There's nothing like starting your day with a peaceful stroll along the bluff streets high above Harbor Springs, Michigan; one of the most scenic locations in the country. You take in the fresh morning air as you admire the picturesque views of Little Traverse Bay and the town’s famous harbor. As you walk, you feel the warm sun on your face. The walk is a great way to get some exercise and spend time with your family dog. Afterward, you head back home and enjoy a morning coffee on the enclosed three-season front porch. Enjoy the peace and quiet of the morning, followed by the fun and excitement of the afternoon. Whether you are looking for a quiet morning stroll or an afternoon of fun, you can find it all at this unique experience!

Walking to Downtown: One of our favorite things about staying here is walking into downtown Harbor Springs for shopping, restaurants, and the waterfront. Because the home sits on the historic Bluff, the return trip is uphill; either via the Bluff roads or the public stairway. Many guests love the views and walkability, but those with mobility concerns, strollers, or very young children should plan accordingly.

The Space:
Shady Pines Harbor Springs is newly-renovated and fully equipped to be your family's home-away-from-home. Perfect for your week-long family vacation or a weekend getaway. The home boasts modern conveniences, yet still maintains the original charm of a 110-year-old home. The main living space remains as it was built in 1910 (albeit a slight refresh), with the original hardwood floors, plaster walls, and classic molding. Even the two original stove chimney stacks can be seen in the dining room and what is now the master closet.

The Kitchen: Start your day with freshly brewed coffee from our Coffee Bar; featuring a traditional coffee maker, Keurig, and a French Press with coffee grinder. The rest of the Kitchen is fully furnished with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and of course, all the amenities to be your culinary home away from home. Enjoy your meals together around the beautiful, natural hardwood Dining Room table, or take it to the back patio for an epic barbecue with the outdoor gas grill.

After a long day at the lake, or enjoying any number of northern Michigan's many outdoor activities, relax in the spacious Living Room with comfortable seating, high ceilings, and large windows to enjoy the evening sunlight. Watch shows on the 65" SmartTV, or play one of the many provided board games with the family. If reading a book is more your speed, find a good story in our "public library," or donate a book you just finished. Together with the Den/Office, featuring its own 50" SmartTV and large leather couch, the home has enough space for everyone to spread out and stay "Shady."

Bedrooms & Bathrooms: The large first floor Master Bedroom is the perfect place to unwind. The room features a king-sized bed with a memory-foam mattress. The Main Bathroom is just off the Master Bedroom, and is stocked with essential toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. We also provided cotton balls, Q-tips, floss picks, and a makeup towel; just in case you need them. Access is through the Master Bedroom or the Half Bath via a sliding pocket door. The Half Bath is adjacent to the main bathroom with a sliding pocket door separating the two. The Laundry facilities are also in the Half Bath space, with detergent pods, booster and softener sheets on the shelf. Venture upstairs by way of the original Staircase where two Bedrooms allow for the remaining guests to relax and dream. The second Bedroom offers a queen bed and dresser area, while the third Bedroom is outfitted with 2 twin beds and closet area; both with Nector memory-foam mattresses. Note to families - The stairs to the bedrooms are fairly steep, so please proceed with caution if you elect to bring the little ones. We do provide a baby gate; stored in the master closet.

Keeping You Comfortable: Like many historic Harbor Springs homes, Shady Pines is cooled with high-quality window air conditioning units rather than central air. They cool the home well during the summer months, though guests accustomed to central HVAC may notice they produce more operating noise - particularly in the bedrooms when running overnight.

Outdoor Space:
Relax with your family on the private backyard patio after a day on the lake. Fire up the gas grill, gather around the fire pit for s'mores, and enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars. Please note the backyard is not fenced. Many guests enjoy the outdoor space with their dogs, but pets should remain supervised or leashed while outside.

Amenities:
Amenities include 2 window AC units (in master bedroom and queen bedroom), floor unit AC in living room to cool first floor (there is no central air - circa 1910), 2 Smart TVs, books, games/puzzles, Amazon Alexa, washer/dryer, dishwasher, gas stove, beach chairs/umbrella, and Yoga equipment. Also included are child-friendly amenities, such as toys, baby gate, pack-n-play, high chair, outlet covers, outdoor yard games, and snow sleds. We happily allow up to 2 registered dogs per visit, and offer some supplies to make your furry family members comfortable, as well (please see pet rules for any limitations).

Community Indoor Pool: This home is nestled in the quiet suburban neighborhood of Harbor Springs, just off the Bluff overlooking the town. After a day of outdoor activities, the family can continue playing in the indoor community pool; just across the street (check hours and fees).

Pet Allergies: We have an adorable dog, too, and though the house will be super clean for your arrival, if you are allergic to dogs, this may not be a good fit for you.

A Few Things to Know Before Booking:
Historic Bluff Location:
• We're located on Harbor Springs' beautiful Bluff neighborhood, just above downtown.
• Walking to town is easy and scenic.
• Walking back home involves either climbing the Bluff stairs or walking up the steep Bluff roads.
Traveling with Dogs?
• We welcome up to two registered dogs.
• The backyard is not fenced, so dogs should be supervised while outdoors.
Historic Home Cooling:
• The home is cooled with window A/C units instead of central air.
• They keep the home comfortable, but they are naturally a bit louder than central HVAC systems.
110-Year-Old Character:
• While beautifully renovated with modern amenities, this is still a historic home. Original hardwood floors, trim, plaster walls, and architectural details are part of what makes Shady Pines such a special place to stay.
Security Devices:
• We have installed security cameras (4) on the exterior of the house for the express purpose of securing our property and its contents and enforcing compliance with occupancy and pet rules. Please make sure you are comfortable with this, as making payment for the reservation acknowledges your awareness of their presence and operation on the property, and gives your consent to the possibility of your (and your party) images captured, on behalf of yourself and your entire party.