Oh… to be a grapevine, living on this hillside. These vines enjoy views of West Grand Traverse Bay and Power Island. They are tended and cared for by Chateau Grand Traverse. The picture was snapped from a scenic overlook off M-37.
Here is the same view, this shot taken in the heat of the summer last year. In 1994, Peninsula Township passed a Purchase of Development Rights ordinance for farmland preservation. It shows amazing foresight by Peninsula Township in recognizing that they wanted to encourage farming and agriculture to continue in the township. Agriculture often fights with development pressures and with views like this, who can blame them? It would be pretty easy to sell the farm, cash in with a developer and go retire in Florida- but instead farmers can sell their development rights and the land will stay in agriculture in perpetuity. So instead of houses popping up all over Old Mission peninsula, we see more and more grape vineyards, cherry farms, and now-even hops (an critical ingredient used for beer-making).
If you can make it past all of the wonderful views, wineries, and farm stands, then you’ll end up at the Old Mission Lighthouse that is situated on the 45th parallel which is half way between the equator and the north pole. Public trails and a beachfront stroll awaits. So pack a picnic- make a day of it. Old Mission peninsula is a treat!
I want to retire with you guys up there! I am going to start pitching this to Scott! Maybe in 20 years he will agree!