Disney may say the Magic Kingdom is the "most magical place is earth," but three Southern seniors -- my sister, my cousin and I -- would have to disagree. In our opinion, the most magical place would be the Gunflint Lodge. We all had "viewing the Northern Lights" on our bucket lists, and March 2023 was supposed to be a good time. But where? Given the uncertainties of Covid and geopolitics, we wanted to stay within the US, and we decided to try Grand Marais, Minnesota. The Gunflint Lodge is located there, directly across from a darkness-protected area in Canada. That means no ambient light would prevent us from seeing the Lights, even if they appeared only faintly on the northern horizon. The Northern Lights package advertised only by Gunflint seemed perfect. Even if the Lights did not appear (and there is never a guarantee), we would see a multitude of stars. Also, we don't see much snow, and the package included a full range of winter activities, all meals, and a cabin with fireplace, sauna and spa tub. Making reservations was a snap: the cabins with descriptions and photos are all on-line, and everyone who answers the phone is eager--not willing, but eager--to help. You can almost see their smiles through the telephone. Once we arrived at Gunflint (thanks, UpNorthTaxi!), we were immediately struck with its beauty. The peacefulness of snow drifts. The quiet of a frozen lake. A snow-covered tree branch, trembling when a bird takes flight. Soon, too, we would see the sunset reflected in ice-- amazing. When we reached our cabin, we learned that at Gunflint, service started even before we arrived. We had ordered wine ahead, and it was chilling for us in the fridge. We had sent ahead boxes of spa supplies, hand-warmers and home-baked snacks, and the boxes were waiting on the table--alongside the Gunflint welcome basket with cocoa, coffee, and a list of activities. The unit was clean, beds were comfortable, heat was a bit more than suited. The brochure said if you are hot, just open a window. Our unit, however, had snow drifts so high that the front windows could not be opened--but once the kitchen windows were open a couple of minutes, we were fine. (Snow drifts, what a joy that was for three Southerners!! I made a wine snow-slushie to celebrate!!!) The award-winning restaurant was only a few steps from the door of our cabin, but if we did not want to dine overlooking the lake and the ice skating rink, we could order take-out. Breakfast was usually a full buffet including fruit and not-to-be-missed pancakes, and if the "savory breakfast stuffing" is served, have a heaping helping. It's wonderful. Lunch was more casual, excellent salads with the signature maple dressing. The chef's specials at night did not fail to be the best of fine dining. Walleye is the local fish, and it was prepared various ways. Light and flaky, always. The package included winter activities such as ice skating, show shoes, sledding. We did not take advantage of all o
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