Sylvan Inn Bed & Breakfast

The Sylvan Inn Bed & Breakfast is located in Glen Arbor, MI in Sleeping Bear Dune country. Glen Arbor is approximately five and a half hours from Detroit, MI is home to some of the most magnificent and peaceful views of Lake Michigan.

The Sylvan Inn has 14 sleep quarters, some with private baths (which was a must for me). The inn is located 1 block from Lake Michigan and is in the middle of endless hiking trails, scenic routes, and of course, the Sleeping Bear Dunes. These particular group of dunes were given their name because travelers said that the layout of the dunes resembled the back of a pack of sleeping bears.

While visiting Glen Arbor, which is approximately 30-45 minute drive past Traverse City depending on traffic, there are several sites one must see during their trip.

1)Nature Trails: There are several to chose from. We selected the Empire Bluff Trail which provides breathtaking views of the shore line. This particular trail is an easy one for people of all athletic level AS LONG AS YOU STAY ON THE TRAIL. This trail is located in Empire, Michigan which is a 15 minute drive from Glen Arbor. There is also a public beach not to far from the trail where you can park and enjoy a beverage at the local tavern and then swim all day.

2) Scenic Drives: The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive provides the best sunset that I have EVER seen! (This includes sunsets in Mexico, Spain, France, and Costa Rica). The only sunset that I have seen so far that gives this sunset a run for its money is the one at the Grand Canyon. Make sure to drive to lookout points 9,10 which provides an awesome scene over Lake Michigan. Couples should pack a picnic basket and arrive at 7:30pm to enjoy dinner over the most gorgeous scene that nature has to offer.

3)Lake Michigan: Enough said. Pick a spot, bring your grill, and have a ball.

4) Sleeping Bear Dunes: Well, its sand. Lots and LOTS of sand. Many naive climbers expect to see Lake Michigan when they reach the top of the first dune and unfortunately all you will see is more sand :). You must walk up and down several dunes prior to reaching Lake Michigan. The total distance to the Lake and back is 3.5 miles, so you probably need to be in pretty good shape to walk up and down sand for that distance. If you plan on traveling by foot all the way to the Lake, make sure to start early, pack plenty of water and get ready to SWEAT!

5) Funistrada: This is a restaurant approximately 15 minutes from Glen Arbor that offers fine dining. Your bill will be a bit pricey but the food is GREAT. It is a nice romantic dinner. If you are traveling in Glen Arbor though, I would just eat in town because face it, children aren't going to appreciate a $20 salmon.

The Sylvan in itself is nice and relaxing. Don't expect a full course breakfast though, it is mainly fruit (which is healthy and all). The only bad thing is that breakfast is served from 8-9:30 so if you aren't an early riser you could potentially sleep through breakfast. All in all, Deer Creek Bed and Breakfast is a MUCH nicer B&B, but there is a MUCH more activity in Glen Arbor. Plus as long as you get a room with a private bath, you are good to go.