When it comes to planning a trip, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay. The Driftless Area, spanning across parts of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions. While chain hotels and motels are readily available, why settle for the ordinary when you can experience the extraordinary? In this post, we’ll explore the unique places to stay in the Driftless Area, from cozy bed and breakfasts to rustic cabins, and even luxury resorts. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, we’ve got you covered.
Bed and Breakfasts
Step into the charm of a bygone era at one of the many bed and breakfasts in the Driftless Area. These quaint establishments offer a personalized experience, complete with homemade breakfasts, cozy rooms, and warm hospitality.
Historic Homes
Imagine waking up in a 19th-century mansion, surrounded by ornate furnishings and rich history. The Driftless Area is home to numerous historic homes turned B&Bs, each with its own unique story to tell.
- The Historic Water Street Inn in Decorah, Iowa, boasts six luxurious rooms, each named after a local landmark or historical figure.
- The Old Jail Bed and Breakfast in Lanesboro, Minnesota, offers a one-of-a-kind experience, with rooms located in the former county jail.
- The Red Brick Inn in Dubuque, Iowa, features six cozy rooms, each decorated with a touch of elegance and charm.
Farm Stays
Experience rural life at its finest with a farm stay in the Driftless Area. These B&Bs offer a chance to connect with nature, learn about sustainable farming practices, and enjoy fresh, locally sourced breakfasts.
- Seed Savers Exchange in Decorah, Iowa, is a 14-acre farmstead that offers three cozy rooms and a chance to participate in farm activities.
- Winneshiek Wildberry Winery and Farm in Decorah, Iowa, features a luxurious suite and a chance to sample their award-winning wines.
- The Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast in Spring Grove, Minnesota, offers three rooms and a chance to explore the surrounding countryside.
Cabins and Cottages
Escape to the great outdoors with a cabin or cottage stay in the Driftless Area. These cozy retreats offer a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature.
Rustic Cabins
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Driftless Area with a rustic cabin stay. These cabins offer a chance to experience the great outdoors, complete with hiking trails, fishing, and wildlife viewing. (See Also: Unique Places to Stay in Hilton Head? Island Getaway Options)
- Decorah Cabins in Decorah, Iowa, features six cabins, each equipped with a hot tub and fireplace.
- Nelson’s Resort in Lanesboro, Minnesota, offers 12 cabins, each with a private deck and access to the Root River.
- Driftless Area Cabins in Westby, Wisconsin, features four cabins, each with a private hot tub and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Luxury Cottages
Indulge in luxury with a cottage stay in the Driftless Area. These cottages offer a chance to experience the finer things in life, complete with gourmet kitchens, private hot tubs, and stunning views.
- The Cottage at the Farm in Decorah, Iowa, features a luxurious cottage with a private hot tub and gourmet kitchen.
- The River Cottage in Lanesboro, Minnesota, offers a luxurious cottage with a private deck and access to the Root River.
- The Vineyard Cottage in Westby, Wisconsin, features a luxurious cottage with a private hot tub and stunning views of the surrounding vineyard.
Luxury Resorts
Experience the ultimate in luxury with a resort stay in the Driftless Area. These resorts offer a chance to indulge in world-class amenities, gourmet dining, and stunning natural beauty.
Spa Resorts
Unwind and rejuvenate at one of the many spa resorts in the Driftless Area. These resorts offer a chance to pamper yourself with massages, facials, and other spa treatments.
- The Spa at Grandstay Hotel in La Crosse, Wisconsin, features a full-service spa, complete with massages, facials, and body treatments.
- The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls in Decorah, Iowa, offers a luxurious spa, complete with a hot tub, sauna, and massage therapy.
- The Waterfront Hotel and Spa in Dubuque, Iowa, features a full-service spa, complete with massages, facials, and body treatments.
Golf Resorts
Tee off in style at one of the many golf resorts in the Driftless Area. These resorts offer a chance to experience world-class golfing, complete with scenic courses, pro shops, and golf lessons. (See Also: Unique Places to Stay in Nice? Luxurious French Escapes)
- The Golf Course at Oneota in Decorah, Iowa, features a challenging 18-hole course, complete with scenic views and a pro shop.
- The Bridges Golf Course in Winona, Minnesota, offers a scenic 18-hole course, complete with a pro shop and golf lessons.
- The Prairie du Chien Country Club in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, features a challenging 18-hole course, complete with scenic views and a pro shop.
Recap
In conclusion, the Driftless Area offers a wide range of unique places to stay, from cozy bed and breakfasts to rustic cabins, and even luxury resorts. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region. By choosing one of these unique accommodations, you’ll experience the authentic charm of the Driftless Area, complete with stunning natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit the Driftless Area?
The best time to visit the Driftless Area depends on your preferences. Spring is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, while summer is perfect for water sports and festivals. Autumn offers stunning fall foliage, while winter is ideal for skiing and snowshoeing.
What are some popular activities in the Driftless Area?
The Driftless Area offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and skiing. You can also explore the region’s rich history and culture by visiting museums, historic sites, and festivals.
What is the best way to get around the Driftless Area?
The best way to get around the Driftless Area depends on your preferences. You can rent a car or bike to explore the region, or use public transportation services like buses and trains.
What are some popular festivals and events in the Driftless Area?
The Driftless Area hosts a wide range of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Decorah Nordic Fest, the Lanesboro Arts Festival, and the Dubuque County Fair. (See Also: Unique Places to Stay in Cabo? Luxurious Oceanfront Retreats)
What are some popular restaurants in the Driftless Area?
The Driftless Area is home to a wide range of restaurants, serving everything from farm-to-table cuisine to traditional Midwestern comfort food. Some popular restaurants include the Decorah Bistro, the Lanesboro Cafe, and the Dubuque Brewing Company.