Guest Comments
While there’s a separate section on this website with formal, internet reviews, some of the most interesting feedback comes from guest letters, notes, or their writings in our guest books. We’ve excerpted some of them here. To protect our guests’ privacy, we include only initials and dates. They’re also in no particular chronological order.
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“Thank you for sharing this most magical of places! What you have created here is utterly unique, and it is such a treat to get to spend time soaking up all aspects of your creative talent and vision. The way you have sited the house so that ever view always has a glimmer of the lake, is perfection. We loved the little windows unexpectedly placed so that each is like a painted vignette; the sunset and autumn colors captured in your gloriously inventive and eccentric lighting; and even your front gate….express such loving vision. The trails in their autumn blaze were spectacular, and to just hang out on the big rock and let one’s senses take over is the best therapy. We are of course talking about when to come back - which of your guests don’t?” j.g. (an award-winning architect fro Chicago) 10-22
“I had no idea what awaited me here. There is no way to adequately describe your cabin. Words can’t do it justice. It is a magical place filed with surprises, charm, delight, artistry, good design, imagination…I could go on and on but I still could not do it justice. Thank you for your hospitality. This is a trip I will always remember.” a.w. 8-14
“We spent a great winter week here - there must be 6 feet of snow! Mostly we were lazy bums which was everything we hoped it would be. When we got bored we snowshoed the trail, cross-country skied around the lake or mixed an old-fashioned. Mostly though we spent the week sitting and reading, occasionally looking out the window at the blowing wind and snow coating everything. The highlight of the week for me, besides sleeping in and relaxing, was skiing Mt. Bohemia. Although it was windy and snowing both days, we went and were glad - the skiing and terrain was incredible. Got say I liked it better than any ski resort out west. Tons of fresh powder, few people, and those we met were such fun! Great week…extremely refreshing...and invigorating…and relaxing…and just plain wonderful!” - b.c. 2-19
“Depths of winter. Starlit evening. After fasting all day I took my first dose of medicinal mushrooms ever….dehydrated 5 grams. I humbly asked the mushrooms to give me what I needed, instead of what I imagined I wanted. 20 minutes in, I started to get geometric visions…it was entertaining…I felt like I was watching TV. I told the mushroom spirits I didn’t need to be entertained…just give me what I need. WHAM! the trip “ended” just as suddenly as it began. Consensual reality…what we call ordinary reality. And in this beautiful place, that was WAY MORE THAN ENOUGH. I made a fish dinner, listened to music. Yes, I did cry a bit that I didn’t have more of a psychedelic experience. 5 grams and just this?!! THIS?!!! And yet, the experience was truly profound and I came away profoundly grateful for the experience of being a human being…for the profound miracle of existence. For the beauty of Anam Cara. Thank you mushrooms!” anonymous, winter 2016
“The most photogenic and magical cabin I’ve seen so far. We paddled out to two small islands, went for a mountain bike ride (on the private trails built by the OG Aaron Rogers), and made some great food. We also took a million pictures and lots of video. it’s really hard to set the camera down when you’re at this gorgeous place…felt like we were in a different part of the country even though it’s just up the road. The cabin was spotless and the snack basket was the best surprise!” d.l 11-21
“Your place was amazing! We had such a great relaxing time, especially after big days of skiing and snowshoeing. The fire place was fantastic. We built a fire every night. Hope it was ok we used up all the wood in that box! And I loved all the lamps. I especially would turn on the warm color ones at night because everything felt extra cozy that way. So great. We'd love to rent it out in the summer sometime to see the difference in the surroundings and explore the lake and some mountain biking. We'll be in touch! Thanks again :)” m.k. 1-23
“We can’t thank you enough for sharing beautiful Anam Cara with us. This place is truly magical! So peaceful, restful, and just amazing. All we can say is WOW!! A wonderful way to spend our 30th anniversary but one week was not enough. The detail and love that you put into this home is just breathtaking and impressive. Every detail about Anam Cara is PERFECT!” k.v. 7-22
“What a peaceful and beautiful place! I turned 60 this week, and Mother Nature has shared so many gifts with me here at Anam Cara. Which was my favorite? It’s a tie between the blazing fall colors all around by day, and the starry skies at night. We saw the Milky Way and many shooting stars!! Lots of feathered friend too: bald eagle, grouse, turkey, swans, herons, hawks and woodpeckers! We absolutely loved our time here!” f.m. 10-21
“Life gets busy. We are surrounded by digital and artificial noise, light and overstimulation. For us, we make a conscious effort to find time in nature, in the woods, by the water. In the quiet. Most of our adventures involve road trips and tent camping, but when we came across Anam Cara, We knew it was a special place. A place to sit in the still of winter and embrace the quiet, the sound and the smell of a crackling fire, the wind on the lake. A time for thoughtful introspection and just being in the moment.
