I applaud your choice of Madeline Island as the best weekend getaway, it's pretty daring to send people on a 4 hour drive anywhere for just a weekend. But, as anyone who has been there will agree, the drive is half the fun, and arriving at the ferry dock is better than unwinding with a six pack of beer and a loaded bong. The stress relief is immediate.There is one little error in the description of your recommendation though. You can't mention the attributes of Madeline Island without including it's twin, Bayfield. Of course, you talk about staying there to save money on lodging, but the little town that could (and does) is packed with wonderful places too! Consider the fact that the minders of the city have prevented any changes to occur since forever, but that the amenities are as up-to-date as anyone would expect. Shops offering food, clothing, gifts and supplies for the trip over to the island or on your sailboat are well stocked and manned by some of the nicest people you'll meet.There are facilities in Bayfield that cater to most of your personal needs too. The library is welcoming, there is an indoor swimming pool. You can buy fresh whitefish caught that day. There are fruit growers, pie bakers and sandwich makers all situated within biking distance.In Bayfield you can catch a cruise out to other Apostle islands, tour the caves that line the shore, take a kayak ride, a sailboat ride or rent a boat.I guess what I'm saying is, Bayfield is not a conduit to getting to Madeline Island, it's a compliment that makes our claim to being "Twin Cities" seem like a challenge.
