Couples seeking a romantic retreat have much to choose from in the Traverse City area. Quaint vineyards sit atop hillsides that overlook the Leelanau Peninsula's soft, sandy beaches. The city is peppered with award-winning restaurants to suit every taste, and boats are available to charter for those who would prefer a private picnic on a secluded beach.
Set Sail
- Set sail on a charter cruise and watch the sun set over Lake Michigan while sharing a bottle of locally crafted riesling or pinot noir. Marinas like Sunset Watersports on the West Arm of Grand Traverse Bay offer boat rentals. Many other companies will captain your voyage. Traverse City Sail Charters offers sunset cruises and overnight trips for those looking to escape and really reconnect. The Traverse Tall Ship Co. offers several day-long sailing options, including a trip to the uninhabited Power Island, where couples can relax in the sun, take a swim or go hiking.
Spa Treatment
- Spa Amira, at the Homestead Resort, is a relaxing place to unwind and enjoy each other's company. Schedule a couple's massage and learn how to help your partner unwind or sit in steam canopies and enjoy sweeping views of Lake Michigan as stress melts away. The Homestead and its spa are surrounded by the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, allowing couples endless opportunities to reconnect with nature and each other. A walk along the beach at sunset makes a romantic conclusion to a day full of golfing, swimming or hiking.
- Visit a Bed-and-Breakfast
- Chateau Chantal overlooks Grand Traverse Bay from a ridge on the Old Mission Peninsula, just north of Traverse City. This 65-acre vineyard and winery is also one of the area's many bed-and-breakfasts. This Old World inn takes you on a romantic journey to another time. Tours and wine-tastings are held daily. Free jazz concerts every Thursday night during the summer let visitors enjoy music and drinks while watching the moonlight sparkle on Lake Michigan.
Get Back to Nature
- The Lake 'n' Pines Lodge is nestled among the trees on the shores of Lake Dubonnet in the Pere Marquette State Forest, just outside of Traverse City. The Lodge offers couples a secluded place to relax and unwind, along with several romantic weekend packages. The offerings change frequently, but all include a bottle of wine and chocolate-covered strawberries for the room; other options include massages at a nearby salon, dinner gift certificates to several restaurants or a movie.
