Set apart from the rhythms of the everyday, the lake house is a place that holds stories, rituals, the quiet beauty of nature. Whether built anew or passed down through generations, the lake house can be a simple retreat to look forward to every year or more: a rite of passage for families, a seasonal anchor in an ever-shifting world. Mornings stretch long. Screen doors swing open to the scent of pine and water. Afternoons are spent gliding across glassy coves, teaching the next generation to steer the boat or cast a line. Dusty-footed kids become grownups who return, years later, with families—and memories to make—of their own.
For many, lake house are legacies, passed down from generation to generation. They are places to disconnect from our busy lives, and invitations to slow down and reconnect with the people who matter to us most. As today’s luxury buyers seek meaningful investments, the enduring appeal of a lake house—timeless, grounding, inherently generational—feels more relevant than ever.
Below, three remarkable properties from the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program bring that promise to life in distinct expressions of summer living.
The Hamptons of Lake Minnetonka
20100 Lakeview Avenue | Deephaven, MN | $12,500,000
A coastal dream reimagined for the Midwest, this landmark Cottagewood estate offers nearly 10,000 square feet of living space and 175 feet of pristine lakeshore, private beach access, and finishes that rival those of a Hamptons classic. Designed with timeless appeal and modern comfort, the home is a masterclass in architectural flow—think lake-facing sunrooms, formal dining, a prep kitchen for entertaining, and a spa-worthy primary suite with wall-to-wall water views. Outdoor amenities abound, from a cabana bar to a resort-style pool and firepit. Located in the heart of Deephaven’s sought-after Cottagewood neighborhood, this is lake life at its most elevated.
Listed by Jeffrey Dewing of Coldwell Banker Realty in Wayzata, MN
A Private Peninsula on the Whitefish Chain of Lakes
36463 Butternut Point Road | Pequot Lakes, MN | $9,995,000
Set on 3.41 wooded acres with over 2,000 feet of shoreline, this extraordinary Brainerd Lakes compound has “legacy retreat” written all over it. At its center: a custom-crafted lodge by Nor-Son, framed by soaring timbered ceilings, grand stone fireplaces and immersive lake views. Six guest cabins and two additional garage suites accommodate family gatherings of any scale, bringing the total square footage to over 22,000. With a private boat launch, protected inlet, volleyball-ready beach, and lakeside firepit, the estate balances luxury with laid-back summer fun. From fireside moments to lakeside fun, this prized property is crafted for multiple generations to enjoy.
Listed by Jennifer Ulrich of Coldwell Banker Realty in Wayzata, MN
A View of Lake Tahoe, From Every Angle
563 Knotty Pine Drive | Incline Village, NV | $8,950,000
For those who seek a sun-filled lakefront beauty and views in every direction, this three-story Lake Tahoe luxury cabin set on a gently downsloping lot delivers. With 6,800+ square feet of indoor-outdoor living, it’s a sanctuary of light and luxury. Walls of glass capture “commanding panorama panoramic views of Lake Tahoe from every level,” sweeping from Sand Harbor to Alpine Meadows, according to the listing agents. An open-concept great room, kitchen, dining, lounge, and two lakeview offices impress. Meanwhile, amenities like a wine cellar, indoor spa, steam room, yoga space, and a fully equipped wellness retreat elevate every day. Four lakeview bedrooms—including primary and junior suites—make hosting effortless. A three-car garage and a snow melted walkway and driveway make it an exceptional all-season home. A rare find in Incline Village, this home redefines what it means to escape.
Listed by Heather Bacon of Coldwell Banker Select Real Estate
