Davies Cottage on Parrott's Pointe

07/24/2023

A fun place while you are here.

This amazing restaurant is so worth the trip!

11/18/2022

Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas😍😋😍
Ingredients
2 cups pre-cooked rotisserie chicken
8 ounces cream cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 ounces green chilies
10 tortillas
20 ounces red or green enchilada sauce
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
De-bone chicken, and shred chicken into small pieces, if you don't have a rotisserie chicken you can use 3 to 4 cooked chicken breasts.
In a large skillet, combine chicken, cream cheese cubes, sour cream, chilies, chopped onion, seasonings, and 3/4 cup cheddar cheese. Heat until the cheeses are completely melted.
Coat baking pan with cooking spray. Scoop a heaping spoonful of chicken mixture onto tortilla, roll, and place it into the pan with seam side down.
Repeat until all of the filling is used. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas.
Sprinkle remaining cheese on top of enchiladas and bake at 350 uncovered for 20-25 minutes.

08/04/2022

Day trip to Charlevoix to visit the mushroom houses!

Here's a look inside this unusual house which was the first home Earl Young built more than 100 years ago.

08/04/2022

Worth sharing: Michigan residents are flocking north like never before this summer, their SUVs jammed with tents, bikes, coolers and kids.

It seems like some forgot to pack a few essential items: Patience, civility, gratitude.

In the past few weeks, MLive journalists have written about service staffs at northern Michigan establishments confronting aggressive and rude customers. In Charlevoix, one restaurant closed early during a popular local festival's fireworks night when patrons became abusive toward staff.

Days later, the management of Short’s Brewing in Bellaire issued a social media statement that literally said, "don’t be a jerk," with the standard set at "no tolerance" for anger and insults directed at employees.

"They said, 'If you can't be kind, we can't serve you,'" said Tanda Gmiter, who oversees travel coverage for MLive and is an expert on the northern Michigan tourism industry. "They were seeing not only rude behavior, but verbal insults to employees, screaming tirades, things that we would most likely associate with toddler temper tantrums."

Some of this can be traced back to COVID – and I don’t mean that it shorted out people’s "nice" gene (although, who knows?). The travel industry, particularly mom-and-pop operations, was throttled early in the pandemic by social and health restrictions.

When COVID slacked and travel picked up, flocks of tourists ran into businesses struggling with labor shortages, rising wages, supply-chain issues and soaring commodity prices. That’s why you see open tables while you wait an hour to be seated. That’s why that menu item you really have a hankering for is not available. That’s why you might get sticker shock when you see the bill.

Lindsay Moore, who covers economy and labor for MLive, has been writing about this unwieldy tangle of business complications throughout the pandemic. It’s not getting better, she notes.

"At the beginning of the summer Michigan's Restaurant and Lodging Association put out a survey – 80 percent of those surveyed said, 'We are understaffed.' And then half of those said, 'Because we're understaffed, we're cutting hours.'"

The staffing issues affect all businesses across Michigan, but those with seasonal surges are in a particularly tough spot. Moore last summer wrote a very illuminating package of stories on the lottery that large operations, like hotels on Mackinac Island, have to enter to get work visas for seasonal workers from abroad.

And when large operations like the Grand Hotel are clamoring for workers, the effects on the labor market roll downhill through the bars, restaurants and fudge shops. Add in a hostile work environment created by intemperate customers and you have an employment crisis.

"I just did a story about teenagers working and one of the first comments I got from teenagers networking is horror stories – of being yelled at, and being short staffed," Moore said. "And so why would you want your first job to be at a restaurant, right?"

You, the tourist, cannot do much to change the macroeconomics of the business environment right now. But Moore and Gmiter both encourage everyone to adjust their expectations before heading north.

Popular destinations – Mackinac Island, Tahquamenon Falls, Pictured Rocks, Traverse City – are seeing unprecedented numbers of visitors. Demand and prices are up for hotel rooms and AirBnBs; short-staffed restaurants have longer wait lists. Be prepared to go with Plan B, or simply take a chill pill and view the pleasant peninsula about you.

"If you're trying to get a full meal and excellent service in 25 minutes, you probably should hit that fast food restaurant down the road," Gmiter said. "If you want to wait, grab a beer, go outside on the patio and enjoy the nice weather. That's why you're there."


🎧 On this episode of our Behind the Headlines podcast, John Hiner talks with Tanda Gmiter and Lindsay Moore about testy tourists causing grief for northern Michigan business owners. They also discuss worker shortages and the general state of Michigan's tourism industry. Listen here on Spotify.

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John Hiner is the vice president of content for MLive Media Group. If you have questions you’d like him to answer, or topics to explore, share your thoughts at [email protected].



Editor's note: I value your feedback to my columns, story tips and your suggestions on how to improve our coverage. Let me know how MLive helps you, and how we can do better. Please feel free to reach out by emailing me at [email protected].

