I don't even know where to begin with the experience I had at Bay View lodge. It is surely a time I will never forget. For starters, the cabin was extremely cozy and had the craftsmanship of extremely skilled laborers. As I rubbed my hands against the the beautiful lumber that shaped this structure, I couldn't help notice that this cabin wasn't any ordinary cabin. I've seen this wood work before. These cabins were hand built by the legend himself, Paul Bunyan! Cut and constructed by the Minnesota folklore, I couldn't believe I had found myself lodging in what felt like a castle in the dense Minnesota forest of Crosslake. My nerves slightly tamed, I continued on to see what other discoveries were to be had. I saw a volleyball court in the near distance, I continued with a brisk pace. As I was getting a lay of the land, I couldn't help notice the plethora of picnic tables scattered through out, ready to be accommodated by friends and new friends as we break bread, ready to enjoy the weekend. The fire pits were raging with flames so hot, there would be no shortage of flame for s'mores unless a shortage of Hershey's or mallows. I reached the volleyball area, kicked off my sandals and dug my toes into the sand. Something felt odd, as I closely observed the grain of the sand. This was no ordinary "lake sand". This sand had been imported by Babe the Blue Ox from a secret location that couldn't be revealed because scientist have never seen this type of grain before. Luckily, our group was accompanied by a expert geologist, who has no research studies published, but in the rock world, his research has been highly respected and some have gone as far to say he rocks. His only response to the sight of the sand, "Super rare." Just another unexpected luxury found at Bay View Lodge..... SMASH!!!Out of no where a volleyball crashes into the side of my face. Ouch! Disoriented, I look up to find beach volleyball gold medalist misty May and Kerri Walsh trotting toward me with an apology and offer for some friendly match play. After intense play and losing 3 games straight, I respectfully declined to continue to play with my friendly new neighbors. A second didn't go by that I didn't forget the real reason why I came. The lake. The water was gently crashing against the shore, the water shimmering in the sun, I only hoped it felt as incredible as it seemed. In a Mitch Buchanan like fashion, I sprinted toward the lake. Euphoria. As the water splashed against my body I jumped and broke the surface of the large mass. I lost track of what was going on, I couldn't tell if I was in the beautiful sea of the Mediterranean or the clear waters of the Caribbean. After a long relaxing swim session I exited the water heading back toward the cabin. Needing one last look of lake I slowly turned. Sweet Moses! The yellow ball of fire changed to hues of orange, and then almost tangerine. It merged with the sky, like juice-mix dissolving in a glass of water. The clouds were cotton-candy, as though they blushed at the warm touch of the sun. Silhouettes of birds flew home across a sky that was now magenta; and the sun was half into the trees, but its reflection in the lake made it look complete. The mauve of the dusky sky intensified, and in just a while, the biggest star had set, giving way to a thousand others.
At that point I knew it. It was a spectacular choice to book at Bay View Lodge. From the well crafted cabins, to the endless amenities, mixed with the great landscape and divine views. This experience led to the kind of weekend that creates traditions for many years to come.
Thank you so much Mr. Tim. I...
Read moreThis place is just amazing! My family stayed for a week wished we could have stayed forever. This place is truly beautiful in every aspect from the knotty pine in the cabins to wonderful and relaxing beach. The views are worth the trip alone, be sure to get up early because you don't want to miss out on the most beautiful sunrises Minnesota has to offer. There is plenty to do for everybody, the kids hit the beach in the morning for the swimming or the paddle boats and kayaks, and we had to force them to come to the cabin to eat every once in a while. If I couldn't find my wife I knew she was sunning herself on the beach with a book and a cocktail!! As for me well I like to fish and like everything else on this trip it was wonderful too!! Cabins are air conditioned which came in handy after a couple good sunburns. We will be back very soon that...
Read moreWe have been visiting this resort, renting anywhere from 1-4 cabins each year for the past 15 years. Each year the owners offer small upgrades to the previous year. Just stayed there for over a week over the labor day holiday, and had a great experience. Family reunion, renting 3 different cabins. The owners could not have been more accommodating, and we always are made to feel "special". Great swimming beach, great boating and tubing, easy boat access, etc. We always celebrate special occasions on this trip whether it is birthdays, or anniversaries. This year we held a wedding right on the pontoon boat we rented. Special thanks to Mary Ann, Jim, and their family for doing such a wonderful, sometimes...
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