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From the beaches and docks of Duluth, Minnesota, Lake Superior looks as infinite and mighty as any sea. In fact, it isn’t all that different from the ocean. Thousand-foot cargo vessels do, after all, cross entire oceans to reach these waters, and they are certainly sights to see.
The lake, woods, and bluffs that surround Duluth make it a scenic spot for a quiet vacation. Whether you come to walk trails, take to the snow on skis or snowmobiles, or simply sit and watch the water rolling in, Duluth is a hub of rewarding activities.
The town sits on the edge of the North Shore, a particularly scenic corner of the Great Lakes region. Every autumn, the normally placid waters of the North Shore are frequently transformed into a frothing maelstrom due to high winds. This phenomenon, called the Gales of November, is truly something to behold.
These are just a few of the attractions in Duluth. To discover the intoxicatingly relaxing atmosphere of the North Shore, one must first find a fitting home. Here are 10 fine examples of Duluth rental properties near the water.
A wonderful mix of modern comforts and classic design, the Captain’s Quarters is an excellent base from which to explore Duluth. Located a few miles inland, the property is surrounded by precious natural wonders. There are trees of all sorts, a pond, and various bluffs and rocky outcroppings. Though built in this century, the home’s design gives it certain airs of old-world distinction. The brushes of luxury include radiant heating, the bluestone fireplace, and a spa bath attached to the master bedroom.
From the sunroom’s wood-burning fireplace to the grand piano in the living room, Hawthorne Manor has all the trappings of a grand home of yesteryear. The dining room is suitably extravagant and most rooms have fireplaces — relics of an age before central heating. On the other hand, the kitchen is fully modernized and topped with countertops of beautiful granite. Lake Superior is visible from many of the windows and reachable via a footpath. The manor has seven bedrooms and sleeps up to 14 guests, making it an ideal location for reunions of all kinds.
Built in 1860 to serve as a water pumping station in Duluth, this historic property is not for those afraid of getting their feet wet. Located right on the water because of its original purpose, the structure is no stranger to watery gales. Put out of service long ago, The Pumphouse is now a two-bedroom Vrbo rental with over 200 feet of lakefront property. The deck hangs over the lake and is an excellent spot to take in the water with your eyes and, when winds are high, other body parts. Other outdoor areas include a lakeside fire pit and dining area. This old brick building has been thoroughly modernized and can comfortably sleep five guests.
Seven Mile Beach is a lovely stretch of shoreline, as fine a beach town as any on the Great Lakes. This large home on the lake is likewise as good as any (and better than most). It is to be found on Minnesota Point, a long sand spit connecting two states. Just two blocks from Canal Park and the marvel that is Duluth’s Aerial Lift Bridge, this house is an excellent spot to observe the ocean-going ships that traverse the lake. Guests will be tempted to join the lake’s traffic by renting a kayak or boat from the nearby marinas. The home has a large kitchen, splendid outdoor areas, and direct access to the beach. There’s room for the whole family (and then some!) across the building’s four bedrooms.
This large log cabin overlooking Lake Superior is an excellent spot for groups looking to enjoy the pleasures of the upper Midwest. The three king bedrooms (and one double) are spread out across three different floors, providing privacy and comfort. The great room has high ceilings and broad windows from which to gaze out upon the lake. The cabin has many a comfortable corner, from the sun room to the traditional wooden sauna.
Couples that share a love for water, woods, and each other will doubtless enjoy this splendid home on the shores of the lake. Even when occupied by four people, the home is quite roomy. Though extra guests will have to forgo the comforts of the beautiful master bedroom on the third floor, the pull-out sofa in the living room is nonetheless cozy. Take in the water from the terrace or walk two blocks down the road to Brighton Beach. There is also a ground-level terrace complete with a firepit just a few feet from the water.
This single-story cottage offers a woodland respite from the pressures of the city. The 1-mile walk to the lake takes you through an 80-acre patch of forest. Another shorter path leads directly to the Sucker River and its succulent trout. Wildwood Cottage is a new construction built with accessibility in mind. It is decorated with the creations of local artists and has a calm atmosphere which matches that of the forest. Pleasant as the forest is, guests would be remiss not to take in the charms of Duluth, 20 minutes away by car.
Another excellent home on Minnesota Point (the razor-thin strip of land connecting Duluth to neighboring Wisconsin), this waterfront house has been host to innumerable memorable beach vacations since its completion in 1899. With a deck facing the lake and the waters of Superior Bay lapping right into your backyard, this home is perfect for those enamored with the lake lifestyle. The property includes a private dock and comes with kayaks and canoes. Inside, the building has the homey atmosphere of a 100-year-old cottage but has been fully modernized.
The small treasures found at this wooded property include a river, a private waterfall, and a sauna. Take advantage of all this while enjoying proximity to Duluth (the town is just a few minutes down the road). The home is just as inviting as the Talmadge River, which flows through the property before conjoining with Lake Superior. It has wood-paneled ceilings and pristine walls. Best of all, there’s room for the whole family across four bedrooms and a loft.
Ten miles from the heart of Duluth and the (usually) gentle waves of Lake Superior, this three-bedroom cabin is a welcome escape and a portal to the serenity that all travelers seek. The property is connected to hiking trails leading to the lake and nearby bluffs; similar trails are open in the winter for snowmobilers. The cabin has a welcoming atmosphere both inside and out, from the vaulted great room to the fire pit beneath the trees. There are two main bedrooms and a lofted area packed with five beds.
To discover even more things to do in and around Duluth, check out: