The Danish concept of hygge (pronounced "hoo-gah") is about taking time to appreciate the small joys in life. It involves letting yourself completely unwind and being intentional with taking things slow. If a vacation focused on the art of hygge sounds like the ideal way to recharge, we invite you to experience the Art Coast in winter. Here, you find plenty of ways to get cozy with family or friends and simply be in the moment.

Hygge is a well-established part of Danish life and might be a primary contributor to why Danes are considered to be some of the happiest people in the world. Denmark's dark and dreary winter climate provides a welcome opportunity for people to shelter indoors with loved ones and take pleasure in soothing things. A roaring fireplace. The warm glow of candlelight. A cup of hot chocolate. A soft blanket. That’s all hygge.

The tranquility of winter in the Art Coast and lack of bustling crowds make it ideal as a vacation destination to experience hygge. Here are some of the ways you can put the concept into practice while visiting Saugatuck/Douglas:

Find A Comfy Spot 

Atmosphere is everything. Choose lodging that lends itself to hygge by selecting a place that offers a cozy fireplace you can snuggle up to. The Hotel Saugatuck, Belvedere Inn, and Rosemont Inn are just a few B&Bs that feature in-room fireplaces. If you’re traveling with a larger group, Jaqua Realtors Vacation Places and Rentals, Mill Pond Realty Vacation Rentals, Quaint Cottages, and Vacasa Vacation Rentals offer rental properties with cozy fireplaces. For a full list of lodging establishments that feature accommodations with fireplaces, see our article here.

Appreciate The Little Things

An important element of the hygge lifestyle is celebrating the acts related to the everyday. Spend some time savoring a really good cup of coffee. Some of the best can be found at Respite Cappuccino Court or Uncommon Coffee Roasters. While you’re here, take a long hot soak in a bathtub. Make it extra soothing with an all-natural Michigan-made oatmeal bath soak found at 42N Naturals. Share a meal in a completely relaxed setting while discussing meaningful topics. The Southerner and Salt of the Earth offer comfort food at its finest in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Make a point of really tasting each locally sourced bite. Take a quiet stroll during the evening along our walkable downtown streets and bask in the warm glow of the twinkling lights. Pay attention to the details of the displays in the storefronts and galleries you pass by.

Enjoy a quality craft beer in an unpretentious setting. Guardian Brewing Company, Waypost Brewing Co., Saugatuck Brewing Company, and The Mitten Brewing Co. all offer flavorful, handcrafted beers on tap that are unique to our region. Or indulge in a glass of wine right from the source. Modales, Michigan Wine Co., Fenn Valley Vineyards, and Crane’s Winery offer tastings of their small-batch wines that reflect the fruitful journey of their grapes from vine to glass. 

Connect With Nature

A key component of hygge and an essential part of Danish culture is connecting with nature. Go for a leisurely walk along Oval Beach, where you can listen to the sounds of the waves and spend some mindful moments gazing at the ice-kissed shore. Or rent snowshoes from Landsharks and take an easy hike through the Saugatuck Dunes State Park, where you can spend quality time taking in the tall pines and snow-covered forest paths. Just breathe in the fresh air and observe all the beauty surrounding you. That feeling of contentment you’re experiencing? Now that’s hygge Art Coast style.

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From charming and quaint bed and breakfasts to historic inns and cozy cottages, you’ll find a haven to make your stay peaceful and memorable.

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