"The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore was
named ‘The Top National Park in the United States’ because of its 21 picturesque, coastal islands, which are home to sea caves, hiking trails and six lighthouses.”- National Geographic 2005
To be fair as we invite women to embark on a retreat journey we are compelled to explain what makes this island unique. In our humble opinion Madeline is one of the most beautiful places in the world, but there are a few things you won't find here. We want everyone to enjoy this island experience so we try to describe what it means to be on "island time".
What Madeline is not:
**Not a mecca of luxury shopping. Instead, it is a haven for true artists such as Steve McHugh who leads the art portion of our retreats. Madeline Island boasts several galleries to showcase local talent. It tends to draw in the artistic soul and has a rich art history. Several quaint gift shops draw in the tourist for an island keepsake. We often recommend that visitors spend some time strolling the quaint walks of Bayfield, our port town, before boarding the ferry for the island .
**No fast food. There is not a single franchised restaurant on the island so if you need a fast food fix you are on the wrong island. However I am quite proud of the dining the island offers. Both casual and fine. You can get a great salad or pub sandwich sitting on the dock of The Beach club dangling your toes in Lake Superior or eat at several fine dining establishments that serve picture worthy food. (I write this because I have seen many women so charmed by their plate presentation that they take photos).
**No hurry. Good service yes, fast service no. Not available. Sit back, breathe, and enjoy the fabulous landscape that surrounds you.
So why Madeline? The island truly offers every facet of a great retreat destination. Want to renew the mind, body, andspirit connection? Just try to avoid it, while breathing the fresh air and listening to the lapping sounds of Lake Superior on sandy beaches. It really cures many of the pressures that weigh heavily on shoulders. An artistic retreat offers women the opportunity to be in sync with her creative and zen side. Adventurers and athletes will appreciate the world class kayaking available on our kayaking retreats. In all retreats women will experience a release during challenging and restorative yoga sessions that leave the body feeling spacious, strengthened, and open. And of course by the completion of the retreat (if not immediately), a personal answer to the “What makes Madeline unique” question will be available to you.