715-382-4401

16649 96th Avenue Chippewa Falls, WI 54729

stay@innonlakewissota.com

RESERVATIONS

Blog

3 Kinds of Inspiring B&B Guests

bethkalata April 27, 2021 In adventure, bed and breakfast, Chippewa Falls, daytrip, Lake Wissota, Lake Wissota State Park, Travel, Uncategorized Comments Off on 3 Kinds of Inspiring B&B Guests

We’ve greeted a lot of guests here at the Inn on Lake Wissota, and we’re starting to see some trends. Our guests seem to always take the path that leads to adventure, we like to call them new experience enthusiasts. Whether they’ve stayed with us before or not, they’re often here for something new. Sometimes this is an activity, a brewery, or a new back 9. They’re stepping out of their zone, to explore new territory.

We think highly of our guests and their prioritizing of adventure. There are so many types of guests that make the Inn the special place that it is. Today we’re sharing three common types of Inn on Lake Wissota guests that could be you, or might inspire you as they’ve inspired us.

 

1. The Escape Artists

These sly guests know just when to pack up and step away from the day to day for a refresher. We admire their loyalty to adventure. They focus on the rejuvenation of themselves, which looks different across them all. Some rejuvenate by sticking near the Inn playing board games and fishing off the dock. Others pack a day so full of activities and come back to the Inn, where they know the details are taken care of. Some of our escape artists actually live here in Chippewa Falls. Those guests are seasoned pros at the local entertainment and make sure to live like tourists in their own home town. Shouldn’t we all aspire to do this too?


2. The First Timers

These newby’s come in many ages but they all have a common thread – spontaneity! We love when guests choose our Inn as their first B&B experience. We get to see them experience it through fresh eyes. It always makes us reminisce on our first B&B experience, too. They often make the absolute most of what Chippewa Falls and the Inn have to offer, renting kayaks or our boat. They seem to fall in love with the custom experience that comes with B&B’s and often times we get to greet them again! It takes going outside the norm to do something new, and we try to hone The First Timers gusto in everything we do.


3. The Gatherers

We often find the Inn as a meeting ground for larger groups. These type of guests always bring such joy with them. They remind us to reach out to our friends and family for gatherings more, too. Seeing family or old friends is something we cherish yet isn’t always on the top of our very full day to day lists. Yet for something that brings us so much joy, we don’t do it enough. May The Gatherers inspire you as they’ve inspired us. Perhaps we’ll be lucky enough to greet you all here at the Inn.

We don’t choose our guests, but we’re so grateful that they’ve chosen us. Cheers to all the fire pit laughs and coffee chats we’ve shared with our guests. The stories we hear and the people we meet make this Inn the special place that it is.

To all our guests we’ve greeted, thank you for shared memories and kind reviews. To the trailblazers we have yet to meet, we look forward to showing you the Inn and all she has to offer. Whatever kind of guest you may be, we can’t wait to greet you here at the Inn to relax, renew, and refresh.

Book your next escape

FEATURED

5 Reasons to Travel Locally

bethkalata March 19, 2021 In adventure, bed and breakfast, Chippewa Falls, daytrip, Lake Wissota, Lake Wissota State Park, Travel, Uncategorized Comments Off on 5 Reasons to Travel Locally

Got the travel bug and feeling unable to scratch that itch? It’s time to set everything aside and hop in the car for a weekend getaway. With the ease of road trips and the spontaneity it allows, you don’t have to spend hours planning, just book a place to sleep, and hit the road. The memories are sure to make themselves. Here are 5 reasons to travel locally. 

1. Skip the travel days that eat up precious vacation time.

Driving to the airport, flying from one plane to the next, to then drive some more, and finally check-in. While these getaways have perks of their own, you can utilize those travel days to instead be sipping Cab Sav at River Bend Vineyard, or hitting balls on the back 9 at Lake Wissota Golf. Sounds much better, don’t you think?

bakery

2. Allows for sponteneity

When you’ve got your car, a pal, and good spirits, those roadside stops can become the most memorable part of the trip. Feeling hungry? Time for a stop a local bakery. Time to stretch the legs? Check out the nearest State Park. These laid back drives will make your 14 year old self proud. We all know we told ourselves we’d do this. 

3. Explore your home

Why should tourists get to experience the best of your area when you haven’t capitalized on all it has to offer? Fall in love again with your area, rent a canoe and find a water access beach for a picnic. These plans are always within reach near home, but we might not make it happen enough. Find that waterfall you’ve seen friends photos of, and enjoy the local scenery on the way.

passing box from 1 hand to the next

4. Keep the $$ to yourselves

By travelling locally you’re able to keep the money within your community, knowing exactly where it ends up. You might get a chance to meet some of the latest entrepreneurs and make some new community connections.

the girls laughing together

5. Travel more frequently

Vacations are known for providing a sort of reset that rejuvenates us to our cores. Spending all your vacation fund on one trip can be grand, but the short and frequent trips might leave you feeling like your cup is more full.

