Built in 1887, Grand Hotel beckons guests to a bygone era of old-world hospitality and charm.
The hotel was built in 93 days. Which is really incredible. The contractors were offered a 1 million dollar incentive to complete the project in 90 days. Unfortunately, they were three days shy of the goal. Personally, I think they should have received the bonus or at least half of it. Anyway, what a feat!
The porch roof is painted blue because birds think it is sky and won’t nest. Speaking of the porch, at 660 feet it is the longest hotel porch in the world and very impressive.
Simply stunning furniture and rooms. There are 388 guest rooms and no two are the same.
Throughout the history of Grand Hotel, dining has been one of the highlights of every guest experience. Each meal is truly special. We enjoyed a lovely 4 course meal.
The landscape and flowers are gorgeous.
We visited the stables and the carriage museum. JP Chambers owns all of the horses on the island. The horses are starting to be moved for the winter to Pickford, Michigan near the eastern edge of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
About 25 horses stay on the island through the winter and pull sleighs and move people and goods around. While no cars are allowed - snow mobiles are.
The lake freezes over in the winter. All large animals on the island have crossed over the ice. The island has six deer and had one bear that made it over, was found and then rehomed.
What a lovely place to visit. Two days is more than enough time to visit and explore this beautiful island. We took the hydro ferry back to St. Ignace.
This place looks amazing! We have this hotel on places to see for sure. But the fun facts we didn’t know about. So crazy they finished it in 93 days!
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