07/25/2022

Boyne Falls: Boyne Mountain. The zipline adventure at Boyne Mountain starts at the top of ski hill and sends you flying across the slopes, hitting speeds of 20-25 mph on lines up to 50 feet in the air and 780 feet in length. Tours run daily through the summer (but be sure to come back for the winter zipline tours, too). Find all the details at boynemountain.com.

Harbor Springs: The Highlands. The Highlands’ 2.5-hour Adventure Tour features a series of eight ziplines up to 50 feet long that deliver panoramic views at an elevation of 1,325 feet. The route starts at the top of the mountain then descends 50 stories through trees and across slopes for a thrilling ride. Full details at highlandsharborsprings.com/zip

A Zipline Adventure is an all-thrills, no-skills activity for adventure seekers. Fly through the clear Michigan air and see The Highlands from new heights.

07/03/2022

Hearty dinner in a rainy day.

06/07/2022

Fun ways to play right near the cottage!

Book your summer getaway today!

05/05/2022

Make sure you visit this natural attraction when staying at Davies Cottage! Listed as one of the Best Places to see the Northern Lights:
Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Headlands International Dark Sky Park was literally built to ensure a stunning, glittering night sky experience for visitors, and that includes auroras. Located on the Straits of Mackinac in northern Michigan, Headlands is a rustic paradise with 600 acres of old-growth forest and relatively no light pollution. Not only can you view the northern lights, but you can also learn about them. Free visitor programs and events are available at the waterfront center and in the observatory. Plus, the park is open 24 hours a day with no access fees.

05/02/2022

Excitement is building as the island prepares to welcome tourists back for the new season.

01/31/2022

OMGosh these are SOOOOOOOOO good!!!!!
Talk about taking pork chops to a whole new level, these were melt in your mouth delicious!
Parmesan Baked Pork Chops
4 boneless pork chops
1 T. olive oil
1 C. parmesan cheese (I used Kraft)
1 C. Italian bread crumbs
1 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. garlic powder
On a plate combine the last 4 ingredients. Rub the pork chops with olive oil and then dip (coat) each one in the cheese mixture. Press the mixture over the pork chops to make sure they are well covered in it. Line a pan with tin foil and spray with cooking spray. Place the pork chops on the pan and bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes.

01/30/2022

TWICE BAKED POTATO CASSEROLE🥔 🥓 🧀
https://ed.gr/dud3e

11/22/2021

Charlevoix Michigan Photo Contest

08/08/2021

Don’t miss these spots!

Between natural and untouched landscapes to a state park not at all far from bustling Detroit, Michigan islands are beautiful destinations you must add to your travel bucket list.

07/06/2021

⛽ Michigan landmarks to visit
If you’ve lived in Michigan for a long time, perhaps for your entire life, you’ve probably visited many of the state’s most popular landmarks. We have so many of them.

My personal favorites are the Mackinac Bridge -- which is always awe-inspiring, no matter how many times I see it -- and the Soo Locks (pictured above).

Here are some of the biggest Michigan landmarks you should definitely visit, if you haven’t already:

Mackinac Island
The historic island sits on Lake Huron near the Straits of Mackinac. It’s known for its fudge and horse-drawn carriages; no automobiles are allowed on the island.

The Grand Hotel, famous for its Victorian-era style and Fort Mackinac, a home of two major battles in the War of 1812, are just a couple of places to visit while you’re on the island.

Mackinac Island is also known as one of the most haunted places in Michigan. More on that here.

Tahquamenon Falls
One of the most beautiful things you’ll ever see - the Tahquamenon Falls on Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Photo does not have a caption
Locally known as the “Root Beer Falls” because of the brownish water and foam that flows from the falls, it’s the second tallest falls east of the Mississippi, just behind Niagara Falls.

They are located near Whitefish Bay, in the midst of a state park, with hiking paths, and even a restaurant at the top of the falls.

I visited the falls last summer and it was just so beautiful. The hiking paths around the falls are not too tough, as long as it’s not too muddy. You’ll definitely want some bug spray.

Isle Royale
The largest natural island in Lake Superior, only accessibly by boat, seaplane or ferry.

Isle Royale National Park is a remote island near Michigan’s border with Canada, featuring forests, waterways and wildlife, including wolves and moose. The Isle also offers adventures for backpackers, boaters and scuba divers. It’s the least visited national park in America.

Sleeping Bear Dunes
Located along the northwest coast of the Lower Peninsula, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a 35-mile long stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline.

It’s a great place to go camping with numerous campgrounds available. It was also recently named “Most Beautiful Place in America” by ABC. It’s also a winter destination for skiing, snowboarding and snowshoe fun.

Windmill Island
Located in Holland, Michigan - Windmill Island is home to the 251-year-old windmill De Zwaan, the only authentic Dutch windmill still operating in the U.S.

More than 50,000 visit the island every year. The park also features replicas of several historic Dutch buildings.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Located on the banks of Lake Superior between Munising and Grand Marais, this historic lakeshore will take your breath away.