Make a list of all the things you’d like doing near you. I bet there’s a lot you haven’t done yet. Set some goals to cross some of these things off and see how it feels. We can almost guarantee you won’t regret it.

Book your next escape

FEATURED

Key Lime Pie – Your New Favorite Summer Dessert

bethkalata May 28, 2021 In adventure, bed and breakfast, Chippewa Falls, daytrip, Lake Wissota, Lake Wissota State Park, Travel, Uncategorized Comments Off on Key Lime Pie – Your New Favorite Summer Dessert
key lime pie on a countertop

Photo by Nathan Lemon

Nope, this isn’t a breakfast recipe, but it does embody the the Inn and what it stands for more than we’d like to admit. We believe dessert is best shared with friends (as long as you get plenty), and they should leave you with sweet sugary dreams once it’s gone. Prep this pie the day before and when everyone’s gathered you’ll look like Harry Houdini with surprise dessert! 

This recipe comes from Sobo, a restaurant surrounded by beaches in Tofino, Canada. Feel free to close your eyes and picture yourself eating this on a beach in the sun. We promise, it’ll make it even better. 

 

What You’ll Need

1¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup butter, melted
6 egg yolks
2 3o0ml cans sweetened condensed milk (2½ cup)
¾ cup freshly squeezed limes
3 cups Whipping Cream
2 tsp vanilla
2 tb powdered sugar

 

graham crackers on a table

Graham Cracker Crust

1¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly butter a 9-inch pie dish. In a medium sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar with the butter until it resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and sides of the prepared pie dish and bake in the center of the oven for 7–9 minutes. Remove and allow to cool for about 20 minutes. Leave the oven on. 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Benigno Hoyuela

Pie Filling

6 egg yolks
2 3o0ml cans sweetened condensed milk (2½ cup)
¾ cup freshly squeezed limes

In a separate bowl whisk the egg yolks lightly. Add the condensed milk and whisk to combine. Using a rubber spatula, stir in the key lime juice, 1/4 cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust. Bake for 5–7 minutes.

Let the pie cool completely, then place in the fridge
uncovered for at least 4 hours to set. 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Kayli Hendricks

Whipped Cream

3 cups Whipping Cream
2 tsp vanilla
2 tb powdered sugar

Put whipping cream, powdered sugar and vanilla in a medium-sized bowl and whip until soft peaks form.

To serve, slice the pie and top generously with whipped cream. Enjoy!

 

 

 

This summer, there’s a million reasons to celebrate, and what is a celebration without dessert after all? Come find us on Lake Wissota down by the water, key lime pie in hand. We can’t promise we’ll share, but once you taste this recipe you’ll see why. 

Book your next escape

Inn on Lake Wissota will be reopening Friday, April 24, 2020!

bethkalata May 20, 2020 In bed and breakfast, Chippewa Falls, Irvine Park, Lake Wissota, Lake Wissota State Park, outdoor activities, silent sports, Travel, Uncategorized Comments Off on Inn on Lake Wissota will be reopening Friday, April 24, 2020!
IOLW Backyard view of Lake Wissota

IOLW Backyard view of Lake Wissota

After being closed for more than 3 weeks we are excited to be welcoming guests back to the B&B!

Spring is in the air, Inn on Lake Wissota is here to provide you a safe, socially distant Staycation!

How Inn on Lake Wissota can provide a safe Staycation during the Covid-19 Precautionary timeframe

A view of the sunset over Lake Wissota from the deck at Inn on Lake Wissota

Sunset from the deck at Inn on Lake Wissota

  • A 60ft deck allows for acceptable social distancing while watching the sunsets.
  • A new wood burning fire pit in the yard allows for a warm fire on a beautiful spring evening.
  • We will accept no more than 4 rooms for any given night.  The maximum number of people in the B&B won’t exceed 10, including Beth & Roger.
  • Complimentary room service provided, no need to come down to the dining room.

 

 

Why Stay at Inn on Lake Wissota?

1)  Impeccable Cleanliness

As many of you know, Inn on Lake Wissota is our home and not just a place of business. Roger and I have been passionate and committed innkeepers for more than 5 years and are grateful for the opportunity to serve our guests.  We have always had strict sanitizing and cleaning procedures in place.  In addition to those standard policies we have added procedures to clean and sanitize surfaces that are touched often not only by guests but by B&B staff as well. We believe our cleaning and sanitizing procedures exceed the top industry standard.

2)  Check-In/Check Out Procedures

With social-distancing now being the norm, we are offering alternative self check-in and out for those who do not want to interact with anyone.  Just let us know in advance that you would prefer a self check-in and we will be happy to send you the directions on how to use the keyless entry and where to find your room.  Check-out is easy enough, just give us a shout that you’re leaving so we know we can get in and clean the room.

