With orchards, wineries, great views and more, Bayfield in the summer is the perfect time for a getaway to the area. Here are 7 reasons you should visit Bayfield in the Summer:
1.Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries that fall off the bush and into your hand… Need we say more? Bayfield’s variety of fruit and berry orchards offer plentiful choices for you-pick or ready-picked fruit, stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding landscape, opportunities for shopping, picnicking, and special events.
2. For the wine lover or those just looking for a peaceful way to spend a lovely afternoon, Bayfield offers three wineries for tasting experiences. Seven Ponds Winery, Pikes Creek Winery at Highland Valley Farm and the Bayfield Winery at Hauser’s Superior View Farm all offer unique wines made locally. Each offers a tasting room and experience, along with views, fresh fruit, and small town charm.
3. If looking down Rittenhouse Avenue in Bayfield at Lake Superior isn’t enough of a view for you, check out the following favorite spots, as chosen by Old Rittenhouse Inn staff: the top of Ashwabay (requires a hike to the top), Apostle Highlands Golf Course (views from the golf course or via car on the road through the course), Houghton Falls (hike to the bay), Raspberry Island Lighthouse (accessible via the Apostle Islands Cruise Service or your own boat), and Frog Bay Tribal National Park (the nation’s first tribal national park – an easy hike to Raspberry Bay views).
4. Sports for the professional or novice: kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, sailing, running, biking, dog sledding, canoeing, roller blading, hiking, skiing, snow shoeing, swimming… what’s not to like? Lake Superior is majestic and participating in any of these or other sports on or near the big lake is not only fun, but invigorating! Try your hand at something new or stick with your long-time passion. Our only advice: if you’re heading out on the lake, be sure you’re well-informed about the weather and possible changing conditions or with a licensed guide, and HAVE FUN! Whether you choose to book directly or set up a package through the Old Rittenhouse Inn for one of these activities, we’ll have your comfortable bed ready for a nap when you return.
5. Good food. We’re a little biased but we believe no visit to Bayfield is complete without a enjoying a meal at the Old Rittenhouse Inn’s Landmark Restaurant. Guests and the public are both welcome for breakfast or dinner. Large group tours throughout the summer also offer the occasional chance to enjoy lunch (call ahead to check dates). Bayfield offers a number of other restaurants choices from fast-casual to sit-down meals of multiple courses, delicacies like whitefish livers and freshly smoked trout, and views of Lake Superior galore. When planning your visit, be sure to call ahead to the Rittenhouse or check out the Bayfield Chamber’s list of spots.
6. Plain ole relaxation. Turn off the phone, sleep in, nap often, read lots, eat well, and maybe even treat yourself to a massage. Any time of year is a good time to relax, but Bayfield in the summer is the ideal time. From the unmatched hospitality at the Rittenhouse Inn, to the gentle touch at Enso Wellness Spa, Superior Body & Massage, or Stillpoint Therapeutic Massage. You will enjoy some much needed rest and relaxation!
7. Great bookstores. If you’re someone who appreciates good books, Bayfield has two great bookstores to offer. Apostle Islands Booksellers (new books) and What Goes Round (used books) provide a place to escape on a rainy afternoon and get lost in the world of books. The Bayfield Carnegie Library, a staple in the community since 1904, is also a resource for not only books, but community programs, movies, and discussion. And we must also mention Washburn’s bookstore, Chequamegon Books, only a 15-minute drive from Bayfield.