Property Review - April 2002 Copyright 2002 © TR Desktop Publishing No information may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without the permission from TR Desktop Publishing.

Cedar Shore Cabins Higgins Lake, Michigan Reservations: (810) 629-6657

Proprietors:	James Dixon
Accommodations:	3 cottages overlooking Higgins Lake
Extras:	Fully equipped kitchens, microwave, CATV/VCR, linens provided, 2 with fireplace, 1 with washer/dryer. Private decks. Also, fire pit, picnic tables, gas BBQ
Rates/Payment:	Weekly: $600 to $1200. Check.
Miscellaneous:	No pets
Open:	Year around.

On a heavily treed lot sitting atop a rise overlooking beautiful Higgins Lake are James Dixon’s three cottages. Looking at Jim’s cottages brings to mind Goldie Locks and the three bears. He has a large cottage (pictured above) is suitable for 8-10 people. If that's too big, the small cottage can handle two adults and one or two small children. If that's too small, the medium cottage can handle six and that might be just right. All three properties sit behind a gravel road that borders Higgins Lake. The neighborhood is a quiet mix of year around residents and vacation cottages.

The three units have decks, comfortable furniture, TV/VCR and fully equipped kitchens. The largest cottage, Masters Inn, is 1400 sq. ft. features well equipped kitchen, three bedrooms and one bath. The living area is bright and roomy with vaulted, wood beamed ceiling and contemporary furniture invitingly situated around the fireplace. The door wall blends into a full wall of windows which offers a breathtaking snapshot of the lake, enjoyable from the comfort of the living room or the large, furnished outside deck.

The medium sized cottage, Gray Lady, is a two-bedroom unit. We were impressed with its well-maintained exterior and interior styling. The contemporary country decor and a three-sided fireplace in the main living room were inviting. The fully equipped kitchen incorporates a small dining with enough room at its pine bench table to accommodate six. This cottage also features two comfortable bedrooms and bath with shower.

Smallest of the three cottages is the 450 sq. ft., one bedroom, one bath, Brass Bell. The living room is more simply furnished than its bigger brother and sister. A compact but well equipped kitchen/dining room is bright, cheery with a nice view of the water.

Surrounding grounds are natural with a nice mix of mature trees. A delightful gazebo overlooks the lake and is a nice spot to sip your morning coffee or relax after a busy day. Of course there's that all important fire pit for roasting marshmallows to gooey-crunchy perfection. A short flight of stairs takes you down to the lower yard. Just across the quiet gravel road to the property's 100 ft. of private shoreline is a small stretch of sandy beach, good for swimming and enjoying the incredible view of beautiful Higgins Lake.

It should be noted that this area is a very popular spot in Michigan. Jim’s properties host many vacationers every year. It's sometimes a challenge to keep up with maintenance and minor repairs throughout the prime tourist season. Jim makes a real effort at continuous maintenance. In fact, while we were there, the property manager was busy at work. And Jim informed us he was planning to upgrade the carpeting at the Masters Inn and do a little interior repainting.

With Higgins Lake just across the road, Cedar Shores is a nice choice for families or water sport/fishing enthusiasts. We recommend booking your reservations early.

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