Boyne City

Mar 4, 2008 Text by Lynda Twardowski
Lake Charlevoix's crystal-clear blue water beckons.

Lake Charlevoix's crystal-clear blue water beckons.

Todd Zawistowski

Boyne City bear hugs the east end of Lake Charlevoix, but to appreciate all this little lakeside town offers, you've got to cover some ground. Just $15 a day rents you a hybrid bike from North Country Cycle Sport (104 S. Park Street, 231-582-4632). Pedal 10 miles along the lake to the Ironton Ferry, where $4 gets you across the water and easy access to a lunch on The Landings restaurant's shore-side deck (10231 Ferry Road, 231-547-2006).

Afterward, cruise back to town, park your bike and stretch those legs with a stroll through Boyne Country Books (125 Water Street, 231-582-3180). Browse for books bearing a blue dot — it'll nab you 50 percent off — then continue your cool-down at the Water Street Cafe, home of the unforgettable-on-ice house cappuccino, with orange zest, cinnamon and Callebaut chocolate.

If you're in the mood to mosey, downtown's got great antiques and boutiques, but if you need to chill, park your bottom on one of the city marina benches and watch the sailboats go by. Got energy? Borrow a Frisbee golf disk from the chamber of commerce — that log cabin at the waterfront — then roll to Avalanche Preserve Recreation Area (south on Park Street, right on Division, left at the flashing light). An 18-hole Frisbee golf course winds its way up to a fabulous mountaintop view, as do mountain bike trails, hiking trails and 360+ steps.

Finally, toast a day well spent with margaritas on the outdoor patio at Red Mesa Grill (117 Water Street, 231-582-0049), overlooking the Boyne River Boardwalk.

Stay the Night
Water Street Inn
All-suite hotel on the water, $99+. 800-456-4313

Boyne City Motel
Clean and cozy, $62+.
231-582-6701

Mountain Grand Lodge and Spa
Hotel, Avalanche Bay indoor waterpark, golf, skiing. $139+. 800-GO-BOYNE

Lynda Twardowski is travel editor of Traverse, Northern Michigan's Magazine.
lmt@traversemagazine.com

Note: This article was first published in June 2006 and was updated for the web February 2008.

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