Best Apartments in Ludington

Cozy and Urban Ludington Apt about 1 Mi to Lake Michigan is located in Ludington, just a 16-minute walk from Stearns Park Beach and 29 miles from Silver Lake State Park. This beachfront property offers access to free Wifi. The air-conditioned apartment consists of 2 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a coffee machine, and 2 bathrooms with a bath and a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance. Manistee County-Blacker Airport is 34 miles away.

- "Great location, lovely space. Would definitely stay here again!" - "Cozy flat within walking distance to downtown."

The building was originally Manistee National Bank. The recently renovated apartment is where the Bank offices were originally located. It sits on the Manistee River Walk. The building is centrally located in the downtown Historic District, steps away from local shopping, dining, and entertainment. The deck provides beautiful views of the river where you will see sailboats and charter fishing boats pass by. You may even see a Great Lakes Freighter navigate the river channel. The River Walk makes for a nice stroll down to Lake Michigan.
The renovated apartment is 1500 sq ft, has original hardwood floors and exposed brick walls, 11' ceilings, tons of natural lighting, and a beautiful back deck that overlooks the Manistee River. There are stairs leading up to the apartment from the street (pictured). The rear access is via a spiral staircase (pictured) on the patio that leads down to the lower levels of the building. There is one parking space located behind the building for your use.

- "Thank you, Barry for a great stay!" - "A great view from the deck. Watched a ship come in and leave. Location is great - right downtown by shops and restaurants. There are a lot of steps to climb." - "Everything you need in a place to stay in Manistee is here." - "Property was clean and tastefully decorated W e were within walking distance to everything in the downtown area. We got to see the Manitowoc (Lower lake freighter) come up the river channel at night and leave early the next morning while have a cup of coffee on the deck overlooking the river. This property was simply superb in every way. Thank-you Barry for your hospitality!"

The air-conditioned accommodation is 1.1 miles from First Street Beach. Free Wifi is available throughout the property and 5th Avenue Beach is a 19-minute walk away. Providing a balcony and river views, the spacious apartment includes 2 bedrooms, a living room, cable TV, an equipped kitchen, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance. Manistee County-Blacker Airport is 4.3 miles away.

- "Great condo" - "relaxing"

A smoke free and pet free suite, perfect for the couple who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It's easy to lose yourself in this comfortable and cozy getaway. Wood and ceramic tile floors, custom furnishings, with beautiful views in a quiet atmosphere. Enjoy nature and each other again. View the sunrise across Lake Arcadia from your balcony. Watch the sunset on the beach of Lake Michigan.

Walking distance to Lake Michigan Beaches. Pan fish from the dock. Lake Michigan fishing, biking trails, skiing, wine tasting tours, nature conservancy, hiking, Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes, golf courses, casino, all minutes from your door.

Year round availability! June 21, 2025 until Aug 23, 2025 weekly only - Saturday check-in, Saturday check-out.

Regardless of what the default cancellation policy says, there is a max refund of 80% if cancelled (because of admin costs).

Keywords: Studio Apartment includes boat slip with access to Lake Michigan

- "The host LuAnn was wonderful and provided much insight on local surroundings and recommendations on places to eat and adventure. The studio is very cozy and the amenities were great down to the details….especially if you forgot something. Fire pit is very nice and the fact that you have two choices….beach or patio to relax. Will look forward to staying again." - "Had a great stay! Highlights included deck views and stroll to Lake MI." - "Very nice place and location. Hosts were great. Highly recommend staying there."

Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony, Gorgeous Onekama Condo with Pool and Lake Access! is situated in Onekama. It has sea views and free WiFithroughout the property. Situated on the ground floor, this apartment features 2 bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a living room, and a TV. Towels and bed linen are available in the apartment. The nearest airport is Manistee County-Blacker Airport, 19 km from the apartment.

Other • Parking • Internet • Accessibility • Wellness Facilities • Pool • Child Friendly • Security/Safety • Hot Tub • Guest Services

Cottage 12 at Parkview is in walking distance to the Lake Michigan beach, downtown, the skate park, and many other places in Ludington. Pickle ball courts just one block away.

