By Graham McKenzie
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan, or the UP, is a destination that promises an unparalleled experience.
It’s a region brimming with unexploited potential, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and authentic charm. I recently visited and found the opportunity to escape the hustle of modern life and immerse in nature. The UP is a sanctuary of pristine waterfalls, dense forests, a dramatic shoreline and has the largest freshwater lake in the world on its doorstep, Lake Superior.
The lake is so big it holds 10% of the entire world’s fresh water and when you take a glance across it you could be 350 miles away east to west or 160 miles south looking north. It’s that big !
For adventurous clients, the UP is a playground. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a must-visit, with its vibrant sandstone cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails. You can walk for hours and not come across another person but may observe rare birds and other mammals.
It’s guaranteed you will encounter bubbling streams, rocky cliffs and views of the crystal-clear sparkling lake below. Once on shore you could easily imagine being on a deserted Caribbean Island with its pristine sandy beaches and shaded blue waters. Equally its difficult not to get excited at the thrill of kayaking through sea caves or taking a boat tour to experience the park’s grandeur up close.
Food is an integral part of any vacation. The UP boasts a culinary scene that’s as fresh as its watery surroundings. I love fish and I was introduced to the exquisite taste of a local delicacy – smoked fish. The cold, clean waters of Lake Superior produce some of the finest whitefish, trout, and salmon, and local smokehouses have perfected the art of smoking these fish to perfection.
Strangely pasties are also very popular, and each village shop has its own freshly made and baked version. An inheritance from 19th century immigrants from Cornwall the pasty is ubiquitous not only in the UP but throughout Northen Michigan. I rarely eat them at home but sitting on a park bench with an oven fresh pasty with a bottle of local beer is blissful.
The two major towns of Marquette and Munising offer the perfect balance of outdoor adventure and urban amenities. The vibrant college town atmosphere of Marquette, has a vibrant art scene, charming shops, and stunning harbour. Munising is the gateway to Pictured Rocks and has a relaxed atmosphere and access to local attractions for exercise, nature, and food.
The UP offers an authentic experience that sets it apart from other destinations. It’s a place where your travel clients can reconnect with nature. By positioning the UP as a hidden gem, you can tap into a growing market of travellers seeking unique and immersive experiences. The natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights, create itineraries that could make the UP the highlight of a Great Lakes or Michigan tour.
Consider the Upper Peninsula to be your next destination to sell – a true slice of Pure Michigan.
Graham was provided long-term car parking at Heathrow by www.Aph.com