8-sided Haven

In some methods of alternative healing, the hexagon symbolizes attunement with self and soul. Its shape attracts people who are ready to shed old patterns or habits and progress to the next stage in life.

When Pentwater, Michigan's Hexagon House was originally built in 1896 to harbor loggers conducting business in town, it's unlikely the inhabitants considered the hexagon's ancient healing qualities. But it's precisely the effect this enchanting, eight-sided bed-and-breakfast seems to achieve with its visitors today.

"We really have tried to make this place a respite," says owner Ed Farnham, who, together with his partner Dave Durham, bought Hexagon House in 2002 as a perfect addition to this resort community's brisk B&B business. "This is a place where people can relax and find a sense of renewal." Both practicing veterinarians in Grand Rapids, Farnham and Durham say their appreciation for the great outdoors fueled their desire to purchase Hexagon House, one of only two B&Bs open year-round in the area. But both owners knew they needed help fast. So they hired innkeepers Judith DeRycke and Mary Jane Fedder, two former Dominican nuns, to delight guests with their genuine hospitality, delicious meals and immaculate upkeep.

"Judith and Mary Jane really understand the spirit of what we're trying to do – give people a unique place to reconnect with themselves and each other," Durham explains.

In an area teeming with B&Bs, Hexagon House is a standout. Nestled on nearly three acres of lush land set back from the road, the house is a true testament to nature. Awaken early enough and you might spot a deer or turkey vulture nuzzling the wildflower perennial gardens. Bird watching is also prime; there are often Baltimore Orioles and hummingbirds circling the grounds. In addition to its unique shape, Hexagon House's most striking feature is its magnificent bi-level wraparound porch (each guest room has a private entrance that leads onto the porch). A spiral staircase connects the two covered levels, allowing guests to come and go as they please or settle into the cushioned deck chairs.

Inside, the house's common areas are sprawling and comfortable, with all the enchantment and elegance one would expect from a house restored to its original Victorian grandeur. Hexagon's previous owners also gave it a new roof and central air-conditioning, and completely updated wiring, plumbing and insulation before Farnham and Durham took over (a renovation they were very pleased not to have tackled themselves). The Great Room, where the B&B's lavish breakfasts are served, includes leaded-glass windows, a Bose surround-sound system and plenty of cozy spots to explore. In the parlor, you'll find a diverse selection of tomes (everything from landscaping guides and self-help books to C.S. Lewis' The Chronicles of Narnia and Jerry Seinfeld's Sein Language) to curl up with by the fireplace. The kitchen features some of the house's original cabinetry and its hickory floors have been restored.

Each of the five rooms (all with private, modern baths and CD players, but no televisions or phones) has a unique charm. Some are on the frillier side, with floral patterns and angel motifs, while others have a more rustic flair, featuring bold quilts and country kitchen patterns. The Cottage Rose suite is the largest, with an antique iron queen bed, window seat, and a Jacuzzi tub and separate shower in the master bath. There's also plenty of closet and dresser space for extended stays in Pentwater, plus an antique wicker swing on the private porch.

"We have one couple who has been here five times, and they've stayed in every room," explains DeRycke. "They say they love the peace and tranquility that they find here."

To be sure, both DeRycke and Fedder infuse the house with a calming, gentle spirit. DeRycke is gracious and welcoming, overseeing most of the meeting and greeting, while Fedder, a soulful woman with a Zen outlook on life, casts her magic in the kitchen. Fedder's inspired breakfasts – everything from a simple egg to oatmeal creme brulee, apple raisin pancakes and fruit kebobs – are already famous with Hexagon House regulars. Don't miss her decadently moist Hexagon House Swedish ginger cookies, which are set out throughout the day with tea and fruit for guests to enjoy.

Steps away from Hexagon House, you'll find Pentwater's historic downtown area (a tourism brochure for Pentwater describes it as the place "where your biggest scheduling conflict is between fishing, sunning and shopping"), with tree-lined streets, marinas and quaint Victorian cottages flanked by picturesque gardens. Hoof it or ride one of Hexagon's resident bicycles down to Hancock Street, the main drag, where shops and boutiques abound. Wine enthusiasts won't want to miss the selection of imports and domestics at Durand Wine Co., which also carries gourmet cheeses, specialty beers and cigars. Gardener's Folly houses a large collection of one-of-a-kind treasures, including bubbling fountains, garden gnomes and wicker furniture. For a steaming cappuccino and a slice of homemade butter fudge, head to the Oldewick Post.

Of course, there's more to do in Pentwater than just flex your shopping arm. If the beaches of Lake Michigan don't tempt you, perhaps the kayaking, charter fishing or sailing will. Prefer to remain on solid ground? There is also mountain biking, horseback riding and nine holes of golf to enjoy. Fall is the perfect time to sign up for a color tour to watch the leaves change, while winter welcomes cross-country skiers. Or you can rent a Jeep at Sandy Korners Jeep Tours and careen through the dune mountains at Silver Lake in nearby Mears. Then relax over a casual dinner overlooking the marina at Gull Landing, a family restaurant that serves up steaks, seafood and prime rib.

While active outdoorsmen Farnham and Durham want you to know there's much more to do in Pentwater than visit a B&B (they love hiking and kayaking, among other activities), it's hard to ignore Hexagon House's siren song, what with all of DeRycke's and Fedder's special touches. Together they reflect the best of Pentwater's riches – a delightful quartet in an octagonal world. It's a great angle, any way you look at it.