Beautiful place to stay. Everything was clean and comfy. I loved the bed sheets and pillows. Kitchen had what we needed and it was great to have the washer and dryer. No major laundry issues when we got home.We went early in the season and it was truly peaceful and quiet at the lake. I read a book by the lake while young one played in the water. They have a flouting dock that grownups can walk to and the kids can swim to. We didn't get to test out the kayaks, maybe next time.Alden the small town, was quaint. Everyone was friendly. Be sure to check out Alden Mill House if you own a kitchen. They have fresh spices and locally made spice blends.I prefer Thayer lake because it's warmer. You can save Torch Lake for renting jet skies.Birch Cottage has a TV in every room, but I never turned one on. Sitting and watching the view of the lake was all I needed.