Waterways

If spring finds you ready to soak up the sun, get your hands dirty and make a difference, consider volunteering for a non-profit outlet

“There’s something magical about stepping onto an island — you feel a special energy the minute you arrive,” says Linda Fletcher, who rents her renovated, historic cottage on one of Michigan’s least-known islands: Namaste. Heavily wooded and situated in Bass Lake between Traverse City and Interlochen Center for the Arts, this private 7.5-acre retreat has provided a peaceful oasis to many noteworthy guests such as pianist Van Cliburn over the years.

Chimney Corners Resort on Crystal Lake in Frankfort has been welcoming guests since 1935, when Olin and Leola Rogers turned their vacation home into a lodge during the Great Depression. Leola knew attention to details would make a good impression on guests. So she made sure there were rose petals in the finger bowls next to each plate for the wonderful home-cooked meals they served there.

Looking to brighten and personalize your cottage retreat? There’s no shortage of creative outlets brimming with regional artistry inspired by Michigan’s diverse Great Lake terrain.

Whether building new or renewing a generations-old escape, take these steps to make it more eco-friendly.

From backyard gardens to lakeside lots, cute little cottages are popping up all over the place these days. They’re portable, pre-built, and move-in ready when they arrive at your location, with sticker prices that will surprise you (in a good way). 

If you want to meet family and friends up at the cottage — but don’t have one of your own — there are some different ways to go.

While luxury “wellness spas” world-wide serve new-era options like Yoga Nidra classes to promote sleep and Total Focus consultation, Michigan spas are offering their own buffet of better health experiences.

There are countless ways to fly on adventure’s wings come winter. This season, try one or two that are new.

Snowy weeks of celebration summon tradition and inspire new takes on everyday spaces.