With only a handful more than 250 year-round residents, La Pointe, Wisconsin is a small town to be sure. With access to the island coming only by boat, plane, or ice road, you can be certain it's also a great place place for serene reflection in nature.
A sign welcomes folks to La Pointe in both English and the language of its native settlers, the Ojibwe.
The Ojibwe saw themselves as stewards of the land, and the people of La Pointe still have great respect for their natural environment today.
If you're like most, you'll take the Madeline Island Ferry to La Pointe, with a lovely view beckoning you toward the harbor.
This strip of inns and B&Bs comprise a large part of La Pointe, which has as its downtown and a line of galleries, shops, and restaurants.
Those coming for the dog sled races or just some post-holiday fun will likely take the windsled, which is similar to an everglades fan boat!
Those who want to drive their car around Madeline Island will have to venture across the ice road. It sounds scary, but residents drive back and forth all winter long.
The view at sunrise is so calming that yoga is offered on the pier regularly.
Visitors often cull vibrant bits of agate from the shoreline and enjoy the sound of the waves lapping in while they do it.
La Pointe is found by the trees of Big Bay State Park and the waters of Lake Superior.
Take in the solitude in a rented kayak or boat, and ride small waves or big hills. Go for a walk in the woods. All of these La Pointe activities impart a sense of peacefulness.
This funky La Pointe jalopy is just about the loudest thing you'll find here.
Part small town and part artists' colony, you'll discover lots of artwork to ponder here, from large sculptures to pottery, to exquisite paintings and textiles.
Though colorful Madeline Island sunsets are common, you won't want to miss a single minute of one.
Have a picnic dinner on the beach or sip a glass of wine dockside so you can bask in the glow of sunset as long as you want.
It's not surprising that La Pointe is a popular destination for retreats. Writers, artists, and musicians gather here throughout the year to take advantage of the natural inspiration the environs provide. It no doubt helps them unwind and gets the creative juices flowing. But you don't have to be an artist to experience this – make a visit yourself and see what it does for your soul!
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