Parkview is a non-smoking campus. Smoking is not allowed on the resort premises.

House Rule: No EV Charging or Storage Allowed (Indoors or Using Indoor Outlets)

The beach is the most popular in Michigan based on the amount of visitors in the area.

We make sure your cottage will be clean and all touch points are sanitized prior to your check in.

Cottage 12 has a newly renovated full kitchen, and bathroom. Also a large deck with gas grills. Please enjoy your stay!

- "The comfiest beds! This was our second time staying this summer and loved it." - "We loved our stay here. It was my husband and I and our two young kids. Perfect amount of space for us and the proximity to the beach was amazing. The cottage itself was very clean and had everything we needed. We are already looking to hopefully stay here again next summer!" - "This is our second time staying at Parkview Cottages, but our first time staying in Cottage #12, and we loved it! Plenty of space, open concept, and had everything we needed. We come to Ludington every Fourth of July and love how close to the beach we are in these units! Check in and out was seamless, ac worked great, clean, and convenient. Highly recommend. Thanks again, Jeff!"

Bright Lower-Level Unit about 1 Mi to Lake Michigan offers accommodations in Ludington, 29 miles from Silver Lake State Park. Free Wifi is available throughout the property and Stearns Park Beach is a 16-minute walk away. The air-conditioned apartment consists of 2 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a coffee machine, and 2 bathrooms with a bath and a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance. Manistee County-Blacker Airport is 34 miles away.

- "Great stay. Ideal for small group. Very much enjoyed." - "Close to everything, pristine and spacious!" - "It was a beautiful home in a good location."

Explore the best of Ludington from the comfort of this charming, main-floor apartment. This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom vacation rental features a fully equipped space with modern furnishings, a spacious porch, and a shared yard with a fire pit, along with a quiet-yet-central location under 1 mile from Lake Michigan. Choose from a variety of nearby activities including renting a boat from a nearby marina to fish, visiting the shops and restaurants downtown, or simply relaxing on the beach come summer.

-- THE PROPERTY --

Permit: C-STR-21-0020 | Free WiFi | In-Unit Laundry | Walk to Beaches, Boating, Marina

This home offers the perfect accommodations for those seeking days of water activities on Lake Michigan and evenings spent relaxing with loved ones.

Bedroom 1: King Bed | Bedroom 2: Queen Bed | Living Room: Queen Sleeper Sofa

SHARED OUTDOOR SPACES: Porch, yard, gas grill & fire pit, bicycles, beach chairs/umbrella
INDOOR LIVING: 3 Smart TVs, en-suite bathroom w/ TV, fireplace, dining table, 1400 sq ft
KITCHEN: Fully equipped, stainless steel appliances, island w/ seating, drip coffee maker, toaster, Crock-Pot, blender, cookware/dishware, micro-brewery growler
GENERAL: Central heat & A/C, hair dryer, iron/board, toiletries, linens, towels, high chair (upon request), snow shoes,
FAQ: Stairs required to enter
PARKING: Parking pad (2 vehicles)
ADDT’L ACCOMMODATIONS: An additional 2-bedroom property for 4 guests is available in the upstairs unit with a separate nightly rate. If you would like to reserve both rentals, please inquire for more information prior to booking

