Nothing beats the eye-opening flavor of a fresh pot of specialty coffee in the morning…unless it’s enjoying that flavor on vacation! We are proud to be the coffee provider of choice for some of the best cabins, cottages and hotels in the Keweenaw Peninsula.
And with tourist season just around the corner, we thought this would be a great time to share the stories behind our favorite local accommodations. From cozy woodland cabins to swanky boutique hotels and everything in between, we're so proud to partner with local accommodations who love giving their guests the very best taste of the Keweenaw.
Make sure to share with your friends and family for their next visit…or treat yo’self to a staycation and rediscover the magic of this little island we call home.
Follow the rolling curves of Tamarack Waterworks Road, and you’ll land at one of the hidden gems of Keweenaw hospitality. North Shore Cottages is an exquisite little retreat nestled between a nature preserve and the Lake Superior shoreline. Their six unique cabins offer a perfect mix of “grandma’s cottage” quaintness and modern chic, complemented by miles of private beach, a nearby nature preserve, a suite of outdoor adventure gear, and—our favorite—a morning coffee setup with all the bells and whistles.
What are some of the things that make North Shore Cottages so special?
North Shore Cottages is the Keweenaw’s quintessential Lake Superior cottage/lake house destination. Our family has enjoyed hosting guests visiting Lake Superior for almost 100 years at this very beach. Our cottages offer quaint simplicity and plush comfort, combined with the backdrop of the lush forest-lined shore and miles of undeveloped beach. We are centrally located on the Peninsula, just a quick trip away from all the must-see destinations. I can have a latte in hand 10 minutes after stepping off the beach, and in another 10 minutes be next to a waterfall or other natural wonder of the Keweenaw.
What kind of Keweenaw experience are North Shore Cottages guests looking for?
Many of our guests are here to get outside and adventure! And at the end of a big day of hiking, biking or skiing, some people want the comforts of home (not to mention a sauna more than once per day). When a tent or sleeper sofa won’t cut it, we offer premium accommodations with a mix of rugged style with classic repose and functionality that complements all your outdoor activities on the Keweenaw Peninsula.
What is the most rewarding part of hosting visitors to the Keweenaw?
The excitement of first-timers! I get to share the magic of this place with so many travelers from around the world. Many become return tenants, and some even become friends—I love getting their Christmas cards and unexpected correspondence. (One thing I often hear from guests is how they barely left the cottage during their visit, and want to come back to experience the rest of the area.)
My recommendations change with the seasons. I love sending people up Brockway for a view from the top, but my favorite is Bare Bluff. I probably start to ramble when I get a chance to share Isle Royale tips and stories.
Tell us about the coffee service you provide at North Shore Cottages.
Good coffee and warm nisu are longstanding hospitality traditions in the Keweenaw that we still share with our travelers. While you won’t get grandma’s nisu at the moment, we are sure to have the best coffee on hand, thanks to KCW! For almost 10 years now, I have been providing my guests with a welcome basket that includes KCW coffee. I carry all of their blends, but my personal favorite is Borealis Blend. Often I read in reviews how the departing guest had to stop at the KCW Roasterie on 5th street to pick up coffee for home because they loved it so much!
North Shore Cottages is a historic family-owned cottage retreat nestled against the shoreline of Lake Superior. In addition to their lovely accommodations, they provide thoughtful amenities like private chefs, yoga instruction, and even wedding planning. Find them on Instagram and at their website.
Photos courtesy of Bennett Media.