A modern cabin, timeless treasures, and the small-town warmth that defines Wisconsin's backwaters.
By: Rich Bryant
There's something special about escaping to the Northwoods. The pace slows. The air feels lighter. And the simple pleasures—morning coffee by the lake, an afternoon paddle, or an evening around the fire—become the moments you'll remember long after you've returned home.
Our recent stay at this thoughtfully restored cabin on Pike Lake proved that sometimes the best getaways aren't about doing more—they're about embracing a slower way of living.
Tranquil Wisconsin Backwaters
Travel has a way of reminding us what really matters, and nowhere is that more evident than Wisconsin's lake country.
Surrounded by towering pines and calm water, the cabin feels tucked away from everyday life without sacrificing comfort. Whether we were watching clouds roll across the lake, reading on the dock, or taking a quiet canoe ride, every moment seemed to invite us to unplug.
It's the kind of destination where nature sets the schedule.
A Modern Cabin with a Story
Built with care and thoughtfully reimagined, the cabin strikes the perfect balance between vintage character and modern convenience.
Original wood-paneled walls, carefully collected artwork, antique furnishings, and nostalgic touches give the home an unmistakable personality. At the same time, updated finishes, comfortable gathering spaces, and a beautifully equipped kitchen make it easy to settle in.
Every room reveals another layer of the home's story—from the inviting fireplace that anchors the living room to the clawfoot soaking tub and the thoughtfully styled bedrooms. Nothing feels staged. Instead, the cabin reflects years of collecting, preserving, and creating a place that feels both timeless and welcoming.
Nature All Around
One of the greatest luxuries here isn't found inside the cabin—it's waiting just outside the door.
Pike Lake offers endless opportunities to reconnect with the outdoors. Paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes make exploring the shoreline effortless, while quiet mornings and colorful sunsets create moments that linger long after the trip ends.
One afternoon, while drifting across the lake, we spotted a deer casually making its way along the shoreline. It was a gentle reminder that life moves differently here—for both people and wildlife.
The Heart of Amery
A destination is often defined as much by its community as its scenery, and Amery embodies the warmth of small-town Wisconsin.
The nearby shops, cafés, and local gathering places create an atmosphere where conversations come easily and visitors are welcomed like neighbors. We found ourselves lingering over meals, discovering local recommendations, and enjoying the genuine hospitality that makes the area so memorable.
It's a place that invites you to slow down—not because you have to, but because you'll want to.
A Lasting Sense of Place
Our time in Amery was more than a weekend getaway. It was a reminder that the most meaningful travel experiences are often the simplest ones.
The peaceful rhythm of Pike Lake, the thoughtful design of the cabin, and the kindness of the surrounding community came together to create something lasting.
Amery, Wisconsin, reminds us that a true sense of place isn't just about where you go—it's about how a destination makes you feel. And long after we've unpacked our bags, we'll still be carrying a little piece of Backwater Bliss with us.
Read the full feature in the latest issue of Lake and Company Magazine: https://www.thelakeandcompany.com/products/subscription-lake-and-company-minnesota
Explore the cabin: https://www.instagram.com/thebackwater_wi/