Pictured Rocks kayaking.
Pictured Rocks kayaking. (WDIV)
Pictured Rocks offers the opportunity to explore miles of pristine beaches, hike over 100 miles of trails, and experience the serenity of the northern hardwood forest.

I took a trip up to Munising last year and kayaked some of the Pictured Rocks area -- it was stunning. The kayaking itself was rough -- Lake Superior is a beast. But it was worth the extensive workout.

Now it’s your turn!

07/04/2021

Which event will bring you to northern Michigan?

Year-round fun for everyone.

07/02/2021

Mullet Lake's Eagle Dad perched high in the treetop standing guard over the Indian River waterway. Swan families out for a swim feeding along the shore. Blue Heron out for an afternoon of fishing. Bring your kayak, paddle the channel, and enjoy the wildlife in their natural habitat.

07/02/2021

No, not granite countertops or stainless steel appliances. Just a cozy, rustic cottage that evokes memories of your up north childhood experiences. Scroll down to see the new firepit!

07/02/2021

Perfect day trip from Davies Cottage. Don't miss the Mushroom Cottages and quaint downtown

https://www.mlive.com/life/2021/07/small-northern-michigan-city-named-1-of-15-best-small-towns-to-visit-in-2021-from-smithsonian.html

Smithsonian says its list consists of places with locally owned shops, hidden gem parklands, historic sites and architecture and more.

07/01/2021

Great day trip from Davies Cottage across the Mighty Mackinac bridge to the UP to see the Shipwreck Museum and the lighthouse at Whitefish Pointe. Don't forget Tahquamenon Falls, too!

06/24/2021

Make your reservation now to Walk the Mac!

The popular walk, which was canceled last year due to the pandemic, is back for the 63rd time.

05/21/2021

Dates for summer 2021 are filling fast. We’d love to host you at Davies Cottage. What a fun thing to do while you are here.

One of the coolest ways to see Mackinac Island is from the water. This season's Sip n' Sail lineup has drinks, music and new cruises.

04/12/2021

Just across the bridge fro us! Great day trips for cyclists

These trails do not disappoint. ✅

04/11/2021

Hmmmmm. Gotta try this

When I was a little girl growing up in South East Texas, all the kids used to run out of nowhere when they hear the jingle jangle of the ice cream man coming down the road. We would all line up to get our favorite ice cream treats, Fudgesicles, Ice Cream Sandwiches, Nutty Buddies, and my very favori

03/23/2021

Planning to come north this summer? Bring your bike for this adventure. Make your reservation now. Dates at Davies Cottage are going fast! Contact us [email protected]

Whether you hike a portion or bike the entire loop, this trail is absolutely breathtaking.

03/13/2021

Reservations are pouring in. Memorial Day and Gourth if July are gone. Call now with your dates

Plan Your Trip

03/08/2021

Plan Your Trip

02/19/2021

Don't delay! If you are thinking about sitting on the deck or roasting marshmallows for smores this summer, book your stay for the 2021 season, now. We already are booked for Memorial Day Weekend, First week in June, and two weeks in July. Don't be disappointed! Act now

02/19/2021

Start thinking about sitting on the deck and enjoying this view this summer. Book your stay for the 2021 season, now. We already are booked for Memorial Day Weekend, First week in June, and two weeks in July. Don't be disappointed! Act now.

02/19/2021

This from our sister property in Ann Arbor:
ANN ARBOR AREA HOTEL WEEK
BOOK NOW FOR THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 21-26, 2021
Ann Arbor Area Hotel Week is taking place February 21-26, coinciding with Ann Arbor Restaurant Week.

For Ann Arbor Area Hotel Week, Davies House Inn is offering special rates, for a limited time, to coincide with Ann Arbor Restaurant Week. Don't miss out on these delicious deals!

For those interested in staying close to Downtown Ann Arbor restaurants and retail shops, you can find Davies House less than 3 miles from center city. Prefer easy highway access and transportation options for convenient travel? We have definitely have something for you, just 1/2 mile from the State Street exit of I 94 and just 3 blocks from Briarwood Mall. Find our exclusive rates for an enjoyable visit.

In accordance with area hotels' COVID-19 recommendations, we have implemented safety and sanitation protocols to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, including contactless check-in, mask requirements, temperature checks, social distancing, and hand sanitizers in each room.

Ann Arbor Restaurant Week: This year's Ann Arbor Restaurant Week is featuring fine dining lunch and dinner course menus, family meals to go, virtual demonstrations, and chef highlights. There are even vegan and vegetarian options available. Dine in or order takeout from award-winning Ann Arbor restaurants and try as many as your schedule allows! Davies House is happy to help you navigate the information about the menus available during Ann Arbor Restaurant Week.

February 21-26, 2021 is an especially exciting week to visit, with these delicious restaurant menus available for you to enjoy. We welcome you to enjoy the Ann Arbor Area all year long!