3)  Other Social-Distancing  

While we have temporarily eliminated the plate of cookies in the common area and the airpot of coffee in the beverage nook, there are still treats and beverages available.  We will leave cookies in your room prior to arrival and for those who long for a cup of coffee first thing in the morning we can arrange to have a tray of coffee delivered to your room at a designated time.

There is one local restaurant that delivers to Inn on Lake Wissota and most other Chippewa Falls restaurants are offering take-out.  Each guest room has either a table or a set of tray tables for dining.  Need plates, silverware and napkins?  We can provide those on request.  There is always the option to eat on the deck or at the picnic table in the yard.

Beth is always available by cellphone if you need to be in touch without being face-to-face.

The common area features a gas fireplace, comfy seating and a breathtaking view of Lake Wissota.

The Atrium

4)  Breakfast  

Beth is a certified ServSafe Food Protection Manager and follows all of the best practices of the trade so you can be rest assured the food she prepares for you has been done so not only with love, but all necessary safety requirements and precautions.

For those who prefer the privacy of dining in their guest room, complimentary room service is available. There may be some folks who would rather  eat in our beautiful dining room overlooking Lake Wissota, we can offer staggered dining times to accommodate those guests.

5)  B&B Versus Other Lodging Types

Guests who have stayed with us at Inn on Lake Wissota find comfort  in the smaller size of our B&B as there may be less of a chance of exposure to other people. The small size is easier to ensure cleaning efficiently and completely through the day too.  There is plenty of room at the Inn, both indoors and outdoors, to rest, relax & renew.

Need a place where the whole family can stay?  Inn on Lake Wissota rents out the entire B&B to famililes and/or friends.  Give us a call for more details (715) 382-4401.

6)  Cancellation Policies

Inn on Lake Wissota has worked with all of the guests who were scheduled to stay with us during this pandemic.  For those who requested a refund, we granted those without any penalty.  For those who wanted to reschedule, but weren’t sure when that would be, we issued gift certificates.  We would like to especially thank those guests, as it really helped our small business during these uncertain financial times.

What can we do while visiting Chippewa Falls?

While indoor recreation is difficult to come by these days, there is plenty of outdoor activity and the weather is warming up.  Now is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy all mother nature has to offer.  Would you prefer to spend time indoors?  Bring your favorite book and cozy up in the common area.  We have plenty of board games to keep you occupied.

Enjoy biking on the Old Abe trail, less than 1/2 mile from the B&B

Couple biking

  1. Biking on the Old Abe State Trail.  Bring your bikes and hit the trail located just 1/2 mile from Inn on Lake Wissota! As of March 24, 2020 the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has waived all fees for the parks and trails it oversees.
  2. Hiking or biking at Lake Wissota State Park.  Located just 2 miles east of Inn on Lake Wissota.  The park has over 11 miles of trail open to off-road biking, 7 miles of horseback riding trails, swimming, boating, canoeing, kayaking, water skiing, picnic areas, fishing, hunting and trapping (based on regulations, 8 miles of cross-country ski trails groomed for traditional stride and skate skiing, and 5 miles of snowmobile trails.
  3. Walking in Irvine Park & Zoo.  In 1906 William Irvine had a dream. The dream was to establish a reserve that would enhance and protect the Chippewa Valley environment. The park has grown through the years with the help of many generous residents. This park on 318 acres includes walking trails, cross country skiing with the winter months, a band shell, preserved schoolhouse and log cabin, zoo, petting zoo, bears, hyeanas, cougars, tigers, and a overlook of Glen Loch Dam.
  4. Walking or fishing in Erickson Park. A 15-acre park with 400 ft of shoreline. Amenities include a handicapped-accessible boardwalk and pier perfect for fishing, a handicapped-accessible boat launch, a bike trail, and a bridge that connects Erickson and Irvine parks.

