Private Sandy Beach Torch Lake Cottage/Guest House

Private sandy beach on Torch Lake — a rare feature that makes swimming easy and enjoyable for all ages. Family-owned lakefront cottage with separate guest house for added space and privacy (sleeps up to 10). Enjoy sunset views from the lakeside deck, with private dock, hoist, and mooring buoy. Updated for comfort while preserving historic character. Quiet residential setting within walking distance of Alden. The space Designed for relaxed lake living and comfortable gatherings, the large lakefront deck — newly rebuilt in 2025 — is the heart of the property. With expansive water views and multiple seating areas, it’s where guests spend their days enjoying morning coffee, shared meals, and long summer evenings. A private sandy stretch of shoreline with a gentle entry makes swimming easy and enjoyable for all ages — a rare feature on Torch Lake and one of the reasons families return year after year. The property includes 150 feet of total lake frontage, with the main sandy beach area located at one end of the property and additional sandy shoreline extending along portions of the water’s edge. A private dock, boat hoist, mooring buoy, and kayaks are available for guest use. Our family has cared for this lakeshore since the late 1800s, and the cottage itself, built in the 1930s, remains a long-cherished family retreat. While the home retains its historic character, the bathrooms, kitchen, and major systems have been thoughtfully updated over time to ensure comfort for today’s guests. All three bathrooms were fully renovated in 2021. The main cottage features warm natural wood interiors, two wood-burning fireplaces, shelves of books, and wide lake views. A baby grand piano adds to the sense of a lived-in family home and is often enjoyed on quiet evenings or rainy afternoons. A separate guest house sleeps four in one large room and includes its own bathroom, providing additional privacy and flexibility for grandparents, another couple, younger families comfortable sharing a space, or older children. With three full bathrooms across the property, extended families or two households can share the week comfortably while still having room to spread out. In addition to the deck and beach area, the property includes hammocks and quiet seating areas that invite you to slow down and stay awhile. The cottage sits at the end of a private road among mature trees in a peaceful residential setting. The village of Alden — with restaurants, shops, galleries, playground, and tennis courts — is a pleasant 15-minute walk away. While there are many wonderful destinations within driving distance, most guests find themselves content to spend their days enjoying the lake. Most guests choose to settle in and enjoy the property for a full week during the summer months. Spring and fall offer a quieter experience of Torch Lake and are ideal for shorter, flexible stays. This property is best suited for guests seeking a relaxed, residential lake experience. Because this is a long-held family property in a quiet neighborhood, we ask guests to be respectful of the home, the lake, and our neighbors. Jet skis and events are not permitted in order to preserve the peaceful character of the area. Guest access Entire property Other things to note During peak season (mid-June through August), rentals are Friday-to-Friday. Spring and fall stays have a 3-night minimum, with flexible check-in days. The cottage is located in a quiet residential area and is best suited for guests seeking a peaceful lake experience. Like most Northern Michigan lake properties, seasonal insects, wildlife, and weather conditions are part of the natural environment.