-- THE LOCATION --

DOWNTOWN LUDINGTON (< 1 mile): Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, Rotary Park, Crown & Cork Restaurant, Sandcastles Children's Museum, House of Flavors Restaurant, The Mitten Bar, Blu Moon, Ludington Pub, The Q Smokehouse, Chef John’s Bakery & Cafe, Brenda Harbor Cafe, Jamesport Brewing Company, Ludington Bay Brewing
LAKE MICHIGAN: Harbor View Marina (0.6 miles), Ludington Municipal Marina (0.7 miles), Waterfront Park (0.7 miles), Stearns Park (1.0 miles), S.S. Badger Lake Michigan Carferry Service (1.0 miles), Ludington Breakwater Lighthouse (1.5 miles), Ludington State Park Beach (4.8 miles), Little River Casino (30.8 miles)
HAMLIN LAKE: Hamlin Lake Boat Rentals (4.7 miles), Long Skinny Park (4.9 miles), Middle Bayou Marina (5.2 miles)
MORE OUTDOORS: Cartier Park Pathway (0.8 miles), Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area (21.5 miles), Huron-Manistee National Forests (22.4 miles), Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve (50.6 miles)
AIRPORTS: Manistee County Blacker Airport (29.7 miles), Muskegon Co Airport (64.5 miles), Cherry Capital Airport (94.2 miles)

-- REST EASY WITH US --

Evolve makes it easy to find and book properties you'll never want to leave. You can relax knowing that our properties will always be ready for you and that we'll answer the phone 24/7. Even better, if anything is off about your stay, we'll make it right. You can count on our homes and our people to make you feel welcome — because we know what vacation means to you.

-- POLICIES --

- No smoking
- No pets allowed
- No events, parties or large gatherings
- Additional fees and taxes may apply
- Photo ID may be required upon check-in
- NOTE: The property requires stairs to enter and may be difficult for guests with limited mobility
- NOTE: There is another bookable vacation rental on-site (upstairs unit) with some shared outdoor amenities; other travelers may be present during your stay

- "This was a wonderful place to stay. It was very clean, well stocked and true to description. The weather didn’t cooperate for us and we still had a great time because the house was gorgeous and had plenty of board games." - "Clean property, close to downtown Ludington. Easy to walk into town or the beach. Close to the state park and biking trails." - "There were three of us gals ready to explore Ludington and surrounding area. We were so surprised how beautiful the home we reserved was. Amazing details with well appointed furnishings and extras. The kitchen had everything you needed to prepare a meal. It was remodeled with high end appliances and fixtures. It was very clean and welcoming. We hated to leave and would definitely consider making this an annual trip staying at this beautiful home. It was very close to everything in town."

Featuring a spa and wellness center, Bright Manistee Condo with Beach and Pool Access! features accommodations in Manistee. Free Wifi is available throughout the property and 5th Avenue Beach is a 9-minute walk away. Providing a balcony and sea views, the spacious apartment includes 3 bedrooms, a living room, flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen, and 3 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment. The property has an outdoor dining area. The apartment also provides an outdoor swimming pool and a hot tub for guests to relax in. Guests can enjoy the indoor pool at Bright Manistee Condo with Beach and Pool Access!. Manistee County-Blacker Airport is 4.3 miles away.

Accessibility • Hot Tub • Fireplace/Heating • Other • Spa • Security/Safety • Guest Services • View • Pool • Parking • Internet • Sports/Activities

This cute studio cottage sleeps two in a full bed. Separate bath with spacious new shower. Walk to the beach, small fridge, and 4 cup coffee maker (please bring filters), A/C and complimentary Internet, Cobble stone fire place but please only use DuraFlame logs, One at a time. Pickle ball courts just one block away. This is our least expensive cottage, perfect for a quick getaway. It is a small cottage! So if you are a larger person and require more room, I would suggest another cottage.

New mattress and sound insulation installed recently for your comfort!

Parkview is a non-smoking campus. Smoking is not allowed on the resort premises.

House Rule: No EV Charging or Storage Allowed (Indoors or Using Indoor Outlets)

- "Small but accurately described and close walk to beach." - "Was just what we expected, very short walk to the beach. Would stay here again." - "I had a great time in Ludington and at my Parkview rental! Jeff is a great host. The location is so close to the beach and in walking distance of downtown shopping & restaurants. I would definitely stay here again." - "This cottage was perfect for my boyfriend and I as we spent a long weekend in Ludington. The neighborhood was extremely safe and a nice area for walks. The beach is a 1 minute walk across the street. We loved how close it was to the beach! Downtown is not really walkable unless you want to walk 20 minutes to get there. The downtown area had so much to offer! As for cabin #10, it was quite small but fit my boyfriend and I perfectly. There are no dishes, silverware or cups available in this cabin so if you’re planning to eat anything there or have leftovers, bring utensils and plates! The grill area is located just around the corner from the cabin and provided grill utensils! We loved this feature. Overall, we would 100% stay again as it was perfect for what we wanted out of this vacation."

