Share your Bayfield story
Congratulations to our most recent Bayfield Getaway Package Winner, Carma from La Crosse, WI! Carma won 2 nights lodging in downtown Bayfield, tickets to Big Top Chautauqua, a round trip Madeline Island Ferry Pass, and 2 tickets for the Apostle Islands Cruise Service "Grand Tour".
Here is your chance to win a free getaway package to Bayfield by sharing one of the highlights of your recent trip by submiting your story using the link at the left.
Perhaps you discovered a sandy warm beach, or had a fabulous meal at one of the Bayfield area restaurants. You may have delighted in picking berries at one of the orchards surrounding Bayfield, or happened to see a bald eagle flying over the lake; taken in a spectacular sunset or kayaked to the Lake Superior sea caves along the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and enjoyed the breathtaking beauty.
Whatever the highlight of your trip, we want you to share it with others who may be planning a trip to Bayfield.
- Christine F. - Madison, WI
- What an amazing trip! We were there Oct 5th through Oct 9th. The Inn on Madeline Island was fantastic. OUr room was beautiful. The vew spectacular! The beach at Bigh Bay town park was a photographers dream! We waded in the water, collected rocks. Wild Rice restaurant was impeccable and Leila at the Nordic Bay B&B was incredible. She rocks! Everyone we met was so friendly & hospitable! Great people! Great food!
- Nanette & Kevin H. - Franklin, NC
- We were suppose to go home on the Saturday before the final day of the apple fest 2011 50yr celebration, we were not dissapointed by staying. It was one of the most enjoyable time we've ever had, apples, music from chataqua, changing of the fall leaves, the food, the craft vendors, the costumes, all the smiling faces, and all topped off with the best and most fun parade we had ever seen.
- Kieran O. - Carmel, NY
- There were so many...one of the biggest highlights was the Village itself! The people are friendly, the village is beautiful...a jewel on Lake Superior! It would be unfair to choose any one thing.
- Martha G. - Mason City, IA
- The annual traditions of the Greder Family from Iowa include cocktails on top of the Bayfield Inn, whitefish sandwiches at The Pier, fudge at Sweet Sailing, whitefish livers at Gruenkes. And berry picking! Watching the full moon from the top of the Bayfield Inn. The light on the boats and the peace just wrapped around us. Bayfield is the best getaway from the fast pace everywhere else.
- Amy S. - Duluth, MN
- We sailed between Basswood Island and the mainland saw beautiful coastline and enjoyed a great day of sun and wind.
- Theresa Z. - Oconomowac, WI
- We really enjoyed our trip to Bayfield. We went for our honeymoon. We enjoyed watching a thunderstorm over Lake Superior from our turret suite at the Chateau Boutin. The meals at the Rittenhouse Inn were fabulous. Visited Bayfield museum. The two-hour cruise to the Apostle Islands was nice. Enjoyed all the great shops. Took a drive to the orchards, then around the coast we even saw a black bear running across the street. Even took a ferry across to see Madeline Island. Where we are lunch at the Beach Club and went to their museum. We hope to come back! We even bought a Le Chateau Boutin ornament
- Tom & Stephanie L. - Maplewood, MN
- Week of July 13-18 2009 - Our life in the twin cities is busy everyday. We were in Bayfield twenty years ago, but our busy lifestyle time flew by. Now semi-retire and my wife got a lung disease, we badly needed peace and quiet and someplace to refresh our souls. Bayfield cam to mind and we planned our trip. As before we were refreshed by its beautiful peace and scenic views. We are hoping to return son to God's favorite place on earth!
- Barbara K. - Eau Claire, WI
- Aunt Betsy and I were B & B guests in the home my grandparents built. Betsy awoke in her own bedroom gazing at the lake, she loved as a child. Berries, trout suppers, beach picnics, sparkle of the sun on the water -Bayfield is the good life.
