A striking and elegant Schonbek chandelier, featuring more than 34,000 gem-cut crystals and nearly 200 lights, makes for a grand entrance inside the newly remodeled Inn at Bay Harbor.
The chandelier is one of the original features of the stately inn nestled on Little Traverse Bay that cultivates a true “Up North” resort experience. But something as sparkling awaits on the shores of the bay: Petoskey stones. Sunsets. S’mores by the fire. And carefree vacation days.
The Inn, opened in 1998, has wrapped up a multiyear renovation and now is inviting families, couples, golfers and business travelers to relax and enjoy an escape there. Staffers say the Inn focuses on authentic hospitality and approachable luxury with special touches and add-ons such as Kilwin’s chocolate-covered cherries, cookies and milk, turn-down service and afternoon tea.
“We have a very comfortable environment that people tell us they just really enjoy,” said Michael Costello, president and general manager. “We facilitate the collection of fond memories like Petoskey stones.”
Designed to reflect a refined turn-of-the-century hotel, the Inn features 116 guest rooms with different floor plans, amenities and views, plus 35 cottages as part of the resort. There are traditional rooms that connect and one-, two- and three-bedroom suites with full kitchens, dining and living areas, and patio balconies offering lake, quarry and resort views.
Local culture and sense of place, including natural elements such as water, sand, the natural sky and the calming sound of waves, served as inspiration for the renovation.
“We knew we wanted it to be a northern Michigan lakeside retreat, a home away from home offering elegant comfort,” said Carolyn Farrugia, director of design for Boyne Design Group. “Bringing in those warm calming hues provides a sense of lakeside living. We wanted these classical elements but with a modern spin.”
Some of the suites are bright and airy with a beachy vibe, while others showcase natural hues and décor inspired by the region’s coveted Petoskey stone and cherry trees. The color palette is captured in furnishings and accent pieces set off against calming neutrals found in travertine stone fireplaces, quartz countertops and bedding.
Inn at Bay Harbor is owned by Boyne Resorts and one of only two Marriott Autograph Collection Hotels in Michigan. The Inn joined the luxury lifestyle hotel brand in 2016, around the time the makeover began on its lobby, two lakeside restaurants,
full-service spa and salon, and café.
Although Inn at Bay Harbor offers upscale amenities, it also curates classic
vacation activities. ≈
— Marla R. Miller, Michigan BLUE Magazine.
*Photography courtesy Inn at Bay Harbor
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