Oh-So-Romantic Getaways!

By Lani West

A healthy relationship doesn’t just happen. To thrive and grow, sometimes true love demands nothing less than pure passion and frivolous fun. Throw in expert pampering and the right locale to set the mood… and it can be sublime.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Why not take an out-of-the-ordinary departure from the everyday grind? Pack up the overnighter (complete with a favorite book of poetry). Drive to one of Michigan’s great getaways. Then, warm up a winter night by rekindling the flame between you and the object of your heart’s desire.

Back to Nature at Thunder Bay Resort

Make romantic new memories during a Thunder Bay Resort’s Elk Viewing Carriage Ride (sleighs, provided there’s snow). Imagine the wind in the trees. And there in the clearing, a majestic Rocky Mountain Elk stops to stare back.

The quiet is profound… until the driver high-tails it to the charming Elk Antler Cabin, where the sound of big bands plays on the antique Wurlitzer and the smell of a five-course gourmet dinner wafts past your nose. Don’t miss the Italian pizzelles, stuffed with white chocolate mousse and drizzled with raspberry sauce. Leave the warmth of the cabin’s massive stone fireplace and old-fashioned cook stoves, and it’s back to the carriages.

Cozy under woolen blankets, the clink-clink of the harnesses and the gentle drumming of the hooves on frozen ground creates a sense of peacefulness on the return trip to your choice of a deluxe suite, whirlpool suite, villa, or chalet.

Located in Hillman, Michigan, between Gaylord and Alpena, Thunder Bay Resort offers romantic weekend packages including breakfast and activities such as ice-skating, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. There’s even ice fishing on nearby Fletcher Pond. A nature lover’s paradise!

Little Europe in the Heart of Michigan

The Bavarian Inn Lodge creates such an aura of “Little Bavaria,” it could have been nestled on the banks of the Rhine River in Germany. But luckily for us, this enchanted place reminiscent of a fairy tale castle, is situated on the Cass River in Frankenmuth.

Nearby, shopping abounds. Lovers stroll hand-in-hand along the narrow streets, stopping only to buy wine, bread, cheese, and other delicacies.

Meantime, back at the lodge, the third generation of the Zehnder family offers unparalleled Old World hospitality. Bavarian Inn Lodge boasts authentic German décor, five indoor pools, three whirlpools, an 18-hole indoor miniature golf course, two lounges and two renowned restaurants. Ask about the Sweetheart Package or Romantic Package—both feature a red rose and chocolates.

Somewhere in Timeless Petoskey

If your romantic tastes are eclectic, discover Boyne Country—where the modern meets historic in Boyne City, Harbor Springs, and Petoskey. For snow bunnies and winter enthusiasts, the skiing and snowboarding areas are among the best in the Midwest. Shush up to Boyne Highlands, Boyne Mountain and Nub’s Nob in this not-so-sleepy area by the bay in northwest Michigan.

When it’s time to chill out, check into one of the historic hotels or inns, particularly in Petoskey. Ask about romantic getaway packages at the Terrace Inn, a Victorian treasure located in historic Bay View, a National Historic Landmark community. Or, experience Victorian charm in abundance at Stafford’s Perry Hotel—built in 1899 and the only hotel smack in the middle of Petoskey’s Gaslight District, where shoppers find everything from high-fashion to country crafts and all-important snow gear.

South of Michigan’s Border

Where can you find a Sweetheart Hike on February 14? Simply travel a little south of Michigan’s border, to the Hocking Hills in Logan, Ohio (50 miles south of Columbus). It’s a chance to get intimate with nature and your partner. Put the hubbub behind you, departing Ash Cave for the pristine and breathtaking beauty of soaring rock formations and sparkling waterfalls. A camera is a must.

While in Logan, also be sure to find out why they call The Inn at Cedar Falls the “love inn.” Surrounded on three sides by state parks, the inn’s 75 acres provide the perfect nature retreat. Though not exactly tropical, it’s a bird-watcher’s paradise. Rooms are furnished with period antiques, but no television or telephones. Other accommodations include six renovated, fully equipped 19th century log cabins with gas-log stoves, and some with two-person whirlpools. Its 12 new “cozy cottages” also feature queen and king-size beds, gas-log stoves, refrigerators, and whirlpools.

Check in on Valentine’s Day, and receive chocolates, champagne, collectible glasses, and a delectable dinner whipped up by Chef Moe. Without giving it away… this culinary delight begins with a crab and artichoke dip appetizer and gets more scrumptious with every bite.

Puttin’ on the Ritz… in Dearborn!

Nothing is more romantic than complete indulgence… and no place does it better than the Ritz-Carlton in Dearborn. Many flock to the Ritz for its exquisite Sunday brunch. Ah, but stay a couple of nights and know how it feels to get the “royal treatment.”
Enjoy elegant accommodations and service that must surely be rated “five-star”—especially when it comes to The Valentine’s Weekend Indulgence Package, available through February 29, 2005.

Relax and rejuvenate the first night with two 30-minute massages… in your suite’s parlor, of course. Further unwind with a butler-drawn tranquility bath following your massage therapy. Day two is a treat for all your senses… the romantic floral turndown service, specially selected champagne, chocolate-dipped strawberries, a special breakfast for two, and more sweet little indulgences. Tempted?

No more excuses. Make time just for the two of you, and learn to savor your relationship again. A couple of glorious days away could be all it takes to bring back the spark that made you fall in love in the first place.