Proprietors:             Rolf and Kathy Schliess

Accommodations:    7 waterfront cottages

Extras:                     Full kitchens/baths. Some cottages with gas log fireplace, ceiling fans, hot tub. Additional amenities include: queen beds, screened porches, picnic tables, BBQ, rowboats (motor rental available), playground, fish hut, sandy swimming beach.

Rates/Payment:      $800-$900 weekly, in-season (call for off-season specials). Check, money order (sorry, no credit cards).

Miscellaneous:        No pets. Bring linens and toiletries

 

Whether the winter winds are blowing or the summer sun is shinning, Harold’s Resort on Spider Lake is a relaxing escape for the Michigan traveler. Tucked away on a sandy, private peninsula, you’ll feel the pressures of the workweek fade away as you gaze out on a serenely beautiful view of Spider Lake.

 

We had the pleasure of visiting Harold’s one lovely spring afternoon. We were immediately struck by the resort’s gently slopping, wooded grounds that opened to the reflecting waters of Spider Lake.  This incredible view alone would be enough to bring the most traveled vacationer back time and time again.

 

After pulling ourselves from the view, we took a quick tour of the grounds. This cozy peninsula resort offers seven cottages winding along wooded grounds (most units have lake views). There are stairs, which take you directly to the beach.  If you prefer, you can take the steeply angled sandy path that brings you directly to the tip of the beach’s peninsula. Surrounded by tall trees in this relatively quiet section of Spider Lake, one gets the feeling of being alone.

 

Lodgings at Harold’s are not new, but guests will find exteriors and interiors well maintained with several unit interiors featuring major renovations. Sizes vary from one-room studios to two bedroom units and all but one have screened porches. Cozy, gas-log fireplaces warm three units. There are even a couple of cottages with private hot tubs … great for a good hot soak on a cool summer night or as the snow swirls on a blustery winter’s day.

 

Unfortunately, at the time of our arrival, most of the cottages were occupied. We were, however, able to visit the interior of one of their larger units facing the water. This cottage, while not unusually spacious, was comfortably sized and very clean with two bedrooms, kitchen, dining/living area and traditional furniture. It sported new carpeting with a ceiling fan and a fully stocked kitchen.

 

Harold’s Resort is just a short distance from Traverse City, the Leelanau Peninsula, Interlochen and some great skiing and snowmobile trails. In fact, if you ask, Kathy or Rolf can recommend some good snowmobile rental places. Unique shopping, wineries, live entertainment and special festivals throughout the seasons will make your stay even more enjoyable.

 

So, while the corporate paradigm is ticking in the city, at Harold’s Resort your only concern will be where to begin your next adventure. Book early!

 

 

www.MiVG.com

 

To learn more about our book or to purchase your own copy, visit:

 

http://www.michiganvacationguide.com/