Lighthouses conjure a certain romance, the comforting feeling of a time gone by when life was simpler and more peaceful. The lighthouses listed here are now open to the public as bed and breakfasts.
If you think you're interested in staying at one of these historic structures, be prepared -- many take the "time gone by" feeling to heart and eschew such amenities as televisions and in-room telephones. Some also have strict restrictions on what kinds of electric appliances can be used.
Au Gres, Michigan. Overnight lodging is available in the spring and fall of each year at this lighthouse, originally built in 1857. Four bedrooms are available. Charity Island is 10 miles offshore from Au Gres, in the middle of Saginaw Bay. It's a great place for birdwatchers.
Ahmeek, Michigan. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, Sand Hills Lighthouse was constructed in 1917 on the Keweenaw Peninsula's north shore, 25 miles northeast of Houghton. The largest and last manned lighthouse to be built on the Great Lakes, it has been owned by Bill Frabotta since 1961. It began accepting guests as a bed and breakfast after renovations were completed in 1995. Each of the inn's eight rooms is decorated in Victorian style and has a king- or queen-sized bed; two rooms feature a whirlpool bathtub and a balcony overlooking Lake Superior. A full breakfast is served.
