Here at Windermere, we believe it’s never too early to think about summer.
And naturally, we are big advocates for summer vacations at the lake. Serene setting, idyllic lakeside towns, and a plethora of water sports and activities…what are you waiting for? It’s time to book! However if you’re still not convinced, we’re sharing our 5 best reasons to vacation in Lake Chelan this summer.
Play on the Water
Boasting 300 days of sunshine a year, Lake Chelan is a boater’s paradise. The crystal clear waters of this big beautiful lake allow a variety of options for the recreational boat and water sports fan. The most challenging part of playing on the water will be choosing your method of fun and transportation. You can rent stand up paddle boards, pontoon boats, canoes, kayaks…the options seem endless! Lake Chelan also has a variety of beaches and swimming areas for you to choose from if you want to play in the water. There’s nothing like cooling down in a glacier-fed lake in the heat of the summer!
Photo | Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce
Small Town Charm
Throughout Manson and Chelan, you will find quaint gift and specialty shops that provide a variety of good that you can purchase as a memento of your summer vacation. These stores have it all—from kitchen goods to home décor, apparel to sweet treats, you will find everything and more! Historic Downtown Chelan is lined with shops carrying many unique items. Make sure you travel all the way through town to find the stores on the side streets. Out in Manson’s village on the bay, enjoy quaint shopping experiences with everything from home interior to antiques and sweets. Our shops and boutiques are filled with treasures you won’t want to leave behind. Your next great find might be waiting for you!
Photo | Lake Chelan Wine Valley
Wine a Bit, You’ll Feel Better
When we say we’ve got something special growing in Lake Chelan, we mean it. Our unique climate and glacial soil allows for some optimal growing conditions in this region, producing some of the best grapes in Washington. With over 30 wineries and 250 acres of vineyards, Lake Chelan makes delicious wine for every palette. Whether you book a limousine wine tasting tour with all your friends, or drive around the backroads of Manson exploring wineries and vineyards for yourself, we know you will fall in love with our wine region. We could keep telling you how wonderful the wine is here, but why don’t you come visit and sip for yourself?
Location, Location, Location!
Lake Chelan is perfectly located right in the middle of Washington State, making it accessible from areas all around. Beginning about 50 miles south of the Canadian border, and roughly midway between Seattle and Spokane, the lake is just a quick 3 hour drive from most places in Washington. This fantastic location allows for an easy weekend getaway or a week-long vacation. Just pack your swimsuit and sunscreen, hop in your car and pop on over. You won’t even need your passport!
Photo | Lady of the Lake
Visit Remote Stehekin
Stehekin is one of the most remote towns in the lower 48, and we highly recommend visiting for a unique experience. With only 90 year round residents, and limited cell reception, Stehekin is your opportunity to unplug and enjoy a digital detox. To get there, you either board the Lady of the Lake or Stehekin Ferry. Once there, a summer visitor can have a quick lunch, explore the town and head back to Chelan – all on the same day! Or you can escape the busyness of everyday life and rent a lodge room, cabin or campsite and spend a few days hiking to Rainbow Falls, eating all the treats at Stehekin Pastry Co., rafting the Stehekin River, riding horses or renting mountain bikes. Whatever you choose to do, we recommend a Stehekin trip for all of our guests.
With so much to do and see, it’s clear that a getaway to Lake Chelan should be in your summer plans! And luckily at Windermere, we make finding your summer lodging easy. With rentals available for all sized groups and families, check out our website and book your dream vacation rental today!