People, place, events…all cross our paths or happen for a reason. Kismet, you could say. Thanks for sharing your special home and being a part of our story. I found this poem and it best described our winter getaway at Anam Cara.
PEACE (Sandra McGinley)
I walked upon a snowy road / and felt a quietude profound
A pristine white so clear and cold / and peace so deep within I found.” js 1-22
“I can only hope others who follow enjoy this place as we have. To that end, let me highlight some of our activities you may enjoy as much as we did.
If you come to this part of the world and you don’t mt. bike…well…you’re missing out. The trail though the property is a great warm up that will you challenge you enough to keep your attention. I rode most of the trails around town, enjoying Whoopsy Woo downhill from Garden Brook trail clockwise. The Swedetown trails back in Calumet were well worth the drive if you like smooth flow trails.
We rode our road bikes up Brockway Mountain Road from the west (much less steep). I must admit I didn’t appreciate the views as much as I could have…oxygen depletion affected my eyesight! But don’t miss out the view from Brockway Mountain, when I could finally breathe, it was spectacular!
We mostly cooked out in back over an open fire, but the Harbor Haus restaurant was awesome if you like fish or German food.
We paddled the lake here, following the shore in both directions. We also paddled Lac La Belle which was beautiful. Yesterday the Big Lake (Superior) was smooth as glass so we paddled out of Eagle Harbor…another beautiful spot especially from the water.
Be sure to check out the fish truck/trailer in Copper Harbor as well as the Brick Brewery right next door.
Golf at the Keweenaw Lodge was great. We played 9 holes twice through, and though our scores weren’t great , we had a great time.
Lots of wildlife to see…sand hill cranes, loon, eagle, fisher, coyote, beaver, and lots of deer of course.
Above all, I hope you will appreciate what a special place that David and Colleen have created here…and be sure to live fully while here.” j.g. 6-19
“Ode to the cabin (a haiku): After the 3rd fall / on skis / headed to cabin / the screen house appeared / grateful.” j.l. 3-12
“Beautiful, magical, restful..just a few of the words I can think of to describe Anam Cara. For me this was a chance to do nothing, and to be in this place of tranquility is an opportunity to re-set the mind.” m.o. 9-21
“The beautiful artwork, the attention to detail, and the natural beauty made our stay the most memorable ever! We’re sure all future guests will be touched by the magic of this Shangri-La. Thank you for sharing your lovely house and we hope to return!” - j.m. 7-22
“I love fairies! And this is the closest thing to being in a fairy house! It’s what I dreamed of when I think of fairies. Sleeping in the alcove is my favorite place ever.” (a.m. a 10 year old guest - 2021)
“We stayed in the Point House and if there is one piece of advice we can tell people who stay in the Point House is it would be NOT to talk about zombies and zombie movies before taking the long, winding lake trail from the cabin to the Point House. Every rustle in the woods, flicker of light, wind in the trees convinces you that zombies are closing in.” - e.m. 8-13
“I guess we’re the next people to “fall in thrall to the Keweenaw”! It is very apparent to us that this home was not only built with intention and love but that it is also offered to your guest with the same thoughtfulness. Like all great vacations, this one that we have spent in this captivating place has been a balm for us. It has been a peaceful retreat and we leave here refreshed. Many thanks for sharing your little slice of paradise with us!” - m.r. 10-21
“From the moment I drove down the road seeing the “faces” welcoming us from the trunks of trees, I knew I was in for no ordinary experience. In the dream world, it is said that house is a symbol of the self. In this light, David and Colleen, through the “camp” they have built, are clearly lovers, artist, magicians and wise children. From the screen on the front door that reflect the light golden, to the many lamps, the fine details that I keep uncovering, to the design of the windows, the roof, the porch, etc., etc., this home in the woods beckons, welcomes and delights. And just when I thought that was it - I explored the Point House with more of that magic and mystery.” t.m. 8-12
“Ahhhh, Anam Cara allows for a long exhale of life’s stresses and fragrant breaths thereafter. I love the smell of it here, especially on the trail from the Point House to the cabin. I took three long beautiful swims from the dock and dried myself in the soft afternoon sun. I’m grateful beyond measure.” j.v. 7-19
“Eagles nesting, loons calling and the water lapping against the shore. What a magical place! Every day the lake had a different personality - windy and choppy, clear as glass, or dark and stormy. It was a privilege to see them all. Thank you David and Colleen for sharing your beautiful house and its wonderful lights. Our week was amazing and we hope to come again.” - p.p. 7-21
