Hotel Packages for Mackinac Island: Your Guide to Stonecliffe’s Luxury Escapes

Planning a getaway to Mackinac Island often starts with one simple question: what package offers the greatest value for the type of trip you’re dreaming about? Whether you want to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, indulge in a private cottage retreat, support a humanitarian hotel, or simply find a flexible rate for locals or members, The Inn at Stonecliffe has curated a suite of offers that cater to travelers seeking exclusivity, purpose and elevated experiences. Below is a quick overview of what makes each package special.

• Taste of Stonecliffe – A limited‑time celebration honoring America’s 250th year. This package includes a USD 250 food and beverage credit and signature cocktails inspired by 1776. Bookings are capped at just 250, making it one of the rarest opportunities on the island.
• Luxury Cottage Retreat – A private cottage experience with champagne and charcuterie on arrival, bike rentals for up to six guests and grocery delivery service. Ideal for families, groups and travelers seeking residential luxury with privacy.
• Stay For Good – A purpose‑driven package aligned with Stonecliffe’s Humanitarian Hotel philosophy. Guests select a local non‑profit to receive a donation while enjoying exclusive perks and a future stay credit.
• Lock‑In Island Luxury – A celebratory rate offering up to 20 percent off your stay in honor of America’s 250th year. Only 250 bookings are released, inviting you to become part of history.
• Michigan Resident Rate – Up to 15 percent off for Michigan residents, complete with local treats and keepsakes. Perfect for those making the drive from Detroit or the Great Lakes region.
• AARP and AAA Member Exclusives – Dedicated packages with added savings and perks for members of these organizations.

This guide dives deeply into each package, explains why they matter right now, and shows how to plan a seamless journey to Mackinac Island’s most private resort. Read on for storytelling, planning details and insider tips.

Why these packages matter now

A season like no other

Mackinac Island is a seasonal destination. Unlike year‑round resort areas, the island opens its doors from May through October. Peak season stretches from late June through August when ferry services run every 30 minutes and events fill the calendar. Shoulder seasons in May, early June, September and early October offer quieter ambience and cooler temperatures. This rhythm means travelers have a finite window to secure lodging and experiences.

This year stands out. The Inn at Stonecliffe reopened in June 2024 after a USD 40 million property‑wide renovation. For the first time since the restoration, the resort will operate a full season from May to October in both 2025 and 2026. These are the inaugural seasons when every aspect of the reimagined estate – from the historic mansion to the new cottages and event venues – will be available to guests. Bookings are likely to surge as travelers seek to experience the island’s newest luxury property while availability is still ample.

National celebrations and travel trends

America will mark its 250th anniversary in 2026, and Stonecliffe’s Taste of Stonecliffe and Lock‑In Island Luxury packages were created to commemorate this milestone. Each offer is limited to 250 bookings and includes celebratory touches like a USD 250 dining credit and exclusive discounts. For travelers who love history or wish to be part of a national moment, these packages capture the zeitgeist.

Travel trends also support the appeal of Stonecliffe’s offers. Nearly half of Americans planned to travel in summer 2025, with 90 percent maintaining or increasing their travel frequency compared to the previous year. Water‑based destinations continue to dominate, with 65 percent of travelers seeking shorelines and lake vistas. Mackinac Island, surrounded by Lake Huron and lauded as the USA’s best summer travel destination three years running, fits squarely into this trend.

Another emerging pattern is purpose‑driven travel. A 2025 trend report notes that travelers are focusing on the “why” and “how” of travel, viewing it as a results‑driven lifestyle practice that brings growth and healing. Stonecliffe’s Humanitarian Hotel concept, where all profits go to charity, speaks directly to this audience. Guests can enjoy luxury while making a positive impact.

Easier access from Chicago and the Midwest

Getting to an island with no cars has always required planning. Visitors typically arrive by ferry from Mackinaw City or St Ignace, and the nearest airports are Pellston, Chippewa County and Traverse City. New for 2026, United Airlines will operate direct flights from Chicago O’Hare to Pellston starting 21 May 2026, with 1–2 daily flights and a flight time of 1 hour 34 minutes. This route brings Chicago within easy reach of the island and underscores why it’s a pivotal year for road‑trippers and flyers alike.

Taste of Stonecliffe: Honor America’s 250th year

Storytelling

Imagine stepping onto the grounds of a century‑old estate reimagined for a new era. The breeze carries the scent of lilacs, the Straits of Mackinac shimmer beyond the bluff, and you begin your celebration with a toast to history. The Taste of Stonecliffe package invites you to become part of America’s 250th anniversary in a way that feels both timeless and decadent. Upon arrival, you are welcomed with two complimentary “1776 cocktails,” a nod to the year that began it all. The drinks, crafted with premium spirits and local flavors, set the tone for an experience that blends past and present.

