As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
When looking for unique places to stay in Minnesota, the sky is the limit. From treehouses and waterfront cabins to futuristic geodomes and castles in the woods, it’s easy to make your wildest travel dreams a reality! Our latest obsession and the most unexpected rental to add to your Minnesota vacation bucket list? Lighthouses. Minnesota may lack an ocean-front coastline, but it certainly has plenty of lakefront to enjoy – and with it, a handful of historic lighthouses that offer views for days. Of course, these magnificent structures are typically only open for tours – not weekend getaways. Thankfully, one fantastically creative couple in Burtrum, Minnesota, thought our landlocked mid-state needed a lighthouse too – and an overnight stay in this beautiful home might just make you forget all about the beach.
If you're looking for a secluded, nautical escape without the drive to Minnesota's North Shore, Burtrum likely isn't the first place that comes to mind. But it should be! This tiny, quiet town near Upsala and Buck Lake exudes quiet charm and is wonderfully secluded from the buzz of the city.
Lovingly designed, modeled, and built by hand by the Lange family, the Stoney Ridge Lighthouse was a true labor of love that was completed in June 2022.
In addition to locally-sourced and upcycled materials, numerous coastal-inspired touches create a homey haven that feels absolutely dreamy in this landlocked slice of Minnesota.
Details include a 250-pound tree stump that was converted into a table, wood flooring sourced from an old church nearby, handcrafted wood furniture and portholes, and even a magnificent compass painted on the floor so that you never lose your sense of true North.
Full-sized bathrooms, a spacious kitchen, modern heating and cooling, and tasteful details will make your stay unbelievably cozy - even in harsh Minnesota winters. Of course, the on-site hot tub helps too!
The craftsmanship at Stoney Ridge is second to none, inside and out. Every finishing touch is carefully planned, like the stunning chandelier that beckons guests up, up, up to the top of the lighthouse.
You'll be climbing over 50 feet and up around 80 stairs. So be prepared with some stamina!
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A stunning spiral staircase leads you up the increasingly narrow lighthouse tower, which opens at intervals to a variety of bedrooms. There's space to sleep 12 comfortably here, but larger parties will find room as well.
Sunny sitting nooks on the top floors are the perfect place to curl up with a good novel (Moby Dick, perhaps?) and some hot chocolate! The views just get better and better as you climb, though, so be sure to take a peek through the porthole windows to drink in the beauty outside.
Finally, the crow's nest and veranda offers 360-degree views of pure Minnesota. In fall, a veritable ocean of brilliantly colored foliage stretches into the distance, although every season has plenty of beauty to showcase.
While you won't see any Atlantic waves lapping at the shore, glimmering lake water beckons like its own private island in the distance. Catch a sunrise, sunset, or even stargaze from here. No matter the season, the view is hard to beat!
Better yet? The grounds are just as beautiful as the interior at this magnificent lighthouse. The home is surrounded by dense woods on all sides, as well as easy access to Rock Lake. Guests can take advantage of nearby scenic strolls through the nearly 500 acres of trees and enjoy the provided paddleboats and kayaks if they choose. Going for a dip takes only a short walk down to the water.
Is there anything more dreamy than a lakeside lighthouse immersed in the trees!? If you’re ready to take your next getaway to new heights, this is the place for you!
For more details or to book a stay at this incredible Minnesota retreat, check out the official Stoney Ridge VRBO listing. Looking for more things to do in Minnesota? These 10 easy hikes are perfect for exploring new corners of the state!
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