“Gratified to stay in this beautiful, well-designed home. It is a place of contemplation, creativity and surprise. If I could imagine what heaven is like, I think some of it would be like this place.” m.g. 9-16
“ I LOVE! this place..I love the trails, the cabin, every thing. This is my #1 vacation. And I caught 45 crayfish!” f.l. (9 yo.), 8-21
“Thanks for a wonderful, transcendent, enlightening, relaxing, cosmic quantum experience of a silent symphony.” n.s. 7-19
“So grateful to have found Anam Cara here in the U.P.! For we downstaters, this has been a magical few days. We actively explored the Keweenaw and the feeling of coming back to what felt like “home” completed our magical day. The sky above Lake Medora changes constantly here - punctuated by delightful sunrises and sunsets. We took many photos have have recorded lovely images in our brains to carry us - hopefully for a long time ahead! We appreciate all you’ve done to create this very special cabin - on the point - on this lake. So much fun to take it all in. Meeting you both and having time to visit made this time here all the better. You are lovely people and thank you for making your special place available for us to enjoy!” k.d. 9-21
“MYI FAVORITS: DOCK JUMP. SWIM ON PURE GLASS WATER. MARSHMELOS ON FIRE. READING IN HAMOK. PICKING BERRYS.” s.m. age 5, 8-2020
“3 magical winter days at Anam Cara. I had no idea what was in store - this place is f——ng incredible! Skied in the dark, got lost, found power lines and was overjoyed to see the cabin lights. This was just the beginning ofillumination ecstasy. Every night was a different ambience. My two favorites: the “flame lights” above the fireplace, the subtle square high in the downstairs bathroom. Such a joy to stay in a true work of art. Attention to detail is apparent. New discoveries each day. Explored the land, the lake, the snow. Followed tiny tracks, broke trail, loved the varied skies - bright sun, pink clouds, starry nights. Enjoyed meeting friendly locals. This place has so much personality. Inspirational!” k.l. 12-16
“Thank you for sharing your slice of paradise with us. This calm, peaceful, beautiful place healed our souls. We had a wonderful time and we hope to be back here next fall.” t.d. 9-21
“The peace and quiet of this winter cabin is breathtaking. A fabulous week - when we weren’t basking in the peace and quiet of the cabin or the calm days outside, we skied and snowshoed around the lake braving cold, wind, and whiteness. The blizzard was beautiful as we watched the snow pile up all around us. Cozy fires, good food, and conversation kept us warm and content. Thanks for letting us enjoy this precious, precious place.” k.s. 2-14
“I loved ever minute spent at this enchanting cottage this past week. It was totally relaxing and yet strangely energizing. Hiking, canoeing outstanding. Love, love, love the outdoor shower! This place is amazing…even if it takes forever to get here.” d.w. 8-19
“We truly had an amazing week at Anam Cara. It was obvious to see what thought you put into this cabin. Our whole family enjoyed making camp fires, paddle boarding, canoeing to the islands and taking outdoor showers. Our kids loved catching crayfish and caught 75 in all! We also saw a beaver and a hummingbird visited your window boxes by the kitchen window 3 times! We had an awesome time agate hunting and hiking. My son had a blast touring the Point House, and my youngest daughter loved sleeping in the cubby. It was truly a beautiful sight waking up to see the sunrise over the lake. When it rained, laying in the front room listening to the rain on the roof was spectacular. Your hand made lights always lit the house with a pleasant warmth and made it really welcoming. One of my favorite things was having a warm cup of coffee out on the rocks by the deck. The large porch and fireplace were a big hit as well. Thanks so much for making this gorgeous cabin available! -a.h. 8-21
“I don’t know if I’ve been seen a place quite as magical!” - e.r. 8-17
“Wow! This is an amazing place! Some of my favorites were exploring the Copper Harbor mt. biking trails, hiking around Lake Fanny Hoe, feeling the winds of Lake Superior, seeing such a vibrant and complete sunset, fishing. This is clearly a very special place to so many, many people. I understand why.” - m.r. 2016
“Thank you for sharing this beautiful cabin. When we were looking for somewhere to relax and get away we couldn't believe our luck when we happened upon Anam Cara. Not only is Anam Cara a picture perfect “cabin”, it is so well thought out with thoughtful touches to make your guests feel right at home. My son was very impressed at how well you’ve stocked your firewood supply and I couldn’t be happier with the kitchen and treats we were welcomed with. My husband has spent hours with fishing and getting up at sunrise to take that perfect photo. We have truly enjoyed our time here and would love to come again! -s.b. 9-21
