While filming a recent episode of Discover Wisconsin, our crew became quite acquainted with some absolutely amazing places to stay in towns like Bayfield, Cable and Hayward. And so, I made a list of those very places—just for you!
- Bayfield County Rustic Yurts (Bayfield & Cable)
For the adventurous minimalist: Bayfield County is home to two off-the-grid yurts—one in Cable and one in Bayfield. The Bayfield yurt (“Evergreen”) offers panoramic views of Lake Superior and the Onion River valley while the Cable yurt (“Terra Cotta”) overlooks Lake Superior, including Pike’s Bay and four of the Apostle Islands. I cannot lie: I am totally obsessed with these yurts! - Boulder Lodge (Hayward)
Built in 1905, this turn-of-the-century lodge is the epitome of “Wisconsin Northwoods.” Boulder Lodge is nestled along Ghost Lake (extra points for a great lake name) in the middle of the Chequamegon National Forest. Also a camping destination with seasonal sites for Park Model Homes, RVs, and traditional camping, Boulder Lodge is perfect for campers and glampers alike! - Brickyard Creek (Bayfield)
Close your eyes. The sun is rising. Your coffee is in hand. And you hear the sound of Lake Superior’s waves crashing along the shoreline just outside your bedroom window. Sound like the ideal morning to you? I think you deserve a getaway to the cottages at Brickyard Creek in Bayfield. Kayakers and hikers take delight in what these unique lakefront cottages have to offer! - Deerfoot Lodge & Resort (Hayward)
If your northwoods to-do list consists of fishing, sunset-gazing and s’more makin’, then perhaps you should make your way to Deerfoot Lodge & Resort in Hayward. This hot spot of a destination comes with a reputation: It’s located along the Lake Chippewa Flowage, which is Wisconsin’s largest wilderness lake and home to a World Record Musky. Anglers, start packin’ those bags! - McCormick House (Hayward)
The McCormick House in Hayward is a sight to behold: This elegant Victorian mansion, which was built in 1887, offers its guests an “intimate fairy-tale retreat with a contemporary twist.” And for me, one of the best parts about staying at bed & breakfasts is meeting the owner(s)—and Michele was a delight to chat with! - Mystic Moose Resort (Hayward)
Okay, but for real, how could we not love a place called Mystic Moose? On Moose Lake? Answer: We can’t—this place is a gem! Here, you’ll never be bored: Grab one of their 14-foot aluminum rowboats or canoes for a sunset paddle. Or float your way down the West Fork of the Chippewa River. After that, go see if you can spot an elk in the Chequamegon National Forest! (And if successful, send a pic? Thx.) - Rittenhouse Inn (Bayfield)
Ah, the Rittenhouse Inn—I heart you! Wisconsin’s first Country Inn and gourmet restaurant, the Rittenhouse Inn in Bayfield is home to 20 guest rooms in two different Victorian homes plus a private cottage with fireplaces, whirlpool tubs and best of all: outstanding Lake Superior views. This place is so romantic and enchanting and totally dreamy—*sigh!* - Drumming Woods (Cable)
The folks who run Drumming Woods B&B in Cable describe their spot as “casual elegance” and I have to agree. Choose between one of five cozy guest rooms. Enjoy a family-style breakfast with fresh-brewed coffee or tea. And relish in the fact that your room is located right on the Birkie Trail and CAMBA Sleigh Trail. - Fred Thomas Resort (Birchwood)
Fun fact: This Birchwood resort was founded in 1925 by former Boston Red Sox third baseman, Fred Thomas. Today, the property boasts 21 lake homes and condo units on Big Chetac Lake—with beautiful lake views and exceptional fishing! - Siskiwit Bay Lodge (Cornucopia)
Before you go, I have one more recommendation for you: Siskiwit Bay Lodge is situated on Spirit Point in Wisconsin’s northernmost town (ahem, Cornucopia!). This bed & breakfast knows a thing or two about luxury. After you’re done ogling over the majesty of this northwoods mansion—err, bed and breakfast—go take in that Lake Superior sunset just outside your door.
Got a go-to spot in Wisconsin’s northwoods? Leave your suggestion below!
Mariah Haberman is a host and the director of Discover Wisconsin, the state’s leading media brand. Watch the show Saturdays at 10 a.m. on FSN Wisconsin’s outdoor block or online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Mariah on Facebook (facebook.com/mar1ahha3erman) and Instagram (@MariahHaberman)
