Saturday
The morning sun stretches slowly into your room. It feels so good to sleep in. You gradually make your way downstairs to breakfast. The Sweetwater American Bistro awaits with all the morning essentials. Try the classic Eggs Benedict, create your own omelet or load up on carbs for the day with a piping hot plate of fresh pancakes. Finish your meal off with a second (or third) cup of coffee.
It’s time for some real R&R (relaxation & rejuvenation). Head upstairs to the resort’s full-service spa. You arrive just in time for your relaxation massage…80 minutes of luxuriant indulgence for just the two of you. You can feel your whole body breath a sigh of relief as the tension simply melts away. A warm scalp treatment completes the amazing experience.
Refreshed and rejuvenated, you’re ready for more. The next part of the adventure begins at the base of Old Mission Peninsula at Mari Vineyards. As luck would have it, there’s an empty table on the patio. You quickly secure it and order a couple glasses of the Cabernet Franc. The warming sun pairs perfectly with the magnificent bay view. The feeling is full-on Tuscany. It’s tempting to linger, especially for a tour of the underground wine cellar, but there’s more to see.
Driving up the peninsula, the road hugs the bay, revealing a breathtaking view at almost every curve. You eventually make your way to Chateau Chantal, one of the area’s oldest and most celebrated wineries. You’re here for their Harvest Dinner; a generous seven-course meal featuring perfectly paired food and wine. As dinner winds down, the sun starts to sink behind the glowing hills. You both toast the view with a glass of cherry wine. It’s been a day to remember.
Sunday
There’s a slight chill in the air as the hot air balloon rises into the morning sky. You grip your honey’s hand a little tighter. As the balloon climbs, the view becomes ever more breathtaking. The bay, in all its blue majesty, spreads out before you. The rolling hills seem to stretch for miles. You soak it all in. This is the magic of Traverse City Balloon Tours.
Three hours, and a few hundred “oohs and ahhs” later, you’re back safely on the ground. It’s time for brunch before you head back to “reality”. Stop at Brasserie Amie, a French-inspired bistro located on Front St. in Downtown Traverse City, for their signature omelets and crepes. Try the Paysanne Omelet with ham, raclette and potatoes and the Crab Mornay crepe. Close your eyes, while sipping a French-pressed brew, and you’re practically in Paris.
After brunch, take a walk along the pier at Clinch Park Marina and soak in the beautiful blues of Grand Traverse Bay. Don't rush the walk, instead savor the moments of time together sharing conversation and scenic views.
With the weekend fading in the rearview mirror, you’re on your way. With the promise that you’ll be back to make more memories. Just the two of you.
