Sometimes, you just need a weekend without the boys. Am I right? As a new mama who has now experienced many, many, many sleepless nights, this is true now more than ever. Luckily, you and I don’t need to look very far to find one of the best destinations for a girls trip: Quarterdeck Resort in Nisswa, MN nestled on Gull Lake.
It feels so “Cape Cod” with a Minnesota twist.
When Quarterdeck reached out about checking out their resort, I jumped on the chance. I mean, just look at how beautiful and nautical the resort is! It feels so “Cape Cod” with a Minnesota twist. So I rallied up my squad, packed plenty of wine and swimsuits and took a trip up north for some genuine girl time and relaxation. [Major shoutout to the hubby and mother-in-law for watching baby Harlan for a couple of days!]
Scroll to the bottom for an absolutely amazing deal to stay at Quarterdeck Resort. I’m so excited to share it with you! It’s just for Girl of 10,000 Lakes followers!
A DESTINATION FOR GIRLFRIENDS & EVERYONE ELSE IN YOUR LIFE
If you’re looking for rest, relaxation and fun, you’re in the right place. Quarterdeck Resort is as awesome as the photos. Gorgeous lakefront views, pretty landscape with hydrangeas galore and a fantastic restaurant/bar right on the property. The main lodge or lakeside lodge suites are perfect for just a couple of girlfriends, a romantic getaway with your significant other or a small family. If you have a bigger group like a family reunion or even a wedding party, look into the beach houses or lakeside cottages. When we were checking in, there was a big family reunion checking out, so it’s obviously a place people of all ages are enjoying! We absolutely loved the lakeside cottage because we each had our own space, plus a shared kitchen, dining room, living room, game room and lovely screened-in porch area. See for yourself below!
GIRLS GOTTA EAT
Dock 77: Before we even checked into our cottage, my girlfriends Ali, Larissa, Amelia and I had a bottle of chardonnay and Quarterdeck’s famous Lakeside Crab Dip with extra grilled french bread at their restaurant Dock 77. Thank you to Ali’s mom for the recommendation! So good! There’s a neat indoor/outdoor bar where garage door-style windows open up. It feels like you’re outside when you are inside. We enjoyed bloody marys, spritzers and mojitos. Yum!
Sand Bar: The Sand Bar is a casual beachside stop with sandwiches, snacks, beer, coffee, ice cream, etc. It unfortunately wasn’t open during our visit. But had it been open, I definitely would have grabbed a breakfast sandwich and fresh cup of coffee and enjoyed it on the dock. The Sand Bar is near the beach and boat launch. Besides filling the tummy, you can also refuel your boat, rent a paddleboard, wakeboard, water skis, fishing pole or bike.
And of course, Brainerd Lakes area is a foodie’s paradise. Do your research and I guarantee you’ll find something good all around Nisswa and Brainerd.
WHAT TO DO
Boating: Life is better at the lake! If you’re bringing your own boat, you’re in luck! There’s a boat ramp, 96 boat slips and parking spaces. If you don’t have a boat, you can rent an Avalon pontoon from the resort.
Other Rentals for the Lake: Paddleboards, kayaks and fishing poles, oh my! The girls and I thoroughly enjoyed some outdoor time on the lake! We each took a paddleboard or kayak and cruised around until our arms were tired. I always say R&R should have an extra R in there — rest, relaxation and recreation! If we had an additional day there, I would have fished off the dock or from the kayak for sure.
Hiking: Not too far from Quarterdeck, you’ll find Pillsbury State Forest, Fritz Loven Park and Paul Bunyan Trail Access. We hiked a short trail around Fritz Loven Park. We loved the crystal clear trout stream and the tall pines. Next time, I’m bringing my fly rod for some catch and release!
Sunbathing and relaxing: You’ll find bright red adirondack style sunbathing chairs on the sand beach at Quarterdeck. Grab a book, a cocktail, your sunglasses and enjoy the lakeshore views!
Weddings, Retreats and Events: If you’re not here for a girls’ getaway, a vacation or family reunion, you might be here for a wedding or maybe even a work retreat! There’s an event center called the Boathouse. It’s called the “Boathouse” for a good reason. It feels very nautical with a boat-shaped bar, rope accents, and lakeviews.
BOOK YOUR STAY
I’m so excited to share a super amazing deal for your next girls’ trip, couples getaway, family reunion or whatever floats your boat!
>>> Quarterdeck Resort is offering Girl of 10,000 Lakes followers a 3-night stay for the price of 2 for Monday through Thursday stays! Just mention the Girl of 10,000 Lakes special offer when you book your reservation! <<<
Be sure to book your stay sooner than later! There’s opportunity to rest, relax and recreate whether it’s summer, fall, winter or spring.
Got questions about Quarterdeck Resort? Please feel free to reach out and comment below! I’d love to answer any questions.
A big thank you to Quarterdeck for collaborating with me to make this blog post possible!
