We visited WBL for the first time this year. I had experienced resort-style vacations with my family growing up. These types of vacations were always our favorite, but I didn't think places like this existed anymore. While searching the internet to see if I could find something similar, WBL kept popping up, and always had stellar reviews. So my family of 5 decided to try it out. (We have 3 boys ages 11, 9, and 7.) Needless to say, we fell in love with the place. It is just like the old school family resorts of the past, but WBL is situated on the most beautiful spot on the most beautiful Elk Lake! The water is crystal clear, and so BLUE. My boys learned how to ski and wake board. They have tons of fun stuff to do on the beach...stand up paddle board, sail (and lessons!), kayak, or just play on the rafts. My kids all met friends their ages, and really had a great time. We all thought the food was good. Not 5 star, but better than what we expected! Always lots of fresh fruit and veggies, and the best for the kids was dessert with lunch and dinner. Yay! Our family stayed in one of the condos. It was plenty large enough for our family and had laundry in the unit. The condos are the most expensive of all the units, and was really a splurge for us. I would prefer to stay in one of the less expensive units, but not sure how we would manage without a dryer. I wish that WBL would have a small laundry room with a few coin operated machines. I think the guests would greatly appreciate that. Anyway, the best part of the whole trip was undoubtedly the service. The Conrad Family is so welcoming, and really go out of their way to make your stay enjoyable and fun. I really have to say, that without a doubt what made this trip as memorable as it was - was the group of college age staffers that are the backbone of WBL. I don't know where they find these kids, but they are the happiest, hardest working kids I have met in a long time. Each week their jobs rotate from kitchen staff, wait staff, and water sports, etc. It is obvious how much they love their summer jobs. While it would certainly be great spending the summer at such a beautiful place in Northern Michigan - the job comes with a lot of hard work. Despite that, everyone of them always had a smile on their face, and literally jumped at the chance to help you. This group of staffers were such good role models for all the kids staying at the lodge. Natalie, our server was super cheerful, and would make it a point to talk to all the kids at our table. She was always so excited to hear of all the progress our boys were making skiing and wake boarding. She would offer them tips as well, as she was an expert skier herself! (Top of the pyramid in the ski show) Speaking of the ski show, check it out on WBL facebook page. The video really does a great job capturing the magic of WBL while also showcasing the very awesome and entertaining ski show. My boys were in awe of Mike Conrad's ski skills! Can't say enough great things about White Birch. We had the best vacation! Of course the kids want to go back again and again. Thank you WBL for a great week!
