The Churchill Pointe Inn is a seasonal B&B located on northeast Michigan’s second largest lake. When we called for reservations, we never anticipated the special considerations that would be made to facilitate our visit.

We had heard that innkeepers Don and Sharon Geib were terrific hosts who operated a popular, albeit remote summer resort. The property was reputed to be situated on a quiet lake, in a most spectacular setting. Everything we heard was true.

About Hubbard Lake

The lake is seven miles long and two and one half miles wide, and has 21 miles of beautiful wooded shoreline. There are two marinas on the lake, but innkeeper Don told us that even in the height of the summer there are never more than a handful of boats visible from the Inn.

Hubbard is known for its fabulous walleye fishing. In addition, the four-season lake also boasts large populations of trout, bass, pike, perch, and tiger muskie. As one old-time Michigan resident confided, “If you can’t catch fish in Hubbard Lake, better take up golf.” Speaking of golf – there are three public courses within easy driving distance.

The small town of Hubbard Lake is at the north end of the scenic lake where tourists can find a general store, bank, motel, two taverns, a gas station, three restaurants, and a small library – all within the general vicinity.

The historic inn

Churchill Pointe Inn opened in 1926, and much remains the same. As it was back then, the property is nestled among fresh smelling pines, and stands on a peninsula between two picturesque bays. The lakeside building has eight-second floor rooms and one suite.

Each of the comfy guest rooms is fastidiously clean and decorated in warm harvest colors. The rooms are large, and the bathrooms are small, but adequate. There is an air of Michigan country living throughout. The atmosphere is genuine serenity.

One can easily imagine warm summer days with couples lounging on the spacious veranda enjoying an unobstructed view of the lake – with a favorite beverage in hand.

There is a gift shop with the essentials on premises, and a spacious well stocked bar adjoining the dining room. The abundance of public and private space makes the Inn an interesting option for couples planning a wedding.

The Inn has 300 feet of excellent dock space for visiting boaters and a well-maintained 24-foot motorized pontoon boat that is available as a rental for guests of the Inn.

The locals come for the food

The Inn is about 20 miles south of the town of Alpena – and there isn’t much in between – so it is a true compliment that the Inn’s restaurant and bar does a booming business in season. The Inn is THE place to eat in the area – and for good reason.

The dining room has wide windows on three sides and faces the picturesque lake. The elegant linen clad tables are a surprisingly good fit with the traditional rustic cedar walls and ceiling – craftily melding the past and present. The overall ambiance is easy comfort.

Sharon and Don are most fortunate to have a talented chef in the family. Their son Andrew grew up in the hospitality industry. During our visit, he prepared an exquisite dinner that was worthy of acclaim in any setting.

The Inn’s menu reflected the location and relaxed atmosphere of the lake. Our choice of starter was a succulent French onion soup – possibly the best we have ever tasted. We chose seafood for our main course. The shrimp and local walleye and perch were all delightful, and prepared to perfection. The presentation was picture perfect.

Then there was breakfast

A stay at the Inn includes breakfast – and what a wonderful selection of goodies awaits the hungry guest. Served in the sunny dining room, we admired the lake view as we savored delicious sausage, French toast smothered in warm maple syrup, a medley of fresh fruit, and all accompanied by a robust coffee and fresh orange juice.

Wish we could have stayed longer

We had only one full day of a busy itinerary to dedicate to the Inn. The day was October 14. Don and Sharon never gave us any indication – until we arrived – that the Inn closed for the season on October 13. Notwithstanding the gracious couples busy schedule, they happily spent the better part of their day showing us why most of their guests are repeat customers.

After breakfast on the 15th, it was time to let Don and Sharon get back to the task of readying the Inn for the winter hiatus.

Our stay was long enough to learn and appreciate the meaning of “Michigan hospitality.” It also gave us enough time to form an opinion – to categorically recommend the Churchill Pointe Inn for anyone seeking a perfect romantic escape, a fine epicurean adventure, or a general holiday from the cares of the world.

The Inn opens for the new season on Mother’s Day. For more information about Churchill Pointe Inn look at their website at http://www.churchillpointeinn.com, or call 800.727.2078.

For information about the general area, check the Alpena Convention and Visitor’s Bureau at http://www.alpenacvb.com

Happy travels!

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

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