By Mary Winowiecki
Nestled among Michigan’s picturesque Chain of Lakes in Antrim County, Shanty Creek Resorts could have written the book on “getting away from it all.”
With its perfect combination of lush forests and pristine inland lakes, this northern destination is a true retreat from the hustle-and-bustle of daily life: perfect for spending a languid summer vacation.
However, before mistaking its seclusion for boredom, rest assured that a stay at Shanty Creek Resorts is anything but dull. There is so much to keep visitors busy; vacationers might just decide to tack on an extra day or two.
Overlooking lovely Lake Bellaire, and just minutes from Torch Lake and Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay; Shanty Creek is a water-lover’s dream. Boating, tubing and swimming abound in this fresh water paradise. Paddle a kayak through the mild rapids of the Jordan River, or spend a day fishing for walleye or trout.
The seemingly endless trails—through the beautiful Glacial Hills reserve or the hills along Torch Lake Drive—will entice cyclists and hikers of all ages and abilities. Shanty Creek rents both standard bikes and e-bikes through its Lakeview Fitness Center.
Kids have access to a dizzying array of games from basketball, junior golf and tennis to horseshoes, and giant Jenga and lawn Yahtzee, just to name a few. Family movie nights under the stars are sure to make lasting memories.
The adults in the group will want to spend some time visiting nearby Traverse City and the charming port towns that line the east and west shores of Grand Traverse Bay. A foodie mecca, the area is home to more than a dozen microbreweries and some 40 wineries, nearly all of which offer wine tasting and tours.
Then, of course there’s golf. Shanty Creek features four distinct courses—The Legend, Cedar River, Schuss Mountain, and Summit—designed by well-known names such as Palmer, Weiskopf, and Diddel. The resort’s recent addition of FootGolf is especially popular among the younger set. A hybrid of golf and soccer, this fun alternative is now a recognized tournament sport in over 20 countries.
With additional offerings such as lessons, larger cups to each hole on Summit Golf Course, stay and play packages, and junior specials, programs, and camps; it is not surprising Shanty Creek has been named among the “Top Golf Resorts in the World” by Condé Nast Traveler and received a Silver Medal for outstanding service from Golf Digest.
To plan your summer getaway, visit http://www.shantycreek.com/.