- Peg L - Mequon, WI
- Bayfield is breath taking...beautiful sunsets, inns, shops, boutiques, restaurants, boat rides, art studios, gardens and orchards. What more can on wish for? Plus the best strawberries we've ever tasted from Saxon Harbour Berry Farm.
- Collen & Rick G - Washburn, WI
- We discovered north twin island (Rick swam there from Cat Island with three men while I drove the boat). On the return trip home we stopped at Blue Vista to berry pick (raspberries and blueberries). Yum!
- Preston H. - Rochester, MN
- I sat admiring the gorgeous and relaxing view sitting at Blue Vista Farms. Enjoying a ginger beer and knowing my lakeview "home" of Seagull Bay Motel is waiting! (year after year.)
- Kathleen T. - Rice Lake, WI
- I planned my trip on short notice to celebrate the Auust biethdays of my two grandsons (eight & eleven). We chose mid-weed and were delighted with our experience! From the beautiful accommodation with the spectacular view (Harbor View) to the ease in walking everywhere in town. Our sailboat trip on the "Dream Catcher" was fabulous-the captain really catered to the little boys on board. Seeing the full moon rise over the lake was the cherry on top of a great trip!
- MaryAnn P. - Clear Lake, MN
- My husband and I were finishing the last part of our circle trip around the "Big Lake" when we couldn't decide if we should drive home to Clear Lake, MN or spend a night at the Timbleberry B&B. Luckily they had a cancellation so we had a wonderful closure to our trip. Thimbleberry is a perfect location right on the lake. Sharon Locey takes time to point out places to go an see in Bayfield-In the evening you have dessert & coffee waiting for you-even cough drops if you can't stop coughing. Now how many host provide cough drops? Breakfast is wonderful. It's a home you don't want to leave and you know for sure we will visit again and again.
- Linda K. - Red Wing, MN
- My first trip to Bayfield with a friend was in October, just before Applefest. The weather was "off/on", yet we had a wonderful visit. Noteworthy was a "tour" of one of the fisheries-where fish is processed and smoked. The folks were very friendly (family owned-blue building) and showed us around and answered any questions. But smoked fish, too! Very interesting!
- Jean A - Roseville, MN
- We had a fabulous stay in Bayfield, enjoying the opportunity to bike Madeline Island, eating at local restaurants, and enjoy the friendliness of the residents in the beautiful part of the state.
- Don S. - Jackson, WI
- The views were very beautiful; the walk along the sandy beach was really delightful. All the business people here were more than nice. Our stay at Thimleberry was very nice, will come back again.
- Sue M - Jackson, WI
- The scarecrow fest was delightful. The view of the islands and the lake were breath taking. The apple growers were helpful.
- Pete D. - Lino Lake, MN
- We just spent our 19th wedding anniversary in Bayfield at the Thimbleberry Inn. This was our sixth stay at there. Like fine wine, Thimbleberry gets better with ages. The fun is outstanding, the atmosphere and rustic setting over looking Lake Superior and Basswood Island make a great romantic getaway. We will be back again.
- Jenny B. - Wayland, MI
- Our whole experience in Bayfield was wonderful. Sharon's Thimbleberry Inn is the best we've ever stayed at. The setting is beautiful and of course, Sharon's cooking was fabulous. We would recommend this place to anyone.
- Maynard B. - Wayland, MI
- This is a very great town, so nice an clean, the grand tour by boat was very interesting and informing. We stayed at the Thimbleberry B&B, which was so nice. Sharon helped us so much getting us around the area. The B&B was great, I would recommend to anyone visiting this area. I love this area and the Thimbleberry B&B. Sharon is so nice.
- Laurie D. - Lino Lakes, MN
- This was our sixth stay at the Thimbleberry Inn and it was great, as always. There is nowhere else we'd rather stay while we are in Bayfield.
- Mary Ann D. - North Tonawand, NY
- My stay at Thimbleberry Inn was delightful. The breakfasts were excellent and the hospitality was great. Our sailing trip to Stockton Island was great; got to steer the sailboat. The dinner at Portside restaurant was excellent, especially the fish livers. Would like to come back and explore the area further.