What’s included

Planning tips

Book early. With only 250 bookings, the Taste of Stonecliffe package will sell out quickly. If you’re considering a trip in June, align your stay with the Lilac Festival, held 5–14 June 2026. Arrive midweek to enjoy shorter ferry queues and more intimate celebrations. For travelers flying in, schedule your trip after the new Chicago–Pellston flight route begins in late May 2026.

Why it matters

This package allows you to be part of a historic moment while indulging in modern luxury. The food and beverage credit encourages you to explore the inn’s culinary program, which includes fine dining, craft cocktails and locally inspired ingredients. The exclusivity amplifies the experience: you’ll join a limited club of guests who celebrated America’s 250th in a place that itself embodies American heritage.

Luxury Cottage Retreat: privacy and indulgence for families and friends

Storytelling

Some travel memories are made not in grand halls but in intimate moments – sharing stories around a fireplace, riding bikes through dappled forest paths, preparing breakfast in a kitchen filled with laughter. Stonecliffe’s Luxury Cottage Retreat reimagines the typical hotel stay as a private homecoming. After a scenic ferry ride, your group settles into a three‑bedroom cottage complete with a full kitchen, patio and spacious living areas. A chilled bottle of champagne and artisanal charcuterie board await, signaling the start of a relaxed yet refined escape.

What’s included

Planning tips

Plan your grocery delivery in advance so your cottage is stocked when you arrive. Take advantage of Stonecliffe’s on‑property bike rentals to avoid the crowds downtown. For a family‑friendly itinerary, pair your cottage stay with the Fall Fudge Festival in early October; the crisp weather and autumn foliage create unforgettable cycling experiences. Book a cottage during the shoulder season (May or September) to enjoy lower crowds and cooler temperatures.

Why it matters

The Luxury Cottage Retreat caters to modern travelers seeking space, privacy and autonomy without sacrificing resort amenities. In a world where vacation rentals are popular – 38 percent of travelers lean toward vacation rentals – Stonecliffe bridges the gap by offering residential comforts on resort grounds. It’s ideal for families, wedding groups and friends who want to stay together while enjoying high‑touch service. For corporate retreats, the cottages can serve as team headquarters, complemented by event spaces like the Sunset Pavilion and Straits Lawn.

Stay For Good: purpose‑driven travel

Storytelling

Picture arriving at Stonecliffe with an extra layer of meaning behind your trip. Perhaps you’ve chosen a local non‑profit to support, and your stay will contribute directly to their work. The Humanitarian Hotel concept means every dollar of net profits goes to charity. The Stay For Good package elevates this mission: you’ll select a specific local charity to receive a USD 50 donation, receive a commemorative Stonecliffe pin and earn 25 percent off a future stay at a sister property.

What’s included

Planning tips

Research local non‑profits beforehand so you can choose a cause that resonates. Combine your stay with a volunteer activity or philanthropic excursion if available. To deepen your impact, encourage your travel companions to participate in fundraising or awareness campaigns upon returning home. Consider pairing this package with a special event; for example, the Fall Fudge Festival offers a community‑focused atmosphere.

Why it matters

Purpose‑driven travel is gaining momentum. Trend forecasters note that travelers are redefining vacations as practices that improve physical, emotional and spiritual health. By making charity central to the hotel’s business model, Stonecliffe aligns with this ethos. Guests not only enjoy elevated luxury but also contribute to positive social impact. For organizations planning corporate retreats, the Stay For Good package can serve as part of corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Lock‑In Island Luxury: exclusive savings for a historic year

Storytelling

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, Stonecliffe invites guests to “lock in” luxury at an exclusive rate. The offer is both a celebration and a challenge: act quickly to secure your place among the select 250 bookings. Imagine being among the first to experience the renovated estate at a discount while partaking in special on‑property programming and festivities.

What’s included

Planning tips

This package rewards early planners. Book as soon as dates become available, especially if you intend to travel during peak season. Pair the Lock‑In Island Luxury offer with a midweek stay to maximize savings and avoid crowds. Combine with the Lilac Festival or Fourth of July celebrations for added festivity. For Chicago travelers, consider flying into Pellston once the direct flight launches in May 2026 to shorten travel time and extend your holiday.

Why it matters

Exclusive discounts in luxury settings are rare, especially on Mackinac Island. By limiting the number of bookings, Stonecliffe ensures that the guest experience remains personalized and high‑touch. The package leverages national celebrations to draw attention to the resort’s reimagined spaces while providing value to guests who commit early. It’s ideal for couples, families and groups wanting to mark a special occasion without compromising on quality.