“It’s the smell of the place I love. The air here seems to have moved through me and purified my entire being. Oh the sweet fragrance of it! The first thing I did upon arrival was to take a swim. Oh lovely Lake Medora. You set the tone for me and baptized me in the beauty of this place. Thank you, David and Colleen , for sharing the magic. The beauty of the cabin…so thoughtful, creative, imaginative and fun. Loved the old growth white pines, climbed down into a stone grotto by Manganese Falls with a waterfall and stream…stretched my climbing limits and it was a highlight. Ah…summer days and the gift of this warmth here in the UP just a couple of miles from Lake Superior. Deep relaxation and healing.” j.r. 7-15
“We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Anam Cara! Beautiful inside and out. We enjoyed a few canoe rides around the lake, exploring the property, grilling over the fire and some family quality time! This is a very special place and so happy you have shared it with us! My kids had the best time catching crayfish in the lake. I could just sit on the dock for hours listening to the water slap the rocks (and I did)! The cabin is gorgeous and the amenities were plentiful. My kids were impressed by the tray of M&Ms …it’s the little things that are so thoughtful and special. Also enjoyed all of David’s hand-made lighting - exceptional. Brings a wonderful warmth to the property! We have for a future stay and thanks again for a LOVELY getaway! - l.a. 9-21
“What an amazing introduction to the U.P.! We are so grateful to have spent several days at this magical place. As a matter of fact, we only left the property one day of our trip, to go sea kayaking along Bare Bluff and the Montreal River. We spent the rest of our time connecting with this beautiful land and the lovely structures yo’ve created here. Some highlights: identifying plants and wild crafting a few medicinals (St. John’s wort, usnea, pipsissewac) canoeing out to an island and all around the lake, and watching the comings and goings of the mother eagle guarding and tending to her nestling. One particular moment - after meditating on the picnic table by the Point House, we spent a long while watching the mama eagle watching us (she decided we were no threat)…and then we heard the nestling calling the mother from the nest, and watched her promptly and gracefully glide down to the lake, snatch a fish, and fly off to feed her hungry eaglet. Thanks for sharing this incredible place…we will treasure this time always.” n.b. 7-15
“What a wonderful time and experience we’ve had here at Anam Cara. We had so many plans for excursions but mostly we stayed here to enjoy this wonderful setting, explore the grounds and just chill. The best part of our U.P. trip! Your site is beautiful and private and makes for a wonderful retreat…we will be back! The detail and amenities are stellar and welcoming…anyone would feel healed and peaceful after a day here.” - s.f. 10-21
“We left the cabin reluctantly after one last canoodle on a glass-surfaced Lake Medora. We traveled all over the world and have seen many an amazing place, but the time we’ve spent at your astounding place was one of the best time we have ever spent anywhere, all due to the loving details you put into your house and land.” b.w. 7-14
“This may be the most beautiful place i’ve ever been. The artistry is inspiring and the setting - so peaceful.” l.s. 6-20
“Wow oh WOW! There is a prize for the person that guesses how many windows are in this place, inside and (outside). Light, light and more light - now matter now dark or grey it is outside there is some magical light in this cabin and I’m not just talking about all the beautiful handmade ones. This place is inspiring, restful, creative, soulful. May all who enter here feel the ancient spirits of this land and feel the connection to its power and beauty. With deep gratefulness for what and where you’ve created this magical retreat!” - m.l. 1-12
“Thanks for sharing your absolutely amazing cabin. This is a little slice of heaven, we have found Shangri La. We loved sitting out on the point, taking in the sunsets, camp fires and s’mores was a delight. Paddling Lake Medora, just the two of us and our daughter, really helped settle us into the beauty of the whole area. Taking in some of the picturesque sights of the Keweenaw made for a perfect getaway - Copper Harbor Light House, Brockway Mountain, Delaware Mine, and the majesty of the Estivant old growth pines. But best of all was the time spent relaxing here at the cabin. And a final special thanks to David for taking the time to make the paper lamps with us that will undoubtedly be the light that continuously takes us back to this special place.” -j.s. 6-21