Explore Canoe Bay Resort: A Hidden Gem in Wisconsin

Canoe Bay is a luxury resort near Chetek, Wisconsin (roughly six hours northwest of Chicago). This serene destination allows couples to put reality on hold for an unforgettable romantic getaway. Designed by a couple, Canoe Bay is situated on three private lakes, encompassing 280 lush wooded acres. Each accommodation features personal whirlpools, fireplaces, and decks, considered essential amenities. As the Midwest’s sole Relais & Châteaux property, the resort ensures guests experience an astonishing amount of peace: it does not allow children or pets, the rooms are free of phones, and cell phone reception is sparse.

Accommodations at Canoe Bay

Select from Canoe Bay’s private cottages, designed with inspiration from the architectural style of Frank Lloyd Wright. The cottages feature natural materials such as wood and stone, spacious decks overlooking the lake, floor-to-ceiling fireplaces, wine cellars, and oversized beds. The eco-friendly rooms utilize hardwood flooring from sustainable forests and cabinetry crafted from recycled wood. Other lodging options include Lakeside Spa cottages equipped with a sauna, Jacuzzi bath, and two-headed shower; or a cozy guest room in the Inn or Lodge. Enhance your stay with in-room massages and indulge in breakfast and lunch served in your room.

Dining Options at Canoe Bay

Canoe Bay’s exclusive restaurant offers organic three-course, prix-fixe menus, with dishes changing nightly. Guests might enjoy herb-crusted Chilean sea bass with chardonnay sauce or grilled New York strip. The restaurant features a selection of 700 different wines, with no hard alcohol served. Most ingredients are either grown in the resort’s on-site garden or sourced from local providers.

Breakfast and lunch options include a variety of omelets, baked goods, fruit for breakfast, and gourmet sandwiches or a cheese plate with homemade cookies for lunch. Beverages such as beer, wine, and sodas are available for order.

Romantic Amenities

Although Canoe Bay does not host weddings, it provides an enticing environment for couples seeking a romantic retreat. Enjoy candlelit dinners, including a private dining experience for two in the restaurant’s wine cellar, and tree-lined hiking paths perfect for leisurely strolls. Visit Mallard Lake, relax in Adirondack chairs, and immerse yourself in the tranquil sounds of nature—birds chirping and leaves rustling in the breeze. Romance packages at Canoe Bay can include special touches like flowers in the room, intimate dinners with wine, and breakfast served in bed.

Nearby Activities

Exploration offers many engaging activities away from your cozy retreat. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the award-winning Turtleback golf course, featuring a prairie-style clubhouse located in Rice Lake, a short 40-minute drive from Canoe Bay. Closer options include the nine-hole Sioux Creek golf course along a scenic river, just about 20 minutes away. Fishing for walleye and other game fish in Chetek’s chain of lakes is popular, alongside cross-country skiing, biking, and hiking in the nearby Blue Hills Trail, around 30 minutes from the resort.

Is Canoe Bay Right for You?

Canoe Bay embodies the ideal retreat for those who envision their “happy place.” This adults-only sanctuary invites guests to disconnect from daily stress, creating a serene escape away from kids and pets. With several spots for romance, such as evening canoe rides to stargaze or cozy in-room massages by the fireplace, Canoe Bay ensures a memorable experience. Guests seeking to catch up on communication will find a computer in the resort’s library, complemented by a selection of books and magazines.

Downsides to Canoe Bay

Reaching Canoe Bay can pose some challenges, requiring a car and careful navigation. To maintain the resort’s secluded and peaceful atmosphere, directions are only provided upon securing a reservation. Driving time to Canoe Bay is approximately two hours from Minneapolis and six hours from Chicago. Keep the directions handy; the roads can be winding after leaving the main highways. Additionally, private planes can access Rice Lake Airport, about 40 minutes from Canoe Bay, with rental cars available for ease of travel.

Contact Information

Canoe Bay
P.O. Box 28
Chetek, WI 54728
Phone: 800-568-1995

As is common in the travel industry, the writer received complimentary services for review purposes. While this has not influenced this review, GoTravelDaily believes in full transparency regarding any potential conflicts of interest. Please see our Ethics Policy for more information.