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When you head straight north in Wisconsin and end up somewhere north of Rhinelander but south of the UP, you end up in a region of the state absolutely chock full of lakes and gorgeous scenery. The Land O’ Lakes region is one of the most remote, most relaxing and most beautiful parts of the state. It’ll take you a while to get there, but the payoff is being in one of the most laid back places where you can’t do anything but slow down and unwind.
About 40 miles north of Rhinelander, less than 20 miles from the Michigan border, you’ll find Star Lake. More than 1,200 acres and very clear, it’s the perfect place for a family getaway. There are a million ways to enjoy the water and some totally amazing fishing here. And sat alongside the shores is one of the coolest historical inns in the state. North Star Lodge dates back to 1895 and is the perfect place for you and your family to kick back, relax, and spend some quality time.
First a retreat for railroad and lumber company officials, this spot became Oliver Lodge and eventually, in 1945, North Star Lodge.
Located on the last stop for Pullman cars on the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul's branch line from New Lisbon to the Northwoods of Wisconsin, the lodge was a popular summer retreat location.
According to the lodge's website, "Salsich, Williams, and Company of McKenna, Wisconsin, bought land here and moved its mills to Star Lake when the railroad was completed in 1895... Soon Star Lake became the hub for a network of rail lines that branched out into numerous work camps... However, all the bustle of the logging industry was short lived. Lumber company trains were quieted as the last log, with a flag draped over it, was cut on August 9, 1908. The trains were now to carry passengers from the cities to this ideal getaway in the north country."
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The lodge was one of quiet elegance. You'd find three sit-down meals a day including an elaborate dinner, masquerades, electricity in the cottages and more. Guests gathered in the main building or on the porch to watch the sunset.
In some ways, little has changed in that manner. The large fireplace is still a draw for guests to come in and enjoy the cozy warmth after a day outdoors. The main lodge is the one lumbermen built back then and it's chock full of interesting architectural details and historic photographs.
The sunsets are as breathtaking as ever and the view out over the lake and its untouched beauty is the perfect frame for the show. Sit on the porch or the beach or the pier and relax after a long, hard day of having fun. Sip a drink, unwind and take in the beauty of this part of the state.
This is a family-run business that invites you and yours to become part of the clan when you visit. The accommodations here are vast and range from year-round villas that can sleep ten down to the rooms in the main building for two. Bring some friends or your big family, these folks can accommodate you.
There is a beach and access to the lake right on site. In warmer months, enjoy boating, water-skiing, fishing, swimming, hiking, sailing, cycling, golf, kayaking. Or head up in fall to enjoy the changing leaves. In winter, snowmobile, cross-country ski, snowshoe, and more. This delightful lodge is the perfect way to unwind and relax and all around you'll feel the elegance and prestige of 125 years of history.
