Covering the Somewhere in Time Festival on Mackinac Island, Michigan, provided us with an opportunity to make a side trip driving around Lake Erie during the prettiest time of the year.

Keeping with the romantic theme of the movie, we started our Somewhere in Time motor journey in the honeymoon capital of Niagara Falls, and visited the romantic village of Niagara on the Lake before heading west for a nostalgic stop in Erie, Pennsylvania.

The marvelous Great Lakes

Our itinerary took us all along Lake Erie and Lake Huron on country roads that put us through towns and villages in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Michigan, as well as the province of Ontario, Canada.

We planned to write reviews on each of the places we stayed, but only if we could recommend the stops to our readers. Fortunately, our research paid off, and every destination and property we picked was different and delightful. This is our fourth article in the Somewhere in Time road trip series.

Welcome to northern Ohio

Our second night on the road was spent in Huron, Ohio, which is situated on the shores of the Western basin of Lake Erie. We had heard about a B&B in the town of Huron that had an interesting history and a reputation for being a lovely romantic getaway. It’s name is Captain Montague’s and it is well worth a visit.

Built in 1876, the famous house exudes turn of the century luxury and charm. The five guestrooms are large and well appointed, as are the parlor, sitting and dining rooms. The atmosphere is warm and cozy. Innkeepers Mike and Judy Tann are ideal hosts and made us feel like we were visiting old friends in Ireland.

We arrived late in the afternoon, and after unpacking, we headed into town to get some dinner. Judy and Mike recommended a family style restaurant that we found worthy of mention – Berardi’s in Huron. Be sure to try the Cabbage and Noodles with Grilled Kielbasa. Yum.

We returned to the inn to find several of the guests gathered in the drawing room reading and sharing travel stories. The conversation was lively, and before long, it was time for bed.

After a good night’s sleep, we enjoyed another opportunity to chat with the other guests over a nicely prepared and impeccably presented breakfast.

When breakfast was finished, we took a brisk walk along Huron’s fabulous mile-long fishing pier, and strolled among the boats in the municipal basin. We also found the Huron Playhouse – Ohio’s oldest summer theatre, featuring five productions per season.

Coaster rider’s paradise

For the more adventurous types, nearby Sandusky’s Cedar Point Amusement Park has 17 (yes, seventeen) roller coasters. That is more roller coasters in one place than anywhere else on the planet.

If you live in the area and are interested in a romantic weekend getaway – or are on vacation and driving along the picturesque southern shore of Lake Erie – we recommend Captain Montague’s as the ideal place to relax and recharge. Room rates are very reasonable, especially considering they include an incredible breakfast. Check their website at http://captainmontagues.com/index.html or call (800) 276-4756.

Happy travels.

© Travels with Wayne and Judy (syndicated)
Photos © Wayne and Judy Bayliff