The perfect getaway is nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan’s picturesque Leelanau Peninsula. Empire is a hidden gem that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and world-class wine tasting. For those who love to explore the great outdoors while indulging in exceptional food and wine, a stay at The Cottonwood Inn Bed and Breakfast serves as the ideal base for a memorable getaway.
A Cozy Home Base: The Cottonwood Inn
The Cottonwood Inn Bed and Breakfast, located in the charming village of Empire, welcomes visitors with its warm hospitality and comfortable accommodations. This quaint inn provides the perfect starting point for your Northern Michigan adventure, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.
Winery Tour: Sip and Savor
The Leelanau Peninsula is renowned for its award-winning wineries, and staying in Empire puts you within easy reach of some of the best. Here are three must-visit wineries to include in your itinerary.
Boathouse Vineyards: A nice scenic drive from Empire, Boathouse Vineyards offers stunning views of Lake Leelanau along with their excellent selection of wines. Don’t miss their crisp Pinot Grigio or the bold Merlot while enjoying the lakeside ambiance. They are also known for regular music on the water.
Bel Lago Vineyards & Winery: Known for their wide variety of cold-hardy grapes, Bel Lago produces unique wines that truly capture the essence of the region. Their tasting room, perched on a hill overlooking South Lake Leelanau, provides a picturesque setting for sampling their acclaimed Auxerrois and Pinot Noir.
Blustone Vineyards: With its modern tasting room and sweeping views of the countryside, Blustone Vineyards offers a sophisticated wine-tasting experience. Their Riesling and Pinot Noir are standouts, perfectly showcasing the terroir of the Leelanau Peninsula.
Empire Bluff Trail and other things to explore
After indulging in the local wines, stretch your legs and take in the breathtaking scenery of the area with a hike on the Empire Bluff Trail. This moderate 1.5-mile round-trip trail in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore rewards hikers with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding dunes. The panoramic vistas from the bluff are particularly spectacular at sunset, offering a perfect end to your day of exploration.
Beyond Wine: Other Local Attractions
To round out your Northern Michigan experience, consider adding these stops to your itinerary:
Empire Beach: Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan or simply relax on the sandy shores of this beautiful beach, just a stone’s throw from the Cottonwood Inn.
Art’s Tavern: After a day of wine tasting, head to this local institution in nearby Glen Arbor for a casual dinner. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious burgers, Art’s Tavern offers a true taste of Northern Michigan hospitality.
Cherry Republic: No visit to the region is complete without sampling some of the local cherry products. Stop by the Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor to taste a variety of cherry-based goodies, from jams and chocolates to wines and sodas.
A feast for the Senses
Northern Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula is a haven for food and wine enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of culinary delights and natural beauty. From the moment you wake up to a delicious breakfast at The Cottonwood Inn to your final sip of local wine as the sun sets over Lake Michigan, your senses will be treated to an unforgettable experience.
The region’s commitment to locally-sourced ingredients and artisanal production methods shines through in every glass of wine and every meal. As you explore the wineries, hike the scenic trails, and immerse yourself in the local culture, you’ll discover why Northern Michigan has become a favorite destination for discerning travelers.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, a getaway to Empire and its surrounding wine country promises to be a journey of discovery, relaxation, and indulgence. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to fall in love with this enchanting corner of Northern Michigan.