Stone Lodge Built by Eccentric Local Architect

A magnificent 1960s slate fireplace cobbled from large boulders anchors the lobby fireplace of the Weathervane Terrace Inn & Suites. Built by renowned local architect Earl Young, the mantle celebrates the natural beauty of the surrounding area with other topographical details such as a half circle of redstone portraying nearby Round Lake, a cluster of Onaway stones representing Beaver Island, and a flock of seagulls carved into the rocks saluting the countryside wildlife. A sprawling composition, the artisan fireplace reflects the chateau's commitment to organic, grandiose design.

Imposing stone towers embellished with wildflower window boxes and metal turrets beckon guests to the castle-style hotel. The Jacuzzi room earns its name with a large white soaking tub stationed in the corner of the contemporary suite. A triple-sheeted king-size bed cradles weary travelers and offers a perch from which to view the flat-screen TV, an electric fireplace, and sliding patio doors that open to unveil views of Lake Michigan. A private balcony with sprawling water views abuts the two-room Lake Michigan suite, which enchants visitors with irrepressible country charm. Alongside a queen-size bed and a fully equipped kitchen, the carpeted living room hosts unlimited fireside DVD viewings and endless games of charades. The commodious harbor suite holds a king-size bed and a queen pullout to accommodate family human-pyramid practices with knee-friendly foundations.

On the first level of the hillside hotel, a seasonal heated outdoor swimming pool supplements the Weathervane's indoor eight-person hot-tub spa. A furnished lounging deck hosts sunset cocktails with panoramic views of the charming waterfront downtown and scenic Round Lake. From the alfresco swimming center, guests can peer into the breakfast room embellished with an Onaway stone fireplace where parties can indulge in complimentary continental breakfasts.

Charlevoix, Michigan: Quaint Resort Town Surrounded by Three Lakes

A half mile from the Weathervane Terrace Inn & Suites and surrounding a bustling shopping district, Round Lake regales visitors with idyllic views and a bevy of boating activities. Majestic yachts and colorful sailboat masts ornament the marinas, luring land dwellers to their bows for sunset canal cruises or fishing for salmon, trout, and walleye. Immediately south of the pier near downtown Charlevoix, Lake Michigan Beach sports pristine caramel-colored sand for an afternoon of swimming, sunbathing, and family picnics.

Visitors can explore the whimsy of architect Earl Young during walking tours that weave through a labyrinth of fairy-tale-inspired mushroom houses. Located less than half a mile from the hotel, stonework façades, curved cedar-shake roofs, and frosted cement chimneys characterize the pintsize dwellings, many of which are perched on similarly diminutive knolls. The most famous of the mushroom houses at Clinton and Grant Streets sprouted between 1951 and 1952 with lead-paned windows originally from a Polish castle, innovative landscaping, and craft-style interior accents.