4 Reasons Why A Retreat in Grand Marais is Always A Good Idea

My husband and I celebrate our wedding anniversary on November 28. So far, we have spent six wedding anniversaries together and three of them have been “up north” aka the North Shore of Minnesota. 

When you think about visiting the North Shore, you might think you can only visit in the summer or early fall. While those are wonderful times of the year to explore the North Shore, it also offers its own style of beauty in late November. When the quiet has settled upon the shore, the gales of November are howling, and the busy summer towns are filled with locals. 

Let’s be honest, the North Shore is beautiful during every season. So, here are 4 reasons why hosting a retreat in Grand Marais is ALWAYS a good idea. 


  1. The Power of Lake Superior 

    There is something majestic about looking out upon a large body of water. It is healing, it allows you to become lost in your thoughts, or not think at all. It makes you realize how small we really are, how much unknown there is, and how beautiful our world can be. Spending time by Lake Superior truly allows you to disconnect from the world and be with your thoughts. Whether you are cozied up inside by a fireplace listening to the cold whipping winter winds or sitting outside on a deck with the sun shining upon your face, Lake Superior truly is amazing. 

  2. Cute Restaurants + Shops

    While there may be a few more options for shops available from Memorial Day - Labor Day, Grand Marais is filled with cute restaurants and shops. Here are a FEW of our favorites: 

    • The Sweetwater Co | Local boutique and women’s clothing store. Located in the heart of Grand Marais, our good friend Kelsi and her sister-in-law just opened this women’s boutique filled with uniquely curated apparel, accessories, gifts and home decor. 

    • Java Moose | One of my favorite things to do in a new city is try out their best local coffee shop. 

    • Lake Superior Trading Post | There is something amazing about going to a small town trading post/ general store. They are always filled with unique, local-crafted treasures, and this one is no different! 

    • Superior Creamery | If you like ice cream, well - you’ll want to give this a try! 

    • Hungry Hippie Tacos | Not open for a long time, but open for a good time, Hungry Hippie Tacos is an approachable taco shop serving up Frybread tacos + Northern tacos from their tiny scratch kitchen.

    •  Voyageur Brewing Company | If craft beer is your thing, you’ll want to check this out, especially their great new outdoor patio.

  3. Close to the Gunflint Trail (driving) + so many hiking trails! 

    Visiting Grand Marais truly allows you to feel like you have arrived at a remote destination. Filled with nature in every direction, you can spend your day driving through nature, or hiking it. The Gunflint Trail, a 57-mile paved road + National Scenic Byway begins in Grand Marais and ends at Saganaga Lake in the BWCA. There are a variety of easy, moderate, and difficult hikes & lookout points both near Grand Marais and along the entire North Shore. Getting outside, moving your body, and smelling the fresh lake air is good for your soul. Download the AllTrails app to find the best hikes for you!

  4. A Variety of Lodging Options 

    There are endless lodging options in Grand Marais, from quaint Airbnb rentals along secluded dirt roads to hotels and condos in the center of Grand Marais with amazing views of the lake, there is a little something for just about everyone.

While Minnesota boasts a variety of amazing naturesque locations to host a retreat, it is truly hard to beat the beauty Grand Marais has to offer. For more detailed information on the area, check out the Cook County website.


Interested in checking out Grand Marais? Message me for your free consult and let’s get planning!

xo,

Katie

Katherine Quade