September on Mackinac Island

From a ferry ride to a horse drawn carriage arriving at the historic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island was truly wonderful! Full of charm and graciousness of a bygone era. Mr C and I were absorbed in the life of grander through its architecture, history, gardens, and delicious fine dining. 

Built in 1887 this architectural master piece’s history was never easy. It’s has a long and colorful life in care and preservation. The dedication of care for the last 85 years has been generations of the Musser family. Their stewardship has been a gift to many. 

The views and breeze of Lake Michigan from the world’s longest front porch were spectacular. And knowing summer was winding down the September season of florals in the gardens was a joy to see.   

The Carriage Tour and Horse Barns could not be missed. After all no motorized vehicles are allowed on the island.

The Woods was one of our favorite nights. We took a carriage ride into a wooded area of Mackinac Island to this opulent Tudor mansion with a bit of Bavarian style. Mr C didn’t miss out on their famous Austrian Steak Soup to start the evening dining. I myself found my salmon to be quite pretty & delicious. I just didn’t want the evening to end. 

Now let’s talk about the interiors of the Grand Hotel. A first impression is sheer happiness; the contrast of bright colors is so joyful. From Dorothy Draper & Co., Mr. Carleton Varney in 1976 began a 40 year relationship of Amelia & Dan Musser to renovate, create and update not only the guest rooms but all of the historical public spaces of the Grand Hotel.

And he did so with an explosion of color inspired from the very gardens on the surrounding grounds. 

The Grand Hotel signature flower is the geranium, specifically in red. It’s fantastic to see all the creative different applications from one particular floral. Green has always been my most favorite color, and this gorgeous green fabric has brought back to life this ole Victorian sofa in style. 

Of the 397 rooms 43 are styled according to their “namesake”. This classic combination of pink and green was our place, the Lilly Pulitzer room! I hope someday that you too will come and enjoy this magnificent place of American history. It’s a magical place to enjoy fine dining, beautiful gardens, tennis, swimming, golf, trail rides, bike riding, music, and its all surrounded by a beautiful park of nature. 

And I just adored this sweet framed note of discovery for Mr Dan Musser from Carleton Varney. Another note of goodness was the friendly and amazing staff. They take great care and pride in their own stewardship for the Grand Hotel. They wanted to make sure all was delightful for your stay on Mackinac Island. And there are many other fine accommodations. The island is also an excellent destination for a fun day trip. Like so many others during this pandemic this was a driving trip, a little cure for a case of wanderlust. 

*** all COVID-19 precautions were upheld and appreciated on Mackinac Island***