What exactly is hygge (pronounced hoo-gah
)? It’s not a thing you buy, but a feeling you cultivate, a deep sense of contentment, coziness, and well-being that comes from savoring the simple moments. And there is no place better to find it than the tranquil, log-cabin-lined edges of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Ely, Minnesota.
Forget the stressed-out quest for perfection; in Ely, the perfect hygge moment comes naturally. It’s the feeling of warm relief after kicking off your snowshoes and settling into a lakeside sauna. It's the quiet hum of conversation over hot chocolate in a local café. It's the gentle smell of pine and woodsmoke curling up from your cabin chimney as you finally sit down with that book you’ve been meaning to read.
Ely isn't just a rugged, adventurous Northwoods town; it’s a sanctuary built for slowing down. This guide will walk you through creating your own memorable, cozy retreat, from finding the perfect wood-heated stay to tracking down locally-made goods that let you take that feeling of Hygge home with you.
Creating Your Ely Hygge Itinerary
Activity: Embracing the Outdoors (The Good Kind of Tired)
The fresh air is essential for a good dose of hygge. Earning your relaxation makes it all the sweeter!
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Snowshoe or Cross-Country Ski: Rent gear and explore the peaceful, silent trails around the Trezona Trail near town or head deeper into the wilderness on the numerous loops near the Boundary Waters entry points.
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A Taste of the Wild: Visit the International Wolf Center for an up-close, warm, and educational look at the iconic local wildlife.
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The Ultimate Cozy Contrast: Schedule time for a sauna session followed by a refreshing (or bracing!) dip in a cold lake or snowbank, a classic Nordic contrast that leaves you feeling deeply refreshed.
