Archive for April, 2009

Lake Superior Maritime History

Wednesday, April 29th, 2009

solglimt-webcam-photoAs the image from our webcam to the right shows, spring can be a bit blustery along the shores of Lake Superior. That’s okay. At our bed and breakfast in Duluth MN, you are invited to curl up by the fire in the Harbor View Suite or Kandinsky’s Loft. Lay in bed and wait for the sun to rise over Lake Superior in our Lake Superior Suite. Lift your spirits on a gray day with a blueberry peach galette and a cup of steaming coffee, specially blended for us by Alakef Coffee. No matter what the weather, you will feel relaxed and refreshed when staying at our Duluth b&b.

When you feel ready to start the day, consider exploring a part of Lake Superior’s maritime history. The S.S. William A. Irvin and the Coast Guard Cutter Sundew are both open for touring, and invite you to experience life on the lakes. The S.S. William A. Irvin hauled iron ore and coal to many Great Lakes ports, often braving fierce storms in order to do so. Furthermore, the DECC notes that she provided comfort and elegance to dignitaries and guests who traveled the Lakes with her, the flagship of U.S. Steel’s Great Lakes Fleet.

The Sundew launched in 1944 in Duluth. She served as an ice breaker at several ports on Lake Michigan, tended buoys, and was involved in countless search and rescue operations. As you tour the Sundew you will learn about some of the lives and ships she saved.

The S.S. William A. Irvin is now open daily; the Coast Guard Cutter Sundew will be open daily after Memorial Day. Plan a trip to Solglimt, the Duluth MN bed and breakfast that sits on the shore of Lake Superior. Walk along the beach and take in the awesome power of the Great Lake, then learn about two of the ships that spent their careers there.

University of Minnesota Graduation

Tuesday, April 21st, 2009

Travelers come to Duluth for many reasons: business, holidays, and cultural activities are just a few. Each spring, the families of University of Minnesota, Duluth, graduates arrive to usher their grads from the Ivory Tower to the “Real World”. Consider staying at our Duluth Bed and Breakfast while you are in town for graduation this May. Our relaxing atmosphere will calm you no matter how many functions you need to attend, and our delicious breakfasts will sustain you throughout the longest of ceremonies.

Graduation marks a turning point in our lives, and is therefore a time that invites reflection. The waters of the world’s largest lake continuously lap upon the shores by our inn, offering a peaceful place to sit and think. Miles of beach adjacent to our bed and breakfast in Duluth MN summon our guests to take walks and remember the times when they strolled hand in hand on the beach with their grads, whose hands were once so much smaller than their own.

Consider a stay at our Duluth MN Bed and Breakfast while you are in town for graduation. We are sure that you will want to return again and again.

Green Bed and Breakfast in Duluth MN

Friday, April 17th, 2009

Here at Solglimt, we care about the environment. How can we not? Situated as we are, on a seven-mile strip of land that juts out into Lake Superior, we are necessarily stewards of the land and water. Our efforts have been recognized by Green Routes, an organization designed to help environmentally conscientious travelers find like-minded businesses. This is a real honor, as we were selected by a committee of our peers.

Green Routes noted the use of additive-free, fresh, and whenever possible local produce in our food, along with the fact that we make an effort to cater to special dietary needs, likes and dislikes. Our cleaners are all perfume-free, allowing you to fully appreciate the fresh air and the scents of our garden. Green Routes also noted the lovely sandstone fountain in our gardens, which we built out of recycled Duluth curbs. Why fill a landfill when you can create beautiful, functioning art?

A great way to travel

A great way to travel

Our location is another factor in our designation as a green business. If you enjoy walking or biking, once you arrive at our Duluth MN B&B you may park your car and let it rest. Stroll along the Lakewalk, which meanders along Lake Superior for more than 3 miles. We are close to downtown dining and attractions, when you want to experience the amenities of the city. Or bring your kayak and head out onto peaceful waters.

We are thankful that our efforts to make our bed and breakfast in Duluth MN environmentally friendly have been recognized by our peers and Green Routes.

Wine, Ballet, and Gallery Hops

Tuesday, April 14th, 2009

If you like wine, cheese and ballet, the perfect opportunity awaits you on April 16, 2009. All proceeds from the Wine and Cheese Event at The Depot Great Hall go towards the Minnesota Ballet of Duluth. This is a great way to step out and support the ballet while having an enjoyable evening yourself. Stay at our Duluth bed and breakfast while you’re in town.

Or, celebrate Earth Day this April 18th with Duluth’s 19th Annual Art for Earth Day Gallery Hop. Many galleries in town participate, including: Art Dock, Blue Lake Gallery, Duluth Art Institute, Lizzard’s Art Gallery and Framing, Perry Framing, Red Mug Gallery (Superior), Sivertson Gallery, Tweed Museum of Art (UMD), Washington Studios Artist’s Cooperative, Waters of Superior and A.H.Zeppa Family Foundation. The Port Town Trolley will offer free shuttle service. Free maps and shuttle schedules are available at any of the participating galleries. Linger in one, or visit them all. Our Duluth MN bed and breakfast is an ideal place to use as a base while you enjoy the vibrant arts community of Duluth.