    Erickson Park Bridge. Photo taken by Stacie Stafford Hansen

    Erickson Park Bridge. Photo taken by Stacie Stafford Hansen

  5. Fishing. Chippewa County has 449 lakes totaling 20,027 acres and ranging from 1 to 6,300 acres. Most lakes are small, unnamed pothole lakes located in the scenic moraine area in the northern part of the county. Many smaller lakes do not support a substantial fishery but offer solitude and serenity for those wanting to get away from the crowds. Chippewa County also provides 81 miles of trout fishing opportunities in 24 classified trout streams, most of which are class I trout waters. Trout populations have good to excellent reproduction, thus no trout stocking is conducted in streams.
  6. Biking or hiking at Brunet Island State Park on the Chippewa and Fisher rivers, offers more than 1,300 acres of scenic beauty, wildlife and recreational opportunities. Quiet lagoons and channels are excellent for canoeing and wildlife watching. The landscape in Chippewa County is a product of the most recent Ice Age. The rolling terrain carries a wide variety of forest types and is home to a multitude of wildlife.
  7. Hiking in Beaver Creek Reserve.  With more than 400 acres of diverse habitat including upland woods, river bottom forests, wetlands, and savannah areas, Beaver Creek Reserve is home to a multitude of flora and fauna. Our nature reserve is bordered by the Eau Claire River and two trout streams that run through the property.
  8. Hiking at Chippewa Moraine Ice Age Unit.  Situated along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, the Chippewa  [Location] Moraine State Recreation Area offers unspoiled beauty with kettle lakes and many glacial features. The Chippewa Moraine is one of nine units of the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve. Hiking, snowshoeing, outpost camping, fishing and bird watching are popular activities.
  9. Hiking or biking Riverview Reserve Trail.  Paved and unpaved two mile trails that criss-cross through the Reserve and provide great viewing opportunities of the Xcel Energy Dam. This trail connects to Duncan Creek Parkway Trail and the Old Abe State Trail and is located east of Seymour Cray Blvd and south of County Highway I.
  10. Sightseeing: 9 Unique Wisconsin Foot Bridges in Eau Claire You have to see. Eau Claire, nestled in the rolling hills and valleys of the Chippewa Valley in Northwestern, WI, lies in a region known as the “Driftless Zone.”  This is an area of twisting rivers, deep gorges and large hills, which creates a setting for a beautiful Midwestern town.  Eau Claire’s downtown area forms along the confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers, which have been encased with parks and trails for recreational purposes.  Crossing these rivers are numerous bridges, many varying in age.  These bridges create strong connections in the community, carrying a rich history and incorporating it into a diverse future.  The entire region played host to a strong railroad economy, which led to the numerous railroad bridges in town, almost all of which still exist today.

We hope to greet you soon!

A breakfast of smoked sausage served with blueberry french toast bake. Maple syrup is being drizzled over the french toast.

Blueberry French Toast bake with smoked sausage

Whether you come for some quiet time at the Inn or to explore the scenic outdoors of the Chippewa Valley, Inn on Lake Wissota is here to help you with that experience and create some Springtime 2020 memories you’ll never forget!

We hope to greet you soon as our guests!

15 year old starts his own Maple Syrup company

bethkalata April 2, 2020 In bed and breakfast, Bob Bhom's Variety & Magic Show, Breakfast, Chippewa Falls, Maple Syrup, Uncategorized Comments Off on 15 year old starts his own Maple Syrup company

I can’t wait to tell you all about Will Wanish and his entrepreneurial spirit!  Will’s mom, Heather Rothbauer-Wanish, and I both belong to Polka Dot Powerhouse (Please excuse the shameless plug). Polka Dot Powerhouse is a connection company for women.  At one of our meetings Heather was sharing with the group her teenage son was starting his own company. Will wanted to start a Sugar Bush, tap maple trees and make maple syrup.  Including local products in my breakfast dishes helps me to support other area small businesses.  I just had to check this out!

Will standing next to the metal sign he made for his new company

Will standing next to the metal sign he made for his new company

First I let Heather know I would be interested in purchasing 4 quarts of the maple syrup.  Purchasing by the quart insures the syrup stays as fresh as possible until we open the next bottle.  I asked if I could come out & and take a few photos of the operation.  So, one Friday afternoon I had a couple of free hours (thanks to the Covid-19 social distancing) and headed out to Wanish Sugar Bush.  It turns out they’re located just 20 minutes from Inn on Lake Wissota, we can’t get much more local than that!

How Will got started

As I pulled into the driveway the first thing I saw was the brand new shed with a very cool metal sign hanging on the side of it welcoming me to Wanish Sugar Bush.  What the heck?  This kid has been in business for just a couple of months and he already has a new pole shed and this cool sign?!!  I couldn’t wait to meet him and find out more.  Not long after I pulled in the driveway Heather and Will came out of the house to greet me.  I have to admit, when Heather was talking about her teenage son starting his own business, I was expecting to meet a 17 or 18 year old.  This young man is just 15 years old.

Initially Will was shy. After some prodding from his folks, he warmed up and was excited to share his new business venture with me.  I asked how he became interested in starting his own sugar bush. He said he has been helping his uncle tap 200-300 trees since he was 12 years old. Most 15 year old kids would be happy to work for their uncle and earn a few bucks on the side.  It turns out Will loves to work and has a great understanding of what it takes to run a small business like a sugar bush.  Only, he didn’t start out with 300 taps. Will wanted to make as much syrup as possible.  This meant a pole shed and expensive equipment.  No wood-fired boiler for Will. He wanted a reverse osmosis system to eliminate a good portion of the water content from the sap before they boil it down.  This shortens the amount of time required to boil down the sap into syrup.