Dtwn Ludington Condo Balcony, Walk To Beach! offers accommodations in Ludington, 28 miles from Silver Lake State Park. Free Wifi is available throughout the property and Stearns Park Beach is a 9-minute walk away. The air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a shower and a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance. Manistee County-Blacker Airport is 30 miles away.

Child Friendly • Other • Internet • Pet Friendly • Security/Safety • Parking • Fireplace/Heating • Accessibility • Guest Services

This open-concept two bedroom, one bath apartment has all the comforts of home in the middle of all the fun Ludington offers! Master bedroom features a king bed with huge windows overlooking exciting James Street activities. Second bedroom features a queen bed with a large closet and views of the downtown area. Open kitchen, living and dining area includes a dining table, full kitchen, washer & dryer, reserved off street parking, downtown shops, restaurants, and activities.

- "The unit was a lot bigger than I thought! Was very nice and very clean. Location was perfect, we were in town for a wedding. We could walk basically anywhere we needed to go. FYI to future guests no where sells food after 10pm so make sure you have food before!!! If I find myself back in ludington I will stay here again!" - "Awesome" - "This property was a gem in this quiet fishing town. In all, it had everything we needed for an extended weekend stay."

This beachfront property offers access to a patio and free Wifi. The apartment has an outdoor pool and a hot tub. Offering a balcony and sea views, the spacious apartment includes 2 bedrooms, a living room, cable TV, an equipped kitchen, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance. Manistee County-Blacker Airport is 12 miles away.

View • Internet • Guest Services • Pool • Hot Tub • Wellness Facilities • Parking • Accessibility • Security/Safety • Oceanfront • Ocean View • Other

Nestled in the heart of Manistee’s historic neighborhoods—where the ornate spires of Guardian Angels Church reach to the sky, and historic homes beckon for you to stroll the quiet streets—Redberry House is waiting to welcome you! Relax with a cup of coffee on the front porch, or take an easy stroll into downtown Manistee for delightful shops, antiques, restaurants, the Riverwalk, or Manistee’s vintage movie theater, The Vogue. Just down the street, First Street Beach offers a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan where you can enjoy a beach day, boat launch, full bath house & concession stand, playgrounds, catch a stunning sunset, and more!

Redberry House is only a quick drive from some of Michigan’s most beautiful parks, golf courses, hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, or star gazing. The home is about an hour from Michigan’s Adventure Amusement park, 5 mins to Manistee National Golf Club, 30 mins to Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club, and 40 mins to Crystal Mountain ski resort, golf, and spa.

Redberry House is divided into 2 private apartment units, each with its own entrance. The first floor unit has been lovingly updated and outfitted to host up to 8 people when using the twin trundle bed and separate futon in the den area. (The private upper floor unit is only used occasionally by the owners and will not interfere with your enjoyment of the home.) Redberry House is fully stocked with linens, bath towels, and beach towels, as well as a well-stocked kitchen and two internet TVs (via Roku). Unfortunately, the unit does not have a dishwasher or washer/dryer. Air conditioning is provided via two window units, along with ceiling fans and oscillating tower fans, that are more than sufficient for keeping the space cool and comfortable!

The Manistee area has so many interesting areas and activities to explore and is graced with beautiful landscapes that allow you to catch your breath, relax, and retreat. Come enjoy a week or a weekend and get to know one of Michigan's hidden gems!

