Elvyn Lea Lodge Kicks off Second Season with June Nature and Arts Weekends & Events: Historic Property Near Walloon Lake Becomes New Northern Michigan Group Destination
Boyne City, Michigan (PRWEB) May 07, 2015 -- Elvyn Lea Lodge kicks off its second season with June nature and arts themed weekends and scheduled group events and retreats all year. The lodge will host a Weekend in Nature on June 6-7, to feature a bird walk through Elvyn Lea woods on Sunday morning guided by the Petoskey Regional Audubon Society. Guests will also enjoy the many recreational opportunities available in the area, including kayaking, cycling, and hiking.
The "Gathering of Friends" on June 27-28 presents an opportunity for artists and arts enthusiasts to enjoy a weekend together in northern Michigan, listening, learning, and relaxing in the informal setting at Elvyn Lea Lodge. Featured storytellers Woodsmoke Jim and Riverlark Mary Couling will lead discussion and activities, to include tips and guidance for aspiring storytellers as well as evening stories around the campfire. Open mic music is planned for Saturday. Those wanting to perform or share their craft during this special weekend are encouraged to contact Elvyn Lea as soon as possible for details.
The event coincides with the SOBO Arts Festival in Boyne City, and visiting SOBO artist Sarah Tule will wrap up the weekend with a beginning watercolor workshop on Sunday morning. Guests will have plenty of time to walk the trails on the 44 acre property and enjoy amenities in nearby Walloon Village and Boyne City.
In addition to special events, the lodge hosts planned visits by clubs, associations, families, and groups of friends and colleagues. "We operate as a retreat center rather than a daily use hotel," explains owner Michael Farrier, who purchased the property in 2013 with wife Monica. "Our main focus is hosting groups with a shared interest or purpose." While a five room minimum is normally required, the lodge will open its doors to individual lodgers during the June special event weekends. "We want to introduce new guests to Elvyn Lea and help them experience the best of northern Michigan," says Monica Farrier. "These two special weekends showcase the natural beauty and rich pool of artistic talent that we have available in the Walloon and Boyne City area."
Originally called The Village Inn, the lodge was originally constructed in the 1950s to house ski groups, and the new owners have been renovating, yet preserving the historic charm. Inside, the atmosphere is true northern Michigan, with a huge central fireplace as the focal point in the main lounge and log-beamed ceilings overhead. Some bunk beds have been replaced with new queen and king size beds, now outfitted with cozy fleece and flannel bedding. Other improvements include the addition of high speed Internet and AV equipment for presentations, new carpet and furnishings, and a fresh coat of paint. An upgraded kitchen provides meals with a new emphasis on local foods. Many ingredients are sourced from area farmers and Elvyn Lea's own garden.
With the popularity of food and wine exploding in the area, culinary events and agritours present new opportunities for group visitors. The lodge accommodates both self-guided and motor coach tours, with ample space for bus parking on site. "After visiting area farms, farmers markets, and wineries, guests return here in the evening for a special meal prepared with fresh local ingredients," says Monica Farrier. She is among the eager shoppers who flock regularly to the Boyne City Farmers Market, one of the best in northern Michigan. Local eggs and produce are on the breakfast menu at the lodge, which also hosts special meals with a farm market theme. A highlight of the summer here will be the annual Friends Farm Meal, a fundraiser for the Boyne City Farmers Market, to be held this year at Elvyn Lea on July 25.
The new owners plan to expand offerings to include weekend workshops and events with visiting artists and teachers, beginning with art and writing programs in the fall. __title__ Lodging & Events] and weekends with snowshoeing and live music all winter.
Elvyn Lea Lodge hosts special events and provides customized retreats and experiences for groups in an authentic northern Michigan Lodge setting. The historic lodge offers event services and group accommodations in a private wooded setting near Walloon Lake. The 44 acre property is located on M75 where Walloon Village meets Boyne City.
Monica Farrier
Elvyn Lea Lodge
231-535-2475
elvynlea(at)gmail(dot)com
http://www.elvynlea.com
http://www.facebook.com/elvynlea
Monica Farrier, Elvyn Lea Lodge, http://www.elvynlea.com, +1 (231) 535-2475, [email protected]
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