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Dreamcatcher Sailing & Pinehurst Inn – Apostle Islands Sailing Package

April 27th, 2013 by Nancy Sandstrom

Bayfield and the Apostle Islands provide opportunity for so many wonderful on-the-water activities. Pinehurst Inn guests are drawn to the area for these adventures. Pinehurst Inn and Dreamcatcher Sailing have once again partnered to provide a wonderful lodging and sailing package. As you will see on the Deamcatcher website, “The secrets of the Apostle Islands expose themselves to those who slowly, quietly explore.”

The Pinehurst Apostle Islands Sailing Package provides a mix of two nights lodging along with the Afternoon Sail with Dreamcatcher Sailing. This 2+ hour trip leaves from Bayfield, one of the most popular sailing ports in the Great Lakes. The amazing number of sailboats reinforces that the presence of the islands sets the stage for this great experience.

Dreamcatcher’s captains are the best! Seasoned sailors, they provide a safe and informational experience. Take the wheel, help with the lines or simply relax – your choice! Let them provide the setting and you determine how involved you want to be.

Two hours not enough? Consider some of their other trips: Island Landing Excursion (goes from 9:30-2:00) or the Sea Caves by Sail out of Cornucopia. Pinehurst Inn is happy to arrange special discounted package pricing on any of these Dreamcatcher opportunities.

Plan ahead. Be sure you can get the Pinehurst guest room you prefer along with the Dreamcatcher Sailing Adventure you want. We can help you make it happen. Be sure to book online or call 877-499-7651 with any questions.

Tags: adventure, Apostle Islands, Bayfield, Dreamcatcher Sailing
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Transition Time at Pinehurst Inn – Is it Winter or is it Spring?

March 18th, 2013 by Nancy Sandstrom

Seasonal transitions are difficult. As I look out my window here at Pinehurst Inn, Bayfield is getting snow. Again. It’s been a great winter for those of us who love to XC Ski, Snowshoe or simply play in the snow. We’ve seen lots of Pinehurst guests donning their winter gear to head up to Mt Ashwabay Ski and Recreation Area – coming back with huge smiles. Other guests have taken it up a step to try dog sledding with Wolfsong Adventures in Dog Sledding, having the opportunity to create a brand new adventure running their own team of dogs. More smiles. And often, these folks come back to Pinehurst Inn prepared to enjoy the sauna.

The opportunities for these adventures will continue through March. This is great news, as we are continuing to offer some wonderful midweek special rates. And we continue to shovel, plow and make sure we are prepared to help our guests make the most of their Bayfield visit in winter, as long as it lasts. But trust us….it will change soon!

When the sun shines, we are feeling warmth. The snow and ice will soon be gone, making way for the gardens, spring cleaning and a different sort of outdoor activities. So it is transition time. Over the next few days, we will be posting our Spring-Summer Specials & Packages on the Pinehurst Inn website. Sailing, kayaking, and other on-the-water activities. On the land, there is golf, hiking, museums, great shopping and eating….well, you get the idea. We can keep you busy.

Our blog posts will certainly be there for you to get the most current information. But don’t forget our Pinehurst Facebook Page – we are actively encouraging our Facebook-friendly guests to “like” our page where we share snippets and announcements. And you have the opportunity to share your thoughts and comments as well. Let’s have some conversations!

We look forward to chatting about making your visit to Bayfield, the Apostle Islands and Pinehurst Inn the best it can be.

Oh, and thank you!

Tags: adventure, Apostle Islands, Bayfield, Hiking, Specials, spring, Winter
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Pinehurst Inn Top 5 Winter Adventures In and Around Bayfield

March 5th, 2013 by Nancy Sandstrom

The Winter Season in the Bayfield, WI area can be magical. It also can be long. We will typically have in excess of 150 inches of snow in the higher elevations – often around 120 inches here at Pinehurst Inn. The active snow season at our Bayfield B&B can start in December and go through the end of March. Survival of this fairly long season is so much easier if we embrace the outdoor opportunities!

Here are the Pinehurst Inn Top 5 Winter Outdoor Activities:

1. Simply snowshoe the trails behind Pinehurst Inn. Trails can take you up and around numerous ravines and valleys created eons ago. Pikes Creek meanders and weaves it’s way through this rugged landscape. A number of sitting spots are great for simple contemplation or rest.

