After a long week in Mackinaw City the weather improved and we felt we could safely go to Charlevoix. The weather, wind and waves, must be favorable before starting the trip because this is the longest stretch on Lake Michigan - about 50 miles. There is no harbor or marina before Charlevoix, so we had to make the entire length in one day.
Mackinaw Bridge - crossing under into Lake Michigan. Waves are under 2 feet and wind is less than 20 mph.
Welcome to Charlevoix - we were happy to see that sign.
Charlevoix is a town of 3,000 year round residents which grows to a population of 30,000 during the summer months, due mostly to U. S. citizens from the midwest that own summer homes here.
A canal from Lake Michigan enters into the Charlevoix Round Lake harbor. There is a drawbridge that opens for 5 minutes on the hour and the half hour. We waited outside the canal until we could see the bridge open before we proceeded on to Round Lake and the marina.
Into Round Lake and the very upscale marina
Charlevoix - big recreation, big boats, big boat garages, big houses, big money.
Charlevoix is also well known for its mushroom houses which were designed by Earl Young in the 1920's. The elfish homes feature curved cedar shake rooftop and undulating stone walls and stone chimneys that are curved and overflowing. We walked around the town and enjoyed seeing the different mushroom houses. Maybe we are in the Shire!
We continue to enjoy the absolutely beautiful flowers in this area.
The next morning we timed our departure to coincide with the bridge opening. As we approached the bridge we were surprised to see more mushroom houses.
Bob on El Nido, waiting for the bridge opening with us, ready to head to Leland
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