Michigan Resident Rate: local appreciation

Storytelling

Mackinac Island is woven into the fabric of Michigan life. Many locals have childhood memories of fudge shops, horse‑drawn carriages and lake breezes. The Michigan Resident Rate invites residents to rediscover the island from a fresh perspective – at a resort that feels simultaneously new and historic. From your check‑in moment, staff recognize your state ID and greet you with local treats and curated keepsakes. This package acknowledges that while the island welcomes visitors from around the world, it owes much of its charm to the people of Michigan who cherish it.

What’s included

Planning tips

Bring a valid Michigan ID to confirm your residency at check‑in. Plan around shoulder seasons for quieter experiences or peak season for more events. Combine the resident rate with road trip itineraries; the drive from Detroit to the ferry terminal is 4.5–5.5 hours, and there are scenic routes along Lake Huron’s shoreline. If you’re part of a couple or family, consider exploring the island’s trails by bike – Stonecliffe provides rentals as part of the package. For locals who have experienced Mackinac Island only as day‑trippers, staying overnight at Stonecliffe reveals a different side of the island, especially after daytime crowds leave.

Why it matters

The Michigan Resident Rate encourages locals to invest in a longer stay and to experience a higher tier of hospitality than a quick day trip. It acknowledges local loyalty and fosters community relationships. In marketing terms, it also helps fill midweek occupancy and shoulder season dates, supporting the resort’s revenue goals while rewarding the community.

AARP and AAA Member Exclusives: curated value for savvy travelers

Storytelling

Not all travelers fit the same mold. Some prefer the security of membership organizations that negotiate deals on their behalf. Stonecliffe’s AARP and AAA packages recognize the value of these networks and reward members with exclusive savings and perks. Picture a couple celebrating retirement with a sunset cocktail on the Straits Lawn, or a family using their AAA membership to upgrade their room. These packages remove guesswork and deliver dependable value.

What’s included

Planning tips

Verify your membership at booking and check‑in. Consider pairing the member rate with midweek travel, as AAA members often travel by car and can take advantage of off‑peak ferry schedules. Use your membership savings to upgrade to a room with Straits of Mackinac views or to indulge in on‑property experiences like a culinary class or live music night. For AARP members, the resort’s quiet ambience and focus on service align well with needs for comfort and accessibility.

Why it matters

Membership‑based packages provide straightforward value and appeal to a broad demographic of travelers who trust organizations like AARP and AAA. They also highlight Stonecliffe’s commitment to inclusivity across age groups and lifestyles. By offering these programs, the resort taps into established communities and encourages repeat visits.

Year‑round and event‑based experiences

Lilac Festival: early summer bloom

The Mackinac Island Lilac Festival is the island’s most iconic celebration. In 2026 it runs from 5–14 June, bringing parades, live music, a 10K run and the Lilac Queen coronation. Travelers during this period will witness the island awash in purple blooms and sweet fragrances. Stonecliffe guests can enjoy the festival while retreating to the resort’s private bluff away from downtown crowds. The Taste of Stonecliffe package pairs perfectly with this event, as both celebrate history and tradition. Book a table at The Straits restaurant for a view of the lilac‑lined lawns and schedule a carriage tour during the festival’s daily events.

Fall Fudge Festival: sweet autumn escape

From 2–3 October 2026, Mackinac Island hosts the Fall Fudge Festival, blending fudge tastings with fall‑themed festivities. Crisp air, colorful foliage and decadent sweets define this weekend. Guests who book the Luxury Cottage Retreat or Stay For Good package during this period can bike through vibrant forests, warm up with hot cider at Stonecliffe and sample limited‑edition fudge flavors downtown. Families often find this festival a perfect end‑of‑season trip, as it coincides with lighter crowds and lower rates.

Fourth of July & America’s 250th celebrations

Independence Day on Mackinac Island features fireworks, parades and patriotic concerts. In 2026, the holiday carries extra weight because it falls within America’s 250th anniversary year. Stonecliffe’s Taste of Stonecliffe and Lock‑In Island Luxury packages were designed with this national milestone in mind. Guests can expect special dinners, flag‑raising ceremonies and curated historical lectures. Book early to secure rooms with Straits views for watching fireworks over the water.

Weddings, retreats and custom events

Beyond public festivals, Stonecliffe is a sought‑after venue for private celebrations. The property’s event spaces include the Sunset Pavilion (3,074 sq ft indoor and 900 sq ft patio) with capacity for 150 seated guests or 200 standing, the Straits Lawn with fire pits and bridge views, and the North Lawn framed by the mansion’s facade. A wooded spot called The Grotto provides an enchanting backdrop for ceremonies. Couples can plan weekend‑long weddings with welcome dinners, lawn games and late‑night pool parties. Corporate groups can pair meetings with experiential add‑ons like painting classes, carriage tours or sip‑and‑sail boat cruises. Stonecliffe’s event team customizes menus with plated dinners, passed hors d’oeuvres, pizza parties and cocktail‑making classes. All food and beverage is billed to the final guaranteed count with a 25 percent service fee and additional bartender/server fees. These details ensure transparency for event planners while reinforcing the resort’s elevated service.

