Pure Michigan is pure bliss, especially in the glorious fall season. Michigan’s lush green landscape gradually transforms into a rainbow of vibrant autumn hues. The popular fall foliage season begins in mid-September and typically peaks the first two weeks of October. But, you can still enjoy the season into early November, when the vibrant colors fade into muted shades before they fall to the ground. Throughout autumn you’ll also discover a wide variety of fun fall activities to experience, from wine tasting and apple picking to hiking and warm fires. Here are 7 fun fall activities in Southwest Michigan.
1. Taste Some Wine
Southwest Michigan is renowned for its delicious wines thanks to the perfect growing conditions. Plus, the ample supply of locally-grown fresh produce adds to the variety of flavors to savor. St Julian Winery, just 21 minutes from our Inn, has been making some of the finest wines, distilled spirits and ciders around for four generations. Warner Vineyards is the area’s second oldest winery, and they offer four tasting rooms located in Paw Paw, Holland, Marshall and South Haven. Learn more about the top wine tasting spots nearby.
2. Take a Drive
One cannot experience autumn without taking that iconic fall foliage drive. The abundance of hardwood trees here in Southwest Michigan, like elms, oaks and maples, provide the perfect ingredients for those vibrant colors. You will love driving along our beautiful country roads, by great Lake Michigan and inland, to take it all in. We have many suggestions for routes you can take, from a quick 1-hour jaunt to a half-day excursion.
3. Take a Hike
For those of you who would like to get up close and personal with mother nature’s annual transformation, we highly recommend hitting the trails. And we have a plethora of beautiful trails to trek, including on our very own 65-acre Castle grounds. Both Van Buren and Kal-Haven Trail State Parks offer wonderful trails and paths with scenic views of woods, farms, rivers and streams.
4. Pick Fresh Produce
Apples, pumpkins, and pears, oh my! Southwest Michigan boasts countless farms, markets and orchards for fresh apples, pumpkins, pears and more. What’s fall without apple or pumpkin pie? Start planning now to experience the fresh crisp air, the beautiful scenery, and the taste of fall.
5. Sip Fresh Cider
Southwest Michigan’s abundance of orchards also mean plenty of specialty cider. Virtue Cider House, just 29 minutes from the Castle, produces fine cider made with local apples, cherries, black currants, plums and pears. Aged in barrels, you’ll savor a range of subtle notes. They also offer curbside pick-up so you can bring some back to the Castle to enjoy in your room or by the fire.
6. Enjoy a Fire
At the Castle in the Country, you and your special someone can enjoy the warmth and romance of a flickering fire indoors and out. At our outdoor fire pit, curl up with a blanket and a hot cup of cocoa or apple cider as you listen to the night sounds and admire the twinkling stars. Or, if you’re looking for more privacy, our king suites feature gas fireplaces. Come relax, and experience the fall getaway of your dreams.
7. Experience the Extraordinary
Experience fall at our extraordinary Castle in the Country Bed and Breakfast in Southwest Michigan’s charming countryside. From gourmet breakfasts and spa treatments to 65 secluded acres and luxurious suites, we have everything you need for a fall getaway to remember!
These 7 fun fall activities in Southwest Michigan are just the tip of the iceberg! There’s no time like the present to start planning your fall getaway. Find your favorite room and reserve today. You will relish every moment you spend at Castle in the Country!