- Rebecca S. - Buffalo, NY
- Our trip to Bayfield was highlighted completely by our stay at the Thimbleberry Inn! Innkeepers Sharon and Craig Locey treated us to a relaxing environment, both on the water and in the comfort of a wonderful suite and their own dining/living room. The food was wonderful each and every time! It stared at the inn, but continued at the Portside restaurant and marina. We had a great time!
- Wendy F. - Lawton, MI
- We had a great time kayaking to the sea caves with Living Adventures. Beautiful accommodation at DePerg's and more. Thimbleberry Inn- beautiful food and host. Sailing in the morning and a sunrise between the islands. We'll be back.
- Randi B. - Bloomington, MN
- One best part of my trip was staying at the Thimbleberry Inn. Sharon is the best ambassador this town could every have, so full of helpful suggestions and ideas on what to do and where to go. She delights in sharing, planning and selling all Bayfield has to offer. Her cooking is superb.
- Newton F. - Bloomington, MN
- Sharon and Craig from the "Thimbleberry Inn" are the best park of Bayfield. We have been coming here for years and know how fortunate Bayfield is to have folks like them here. They love Bayfield and delight in promoting it. We also love to go to the marina and look at boats and shop.
- Corey N. - Minocqua, WI
- My girlfriend and I have been coming up to Bayfield and other places on the lake for years. This year, for her birthday we decided on a whim as it was the weekend of the fall Harley ride to get out of town. We arrived late afternoon for a sunny cocktail hour on the deck overlooking the marina. Soon found our no vacancy in town but were referred to Superior rentals, only one room left but beautiful, romantic, and homey. Will return.
- Sandra S. - Yorkville, IL
- Enjoyed the quiet shops and non commercialized atmosphere. Enjoyed our B&B "in the woods" and waking up "in the woods."
- Brian A. - Monona, WI
- On October 20, 2009 my wife and I trekked the beautiful trails in Big Bay State Park on Madeline Island. What beauty we observed in the unbelievable autumn colors during their peak and the Lake Superior waves crashing into the boulders under the cliffs and caves. Sights and sound we will never forget. We also loved the orchard visit with our purchase of their tasty apples. Finally, we really enjoyed the ambience, atmosphere and food at Maggies cafe.
- William & Yvonne S. - Rice Lake, WI
- We just returned from a two day weekend in Bayfield. Every year it is a "must" for us to come. We either come alone or bring friends and relatives. About 1924 my father owned a creamery there, which is now Rum Line Bar. We lived in the house behind it. Sea Gull Motel is our favorite and Port Superior, Erickson's Orchard, Bayfield Winery, Maggie's and Egg Toss are always on our "to visit" list. We eat all weekend and bring apples home with us to enjoy and share with friends.
- Rosemary C. - Hendricks, MN
- My daughters and I enjoyed Bayfield, touring the city, shopping, ferry rides to Madeline Island, exploring the beaches, rock climbing and caves on the beaches. Our aunt took us so we know we would be safe. Loved the ice cream shop too.
- Tom & Sara S. - Duluth, MN
- We ate at Ethels on the second night of our Bayfield vacation. It was one the best meal we have ever had; we had the nacho cheese ravioli for an appetizer then indulged in Hannah's special pizza. In addition the service was fantastic, so was the peanut butter dessert.
- Joanne C. - Hendricks, MN
- Had a great time! The five of us, my sister, daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters all enjoyed Bayfield. The shops-ice cream shop, wine bread, we made at least three visits each. We also enjoyed shopping at Roxanne's; she has many different and clever ideas for things that are useful souvenirs and great jewelry. We loved the ferry ride to Madeline Island.