- "The property is conveniently located (quiet neighborhood), close to downtown & both beaches. Two bedrooms, comfy beds & bedding. Modern bathroom. Plenty of couches/chairs for watching either of 2 tvs. Older (clean) kitchen cabinets for quaint decor, ample dishes, pots/pans, coffee pot, toaster, +++; even salt & pepper. Very clean refrigerator. Also includes beach towels, chairs and a bag of toys for the younger child. We had 4 in our family, including two teen girls. We all were very satisfied."

This apartment provides accommodations with a patio. There's an outdoor pool and guests have access to free Wifi and parking on-site. The air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a hot tub and a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment. The accommodation has a fireplace. Manistee County-Blacker Airport is 12 miles away.

Internet • Security/Safety • Pool • Child Friendly • Parking • Accessibility • Wellness Facilities • Guest Services • Other • Hot Tub

Roomy and comfy upstairs studio Loft at Stony Lake with kitchenette, full bath with stall shower and large living and dining area that sleeps up to 5. Full size day bed with twin trundle and queen size sofa bed. Kitchen has full size refrigerator, microwave, sinks, NO STOVE, large island counter space, dishware and silverware for 6, utensils and serving bowls. Coffee pot, toaster, and electric griddle and frying pan. Dining table seats 6. Gas BBQ available also.

Guests will have access to awesome outside area with large deck and patio with built in fire pit. (May have to be shared if main cottage is in use at same time). Patio chairs and table, picnic tables on deck. Washer and dryer on site and ample private parking right outside the door.

With prior arrangements guests may also have access to my boat dock on Stony Lake for your fishing boat, ski boat or pontoon!

This area is both beautiful and relaxing! 5 minute walk to Lake Michigan public beach (the oval) or Stony Lake beach, or the park with playground and picnic area. Stony Lake Store and cafe where you can also rent tubes to float down Stony Creek channel from Stony Lake to Lake Michigan is one block away as is the Stony Lake Inn restaurant and bar. What more do you need?

Lots to do within a 15 minute drive. Benona Shores Golf course 5 min away and 3 other courses less than 10 miles. Rainbow Ranch horseback riding, Lewis Farms market and petting zoo, Silver Lake sand dunes and dune buggy rides, Double JJ Ranch with indoor water park, dining and rodeos, local wineries, to name a few! Did I mention great fishing?

This has been part of our family cottage for many years and it is now available for others to enjoy as well. I’m sure you will enjoy it as much as we have!!

- "The location is perfect. Close to both Lake Michigan and Stony Lake. The studio apartment was just the right size. The outdoor hangout/eating/firepit was very well done and beautiful. Wonderful, friendly hosts. Hope to stay there again." - "We needed a place to sleep while we visited family on Stony Lake. It was filled the bill. Clean, safe, excellent communication with the owner. We will book again. Thank you so much." - "Was what we were looking for."

Modern Ludington Condo Across From the Lake! offers accommodations in Ludington, 28 miles from Silver Lake State Park. Free Wifi is available throughout the property and Stearns Park Beach is a 15-minute walk away. The air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom, 2 living rooms, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a shower and a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance. Manistee County-Blacker Airport is 30 miles from the property.

Parking • Internet • Fireplace/Heating • Guest Services • Security/Safety • Other

This open-concept one bedroom, one bath apartment has all the comforts of home in the middle of all the fun Ludington offers! Bedroom features a Queen bed and closet. Open kitchen, living and dining area, full kitchen with seating at bar, washer & dryer, sleeper sofa, reserved off street parking, downtown shops, restaurants, and activities right outside your door. Private balcony with table & chairs perfect for Summer nights.

- "We had a great time staying at this apartment. Everything was clean and things have been updated since the VRBO listing. Our only complaints were the bed which was extremely soft and saggy and the noise from the A/C units on the roof which are right over the bedroom. The bed was two twin mattresses put together like a king. The listing says queen mattress. Other then that it was a great location and decent value in Ludington." - "Easy check-in with codes. Parking clearly marked and near door. Apt above store is clean and well-supplied with everything you need. Comfortable couch and bed. Owner quickly answered question. Air conditioning wall unit better in living room than bedroom but large fan supplied to remedy. Very pleasant stay right in center of town. Walk to restaurants, parks and shops. Highly recommend!"

