Posh Escapes Where to live large even if you live small nearby By Ross Boissoneau In Michigan, everybody heads north to vacation. It’s what in large part built the reputations of places like Traverse City, Charlevoix and Harbor Springs. But what if you live here? Fear not. Sure, you can still go to the UP or beyond, but this region has plenty of great getaways that are not only for those from Grand Rapids, Detroit or Chicago, but for everyone. And nobody ever said you couldn’t go south, or east or west (just watch out for that big water). So here are four glorious getaways to allow you to live like the one percent -- if only for one weekend.
HARBOR SPRINGS Up North luxe. An oxymoron? Not at The Lumberjack Lodge, a sprawling 7,500 squarefoot log home within the Chestnut Valley Golf Club. Inside? How about eight bedrooms for you and your entourage, a 10-foot movie theater screen and bar on the lower level (you know, adjacent to the game arcade), Jacuzzi on the porch, and true chef ’s kitchen? And outside, you’re seconds away from golf, and less than 10 minutes from skiing at either Nubs Nob or Boyne Highlands, as well as cross-country and snowmobile trails outside your door. This cozy place is legit. https://tinyurl.com/2rzanykn
14 • october 18, 2021 • Northern Express Weekly
GRAYLING Oh, did someone say north woods lodge? They don’t come much north woods-ier or lodge-ier than this six bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home outside Grayling. It sleeps 18 people, though with everything there is to do here and nearby, sleep will likely be the last thing on your mind. The post-and-beam construction features soaring knotty pine ceilings and a grand fireplace in the middle of the great room. The furnishings are right in line with the theme as well; pelts and trophies deepen the feel. Heck, the pool table built in part from tree limbs and roots echoes the theme. There are even four elk antler chandeliers illuminating the room. If you are into fishing, there’s no better place than this: the lodge is just feet away from the Au Sable River. Even if you aren’t, you can drink in the views of the river from nearly every window in the home. If you open the windows, you’ll hear the relaxing sound of the water bubbling its way downstream. There’s even a big bin of toys for the little ones. A game room and dining building are also available. And with Grayling just minutes away, you can indulge in shopping, dining or whatever else you may need … though you may not want to leave. Ever. VRBO. com/1287329