Photo credit: Hired Lens Photography

2. XC Ski the groomed trails at Mt. Ashwabay Recreation and Ski Area – just a few miles up the hill from Bayfield’s Pinehurst Inn. There are over 40 KM of trails, some groomed for classis and some groomed for skate. This is incredibly beautiful terrain, somewhat challenging on some trails, but worth every minute.

3. Hike or Snowshoe the trail above the Mainland Sea Caves. In the winter the caves have periodically been accessible by ice. This is often NOT safe, so be prepared to take the trail on the land adjacent to the shoreline – you will be trekking some rugged terrain for approximately 2 miles out to get just above the most well know cave structures. Incredible sounds of ice shifting or water swirling within the cave areas can be eerie. We always recommend caution in this trek – be sure to read the information contained in the above link. This is part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

4. For a bit more relaxed time, hike or snowshoe the Brownstone Trail. This goes along the old railroad grade coming south out of Bayfield for a few miles. This out and back is a relatively simple trek, also good for a quick run. This trail is managed by the Bayfield Regional Conservancy. Please be respectful of the adjacent property owners by staying on the trail.

5. Snowshoe or XC ski at Big Bay State Park. One of our favorite outings, this trek requires the right conditions: a safe ice road. If the ice becomes safe between Bayfield and Madeline Island, an ice road is plowed that we are able to drive on. Here’s the opportunity to drive on Lake Superior to Madeline Island. Head out to Big Bay State Park – the trails await you! Always check on the conditions of ice road!

For any of these outings, we recommend checking on accessibility, conditions and appropriate preparations.

Let’s make winter a great adventure! Enjoy a pdf version of this Pinehurst Inn’s Top 5 Winter Outdoor Activities.

Tags: adventure, Apostle Islands, Ashwabay, Bayfield, Nature Tourism, relaxation, Winter, Wolfsong
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February Starts in Bayfield with Apostle Island Sled Dog Race

February 1st, 2013 by Nancy Sandstrom

Photo:Bayfield Chamber & Visitor Bureau

February has become the month of play in Bayfield. I am constantly amazed at the ability for the folks who live here to find ways to play and find adventure in the winter. We see a series of events happening through the month, starting with the Apostle Island Sled Dog Race organized by the Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau.

The 18th Annual Apostle Islands Sled Dog Race will be held on Saturday and Sunday, February 2nd and 3rd, 2013. Races begin at 10:00 am on both days, with half of the total race distance completed each day. There are two main races: an 8-dog, 80-mile race and a 6 dog, 60-mile race. There’s also a 40-mile Sportsmen’s Race, a 6 to 8-mile Family Race and a 6 to 8-mile Youth Race (16 and under). Multiple spectator locations are available with amenities including a warming tent, concessions and bonfires.

Many Pinehurst Inn guests enjoy this event as spectators, volunteers and even racers. Watching these dogs as they make their way into the chute is amazing. The cacophony of yelping and barking and eagerness to take off followed by silence with only the sound of the sled runners making their way along the trail. Such great winter adventure is simply part of our brand.

Of course, so same guests head back to their eco-elegant lodging accommodations at Pinehurst to enjoy the sauna or their whirlpool tub to warm up, sip some cocoa or wine and simply relax.

What else is coming up? Check it out!

Blue Moon Ball – Feb 9th – Kick up your heels at this winter prom for us “older folks”

Book Across the Bay – Feb 16 – XC ski from Ashland to Washburn on luminary lit trail on ice!

Bayfield Winter Festival – March 1-3 – Winter fun for all!

Tags: adventure, Apostle Island Sled Dog Race, Bayfield, Winter
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Enjoy Pinehurst Inn and Bayfield in Winter – Part II

December 6th, 2012 by Nancy Sandstrom

In Part II of our Top Ten Ways to Experience Pinehurst Inn and Bayfield in the Winter, the theme of rejuvenation and adventure continues. The earlier post provided our first 5 suggestions. Here we offer 5 more.

6. Ah, the Pinehurst Inn sauna. It is truly wonderful after a ski or snowshoe or dogsledding to come back to Pinehurst and relax in the sauna. Scoop that bucket of clean snow and dump on the stove for hot steam.

