Abandon the Hustle and Bustle in Favor of Spectacular R & R  

Nestled between the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan, in Lake Huron—if you can call something “nestled” where the water at times crashes in violent, frigid waves—sits Mackinac Island (pronounced Mack-i-naw), a postcard-perfect vacation destination unlike any other. At only 4.4 square miles and with an 8-mile perimeter, Mackinac Island is a tiny dot on the map where past and present gracefully intertwine. It is also an ideal atmosphere for busy women to unwind.

Michiganians call her “The Island” because she needs no other moniker; there is no one else like her. She stands proudly, jewel in the crown both literally and figuratively, of the State of Michigan. It’s ironic though that in a state known as the birthplace of automobiles, the island’s streets see no car traffic. Mackinac Island State Park—which encompasses about 80% of the island—is one of America’s oldest national parks.

The smell of warm fudge greets visitors stepping off the ferry boats used to transport people to and from the island. Mackinac Island is known for its fudge shops and locals refer to tourists as “fudgies” because, basically, no one leaves without sampling some. If you’re lucky enough to visit in the month of June, the smell of lilacs will mingle with the fudge and clusters of the tiny flowers will blanket lilac bushes in yards all over the island.

Mackinac Island is the ideal setting for business collaborations, family vacations, romantic getaways and weekend rejuvenation. Whether your desire is to get lost or to find yourself, the ability to disconnect from much of the “modern” world encourages both. Of course, there’s free Wi-Fi around the island and plenty of cellphone access, but you won’t miss either if you grab a lunch, a blanket and a good book and hike off to one of the island’s picturesque spots.

Getting There
Mackinac Island is only accessible by boat or airplane, unless you count the winter season when an ice bridge forms between the island and St. Ignace in the Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, at which time the locals mark an ice route across the frozen lake with dead Christmas trees they’ve saved for the occasion and commence to crossing on snowmobiles. There are only about 500 permanent residents of Mackinac Island, although more live and work on the island from May-October.

Fly into any of the airports around the state then drive to either Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, Michigan to hop a ferry to the island.

Getting Around
Automobiles have not been allowed on the island since 1898; locals and tourists alike move about on foot, bicycles, horses or horse-drawn carriages. Bicycles and horses rent by the hour and horse-drawn “taxis” and carriage tours run regularly.

Places to Stay
Mackinac Island boasts 1300 guest rooms in a variety of establishments and price points. If luxury accommodations are your thing, the Grand Hotel, which opened in 1889 and has the largest front porch in the world, won’t disappoint. The hotel has been the backdrop for several movies, including 1979’s Somewhere in Time with Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeve. Larger hotels dotting the island include the Hotel Iroquois, Island House Hotel, The Inn at Stonecliffe, and Mission Point Resort. If quaint rooms with a bit of history are more your style, check out 120-year-old Murray Hotel located “downtown” or the Market Street Inn, a renovated, turn-of-the-century inn. Visitors can also choose from one of the many bed & breakfast options like the Metivier Inn.

Things to Do
Your first order of business on Mackinac Island—do nothing. Wander without a plan and enjoy whatever happenstance brings to your path. There is something to see down every street and footpath.

• Explore: Amble up Fort Hill to investigate Fort Mackinac. Stroll the side streets and visit the various churches of the island like the Little Stone Church.
• Bicycle: Rent a bicycle and ride the many bike trails crisscrossing the island. Take the Tranquil Bluff Trail to Arch Rock, a rare, natural limestone bridge that Native American lore says was created by the tears of a maiden for a love of which her father did not approve.
• Horseback Ride: A number of livery stables just off the main drag will rent you a horse for a trail ride. Experienced guides/instructors are available to assist the novice. Carriage rides are also available to tour the island, allowing you to learn a bit of history while consuming as much of the world-famous fudge as your belly can hold.
• Relax: Take a break in one of the numerous parks like Marquette Park, situated just below Fort Mackinac, where good books, blankets and Frisbees make ideal companions. If a facial or massage are more your idea of relaxation, you can book one at one of the local spas.
• Learn History: Did you know that nearly a dozen museums will fit in only 4 square miles? History buffs will have a field day moving from art museum to carriage museum to a butterfly conservatory.
• Play Golf: Hit the links at one or all of the three, 9-hole courses on Mackinac Island and one 18-hole putting course. You can even rent authentic, hickory clubs at the Scottish style, Wawashkamo Golf Course.
• Shop: Play tourist for several hours meandering down Market Street to shop in the countless boutiques, trinket and t-shirt shops. Grab a bite to eat in between at one of the restaurants, but make sure to sample a whitefish sandwich while you’re there.

Recharging your batteries and feeling more creative will come easily after a short vacation on Mackinac Island. The diverse activities mean something for everyone, alone or with a family.

Photo: www.mackinacisland.org