, 49738 989-348-7068 This is the largest State Park in lower Michigan. Offers historical logging museum, acres of pine forestry, the famous Kirtland Warblers, freshwater paddling, hiking, mountain biking, hunting.
In town-
Goodale's Bakery and Deli- 4.7/5 Stars 500 Norway St. Grayling, 49738 989-348-8682 Fresh, delish baked goods, donuts- all kinds, fudge and some ready-made lunches, pasties, gluten free offerings.
Paddle Hard Brewing- 4.6/5 Stars 227 Michigan Ave. Grayling, 49738 989-745-6388 House made and regional craft beers, hard ciders, upscale food, outside and inside dining. Right downtown near art/jewelry/craft stores.
Our sister city to the North Gaylord - (I75 N, 30 minutes drive)- Gaylord is a larger city with chain stores like Lowes, Home Depot, Target and restaurants like Olive Garden.
Bennethum's Northern Inn- 4.7/5 Stars 3917 Old 27 North South Gaylord, 49735 989-732-9288 Long time gourmet dining establishment - Offers classic steaks, sea food, appetizers, diverse menu.
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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
About the area
Grayling
Located in Grayling, this cabin is on the waterfront. Hanson Hills Recreation Area and Grayling Country Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Hartwick Pines State Park and North Higgins Lake State Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Hanson Hills Recreation Area - 13 min drive - 15.2 km
Timber Wolf Golf Club - 14 min drive - 21.1 km
AuSable Artisan Village - 15 min drive - 15.6 km
Grayling Hospital - 16 min drive - 16.7 km
Restaurants
Tinker's Junction - 10 min drive
Westside Diner - 10 min drive
Dingman's - 11 min drive
Tacos Lupe - 10 min drive
The Lewis Nuthouse Northern Campus - 8 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing & Fresh Air – Spring Adventures Await! pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing Paradise on the Manistee River!?
As of 8 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing Paradise on the Manistee River! on 19 June 2026 start from NZ$273, 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 Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing & Fresh Air – Spring Adventures Await!?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing & Fresh Air – Spring Adventures Await!?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing & Fresh Air – Spring Adventures Await!?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Elysian River Escape: Fly-Fishing & Fresh Air – Spring Adventures Await! located?
Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is within 9 miles (15 km) of Hanson Hills Recreation Area, AuSable Artisan Village and Grayling Hospital. Grayling Country Club and Grayling Fish Hatchery 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.
The cabin was great, had everything we needed, super close to the water, great fishing, nice neighbors... will definitely return one day.
Chuck H.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 September 2025
Thank you for the kind words! We’re so glad you enjoyed the cabin and the friendly neighbors. You were wonderful guests and are welcome back anytime! -Van FVR
Deceptively large place with everything you need and access to the river for fly fishing. Very big rooms but cozy and tucked in a cute riverside community of houses off the beaten path (respectful and friendly neighbors).
Evan D.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 September 2025
Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad you enjoyed the space and the riverside community. You were wonderful guests, and we’d be happy to host you again anytime. - Van FVR
Just what we were looking for. Quiet getaway - very peaceful with beautiful view of the river. First time staying in Grayling - was a great place to visit and would for sure recommend Goodall's Bakery if you stay here!
Bryan K.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 July 2025
Thank you so much Bryan! We’re glad the home was just what you were looking for and that you enjoyed the peaceful setting and river views. Grayling is a special place, and we appreciate the local recommendation too! You were great guests, and we’d love to host you again anytime.-Van FVR
Just like the pictures!Super beautiful and CLEAN.1 hour from Traverse City and Petoskey! If you even wanted to leave!Supplied with everything you need, even paper plates for your picnics!
Kathleen S.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 September 2025
Thank you! We're so glad the home matched the pictures and that you found it beautiful and clean. You were fantastic guests, and we'd love to host you again anytime! -Van FVR
Very clean and comfortable. Nice view of the river.
mark j.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 June 2025
Thank you for your kind review Mark! We're so glad you found the place clean, comfortable, and enjoyed the river view. You were great guests, and we’d be happy to host you again anytime! -Van FVR
Verified
8/10 Good
dennis
19 June 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Very accommodating...quiet.....clean....excellent kitchen,bath,bed accessories.
My buddies and I try and get together every summer to enjoy the 4th of July and overall just escape from the everyday world. This place was a blast from the past! Super beautiful cabin and the feel was very relaxing.
Will B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 July 2025
Thank you so much for sharing, we’re glad you and your buddies had a great getaway and enjoyed the nostalgic, relaxing vibe of the cabin! You were fantastic guests, and we’d be happy to welcome you back anytime! -Van FVR
Very well furnished house right on the river. Spacious house with all the amenities we desired. Close to all of our northern activities. Quiet and relaxing with plenty of wildlife. Loved our stay!
Greg S.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 August 2023
Greg, we're so glad that you loved your stay. One can't beat a quiet relaxing getaway with lots of wildlife! We hope to see you back again.
As soon as we walked in the door there was a comfy cozy welcoming feeling. There was everything we needed for our stay. The home was clean and roomy for the four of us. We loved going down and sitting on the deck watching the flow of the river and the ducks passing by. It was home away from home!
Lena
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 19 October 2024
Hi Lena, I am glad that you felt comfy and cozy at the property. It's great that we were able able to provide you everything you need during your stay . You were wonderful guests , we'd love working with you again. -Van FVR
Elysian River Escape was a relaxing, refreshing and rejuvenating escape for my husband and I.My husband and I were in the area to visit our son and daughter-in-law. We enjoyed kayaking on both the AuSable and Manistee River, and riding over 100 miles of trails on our Ranger.
The home was clean, well stocked and nicely decorated. The decor reminded me of my childhood home, which made our stay even more special.
Most of all we loved beginning and ending each day sitting on the dock watching ducks, geese and a Great Blue Heron.
I would definitely come back again.
Cathy M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 July 2023
Cathy, it sounds like you had a fabulous stay! Sitting open the dock to begin and end your days sounds pretty perfect. We hope that you do come back again.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Garrett
21 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
So glad you had a great stay! Thank you for the stars. -Van, FVR
About the host
Hosted by Freshwater Vacation Rentals
Freshwater Vacation Rentals • Established in 2005 If you are looking for a vacation rental, you have come to the right spot! We offer an unparalleled selection of properties across the state-from private islands and large family lodges to peaceful Great Lakes getaways. We specialize in finding your ideal setting, whether it's a social spot where you can enjoy evening fires with neighbors, or a remote retreat where you won't see another soul. Our philosophy: We work hard so you don't have to. As both owners and property managers for nearly two decades (since our start with Republic island and the Rapid River Lodge), we offer a unique, insider perspective. Our mission is to guarantee our guests a wonderful experience and help our owners maximize their investment. Give us a call, and we'll find the right fit for you!
Languages:
English, Spanish, Danish, Croatian
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests