The world is a book, and those who do not travel, read only a page…

Fernside is a lovingly constructed A-Frame cabin, which rests on the banks of the Sturgeon river, in the charming town of Indian River, Michigan. Nestled in a blanket of trees, it blends both seclusion and companionship, offered by the nearby town. As dawn turns to daybreak, there’s nothing more pleasant than being drawn from slumber by the sun light springing through open windows and the sound of gushing water echoing through each surface of the property. In my estimation, there is no more serene place on earth than Fernside.

“No matter what happens, travel gives you a story to tell.” — Jewish Proverb

The river provides a bevy of activities, facilitated by many shops in town. Whether that’s taking in the local faire, like munching on smoked fish from the Tiki Fish Market and lounging on the banks of the water way watching locals lazily tube down the river, or floating down the river yourself. The trip down is just as relaxing as the walk back, which takes about an hour if you’re stopping to smell the roses and admire the scenery. Big Bear rentals, in town, is a great way to expand your sense of adventure, with a guided kayaking or tubing tour.

Indian River is perched close to many other nearby towns, whose offerings include a wide variety of dining options and beach getaways. There’s Burt Lake State Park, or if you venture further out of town, the historic Mackinaw bridge and accompanying ferry to the island of the same name.

When the seasons change, and the leaves start to shed from all the native foliage, Indian River becomes whispered and discreet. The locals are inviting and the houses are all warm. Winter is the perfect time for an intimate, cozy getaway and provides a wide variety of snowy activities, such as skiing and snowmobiling.

Private and Serene…

Fernside is a synthesis of both modern and démodé, fully realized with the assistance of Lake Street Design Studio. The open floor plan and use of bay windows keeps light in during the day, casting halos above the cabin, while at night it erases the division between inside and out, giving you the feeling of floating amongst the stars. The expansive night sky is especially clear on our deck, which hugs the river from above. Wildlife greets you each morning. Visiting birds call out to our nearest star as it rises over the river, and sometimes fish can be seen leaping from the water, with the same naive grace as Icarus.

Our fire pit is perfect for lighting the way during dinners under the stars, created using our fully equipped kitchen or our BBQ. Take time to lay in the river, or on a tube tied to our tree, and after, use all the modern creature comforts we have in the house, such as central heating, A/C, or wifi.

About me…

A midwestern transplant now living in San Francisco, I’m an artist who owns my own business and look for any reason to abscond up north to the cabin.