- Nancy R. - Marquette, MI
- Bayfield is a great escape. This year's visit was memorable due to the weather's effect on your fabulous north shore. Barely visible sail boat masts were peeking through "pea soup" fog in the early morning...eerily beautiful. The brownstone nature trail with sun dappled paths, wildflowers and song birds were awesome and invigorating. Fresh raspberries purchased on a street corner are the essence of summer! A garden fresh dinner at the Stone Hearth was the end to a lovely day.
- Nancy R. - Mt. Horeb, WI
- Sharon and Craig Locey at the Thimbleberry Inn were the quintessential host and hostess. Breakfast and a nightly dessert await you, special diets are cheerfully accommodated! Loved it.
- Marelyn & Dick C. - Lincolnwood, IL
- We stayed at Thimbleberry and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Sharon and Craig could not have been more welcoming and helpful. Beautiful setting, weather and food. Great golf and vistas.
- John P. - Fall Creek, WI
- Beauty. Calming. Relaxing. Charming. Great Food. Thimbleberry Inn would describe my experience, it was wonderful. We will be back.
- Pat P. - Fall Creek, WI
- At 3am on a moonlit night in the warmth and comfort of The Hermit Room (my B&B room), I look our over the glistening Lake and see the big dipper, upright, perfectly framed. I am in the right place.
- Dennis S. - Minnetonka, MN
- Pleasant and scenic B&B. Great weather and interesting lighthouse tour.
- Deborah S. - Minnetonka, MN
- Quiet, nice, roomy B&B, good food, great views.
- Judith S. - Worcester, England
- The highlight of our trip to Wisconsin was our stay at the Thimbleberry Inn, Bayfield. We are seasoned travelers to the United States and Thimbleberry Inn Bed and Breakfast met and exceeded all our expectations. Fabulous locations on the lake, quiet & peaceful, terrific hosts who went out of there way to be helpful. Sharon's breakfast, evening snacks, Craig's yacht trip being the highlight. Would we come again, you bet. It just goes to prove that small town charm still exists; don't tell anyone else though, it's our secret.
- Paul S. - Worcester, England
- Whilst the whole of our stay in Bayfield was unforgettable, the highlight was undoubtedly our amazing stay with Sharon and Craig at Thimbleberry Inn. My wife and I have been visiting the US for the past 20 years and have stayed in B&B's in over forty states, and this is up amongst the best. The accommodation was excellent; the food was "to die for;" and the location was fabulous. Sharon and Craig were wonderful hosts, with the trip on Craig's boat the "icing on the cake."
- Connie C. - Foxboro, WI
- Our group of 18 cousins, aged 19-60 yrs, had a wonderful reunion at Raspberry on the main-the Lighthouse. We spent four days enjoying each other's company while relaxing at our fire pit, laughing until we cried, exploring Lake Superior on the Grand Boat Tour, buying jars of Bayfield's best jams at Hauser's orchard, shopping on the main street for T-Shirts and fudge, having a wonderful meal at Ethel's 250, and Maggie's (sweet potato fries-Yummo!). What a blessed time we shared. Bayfield is awesome.
- Steve & Lois L. - Rochester, MN
- We had a great time! Picked blueberries at Blue Vista Farm (when I suggested to a young boy that they might be checking tongues for blueberry stains he decided to put more in the box than his mouth). Stayed at the Old Rittenhouse Inn and had a superior meal and visited with the owners at breakfast. Great Chamber of Commerce Office with convenient restrooms. We partook of some excellent brown sugar cured smoked white fish at Bay Fisheries, and walked the entire city to see the wonderful historic homes-keep up the good work!
- Bill H & Janon D - Eagle River, WI
- We had a beautiful day sail with Dreamcatcher, then fabulous dinner at the Old Rittenhouse Inn. Topped it off with a concert at Big Top, and you've got one fabulous visit to Bayfield. This was our first time here, but we'll be back!
- Barb B. - Marshfield, WI
- What appealed to me the most was the combination of its expansive natural setting, plentiful ways to be engaged, and still it maintains an intimate setting.
