About Us
Why Choose Michigan Family Retreats?
Michigan Family Retreats is a family-run vacation rental brand in Southwest Michigan specializing in luxury, multi-generational group retreats near Lake Michigan, close to Chicago and Detroit.
Here’s why Michigan Family Retreats is the perfect getaway:
A Personal Touch
We’re not just hosts. We’re here for you, ensuring your stay is everything you need it to be. No corporate coldness – just real people who care about your vacation.
Beautiful Location
Nestled on Saddle Lake or against your own private woodland, the natural beauty surrounding Michigan Family Retreats properties offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation.
Luxurious Yet Comfortable
With Elaine’s experience in fine arts and interior design, every aspect of each home is beautifully designed while remaining comfortable and family-friendly.
Multi-Generational Friendly
Our spaces are perfect for families of all sizes and ages, with amenities for both young and old.
Memories That Last
More than just a vacation, staying at Michigan Family Retreats is an experience designed to help families connect, relax, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Local Experts
As passionate locals, we bring you the best of the Southwest Michigan, from hidden gems to must-see spots.
Our Story
The inspiration for Michigan Family Retreats came from our founder, Elaine, and her journey to find the ultimate summer getaway for her multi-generational family. Like many of us, Elaine cherished spending time with her family, and knew that a regular vacation rental wouldn’t provide the personal touch and attention that her loved ones needed. This inspired her to build the perfect family retreat from the ground up.
With a background in fine arts and an MFA in Art History, Elaine has an eye for design. She has renovated several homes, transforming them into luxurious, comfortable havens for families to enjoy. Her attention to detail, artistic background, and passion for hospitality shine through in every corner of Michigan Family Retreats.
Learn more about Elaine in this interview.
The Personal Touch
At Michigan Family Retreats, we are more than just a property – we are a family-oriented experience designed to prioritize personal connections. Elaine’s story of frustration with an impersonal corporate-run Airbnb serves as a core inspiration for how we operate our properties.
“I once went on a trip to visit my daughter, who was living in a different city. Unknowingly, I booked an Airbnb run by a large corporation. We had trouble with their automated check-in, and couldn’t get in touch with a real person for hours. So, I ended up having to find a hotel room late at night.
The experience really solidified what I wanted Michigan Family Retreats to be: a hands-on, family-focused, stress-free getaway, where the only thing people have to worry about is what they feel like doing together each day.”
Building a Dream Home
Elaine’s vision wasn’t just to build a vacation rental; it was to create a sanctuary for her family, and now, yours too. Located on the serene and picturesque Saddle Lake, Michigan Family Retreats’ first home was designed to accommodate the needs and wishes of each family member, from young children to grandparents.
With its spacious layout and peaceful surroundings, this home became a cherished family retreat. Its success led Elaine to share her creation with other families looking for a similarly thoughtful and personalized getaway experience.
A Passion for Design and Comfort
Elaine’s background in art history and fine arts has shaped every aspect of the properties. Michigan Family Retreats aren’t just a home; they’re a work of art. From the interior design to the furnishings, every detail has been thoughtfully curated to create an atmosphere of comfort and luxury.
The living spaces are designed to bring people together – large, open-concept areas allow families to gather for meals, game nights, or simply enjoy each other’s company. The homes seamlessly blends modern amenities with a rustic charm that complements the natural beauty of Southwest Michigan.
The bedrooms are cozy and inviting, each with its own unique character, designed to provide a peaceful retreat at the end of an exciting day. Large windows invite the sunlight in, offering stunning views of the lake or surrounding woods, bringing you closer to nature.
Our Commitment to Family-Focused Stays
We understand the importance of creating a space that feels like home for every guest. That’s why Michigan Family Retreats goes above and beyond to offer amenities and services that cater to families of all sizes. From pack ‘n play and high chairs for the little ones to outdoor adventures for teens and quiet spots for the grandparents, we aim to provide everything you need to make your stay both comfortable and memorable.
But above all, what makes us stand out is our commitment to creating stress-free vacations. We know that the best memories are made when everything runs smoothly, and the focus is on spending time with the people you love. That’s why we handle the details – so you can focus on enjoying your time together.
Join Us
We would love to welcome you and your family to Michigan Family Retreats. Whether you’re looking for a summer escape, a fall getaway, or a winter retreat, our homes are ready for you. We invite you to explore the beauty of Saddle Lake or Three Oaks, relax in our comfortable luxury homes, and enjoy the peace that comes with knowing every detail has been taken care of.