Photo courtesy of The Osthoff Resort
The Osthoff Resort
Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2020, this stunning lakeside resort has become an annual tradition for so many families who love gathering by the fireplace in the lobby’s cozy Elk Room and taking advantage of the myriad indoor and outdoor activities available. You can take a cooking class, enjoy farm-to-table meals at the beautiful Lola’s on the Lake and swim in the indoor pool all year round.
Summer is all about the lake and private beach, while winter revolves around the extraordinary Old World Christmas Market. Gorgeous during any season, the Osthoff is a special place that feels so much like home, you’ll wish it were.
Photo courtesy of The Osthoff Resort
Aspira Spa
Aspira means “infused with spirit,” and this tranquil spa pays homage to the Native Americans who lived on the lake, creating a sacred foundation for a journey of the mind, body and spirit.
That reverence for nature and the Indigenous people is evident in the thoughtfully-designed space and treatments. Start your visit in the lovely Meditation Sanctuary before giving yourself over to the nurturing hands of the skillful therapists, whether they’re pampering you with the Wild Chamomile/Ancient Cedar Pedissage, the centuries-old Moroccan Hammam or the Balneotherapy Bath in ChromoTub.
End your stay with a healthy lunch or smoothie at the Spa Café, and leave content and satiated.
Photo courtesy of Elkhart Lake Tourism
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
One of only eleven National Scenic Trails in the country, this thousand-mile footpath highlights a unique landscape which was sculpted by a huge flow of glacial ice more than 12,000 years ago.
Considered the best place in the world to see certain glacial features like drumlins and eskers, the trail lies entirely within Wisconsin and is a great place to hike, backpack and snowshoe. Although the trail itself is only half complete, it gives you a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the Badger State and connect with other people, communities and yourself.
Photo courtesy of Elkhart Lake Tourism
Two Fish Gallery and Sculpture Garden
Leave some room in your suitcase because, once you step inside ceramicist Patrick Robison’s easily recognized, colorful Mission-style bungalow, you’ll want to bring home pieces from his lovingly curated collection of fine craft, fine art and fair trade works.
Robison doesn’t just support handmade art, though. He creates it – and he teaches others how to create, as well. Pick up some of his stoneware, bird houses or garden sculptures to adorn your own space. And, if you’re spending an extended period of time in Elkhart Lake, take a class with him to hone your own creativity and get your hands dirty.