Support from Family and Friends

So how does a 15 year old finance such an operation?  With a business loan of course. I can’t imagine there are many 15 year old’s who would qualify for a business loan. Will isn’t most kids and this kid has a plan. More importantly, support from his parents.  They were able to secure a small business loan from a local non-profit who offers low-interest loans to area businesses.  This meant Will had to have a business plan put together & sit in front of that board explaining his vision, how he would generate income and how his company would benefit the Chippewa Valley.

With the help of nearby family and friends they have run over 19,000 ft of line to tap maple trees and collect syrup.  So far this season, they have processed over 15,000 gallons of sap.  They won’t collect all of that syrup themselves.  Will estimates purchasing at least 1,000 gallons from several different suppliers.  Apparently there are folks who have a hobby of collecting sap but have no interest in converting the sap to syrup.    Negotiating skills are required for this. The purchaser and the supplier need to agree on the sugar content and the quality of the sap which will determine the price paid to the supplier.   Having this extra sap available to them will be a big help this first year so they can make enough syrup to send to market.  I asked Will how much sap he could convert in one day.  He said the day prior they had boiled down 2400 gallons and were hoping to do at least 1,000 gallons the day I was there.

A bottle of Wanish Sugar Bush Maple Syrup on the table next to an Inn on Lake Wissota coffee cup and a breakfast plate of pancakes and bacon

Sometimes a traditional breakfast is the best, Pancakes and syrup with some bacon!

Will and his dad, Todd, Wanish

Will and his dad, Todd, Wanish

Will’s Ingenuity

Will took a few minutes to show me a pump motor he created so they could pump the sap through even more lines.  The pump they had purchased was quite expensive, over $4,000.00.  So, to save money he made two more pumps that streamline their operation by saving countless hours of hauling sap from the trees to the tank.  I can’t begin to tell you how impressed I am by this young man. It will be fun to follow up with him in 5 years to see what else he has accomplished.  Inn on Lake Wissota is proud to offer his maple syrup.

We hope you’ll come join us some day to sample their syrup and of course our fantastic view of Lake Wissota.  Enjoy the comfort of the Inn no matter the time of year. Delight in the gourmet breakfasts we serve each morning.  Until then, stay healthy and safe!  We hope to greet you soon as one of our guests.

 

The Best Cross Country Skiing Trails in the Chippewa Valley

bethkalata February 6, 2020 In adventure, Beaver Creek Reserve, bed and breakfast, Chippewa Falls, Cross Country Skiing, Eau Claire, Irvine Park, Lake Wissota State Park, silent sports, Uncategorized Comments Off on The Best Cross Country Skiing Trails in the Chippewa Valley

Couple cross country skiing in the woods. canstockphoto55798447

There are plenty of winter visitors to the Chippewa Valley who put Cross country skiing and snowshoeing at the top of the list for reasons to spend time in the area. What better way to experience the natural beauty of the region than to strap on a pair of skis or snowshoes and create your own adventure.  Although the terrain can be somewhat of a challenge to some, there are plenty of parks and recreation areas that offer groomed and ungroomed trails for your level of expertise and comfort.

Be sure to include Inn on Lake Wissota as part of your trip when passing through the Chippewa Valley.  We are a true Bed & Breakfast with 5 guest rooms.  With plenty of amenities to ensure your stay with us is unique.  This winter has brought plenty of snow and we are blessed with a winter wonderland without the bitter cold of 2019!  Find your own adventure at our Wisconsin Bed & Breakfast and book your room today!

5 Great Cross-Country Ski Trails in the Chippewa Valley

Folks from Wisconsin and surrounding states love to spend time outdoors.  Since we have long winters here in the upper Northwest portion of Wisconsin, we love to spend time with the elements, even when it’s cold.  Strapping on a pair of skis and hitting the trails is an invigorating experience, one that gets folks hooked on immersing themselves in all the beauty and magic mother nature has to provide this time of year.  Here are some suggestions to get you started.

Couple skiing near pine treesLowes Creek County Park

Just minutes south of Eau Claire, experience 250 acres of cross-country ski and snowshoeing bliss. The two-way trail system separates skiers from snowshoers, and has many loops and shortcuts giving you a wide selection of route variety.

Irvine Park

Just 5 miles from Inn on Lake Wissota, Irvine Park offer trails that are easy to navigate. Woods trails above the zoo area double as ski trails. Loop back down and visit the zoo afterwards. Trails also go past Glen Loch Lake.

