Oak - Waterfront Cottage on Private Island in Lake Champlain

Oak - Waterfront Cottage on Private Island in Lake Champlain

Stay on a private island in Lake Champlain.

Accessible only by boat, Garden Island is a 30-acre private island offering a rare and peaceful Vermont escape. Oak sits directly along the shoreline of Converse Bay, with a spacious outdoor deck overlooking the water and capturing beautiful lake and Adirondack Mountain views — perfect for morning coffee, evening wine, or quiet sunset moments.

Guests enjoy full access to the island's sandy beach, open meadow, and wooded walking trails. Spend your days kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, or taking the paddleboat out across the bay. All non-motorized lake equipment is included in your stay. Swim from the dock, relax in a hammock, or enjoy the gentle rhythm of island life. With no cars on the island, the setting is calm, natural, and intentionally unplugged.

Oak is a cozy waterfront studio-plus cottage that's ideal for a couple or a small family. The main room features a fold-down futon and opens toward lake views, while a small separate bedroom with two twin beds, provides an extra space for children or guests. The screened porch connects to the wide deck above the water, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living and a romantic lakeside retreat.

Explore the Area

Garden Island is perfectly situated in Charlotte, Vermont, placing you within striking distance of classic Lake Champlain experiences and charming New England towns. Start with a drive up Mt. Philo State Park — Vermont's oldest state park — for sweeping panoramic views of the lake and Adirondack Mountains, ideal for a sunrise picnic or a gentle sunset hike. Just minutes away, explore Charlotte Town Beach and scenic trails through rolling farmland and forest, or visit the historic Holmes Creek Covered Bridge for a touch of local history. In nearby Shelburne, the world-class Shelburne Museum showcases art and Americana across sprawling grounds, and Shelburne Farms offers farm-to-table tasting, trails, and serene lakeside walks. For cozy dinners and local flavor, enjoy wood-fired pizza and craft beer at Folino's and Fiddlehead Brewing Company, or explore intimate cafés and bistros along the way. Just 25 minutes north, Burlington's lively Church Street Marketplace, waterfront parks, live music, and boutique shops make for a perfect day trip — whether you want a romantic stroll along the lake, a cycling adventure, or a leisurely meal with a view of the sunset over Champlain.

Things to Know

Check-in time: 4:00 p.m.Check-out time: 10:00 a.m.Wifi/Internet: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in your cabin and throughout the grounds.Transportation to the Island

Guests are transported by a complimentary ferry service between 8:30 AM and 7 PM. After-hours ferry service is available for a $10 / trip gratuity (paid directly to the ferry operator). An island staff member is on site 24/7. Upon arrival, staff can assist with luggage and guide you to your cabin.Parking: Free parking is located on the mainland in the dirt lot near the green barn that says 'Garden Island.'Good Neighbor Policy

No smoking is permitted anywhere on the premises. All guests shall abide by the good neighbor policy and shall not engage in illegal activity. Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.