- Martha J. - Minneapolis, MN
- The best part of our weekend in Bayfield was dinner at the "Wild Rice." It's a fabulous restaurant and a credit to the whole Bayfield community to have a restaurant of that caliber her. Thanks for a great weekend.
- Kelly V. - St. Paul, MN
- Thimbleberry is such a wonderful place. This was my first visit but would love to come back again. Enjoyed the Haunted Ghost Tour, Virginia was a great tour guide and I learned a lot of history of Bayfield.
- Craig P. - Roseville, MN
- Staying at a B&B right on Lake Superior was incredibly relaxing. We enjoyed the local restaurants, shops, as well as taking the ferry across to Madeline Island. Bayfield is beautiful and we hope to come back in the future to explore more of what it has to offer.
- Lisa M. - Edgerton, WI
- Bayfield area businesses donated gift certificates to WPT auction spring of 2009. I won the bid for the Bayfield eco/green vacations. We spent two nights at Pinehurst Inn B&B, paddled along the sea caves (compliments to Living Adventures) and ate (twice) at Ethels 250, because it was so good. We also took in Big Top Chataqua's Riding in the Wind. It had been almost 20 years since I had been to Bayfield. Thanks to the promotional package, it has renewed my interest in returning soon.
- S.W. - Chisago City, MN
- We stayed at the Thimbleberry Inn Bed & Breakfast. The view across Lake Superior to Basswood and Oak Islands is one of the most beautiful views I have ever seen. An immature fox came onto the walkway outside our room this morning as I was watching the sunrise. I then had coffee and muffins at a private outdoor seating area at the top edge of the cliff. Truly relaxing!
- Rusty R. - Mt. Horeb, WI
- Craig & Sharon Locey are gracious and welcoming hosts at the Thimbleberry Inn B7B. Craig knows all the beautiful, quiet walks, beaches and Sharon is a gourmet cook. With fun and charming personalities, they share their darling setting with a host of fun furry and feathered friends, and all make your stay an exceptionally personal experience.
- Michele C. - Anna Maria, FL
- For several years, my boyfriend Michael has been trying to get me to more from Florida to Minnesota. I have spent several summers in Bayfield camping and kayaking which was great. But the winter, in my view, unfit for humans has long been an obstacle. Last February however, he took me to Bayfield for a "romantic" winter weekend. Contrarily to my expectation, the beauty of Bayfield's glacial blues was entrancing. It was truly magical, and I can't wait to come back this winter. We went to the ice cave, hiked out to Sand Island, drove to Madeline Island, had breakfast at Lotta's, dinner at Maggie's and relaxed in sweet little condo near the water. What a great experience.
- Ed & Ellie K. - Whitewater, WI
- Staying at the Thimbleberry Inn in early October was delightful. It was my husband's first bed and breakfast experience and now he is spoiled for life. We really enjoyed the lovely Inn's spectacular location on the shore of Lake Superior and the Locey's great hospitality. Sharon's warm morning muffins and coffee followed by her delicious full breakfast can't be beat. We enjoyed getting to know Sharon and Craig and learn about the Bayfield area. We hope to be back soon for another visit.
- Linda A. - St. James, MO
- When we arrived and saw the charming town of Bayfield, the sailboats, Lake Superior, we instantly decided, "We're staying longer!" Our accommodations were with the Bayfield Inn, staying at the lovely Garden Guest House. We enjoyed coffee on the deck every morning while taking in the view of the Lake. Ethel's at 250 served delicious pizza, homemade lasagna, and warm apple pie! The ferry took us to Madeline Island where we explored Big Bay State Park, its rugged shoreline and quiet beaches. Hauser's Superior View Farm offered samples of their apples wine and fresh apples. We browsed through unique shops and galleries, and drove along the coast of Lake Superior, simply enjoying the beautiful fall colors. Everyone we met was very friendly and helpful. Our fist trip to Wisconsin was so delightful and relaxing. We cannot wait to return!
