The Edgewater Hotel, Wisconsin Landmark

Just down the road from the University of Wisconsin in Madison, lies a hotel which is full of as much history as the college.

The Edgewater Hotel sits right on the edge of Lake Mendota. The views are incredible in any season. For me it was the snow-covered lake that was a picture-perfect landscape, but you could still get a glimpse of the patio and "beach" area where the spring and summer greets guests with live music, outdoor drinks and snacks at the Pier cafe.

There are two restaurants at The Edgewater which are open year round and both have large windows that offer great views (and sunsets). The Admiralty is a five-star restaurant, well known in Madison for its Sunday Brunch, which includes Bloody Mary and Bellini specials. The regular menu is full of mostly steak and seafood, with entrees in the $30 range. The Cove Lounge offers the same views, on a smaller scale - and budget - of sandwiches, appetizers and burgers. I just sampled a few items in the evening and they were all quite good. I thought the fireplace was a nice touch and the piano entertainment was warm and inviting. The Cove Lounge also has walls fall of photos of all the celebrities and politicians who have stayed there.

In addition to the restaurants, The Edgewater has restaurants, banquet facilities, a fitness center and indoor (important in Wisconsin winters) parking garage. Everything in the rooms at The Edgewater is in good working order, but will definitely benefit from the proposed remodeling. There is currently no spa, though they do have a Spa Room that offers massages from outside masseuses. What's missing more right now is a swimming pool. There is none on the premises. All of that - and more - are expected to change with a multi-million dollar renovation.

The big question on the remodeling is when. There has been some opposition from the town, causing constant tweaks in the renovation plans. The management hopes to finally get going soon for in their quest for a more modern resort complex, while retaining The Edgewater history. I found the staff friendly and helpful throughout the resort and would definitely consider it worth making a trip here even before the changes.

For more information on The Edgewater, visit their website. The pre-renovation rates are quite reasonable and they have a number of special packages available. You can also get a glimpse of The Edgewater of the future at this site.