Tower Ridge 

Tower Ridge is the largest cross-country ski trail complex in both Eau Claire County and in west central Wisconsin. It is located on Eau Claire County forestland in the town of Seymour off CTH L. It has approximately 12 miles of trail with terrain of varying degrees of difficulty offering something for all levels of skiers. The ski trails include wooded, rolling terrain, and are groomed and tracked on the highest priority basis of the four ski trails offered by the county. The recreation area includes a Chalet with flush toilets, additional pit toilets, approximately 3 km of lighted trails and a snowshoe trail adjacent to but separate from the lighted ski trails. Tower Ridge requires a winter vehicle entrance pass.

Lake Wissota State Park

Lake Wissota State Park is located just 2 miles east of Inn on Lake Wissota.  Several trail options go through woods, meadows, lowlands, marshes, and Lake Wissota’s shoreline. Scenic lake trail is also a highlight. Daily and annual state park vehicle admission passes vary in price. Located on the northeast section of Lake Wissota.

Beaver Creek Reserve

A 30 minute drive in your car and you can spend an entire afternoon in the quiet beauty of the woods. Beaver Creek Reserve has a number of wooded, groomed trails for snowshoeing and cross country skiing. Rental equipment is available there, as well.

Relax, Renew & Refresh at our cozy B&B!

Inn on Lake Wissota Potbelly coffee mug sitting on the breakfast table

After you’ve filled your day with outdoor winter adventures, you’ll want a beautiful, cozy place to sit back and relax.  Inn on Lake Wissota is waiting for your arrival!  Innkeepers Beth & Roger have years of experience greeting guests and helping them to relax, easing away the cares of the day.  The aroma of fresh baked cookies wafts through the air upon your arrival.  In the morning you will wake to the smell of freshly brewed coffee and enjoy a bountiful gourmet breakfast.  Book your next winter getaway at Inn on Lake Wissota today.  We hope to greet you soon.

 

 

Valentine’s Day Strawberry Muffins

bethkalata January 25, 2020 In Muffins, Recipes Comments Off on Valentine’s Day Strawberry Muffins
Strawberry heart muffin

Strawberry Muffins are a fun treat to start out this special day. Photo by lareinamab

For those who have stayed with us at Inn on Lake Wissota, you know muffins are offered each morning to those who would like to start their day out with a little something sweet.  Is there any better way to wake up than to the smell of fresh coffee brewing and muffins baking?  The first Valentine’s Day we had the B&B I was in search for a special muffin recipe to commemorate this special occasion for our guests.  I happened to find a recipe submitted by Picky Jessica on allrecipes.com for Valentine’s Day Strawberry Muffins.  The fun thing about these muffins is you slice either end of the strawberries so they look like a heart.  You know, sometimes it’s just the little things in life that warm my heart, and these muffins are one of those things!  Anyway, this recipe is a keeper, so I thought I would share it with you.

Ingredients:

  • 1 TBS Lemon Juice
  • 1 scant cup milk
  • 1/2 cup butter, room temp
  • 1 1/2 cups white sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tsp lemon extract
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
  • 3 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional)
  • 12 slices fresh strawberry (I use 12 strawberries for this and take 2 thin slices from either side of the strawberry to get a heart shape)
  • 1 TBS white sugar or gourmet sugar (large crystals)

Directions:

  • Mix lemon juice with as much milk needed to measure 1 cup; let the soured milk stand for 5 minutes before using.
  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees farenheit (175 celcius).
  • Line 24 muffin tins with paper liners.
  • Cream together the butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar in a large bowl.
  • Beat in the eggs, one at a time; add the lemon extract.
  • Gradually stir in the lemon zest and soured milk.
  • Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
  • Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in another bowl.
  • Stir the butter mixture into the flour mixture until dry ingredients are just moistened.
  • Fold in the chocolate chips.
  • Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups to about 2/3 full.
  • Place a strawberry slice on top of each muffin and sprinkle with some of the 1 TBS white sugar.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean, 25-30 minutes.  Cool in the pans for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Sometimes after I’ve made a recipe a few times I like to make some changes to try some new flavor combinations.  For this recipe I have substituted cherries for the strawberries and almond extract for the lemon extract.  I don’t bother with topping the muffin with sliced cherries, instead I sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the muffin after I have sprinkled the sugar.  For St. Patrick’s Day I may try some dark chocolate chips with mint flavoring.  Don’t be afraid to try something new, remember, a recipe is a guideline, it’s not carved in stone.

I hope you enjoy this Strawberry Muffin recipe as much as we do here at Inn on Lake Wissota.  We hope to greet you soon as one of our guests.