- Ruth Anderson - Champaign,IL
- We bought sweet cherries from the Appple Hill orchard and smoked fish from one of the local fish stores. With those two (plus some local fresh bread) we had our picnic lunch in the park by the lake - relaxing on a beautiful sunny day - watching the cruise & ferry boats on their journeys. Delighful! Delicious!!
- Lloyd Richardson - Maple Grove, MN
- We have been to Bayfield 2 times in 10 years. We just had to come back. On this trip it was a little overcast and dark rain clouds, but as we were driving up Manypenny land I saw what I thought was a big buck deer in the trees. I got out but didn't see him where I thought he was. Just then a ray of sunshine came down into the pines and this beautiful buck stood up and posed for a picture. The sun disappered and the buck faded away.
- John Marenson - Eau Claire, WI
- For our short-but-sweet honeymoon we spent several nights at Lucy's Place. The innkeepers made us feel right at home, from the home cooked breakfast featuring locally grown fruit, to the calico cat who curled up on my lap as soon as I sat on the porch swing. We had a beast at the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band concert at Big Top - what could be better than a summer evening spent listening to great bluegreass, while the fireflies provide nature's light show? We look forward to a return trip.
- Donna Graham - Golden Valley, MN
- I just felt like I was able to relax and absorb all the beauty and splendor of the area. I loved the calming water & bright moonlit lake at night. On the island you feel like you're in another world.
- Beckie Anderson - Golden Valley, MN
- Have you ever tried the winebread from the Candy Shoppe? A cream cheese & fruit filling in a danish type of pastry - we got raspberry - frosted/drizzled & sprinkled finely with nuts. Wow! Why we wonder is it called winebread? Tasty! Thats why.
- Tracy Stone - Duluth, MN
- We recently went on a family vacation to Bayfield, WI. We toured the apple orchards & went on the ferry to the island. It made a fun weekend for the kids as well as the adults. The kids enjoyed carmel apples, hayrides, ferry rides & the candy shop! It was quality time spent together. My husband & I would love a vacation back to Bayfield to experience another more relaxing visit...this time without kids of course.
- Betsy Richardson - Maple Grove, MN
- On this trip to Bayfield we wanted to see the orchards. We did and had a great time. We tasted wind, apples, raspberries etc. Every orchard was different but the people were great. They gave us info on what to see and do that sometime only the locals know about. Also watched a fishing boat bring in thier catch of whitefish & lake trout. Being a fisherman that was really neat to see. We also ate fresh fish at a local restuarant. Oh so good.
- Libby & Loren Bottem - St. Paul, MN
- We had an amazing time while in the beautiful city of Bayfield! We are on our honeymoon and ate at Maggies (a great local place) then met John from Adventure Vacations and did a 4 hour trip of kayaking through the sea caves! Amazing beauty! We then rested before eating the next morning at the Egg Toss where the apple cider and wild rice omelet was to die for! MMM!We also rented mopeds on Madeline Island and saw a ton of deer before gearing up for our trip home!
- Anne Laundrie - Green Bay, WI
- Dalrymple Campground is a little jewel for RVers. Set on Lake Superior with a view of the sunrise through the pines and a clear panoramic vista of the lake it just doesn't get any better. This is a return visit for us to the Applefest - another gem worth experiencing!
- Tom Laundrie - Green Bay, WI
- The beauty of the water throught the fall leaves in the picturesque beautiful town of Bayfield is spectacular. You really can't describe it, you just have to be here!
- Juanita McGregor - Great Falls, MT
- While in Bayfield, my husband had an important conference call the end of Sept 29. Our motel did not have phones in the room. We checked with the Chamber for possiblities. They gave him permission to use the phone for his conference call. Thank you!! Your staff is friendly and helpful. Today Oct 1 is our 43rd wedding anniversary. We awoke to a beautiful sunrise over Lake Superior.
