Chateau Chantal Bed and Breakfast
by
Terry Sullivan
Summary: Chateau Chantal is a true agri-tourism destination for wine enthusiasts. Surrounded by vineyards with views of Grand Traverse Bay, the winery and Bed & Breakfast lie at the summit overlooking wonderful scenery.
Chateau Chantal Winery and Bed & Breakfast could well be a poster child for the agri-tourism destination movement. They have one of the most picturesque settings on Michigan’s Old Mission Peninsula. From the winery and Bed & Breakfast, visitors can view the blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay, the vibrant green leaves of the surrounding vineyards and depending on the time of year, the greens, yellows and purples of grapes. This wine destination demands a camera for all the photo opportunities.
The Bed & Breakfast Rooms
The Bed & Breakfast is adjacent and connected to the winery facility. In 1993 there were three rooms, a decade later the number of rooms was increased to eleven. Most of the rooms are master suites. These include a sitting area, refreshment corner, master bedroom and private bathroom, many with Jacuzzi tubs. The individual rooms are named after different artists. Reproductions of the artist’s works hang in the sitting area and the bedroom. Artists include Van Gogh and Monet. The decor of the rooms match the colors used in the art. As a result each of the eleven rooms is different and each visit can bring a new experience.
The rooms offer spectacular views of the vineyards and Grand Traverse Bay. Some of the rooms have a walk out patio, making an ideal spot to enjoy a late afternoon or evening glass of wine. Other rooms have a balcony overlooking this stunning setting. Because Old Mission Peninsula juts out into Grand Traverse Bay, some of the rooms face east and visitors have views of beautiful sunrises over the bay, while other rooms face west offering views of sunsets over the water.
Hospitality Room
Breakfast is held in the large brightly lit dining area called the Hospitality Room. Views of the vineyards and water add to the cozy ambiance of this area. Off to a corner of the dining area there is a sitting area with fireplace and library. This is a nice spot to take the chill off cooler days and enjoy some reading, or a nap next to a fire. In addition to hosting the guests at the Bed and Breakfast, the Hospitality Room also serves as a setting for special events such as the Tapas Tours, Jazz at Sunset concerts and wine dinners.
The Hospitality Room has a full open kitchen. Caterers will find everything they need here. The kitchen and Hospitality Room are the location for the occasional cooking classes offered. Chef Nancy Allen, an expert culinary teaching professional provides cooking classes that include ways to become a better cook. These classes last approximately five hours. Special cooking and lodging packages are available. Cooking classes are listed on the winery’s Calendar of Events.
Other Events
Corporate retreats can be hosted at the Bed & Breakfast. Small weddings with 42 or fewer guests can book the Bed & Breakfast. According to zoning regulations, people attending a wedding must stay at the Bed & Breakfast during the evening. This is a wonderful idea and is a dream venue for small weddings.
Vineyards, Grand Traverse Bay, wine and relaxing upscale accommodations await travelers to Chateau Chantal on Michigan’s Old Mission Peninsula.
Read about the Chateau Chantal Winery on the Wine Trail Traveler site.
Chateau Chantal Bed and Breakfast
15900 Rue de Vin
Traverse City, Michigan 49686
GPS: N44° 55.218' W85° 30.119'
