By Theresa DeMaria
Writer was Hosted
Stepping off the ferry onto Mackinac Island, I felt instantly transported to a more gracious era. The clip-clop of horses’ hooves and wafting scent of fudge set the stage for my discovery of the newly renovated Inn at Stonecliffe. After a magical horse-drawn carriage ride along the island’s perimeter, I arrived at this 1904 mansion, recently transformed by a stunning $30 million renovation that perfectly balances historic charm with modern luxury.
Overall Impressions
The Inn at Stonecliffe spans 15 breathtaking acres atop Mackinac Island’s West Bluff, offering unmatched views of the Straits of Mackinac. During my stay, I discovered a property that goes beyond typical luxury accommodations – from its meticulously landscaped gardens to its new bee hives supporting farm-to-table dining, every detail reflects thoughtful stewardship by the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation.
- Breathtaking water views from multiple vantage points
- Three distinct accommodation options for different needs
- Outstanding farm-to-table dining experiences
- Beautiful grounds with gardens and orchards
- All profits support charitable initiatives
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For Whom Best Suited
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Perfect for:
- Luxury travelers seeking an authentic island experience
- Couples planning destination weddings or romantic getaways
- Families wanting spacious accommodations with kitchen access
- Wellness enthusiasts who appreciate organic gardens and farm-to-table dining
May not suit:
- Budget-conscious travelers
- Those seeking a high-energy atmosphere
- Guests who prefer immediate access to downtown shops
SheBuysTravel Tips:
- Book an afternoon arrival time to experience one of the most scenic carriage rides on the island. The late-day sun creates perfect photo opportunities of the Straits of Mackinac during your journey to the Inn.
- Some historic rooms in the mansion lack modern amenities like minibars and USB portals, booking in the Summerhouse might be more your speed so be sure to ask when booking.
- Because this property is a popular wedding venue, it may impact peaceful atmosphere
- For the best value and experience, consider visiting mid-week during shoulder season (early June or late September). You’ll enjoy lower rates, fewer wedding parties, and more personalized attention, plus the gardens and apple orchards are especially beautiful during these times.
Accommodations
The renovation created three distinct lodging experiences. I explored the 16-room historic mansion with its Straits Suite, the modern 32-room Summer House with convenient kitchenettes, and three private cottages offering residential-style retreats.
Mansion rooms feature:
- Fine Linens, robes and slippers
- Period furnishings with elegant updates
- Stunning water views
- Luxurious bathrooms
Authentic Victorian architecture
Summer House:
- Family-friendly layouts
- Garden views
- Modern amenities
- Family friendly pool is adjacent to building
Private Cottages:
- Three Spacious Bedrooms, charming decor
- Grocery delivery available
- Perfect for families wanting to cook
- Porches with breathtaking views of The Straights
Dining
The culinary journey was exceptional and included three distinctive venues that showcase local ingredients and island flavors.
The Straits:
- Fine dining with water views
- Local specialties like Eagle Creek Farm trout and fresh berry deserts
- Outdoor patio seating option
- Exceptional wine selection
The Backyard:
- Wood-fired pizzas
- Casual, outdoor atmosphere (heat lamps are on-hand)
- Daily specials
- Perfect for families
Horsey’s:
- Craft cocktails
- Relaxed, charming environment
- Light fare options
- Sunset views
Amenities
The renovation added numerous luxury touches while preserving the property’s historic character.
Recreational features:
- Two pools (including one adults-only)
- Private cabanas
- Bike pavilion with rentals
- Garden hammocks for relaxing
- Fire pits on the Straits Lawn
- State of the art gym facility
Event spaces:
- New 3,000-square-foot Sunset Pavilion
- Outdoor BBQ pavilion
- Wedding areas
- Private dining areas
What’s Nearby
The Inn’s location provides easy access to island attractions while maintaining peaceful seclusion.
Within reach:
- Miles of biking trails
- Historic landmarks
- Natural geological formations
- Victorian village with many shops and resturants
- Waterfront vistas
Safety Features
As a solo female traveler, I appreciated the property’s comprehensive security measures.
Safety amenities include:
- 24/7 staff presence
- Well-lit pathways and hallways in buildings
- Secure access to all buildings
- On-call transportation
- Private entrance pathway
Getting There
The journey to Stonecliffe adds to its charm and requires some planning.
Local Transportation options:
- Horse-drawn carriage service (recommended)
- Bicycle rentals available
- Walking path from downtown
- Luggage transfer service
- Property can arrange private carriages
SheBuysTravel Tips:
- For a faster trip to Mackinac Island, consider flying into Pelston Regional airport.
- Book your shuttle from the airport to the ferry launch ahead of time.
- I used Shepler’s Ferry and loved it. It was clean, safe and the staff were professional, educational and made it fun!
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