Experience a One-of-a-Kind Michigan Cabin Stay with Northern Lights Views and Rustic Charm by Lake Superior’s Shore

On the northern shore of Michigan’s remote Keweenaw Peninsula, adventurous travelers can find a unique blend of modern and rustic in a cluster of beautifully restored cabins within a short stroll of the rugged Lake Superior shore. In 2020, just before the COVID-19 outbreak shut down travel for months, Lynn and Jason Makela bought what was formerly Eagle Lodge and Lakeside Cabins, situated just outside of Copper Harbor, Michigan, which is hidden on Lake Superior’s shores and offers an affordable escape. Five years and a lot of blood, sweat, and tears later and the couple has transformed the former dilapidated lodge into nine cozy cabins and a beautiful suite ideal for catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

The couple, who met and married on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (also known as the U.P.) is actively continuing their work restoring Fresh Coast Cabins. The initial plan was to demolish all the old cabins that date back to the 1930s but, as their work started during the pandemic, the old cabins began to take on a new life and meaning. Rather than raze them, the Makelas decided to put in the work restoring them. Now, the restored cabins stand happily in the U.P. woods on the beaches of Lake Superior and offer a great jumping-off point for those hoping to experience one of America’s least-visited national parks: Isle Royale. 

The labor of love the Makelas took on in 2020 is starting to pay some dividends. Their restorative venture not only offers a great place to stay, but the couple is passionate about the touring and adventure opportunities found on the Keweenaw Peninsula and the U.P. in general. To encourage guests to get out and see their favorite place, they’ve compiled a series of digital trip guides meant to assist guests in experiencing the area around the cabins. From a suggested route for a U.P. road trip that will rival Michigan’s “tunnel of trees” drive through a fall foliage wonderland, to the best suggestions on when and where to see the Aurora Borealis, the Makelas have all the advice their guests might need to get out into the Keweenaw and take it all in.

And, of course, back at the cabins, they’ve done quite a lot to make any guest’s stay special. For instance, every Friday during the May-through-October season is designated at Superior Friday.This is an evening event where guests are encouraged to bring their favorite beverage and gather around a bonfire to enjoy each other’s company and some home-cooked wood-fired pizza. The retreat even offers a Finnish-style sauna experience where guests can relax and enjoy the sauna’s warmth while taking in views of the lake. This is also a great activity for visitors who stay at the cabins specifically to see the Northern Lights, which are most likely to be visible in the slightly chilly months of April, October, and November.