If you are looking for a quiet, relaxing, unique getaway, look no further! Sunset Resort on Washington Island is the place for you! We first discovered this place over 20 years ago and have been coming here every year since. Sunset resort is an 11-guest-room bed and breakfast on Lake Michigan, where the highlight of the day is gathering with everyone to watch the beautiful sunset. The day starts off with a breakfast like no other -- Norwegian grilled toast or Icelandic pancakes with warm cream and cherries and never-ending coffee, served while you overlook the lake and try to guess the nationality of the flags on the flag pole (different everyday) and decide how the wind looks for sailing. Sunset is a family-owned business, and that's just how they make you feel, like family. Steve and Phyllis, Janet and Lee, and all the others will do anything within reason to help you enjoy your stay! After breakfast, you can rent a bike at the ferry dock or take the Cherry Train on a tour of the island. There are quaint little shops and restaurants but no Walmart or McDonald's! Be sure to stop by Schoolhouse Beach to enjoy the beautiful clear water and the most unique beach you will ever see! If you're feeling adventurous, you can take another ferry to Rock Island, a nearby state park, and take a hike around the island or rest on the sandy beach. (BTW, the only way to reach Washington island is by ferry or by private plane. There is a very nice long grass-runway airport on the island.). However you spend your day there, be sure to get back in time for sunset! You will get some of the best pictures of sunsets you've ever seen. Afterwards, gather in the lounge area (feels more like your family den at home) and play cards or games or work a puzzle with your new friends. And finally, fall asleep in your comfy bed listening to nothing but the sounds of the waves of...
Read moreWe’ve stayed at a number of places throughout Door County over the years — including well-known spots like Rowley’s Bay and Shoreline — but this owner-operated resort has truly become our favorite.
Run by Steve and Phyllis, who are as genuine and kind as they come, the place radiates warmth and welcome. They’re the kind of salt-of-the-earth people who go out of their way to make sure your stay is comfortable, and it shows in every thoughtful detail.
The décor is charmingly older — not dated, but timeless — with large, open common areas perfect for enjoying a meal, chatting with fellow guests, or just sitting quietly to take in the view. And what a view: the property boasts absolutely breathtaking water and sunset vistas, best enjoyed from a cozy chair or a peaceful stroll along the expansive lake shore.
Our room had whisper-quiet heating and cooling — something we didn’t know we needed until we experienced it — making for a truly restful night’s sleep. And the quiet extends beyond the rooms: the entire property is set far back from the road, surrounded by natural beauty and total serenity. Guests were friendly, respectful, and clearly there to enjoy the calm as much as we were.
Mornings were made even better with a delightful variety of homemade Nordic breads and jam — a rare and delicious treat — along with hot coffee, decaf, and a generous tea selection.
In short, this place is a gem: peaceful, gracious, and lovingly cared for. We left feeling restored and grateful — and hoping that Steve, Phyllis, and every future guest enjoy long, happy, and prosperous lives. They’ve certainly created a space that...
Read moreWhat a gem of a place! I only stayed on the island one night, but I was wishing that I could stay a week here. So peaceful and relaxing, right on the water! It's a very historic family lodge, very old-fashioned and just like the old family resort up in northern Minnesota that my family went to when I was young. Room was clean and the bed was comfortable
There are chairs and a swing for relaxing by the water, and comfortable common areas inside the lodge to relax - they have board games and puzzles, couches to sit and read, fireplaces to keep warm. A nice touch was the available binoculars on the enclosed porch to birdwatch or look at passing boats.
There is a smaller shared kitchenette area for guests to use with a large fridge/freezer and microwave, toaster etc (separate from their own lodge kitchen). The larger dining area with many tables is used for breakfast, and they give you a card with your room number to set up on the table of your choice, so that table is "yours" for the duration of your stay and you can use it any time.
The included breakfast is way better than expected! Traditional Scandinavian bread and pancakes, and homemade jams! Sausage and eggs, and yogurts available. Tea, coffee and...
Read more