Daylight saving time hit me this year. Without the sun to warm my bones and my spirits, I’m dreaming of summer and vacation getaways. Unfortunately, there’s not a lot of either in my immediate future. So today marks my first installment of Vacation Home Dreaming. Join me as we can escape together and find the most amazing vacation homes currently on the market from coast to coast (Alaska and Hawaii too!). Since we’re only dreaming, budget really isn’t a concern — but I’ll do my best to find a mix of realistic to budget-busting beauties.
There is something magical about the Northwoods of Minnesota. I don’t know if it’s the crystal clear lakes (did you know Minnesota actually has more than 10,000 lakes?), the pines, or the nicest people I’ve ever met, but I love Minnesota.
In searching for vacation homes, I came across this darling A-frame on the shores of the Whitefish Chain of Lakes. It’s adorable and reminds me of a dollhouse.
Vacation Home Of The Day: Nov. 6, 2020
Location: Crosslake, Minnesota | Price Range: <$800,000
Located in north-central Minnesota, the Whitefish Chain of Lakes is a popular vacation spot, especially in the summers. My brothers and sisters-in-law all grew up going to summer camp at Camp Foley on Lower Whitefish Lake, so we know the area well. The Whitefish Chain consists of 13 lakes, all connected together across more than 14,000 acres.
This cabin is in Crosslake, on a quiet corner of Rush Lake, not far from one of my favorite Whitefish restaurants, The Wharf. Crosslake is just under three hours by car from Minneapolis-St. Paul International irport, and 30 minutes from Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport.
Inside, the home has been completely renovated, with an open kitchen, new floors, and big beautiful windows overlooking the lake.
In the renovation, they did a great job of maximizing the usable space and making sure there’s plenty of room to gather.
Upstairs, there’s a traditional sleeping loft with room for six, a skylight (with shades built in), and a small air conditioning unit (great for some of those warmer summer nights).
The home has three bedrooms — one on each floor — and two bathrooms. The master bedroom is tucked off the main living area.
The basement walkout space is perfect for easy access to the lake. I love that they put waterproof flooring here, as you know everyone will be tracking in water and sand all summer long. The basement bar is also such a great touch.
And then, there’s the lake itself. Can’t you imagine spending lazy summer days here tucked among the pines? I love the sandy beach area, too! If you’re brave enough to try your hand at ice fishing, Minnesota is a great place to learn.
And if this all wasn’t enough, you’re less than 20 minutes away from the world’s best pies (if I do say so myself). The A-Pine Restaurant in Pequot Lakes has an assortment of the most incredible pies of all varieties. They’re called Grandma Bettie Jane pies, and my personal favorite is blackberry peach. They’re so good my mom used to eat them for breakfast (which she obviously renamed piefast). Whatever you do, don’t skip on these pies!
If you’re interested in this home, check out the listing here or contact Tony Miller at (952) 356-2204.
About Vacation Home Dreaming: Join me each day as we can escape together and find the most amazing vacation homes currently on the market from coast to coast (Alaska and Hawaii too!). Since we’re only dreaming, budget really isn’t a concern — but I’ll do my best to find a mix of realistic to budget-busting beauties. If you want in on the fun, recommendations welcome to kasey.grelle@travelawaits.com.
