Minnesota

Crow Wing Crest Lodge

There's a fresh twist to this peaceful lakeside cabin compound in Akeley; owners John and Kim Bowen offer New Age activities, including aromatherapy and reflexology. NEW Three spacious luxury vacation homes. LOVED The century-old lodge (once the centerpiece of a logging camp) and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. BUT Older, smaller cabins are comfortable, clean and well-equipped but not stylish. They're also priced accordingly. DETAILS Kayaks and watercraft free for guests, 200-foot beach and good fishing, partly due to the on-property rearing pond for northern pike. 19 cabins and two campsites (two- to four-bedroom) from $824 per week for four (800/279-2754; www.crowwing.com).

Grand View Lodge

Choices abound at this heavily wooded historic (1919) resort along Gull Lake in Nisswa. Guests can stay in townhomes, cabins or clubhouse suites in lakeside or golf-course environments. The lodge features three golf courses. Also, it offers a clean, 1,500-foot beach and a shallow, even-bottom swimming area that is safe for children. NEW Indoor pool with 110-foot water slide near the beach, plus fitness center. Aveda Destination Glacial Waters spa, opened in 2003, with 10 treatment rooms. Also, the lodge has renovated and operates several nearby classic cabin-style resorts. All have access to Grand View meal plans and golf packages and are managed to Grand Views level of quality. Examples: Gull Haven Lodge, Roy Lodge Resort, The Cabins at Deacon's Lodge and Bay Colony Inn. LOVED The classic setup of Roy Lodge: private feel, nice cabins, picturesque Roy Lake (we even saw a large bass in the clear water under the dock) and groomed beach. Plus an on-site manager. BUT Grand View properties are spread out. You'll likely need to drive to your meal sites, the spa, the golf courses and the main lodge. DETAILS Near Paul Bunyan bike trail. Grand View rooms from $345; Roy Lodge from $255 (800/432-3788; www.grandviewlodge.com).

Grand Superior Lodge

The setting beside Lake Superior on Minnesota's North Shore and the stylish, North Woods decor make this six-year-old, full-service resort one of the region's most memorable getaways. The impressive log lodge and neighboring townhomes and cabins in Two Harbors also are just 20 miles north of Duluth and 180 miles north of the Twin Cities. NEW Dinner cruises on Lake Superior. LOVED Patios with overflowing flower baskets and lamplike heaters (even summer nights can be delightfully chilly along Superior). BUT The highway side feels a bit exposed without the mature trees of older properties along the shore. On the plus side: Even along State-61, the attention-demanding scenic route that threads between the bluffs and Lake Superior, you can't miss this place! DETAILS A spa and Splashing Rock restaurant with seating on a deck overlooking the lake and a menu that features the area's bounty nicely prepared. 80 townhomes and cabins (studio to four-bedroom) from $79 (800/627-9565; www.grandsuperior.com).

Madden's on Gull Lake

Located on a narrow peninsula that juts into south Gull Lake's Wilson Bay, this Brainerd classic (from 1929) includes two miles of shoreline, half of it beach. The hotel-like Madden Inn was added to the Historic Hotels of America list in 2005. Guests dine at five restaurants, play golf on three courses (including the renowned Classic) and have the choice of cabins or lodge stays. NEW Panache Spa opened in 2004, with treatments in five rooms. Much of Madden Inn was recently renovated, and updates continue. LOVED Admiring lake views while getting spa treatments. Guests also can get manicures lakeside. BUT The sprawling complex is not easily walkable. DETAILS Open April through October. Other highlights: croquet and bocce courts. 293 rooms (from $134) and cabins (from $244). Prices do not include meal or golf plans (800/642-5363; www.maddens.com).

Mantrap Lodge

Mike and Dianne Roy always are adding something new and fun to this cluster of vacation homes and cottages along Big Mantrap Lake northeast of Park Rapids. But as corporate refugees who remember why they fell in love with the resort in the first place, they are careful to preserve the character that comes with the remote location and its history. In the shade of tall pines and filled with quirky treasures, the century-old log lodge is as appealing as ever. Mike and Dianne put special emphasis on family fun, staging a full range of activities: bingo, hayrides, even "wacky waffle Wednesdays." The older cottages have been remodeled with Dianne's creative touches. NEW Log vacation homes with high ceilings, fireplaces and up-to-date kitchens. Camp Kidtrap with activities. A railroad caboose renovated as a one-bedroom in contemporary style. LOVED The North Woods setting along a mostly undeveloped lake and the hospitality of owners Mike and Dianne. BUT Though nicely updated, older cabins remain simple and relatively rustic. This is a family place, especially in the summer. Be prepared to enjoy the sounds of vacationing kids. DETAILS Open May-October. 17 cabins and vacation homes (one- to five- bedroom) from $600 per week (800/424-0901; www.mantraplodge.com).

Royal Starr Resort

This year-round resort on the Crow Wing chain of lakes in Nevis (near Park Rapids) shines partly because of its setting. Level grassy areas separate 13 cabins just enough that decks looking out on the water seem private. Yet, each is within steps of a playground, kids' fishing pier and a beach. The overall effect is peaceful and relaxing, but there's plenty going on, too. Guests can use kayaks, canoes, "hydro bikes" and other water gear. Kids join in supervised crafts. NEW Four vacation homes. LOVED The lake view and the Adirondack chairs strategically scattered around the property to take advantage of it. BUT Older cabins are comfortable and well-maintained but not fancy. DETAILS 13 cabins and vacation homes (one- to four-bedroom) from $660 per week (800/822-0701; www.royalstarrresort.com).

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