7. The Mainland Sea Caves are nothing short of amazing in the winter. This popular put in spot for kayaking in the summer months transforms into an icey wonderland. Always check with us or the Apostle Island National Lakeshore office to determine safety status.

8. Remember the rejuvenation part of our story? How about Enso Wellness Center and Day Spa. Enjoy a massage or facial right here on Pinehurst Inn property. Amazing services and truly relaxing.

9. How about Madeline Island? Traveling to the island can be the adventure in itself – ferry, “windsled” or drive the “ice road” – all depends on the weather. The town of LaPointe is pretty quiet (yup, the Beach Club is open!) – but head out to Big Bay State Park for more snow adventure. It’s beautiful!

10. Walk a beach! The shores of Lake Superior in the winter can be dramatic and magical. Bundle and take a stroll on one of the numerous public beaches in the area.

Have you visited during the winter? We’d love to hear your winter tales and adventures.

Tags: Apostle Islands, Bayfield, Enso Day Spa, relaxation, Winter
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Enjoy Pinehurst Inn and Bayfield in Winter – Part I

November 29th, 2012 by Nancy Sandstrom

Bayfield and the Apostle Islands are a favorite destination in the summer months. But have you considered Bayfield in winter?

As we approach December, the snow is coming down (LOVE the lake effect snow!) and we all shift to a different mind set: let’s enjoy winter! So we offer here Part I of the Top Ten Ways to Experience Pinehurst Inn & Bayfield in the Winter.

Embrace the snow. Let’s start with XC Skiing. Grooming already started at Mt. Ashwabay Recreation area offering over 40KM of beautiful, groomed trails (just up the hill from Pinehurst Inn, BTW).
Holiday shopping in Bayfield offers the same wonderful galleries and shops. A slower pace. Take the time to chat with the people, many of whom create the beautiful items you may be purchasing for your loved ones.
Reading. Yeah, I know you can read anywhere. But can you go into a local bookstore, find regional authors who know and love Lake Superior and its coastal communities? Take that book back to your great space at Pinehurst Inn and relax by the fire or in the sauna!
Performance. Uniquely local arts. Ranging from Wassail Dinners to Stagenorth – you will be amazed at the regional talent. Combine this with a good dinner and you’re set.
Embrace the snow. Yes, I know. We already mentioned the skiing, but now we move up to dog sledding. The opportunity for adventure awaits with Wolfsong Adventures in Mushing. Of course, the Pinehurst Inn / Wolfsong Package is strongly recommended.

There is more. But we don’t want t overload. Stay tuned for Part II.

Tags: Apostle Islands, Bayfield, Dog Sledding, Entertainment, Winter
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Winter Adventure Among Apostle Islands Mainland

November 25th, 2012 by Nancy Sandstrom

Bayfield, among the Apostle Island during the winter – an opportunity for winter adventure. Whether XC skiing, snowshoeing or dog sledding, the area is ready to welcome you and provide the setting for that snow-filling outing.

Dog Sledding is becoming a primary activity in the area as well. Wolfsong Adventure in Mushing is a partner business offering premier dog sledding since 1997. Their outings provide folks the opportunity to run their own team (training provided!) or simply ride along. Check out our terrific Dog Sledding Package with Wolfsong that includes two nights lodging with breakfasts, Wolfsong Morning Adventure for two, plus more. Nicely discounted when packaged.

Mt Ashwabay Ski Area offers downhill and over 40 KM of beautifully groomed XC Ski trails – just up the hill from Pinehurst Inn. This area is also wonderful for snowshoeing as are the trails immediately behind Pinehurst. Snowshoeing or skiing over on Madeline Island creates its own adventure – getting to the island may mean a ferry, a wind sled or driving your car on the on ice road —all dependant on the weather!

Just as we can provide the setting for your adventure, we can also follow it up with great relaxation (think Enso Day Spa!) and wonderful eating opportunities. Check out all the specials and packages for the winter months!

Tags: adventure, Bayfield, Dog Sledding, Winter
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Annual Blessing of the Fleet in Bayfield this Weekend

June 7th, 2012 by Nancy Sandstrom

A long standing traditional ceremony takes place in Bayfield this weekend. This event honors the long history of commercial fishing on Lake Superior. The Blessing of the Fleet is that opportunity for our community to recognize these fishermen and their vessels.

