Old Rittenhouse Inn

We travel quite a bit, and the trip we most look forward to each year is the assuredly relaxing, worry-free and welcoming long weekend at the Old Rittenhouse Inn where we've been staying for ten years. It is no exaggeration to say the Phillips family was instrumental in pioneering modern tourism, historic preservation, dining, arts and culture in Bayfield and today the second generation is keeping that tradition of excellence strong. Two properties comprise the inn and both offer comfortable, well-appointed rooms. The staff is warm and gracious, and the dining experience is unmatched in the area. Bayfield faces many of the challenges that have threatened small tourist towns across the country. But Bayfield stays strong because it continues to be anchored by the natural beauty of its protected waters and forests and by the high quality of its commercial businesses. The Old Rittenhouse Inn is a pillar among them and truly captures and celebrates the essence of the Bayfield experience. I could list for you a dozen fun things to do in the area, winter or summer, but that would take all the fun out of interacting with locals and other visitors to discover them for yourself -- we make new discoveries on each visit. This is our favorite destination hotel in the country and I especially recommend it for couples, special occasions, romantic getaways, or for an annual vacation as we and many others have been doing.

Relaxing get away We had a wonderful stay! Very cozy and inviting! All the staff were happy to help and made the stay extra pleasant! Was great to have breakfast there each morning included!

While we have visited Bayfield many times and stayed at the Old Rittenhouse on a couple of occasions, this was our first Christmas time trip. We spent two nights in room 7, which has a partial lake view. It was very clean and the king bed was very comfortable. The first morning, coffee was brought to our room before our 9AM breakfast. Breakfast was excellent with a nice choice of Entress. The main reason for our trip was to take in the Wassail dinner. This was a great experience. The dinner was excellent and the entertainment was outstanding. Eight world class singers provided us with all kinds of Christmas songs throughout the meal. What a great way to celebrate the holidays. Our second breakfast was as good as the first. We were fortunate to have Maria as our server for all three meals. Her excellent and friendly service only added to our great time at the Old Rittenhouse.

Historic Inn with all the old world character you would expect. We stayed in the turret room in the Le Chateau property. Spectacular outlook to the bay and lovely suite with sitting space. The whole house is available for guests staying so if you want to dine in style or sit on the veranda and feel like you are a country resident you can. The restaurant at the main house offers a locally sourced quality dining experience and good breakfast. Well located for the lovely town of Bayfield and visit to the Apostle islands. Although the staff were very friendly we did have to manage luggage without assistance at the house were there are only stairs for access to the higher floor rooms. If you are looking for mod cons and satellite TV this is not the property for you. If you are looking for a step back in pace and digital detox this is a great choice.

The Inn is beautiful and historically decorated, staff were friendly and efficient, breakfast (included) was delicious. The room and bed were comfortable. Loved the seating on the wrap-around porch and the view from porch swing was lovely. The flower and herb gardens added to the delightful ambiance. Location was close to shops and the ferry to Madeline Island. We had a lovely 2 day stay.

Great place within walking distance to dining, shopping and the ferry to Madeline Island. VERY friendly staff and loved that breakfast was included.