If there is but one trip that you make in your lifetime that is totally self-indulgent - be it a honeymoon, romantic getaway, special anniversary or perhaps simply a vacation, make it northern Michigan's Mackinac Island and stay at the Grand Hotel overlooking the Straits of Mackinac.
The road from downtown, Cadott Ave., is a busy one. During the summer months, it is filled with bicycles, horse drawn taxis, sightseeing groups and horseback riders, as well as walkers. On the right side, pass the beautiful old stone church and then the resort's golf course. To the left, get a glimpse of the Great Lakes' Mackinac Bridge rising high above sailboats and freighters.
The Grand Hotel is one of a mere dozen historic hotels that remain in the United States today. Those staying here will be treated as if they are the personal guests of the owners, Mr. and Mrs. Musser. It is the accommodations though, that make every visitor feel as if they are staying in one of the Musser's spare rooms, albeit they have 385. And just like many fine, older homes, no two (bed) rooms are alike.
With the assistance of Carlton Varney, their New York City designer, his staff and associates, guest rooms are routinely renovated. There's something warm, inviting and nostalgic about a bright white chenille bedspread surrounded by pink and lime green wallpaper, next to a pair of pink and white striped chairs. The colors are full and rich and for a moment or two it's possible to be transported back in time.
While all the guest rooms are now air conditioned to accommodate Michigan's warm summer days and nights, it's still nice to open the windows and enjoy the fresh air, or to listen to the clip-clop of horses carrying visitors to points unknown. In the distance rhythmic waves wash against the island's shoreline.
In today's casual society, the Mussers have successfully found the line between respect and courtesy, and stuffiness. Many people dedicate countless hours to making each and every guest comfortable. Yes, there are formalities, but nothing that creates an air of pretentiousness. It's a genuine sense of "Is everything OK?" or "Do you need anything else?"
Lining the front porch of the Grand Hotel, behind its massive white columns with free-flying American flags, is an ample supply of white rocking chairs. Find folks resting for just a spell, people chatting and children playing board games. For those lingering a bit longer, wait staff are readily available to take an order for a cool drink.
The beauty of the outdoors has been brought inside the hotel's lobby and public areas. Discover deep rich greens, pale pinks, baby blues, a smattering of bright yellow and vivid reds that match the geraniums on the front porch.
In keeping with tradition, after 6:00 p.m. the attire for dinner in the formal dining room and throughout the hotel is jacket and tie for the gentlemen and dresses for the ladies. How wonderful - an excuse to dress up and use our best manners. After an evening like this, one wonders why we don't do this more often...
Grand Hotel
1 Grand Ave
P.O. Box 286
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
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