Hillside Inn of Ephraim

The view across the bay is spectacular, and the docks are right across the street. It’s a lovely place for a waterfront stroll, or you can go next door to the hot dog and hamburger place and sit outside. It wasn’t open yet when I visited in winter, and quite a few businesses close in the off-season, though there are still plenty of options. I’m hoping to return in the next couple of months for the summer experience. The Hillside Waterfront Hotel feels relaxing and comfortable, almost like going back to your mom’s house. It was sparkling clean, impeccably maintained, and the staff were gracious. My room was large, with a great shower and a comfy bed with about a million pillows. Most, if not all, guest rooms have a water view. Since I was there in April, mine was mostly an ice view, but still. Diane, the proprietor, is a perfect host, always smiling and genuinely interested in making sure you have a good stay. She’s lovely, too. I think I proposed to her three times. Maybe she thought I was joking, or maybe she had better offers, but she hasn’t accepted yet. *sigh* The rooms have what you need, and if you want something else, Diane will figure it out. I’d never even heard of Door County before this trip. It’s an old shipping village, a bit like where I grew up in CT, which made the place feel even more like home. Diane also knows a lot of local history, and if you catch her between marriage proposals, she’ll share interesting tidbits and even some scary stories. I could go on and on. Words don’t really do it justice. You have to experience it, and I hope you do. If Diane finally comes around, I’ll probably see you there!

The views are gorgeous, the rooms are really well appointed, and the spa shower was great. There’s coffee and tea around the clock, and you can walk to everything in town. Diane was so welcoming, and Julia responded quickly over text. I’ve stayed at a lot of Door County hotels, and this one is the best. It’s definitely a splurge, but totally worth it. I don’t know what scent they use in the hallways and lobby, but I want my whole life to smell like that.

The owner and the rest of the team were friendly, helpful, and welcoming. The hotel is right in the middle of town and the peninsula, and the water views from the front are beautiful, especially at sunset. I’d admired this place from afar during my other stays in Ephraim, so I was excited to finally book it. It surpassed what I expected. We had the Forget-Me-Not room, which was impeccably clean, and I’m picky about that. It felt cozy and comfortable, with a little fireplace and an amazing shower. I also liked the amenities, from the delicious filtered water on tap at the “water bar” to the coffee area and bathroom necessities you could grab. One of the most relaxing, comfortable hotel stays I’ve had. I’ll definitely come back and recommend it highly. Thank you!

Diane is involved in every part of running Hillside, even helping with luggage. It was our first stay, but definitely won’t be the last. The views over the bay are beautiful, the lodging and amenities are “Top Drawer,” and the location is convenient for visiting Door County. In my opinion, Hillside is simply the nicest place to stay in the county. It’s so nice that staying there is a good enough reason to make the trip by itself.