A hot tub is available for guests. There's an outdoor pool and guests have access to free Wifi and parking on-site. The air-conditioned apartment consists of 2 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a coffee machine, and 2 bathrooms with a shower and a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment. The accommodation has a fireplace. Manistee County-Blacker Airport is 12 miles away.

Hot Tub • Security/Safety • Accessibility • Laundry • Guest Services • Child Friendly • Pool • Wellness Facilities • Internet • Parking • Fireplace/Heating • Other

Beech Loft – Cozy Lake Escape at Historic Portage Point Resort

Welcome to Beech Loft, your charming and budget-friendly retreat located at the iconic Portage Point Resort, nestled between the peaceful shores of Portage Lake and the breathtaking expanse of Lake Michigan. This cozy loft offers guests a unique opportunity to enjoy resort amenities and natural beauty—at a fantastic value.

Steeped in tradition since 1903, Portage Point Resort continues to be a beloved destination for couples, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're here for lake days, hiking, skiing, or simply relaxing, Beech Loft provides comfort, charm, and unbeatable access to it all.

THE SPACE
Beech Loft is thoughtfully designed to make the most of its compact footprint:

Queen-size Murphy bed for comfortable sleeping by night, space-saving by day

Two twin-size fold-out chair beds, perfect for kids or extra guests

Compact kitchen with all the essentials

Private deck with a gas grill for outdoor dining or evening wine

2 kayaks included for Portage Lake adventures

Please Note: Stair use is required to access this unit.

RESORT AMENITIES (On-Site)
Sandy beach on Portage Lake

Eddie’s Beach Club – seasonal saltwater pool & hot tub*

Portage Point Pizzeria & Ice Cream Shop*

Lahey’s Pub* – casual bar with lake vibes

Fishing station, shuffleboard, swing set, campfire areas & green space

Boat/Snowmobile/Trailer parking available

Access to shared lakeside decks

Amenities open seasonally – see operating hours below

WALK TO LAKE MICHIGAN!
Just a 2–3 minute walk (150 yards) brings you to the stunning shoreline of Lake Michigan—perfect for swimming, beachcombing, and catching world-class sunsets.

2025 SEASONAL HOURS
Lahey’s Pub
Fridays & Saturdays: Open at 4:00 PM through Labor Day

Pizzeria & Ice Cream Shop (Starting June 18 through August 16, possibly longer
Tues–Thurs: 5:00–10:00 PM
Fri & Sat: 12:00–10:00 PM

Hours subject to change based on staffing

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Lake Michigan public beaches – multiple access points close by

Little River Casino

Arcadia Bluffs & Crystal Mountain Golf Courses

Crystal Mountain & Caberfae Peaks Ski Resorts

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Explore Manistee, Traverse City, and the M-22 Coastal Drive for shopping, dining, wineries, festivals, and scenic tours

YEAR-ROUND ACTIVITIES
Kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, fishing

Hiking, U-pick farms, fall color tours

Snowmobiling, ice fishing, snowshoeing

Hunting and golfing options nearby

Beech Loft is perfect for guests who want to enjoy the best of Northern Michigan without breaking the bank. With its cozy setup, historic resort charm, and unmatched location, it’s a place where you can relax, recharge, and reconnect with what matters most.

See our other VRBO property (1 bdrm):

"Great Lakes Escape" VRBO #4650327

- "Very efficient use of space and attention to detail! Everything you need for your stay at the lake!" - "I really enjoyed my stay at Beech Loft. The Murphy bed was very easy to use and I appreciated all the space I had in the room during the day when the bed was stored up. The microwave, refrigerator, and kitchenette were so cute and perfect to store all the snacks and drinks I needed. Beach chairs and an umbrella were included with the rental (among other extras!) and I was able to use them when I went down to Lake Michigan in the afternoons. The Beech Loft was truly a "hidden gem" at Portage!"