Couples who escape to Castle in the Country are looking to relax and longing to find quiet and romantic nights away from the busyness of the city or the suburbs. But, after they arrive here, spend a night or two relaxing and taking advantage of all the amenities of our great rooms, experiencing the amazing food, and enjoying the fun activities right here on- site, they’re ready to venture out beyond the Castle Kingdom and our Innkeepers are always ready to give them great suggestions for the best things to do in Southwest Michigan to explore and experience within an easy driving distance of the Inn.
Located within a scenic 30 mile drive, the local towns of Holland, Saugatuck/Douglas, South Haven and Kalamazoo offer a variety of boutique and antique shops, outdoor cafes and beautiful parks. Don’t forget to savor the day and wrap up your daytime adventure with a romantic walk on the beach.
Outdoor Adventure Experiences
Stairs to Mt. Baldhead
Push yourself for an exhilarating climb up 302 stairs to the summit of Mt. Baldhead and enjoy a rewarding view of Saugatuck/Douglas and the Kalamazoo Lake.
Take a Dune Ride on the Dune Schooners through the picturesque and sandy dunes on the shore of Lake Michigan in Saugatuck. An informed driver will cruise you through the slopes and valleys and happily tell you about the surrounding woodlands-natural habitats of many forms of wildlife.
Biking on the nearby Kal-Haven Trail will take you on a tree-lined path out to the Lake Michigan shore in South Haven. For a shorter route, ask our Innkeepers. If you’re an avid bicyclist bringing your own bike, then contact us at info@castleinthecountry.com. We’ll help you put together a customized cycling trip. For advice from our resident Owner and avid bicyclist, check out Herb’s bike route suggestions.
Golf lovers at Castle in the Country are in luck as there are 4 golf courses near our Inn: Lynx, Cheshire Hills, Clearbrook, and Ravines. We are always happy to assist in setting up tee times.
Foodie Experiences Galore
There are dozens of places to find the finest farm to table foods made with ingredients that are both locally grown and in season – making for a “foodie” couple’s paradise all within a 30 mile radius of our Inn.
- Butch’s is located in Holland and the 30 minute drive brings you to the perfect fine dining experience for any romantic occasion.
- Salt of the Earth in Fennville is a 20 minute drive to an easygoing atmosphere with an amazing menu, prepared for you from scratch upon order.
- Four Roses in Plainwell is a 20-25 minute drive and features an ever-changing menu that is based upon whichever ingredients the chef was able to find at the market that morning. They also feature a Dessert Menu that is nothing short of AMAZING.
- Maude’s Tap House in Otsego is 10-minute drive. Find an impressive variety of local and non-local craft beers on tap. Pair one with delicious yet simple food.
- The Grill House in Allegan is located just 5 minutes down the road from us. They have two restaurants, including a casual lounge area with pub food. However, they are really known for their steak. You choose your favorite cut of meat and then grill it on their giant grill.
Many of our local restaurants serve craft beer and wine from breweries and vineyards in the area. Be sure to ask your server to “re-cork” your bottle of wine. They also offer growlers of local craft beer or hard cider to take back to the Inn.
Wineries, Brew Pubs and Cider House Experiences
During the day, visit our local wineries, breweries and cider houses. You’ll enjoy tasting samples and taking a fun and informative tour.
Wineries & Cider Houses:
Craft Beer Breweries
- Bell’s Brewery
- The Beer Exchange
- New Holland Brewing Company
- Saugatuck Brewing Company
- Old Mill Brew Pub and Grill
Have a wonderful time on your day trip outing from Castle in the Country! We promise to have a wonderful room waiting for you when you return!