Buchanan House for Rent: Historic River Retreat - E. of Lake Michigan, N. of Notre Dame - Property 207566

Listed on the Michigan Historic Registry, the River House is one of the oldest homes in Southwestern Michigan. Steeped in history, from its early Midwest pioneer beginnings, to a bootlegging period of whiskey production and operation as a river tavern to its revival in the early 60s by a devoted lover of the house and its history. Furnishings are simple and uncluttered, with select period pieces such as one of the original imposing beds from Chicago's Palmer House and a mid-1850s square grand piano.

A place to complete your novel, plan your next five years or catch-up with family and friends. Bring your kayaks and canoes to navigate over 10 miles of the Saint Joseph River (though you may be humbled by either generation of Olympic kayakers down the way). Fish for walleye and more from the sloping lawn leading to the river. Or just relax on one of the three stately and columned slate porches overlooking the lawn and river (and the unspoiled and uninhabited wooded bluff on the opposite side), watch the fishing boats occasionally troll the waters and try your hand at identifying the varieties of wildlife, trees and shrubs.

The house is not for everyone but could be exactly the right place to unwind, stretch out and enjoy a solitude that is close to, but virtually unaffected by, the weekenders and vacationers in Harbor Country. The stainless appliances, granite countertops and flat-panel entertainment systems are better found back toward Union Pier, New Buffalo and environs (OK, there is an espresso maker to keep you charged and wireless Internet access to keep you connected).

Guest Book: HERE IS A FALL, 2008 TESTIMONIAL FROM RENTERS: 'We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in your beautiful house. The rural setting right on the river was very peaceful. We expected to run into ghosts from eons past, but no such luck! We had the benefit of perfect fall Michigan weather, and can't wait to return. Thank you for sharing your house! Thanks, again, David. Everything worked out perfectly.'

Other Activities: wildlife viewing, kayaking, boating