In the past 10 years, the event has grown to include all types of boats: sailboat, motor boats, kayaks, canoes, and more. These many vessels line up to individually pass through the harbor as local clergy provide a blessing, wishing them safe passage and a prosperous season. Organized by the US Coast Guard, there is an amazing variety of boats, some decorated and loaded with family for the occasion, some simply paddled by a single person.

Bayfield has become a boaters destination. The presence of the Apostle Islands provides a great destination for boaters, providing a break from the big lake, places to explore, find safe harbor.

What a wonderful way for our community to recognize the importance of this grand Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands in our lives as we also honor our long standing commercial fishing history.

The Blessing of the Fleet starts at 1pm on Sunday, June 10th. Come and enjoy the event at Memorial Park.

Thank you to Hannah Hudson, Stonehouse Photography for use of a great photo!

Tags: Apostle Islands, Bayfield
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Pinehurst Inn Guests Make New Adventures with Dreamcatcher Sailing

May 31st, 2012 by Nancy Sandstrom

Pinehurst Inn guest reservations for the summer are coming in strong with numerous Pinehurst Dreamcatcher Sailing Packages included. Bayfield and the Apostle Islands offer numerous opportunities for on-the-water adventure and the ability to create packages just enhances the whole experience.

If you’ve never experienced sailing, this is an ideal place to give it a try. Dreamcatcher Sailing offers a simply entry into sailing with their Afternoon Sail, a 2 – 1/4 hour excursion leaving at 2:30 in the afternoon. Looking for something more? Try their Island Landing Excursion is a 4 1/2 hour sail providing more time to get out and explore the Islands. Their Sea Caves by Sail trip departs from Cornucopia and is a wonderful way to explore the spectacular mainland caves. So many choices.

No matter what trip you select, we are confident that this mode of water “travel” will take you into a state of euphoria. Sailing is an art. It is done in relative silence, with some water sounds in the background. Captains willing to teach you what you want to learn, taking you into some of the most breathtaking scenes you can imagine.

Can you picture it? Let us help with this Life to the Max video.

It’s a safe bet that you will end this experience with a smile on your face.

Tags: adventure, Apostle Islands, Nature Tourism, relaxation, sailing
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Bayfield in Bloom – A Celebration of Spring in the Home of the Apostle Islands

May 27th, 2012 by Nancy Sandstrom

Anyone who has visited Pinehurst Inn is aware of our dedication to gardening. Perennial flower gardens, vegetable gardens, herbs, and native garden take up a fair amount of our time. It’s a good thing. But we are certainly not alone!

Were you aware that Bayfield offers some of the most magnificent gardens and orchards in the state? The proximity to Lake Superior and varying elevations provide something of a micro climate. What results is a superb growing climate. Result? Beautiful gardens, hanging baskets, orchards, and more. Celebrate spring gardens with Bayfield in Bloom and the Bayfield Garden Tours.

Bayfield’s Annual Garden Tour is Saturday, June 2nd and Sunday, June 3rd from 10:00am to 3:00pm. On Saturday, visitors will have the opportunity visit nine of Bayfield’s finest city gardens, with opportunity to chat with gardeners, share ideas. Map includes self-guided walking tours of gardens in and around Bayfield. Sunday’s event is a driving tour, with over eighteen Bayfield area gardens compiled on one map for a relaxing afternoon car ride.

Of course, Bayfield in Bloom offers additional activities between now and June 10th. Just a few…

Annual Plant and Yard Sale by Bayfield Heritage Assn – June 2nd – 9-11am
Spring Fling Course at Apostle Highland Golf Course – 4-person scramble – 10am – 3pm
Blessing of the Fleet – Sunday June 10th – 1pm at Memorial Park

Check out the complete bayfield-in-bloom-schedule and the bayfield-in-bloom-schedule.

And know that the Pinehurst Inn gardens are always available for wandering, enjoying — and we will even let you do a bit of weeding! And of course, don’t forget our Bayfield in Bloom Special lodging offer!

Tags: Apostle Highlands Golf Course, Bayfield in Bloom, Bayfield Orchards, Gardens, Nature Tourism
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