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t Miss the Christmas Village in Chippewa Falls

bethkalata December 10, 2019 In Christmas Village, Uncategorized Comments Off on Don’t Miss the Christmas Village in Chippewa Falls
Photo taken by Andrea Paulseth of the entrance to the Christmas Village at Irvine Park in Chippewa Falls

Photo taken by Andrea Paulseth of the entrance to the Christmas Village at Irvine Park in Chippewa Falls

For those who enjoy a dazzling display of Christmas lights, you will want to be sure to get to Chippewa Falls this season.  The Christmas Village display is located in Irvine Park, on the north end of the downtown area.  Established in 1987, the Christmas Village has become a tradition for the citizens of Chippewa Falls and surrounding areas.  Preparation for the display begins in October and relies heavily on local volunteers to hang the lights and set up the various displays.  There is an amazing display of life size scenes from Victorian times, with references to local historical businesses and other organizations.  December 14, 2019 offers a great opportunity for folks to walk through the parks without any vehicles in the area from 5:00-6:30 pm. The display is open daily until 9:00pm, and on Christmas Eve, as a special treat, the display will be open until midnight!

Andrea Paulseth photo of Irvine Park Christmas Village

A Tunnel of lights in the Irvine Park Christmas Village. Photo taken by Andrea Paulseth

If you’re in town for the Christmas Village, or any other time of the year for that matter, you’ll want to stay at Chippewa Falls’ premier place for lodging, the Inn on Lake Wissota.  This quiet, romantic inn is the perfect place to relax, renew & refresh. After a chilly evening of walking or driving through Irvine Park gazing at Christmas lights there’s no better place. Maybe you prefer to spend time on the cross-country or snowshoe trails at Lake Wissota State Park.  No matter what adventure you prefer for the winter season, Inn on Lake Wissota, located on the quiet shores of the north end of the lake, is the perfect place to unwind.  The Christmas Village has become a tradition for many families is the area to visit each holiday season.  As you plan to make your trip to the Chippewa Valley make sure to book your stay with us at Inn on Lake Wissota today! 

Best Lodging in the Chippewa Valley

If you prefer to avoid the weekend crowds, consider coming during the week.  Inn on Lake Wissota’s weekday rates are lower than our weekend rates.  Take advantage of these great deals and avoid the lines you find on the weekends.  Inn on Lake Wissota is just 5 miles from downtown Chippewa Falls, which makes it easy for you to shop the quaint downtown area, tour the brewery, or grab a bite to eat at one of the local establishments, we have plenty to choose from!

No matter what the reason is you decide to come to Chippewa Falls, we’re glad you did and we hope to greet you soon as one of our guests!  Be sure to book your room today.

 

 

 

 

 

A No Stress Turkey Breast Recipe

bethkalata November 25, 2019 In Uncategorized Comments Off on A No Stress Turkey Breast Recipe
Home Made Thanksgiving Dinner with Turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy, stuffing and green beans

Home Made Thanksgiving Dinner with Turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy, stuffing and green beans

Savory Turkey Breast

For years I had a monthly subscription to a Betty Crocker magazine.  Usually it contained about 20 recipes, most representing the upcoming season.  I found this recipe in that magazine and have loved it from the first time I ate it.  What I like even more about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare ahead of time, then warm up in the oven prior to serving.

While I love serving a beautiful meal such as Thanksgiving Dinner, because we don’t get to see our families often, I prefer to spend time with my family while they are here for the day, not slaving over a hot oven all afternoon.  With some careful planning and preparing as much food in advance, which allows me to create some wonderful memories with my family by spending time with them and not in the kitchen.  Depending on the size group I need to feed I may need to make more than one turkey breast.

If you’re lucky, you’ll have leftovers to make sandwiches or your favorite casserole.  Hmmm, that reminds me of another recipe I found in the Betty Crocker magazine using leftover turkey & wild rice.  I’ll share that recipe at a later date.

Prep time:  15 min             Total: 8 hours, 15 min

10 servings

Ingredients:

6 ½ lb turkey breast                                  ½ cup chopped celery

½ cup chopped onion                               1 dried bay leaf

1 teaspoon salt                                           ½ teaspoon coarsely ground pepper

1 cup chicken broth

 

  1. Save yourself some time with crockpot liners.  I use crockpot liners, clean up time goes much quicker and it’s easy to pour the turkey broth into a storage container if you like to use it for something else.  Line your 5-6 quart crockpot with one liner.
  2. Remove gravy packet or extra parts from turkey breast. I rinse the gravy packet off and store in an airtight container until I am ready to make the gravy.  The gravy should keep in the fridge for 1 week.  Rinse the turkey off and place in the crockpot with liner.  Place the onion, celery and bay leaf inside the cavity of the turkey.  Sprinkle with salt & pepper.  Add the chicken stock.
  3. Cover and cook on low heat for 7-8 hours.
  4. Take your turkey out of the crockpot. If serving right away, keep the turkey warm while you make the gravy.
  5. If serving at a later date, let the turkey cool for about 15 minutes, then slice. I keep my turkey in a glass 9×13 baking dish that has a lid that seals.  Pour about 1 cup of the turkey broth over the turkey just before you put in the fridge or freezer.  The turkey will keep in the refrigerator for 3 or 4 days.  If you freeze it you will want to use it within 6 months.  See this article from Food52 for more information about freezing your lefovers.
  6. Reheating your turkey is easy. If you have frozen your cooked turkey, you will want to pull it out of the freezer a couple of days in advance and let it thaw in the refrigerator.  Cover you glass baking dish with foil.  Preheat your oven to 350°  Heat in oven for 30-45 minutes until the turkey is hot.

Serve and enjoy!

 

Happy Thanksgiving and we hope to greet you soon as one of our guests!

The top 3 things to do on a summer day in Chippewa Falls

bethkalata July 15, 2019 In Uncategorized Comments Off on The top 3 things to do on a summer day in Chippewa Falls

I sit here just a couple of days after the July 4th extended holiday break bemoaning the fact  it seems as if the summer is half over already.  We all have the same experience, the older we get the faster time flies by.  It did occur to me I may be approaching this situation all wrong, maybe I should consider the glass to be half full, so to speak.  You know, we still have half of the summer to go.  And what better place to have fun in the summer than Chippewa Falls!

A Day on the Water.  Chippewa Falls and the surrounding areas have so much to offer to those visiting on summer vacation.  When guests of Inn on Lake Wissota ask what there is to do in Chippewa Falls, it’s hard to know where to begin.  For outdoor enthusiasts I say it’s hard to ignore beautiful Lake Wissota and the bounty of activities is offers both residents in the area and visitors.

A group of friends fishing

  • If you’re into fishing, Lake Wissota is known for musky, walleye, and bass. Of course there’s an abundance of pan fish to help out with your shore lunch.  With over 6,200 acres, there’s plenty of fishing to be done on the lake.  Duncan Creek runs right through the heart of the city of Chippewa Falls.  The local Rod & Gun club recently deposited 700 trout into the stream and is working with the DNR in hopes to get that stretch of the creek classified as a Class 1 brook trout stream.
  • Maybe you’d prefer just paddling around the lake, or, down the Chippewa River. For a river float in a kayak, canoe or inner tube, Loopy’s Grill, Saloon & River Rentals will drop you off just below the dam in downtown Chippewa Falls then you can float to either Loopy’s and get out, or continue your float for a few more miles and they will pick you up.

    Tubing down the river

    Lake Wissota State Park rents canoes and kayaks.   Moon Bay is accessible from the park and offers a more manageable area to paddle than the main lake does.  Over on Little Lake Wissota at the SandBar & Grill you’ll find White’s Rentals Paddle Shop.  In addition to canoes and kayaks, they also rent paddle boards.

  • For larger groups a Pontoon rental might be what you’re looking for. There are a couple of options for that, both located at the north end of Lake Wissota.  The Edge Pub & Eatery has pontoons available as does Inn on Lake Wissota.  What better way to spend time with friends or family than
  • floating around on the lake, enjoying everything mother nature has to offer.

 

Biking.  Whether you’re an avid biker who relishes the challenge of putting on 40 or miles in a day, or just the recreational biker who enjoys the outdoors and getting some exercise, Chippewa Falls has several bike trails to choose from to fit your style.

  • The Duncan Creek Parkway Trail is a five mile paved loop around the city. It’s a great way to get to know the city, just be aware the trail is shared with motor vehicles in some places. 
  • The Duncan Creek trail connects with the Old Abe State Trail, which is a paved trail that runs from Chippewa Falls to Cornell. For nature lovers this trail is a must see, the trail winds through agricultural land, along the Chippewa River and along the shores of Lake Wissota.
  • If you’re in need of renting bikes to explore the Chippewa Falls area, Spring Street Sports is located in downtown Chippewa Falls. Joe & Dave started the shop back in 1987 and have a variety of bikes to choose from.  If you’re already out on the north end of Lake Wissota and would like to take a ride on the trail up there, Inn on Lake Wissota has a few bikes for rent, give us a call.

Hiking.

  • One of the many gems of Chippewa Falls is Irvine Park features 2 miles of walking trails. Free of charge to the public, this is a nice way to get out and enjoy some nature.  There’s plenty of playground equipment for the kids to burn off some energy.  They’ll also have fun watching the bears, white bison and elks.
  • Don’t forget the Old Abe Trail for hiking, not just for biking, it is very pedestrian friendly.
  • Lake Wissota State Park has several hiking trails for hiking depending on how far you’d like to go and what you want to see. The Beaver Creek Meadow trail is 1 mile long and the most scenic.  In addition to this the park offers 7 miles of additional hiking trails.

So, no matter what you like to do outdoors, Chippewa Falls is a great place to visit and explore.  Here at Inn on Lake Wissota we hope to greet you soon as one of our guests!

Scroll to top

Always book direct for lowest rates & easy cancelation.

CLOSE