Planning your journey: travel & logistics

Getting to the island

Mackinac Island sits between Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas and is accessible only by boat or plane. Because there’s no bridge, most visitors arrive via ferry from Mackinaw City or St Ignace. Two companies – Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry and Arnold Transit Company – operate passenger ferries every 30 minutes during the primary tourist season. Luggage travels with you on the ferry and dock porters can deliver bags directly to your room at Stonecliffe. Pets and bicycles are allowed on board, and horse‑drawn taxis meet the ferries to transport you to the resort.

For those arriving by air, the nearest commercial airport is Pellston (PLN), about 20 minutes south of Mackinaw City. There are also regional airports at Chippewa County (CIU) and Traverse City (TVC). The new United Airlines flight from Chicago O’Hare to Pellston begins on 21 May 2026, providing a 1 hour 34 minute direct route. From Pellston, shuttles and rental cars take travelers to the ferry docks. Private plane charters can fly directly to Mackinac Island’s airport, and small air taxis operate from St Ignace.

Road trips and drive markets

Driving remains a popular way to reach Mackinac Island. A road trip from Detroit to the ferry terminal covers approximately 290–310 miles and takes 4.5–5.5 hours. Popular routes include the fast I‑75 north through Saginaw and Bay City, the scenic US‑23 along the Lake Huron shoreline, and the Lake Loop hybrid that blends both. Highlights along these routes include Bavarian village Frankenmuth, the Thunder Bay Shipwreck Museum in Alpena and the Petoskey Gaslight District. Travelers from Chicago can drive through Michigan’s western shoreline or take advantage of the new flight route. Wisconsin visitors often travel through the UP, while Canadians can cross into Michigan via the Blue Water Bridge or Sault Ste. Marie.

On‑island transport

Cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island, which preserves its tranquil atmosphere. You’ll travel by foot, bicycle or horse‑drawn carriage. Stonecliffe’s location on a bluff means you may prefer to use the horse‑drawn taxi service for the uphill journey from the ferry docks. The inn also offers on‑property bike rentals, allowing you to explore the island’s trails without venturing into downtown to hire bikes. Plan to bring comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing; even in summer, evenings can be cool. For those arriving by private boat, the Mackinac Island State Harbor offers 80 slips and overnight dockage.

The Stonecliffe experience: elevated luxury and humanitarian heart

A landmark reimagined

Stonecliffe began as the estate of Irish‑American industrialist Michael Cudahy in 1904. The mansion’s Tudor‑style architecture, sweeping lawns and panoramic views of the Straits of Mackinac evoke an era of elegance. After decades of operation as a hotel, the property underwent a USD 40 million renovation completed in June 2024. The restoration updated guest rooms with Nespresso machines, curated décor and water‑view suites while preserving historic details. New three‑bedroom cottages with kitchens and patios were added, and a 24/7 wellness center with gym and sauna complements the two outdoor pools (one adults‑only and one family‑friendly). Grounds are dotted with fire pits and lawn games, creating spaces for relaxation and gathering.

Humanitarian hotel concept

Stonecliffe’s most distinctive characteristic is its ownership and purpose. The Pulte Family Foundation owns the property, and under the Humanitarian Hotel Initiative, 100 percent of net profits are donated to charity. This model transforms every stay into a force for good. The Stay For Good package adds a personalized charitable component, but every guest contributes to the mission simply by booking a room. The resort also partners with local organizations for volunteer opportunities and community events, reinforcing its role as a steward of the island.

On‑property experiences

Guests can participate in a variety of curated activities: morning yoga or Pilates on the Straits Lawn, live music evenings ranging from jazz trios to full bands, culinary classes like pizza making and cocktail mixing, wine and fudge pairings, lawn games and kids’ crafts. Special experiences such as beekeeping demonstrations and art classes reflect the resort’s connection to its environment. For wellness enthusiasts, the resort hosts guided meditation sessions and nature walks along bluff trails. Couples can book private dining experiences under the stars, while families may enjoy movie nights at the outdoor pavilion.

Venue options for events

Stonecliffe is designed for celebrations. The Sunset Pavilion offers 3,074 square feet of indoor space plus a 900 square foot patio, accommodating 150 seated guests or 200 standing for weddings, banquets or corporate presentations. The Straits Lawn overlooks the Mackinac Bridge and can host outdoor receptions with lawn games and fire pits. The North Lawn, framed by the mansion, is perfect for ceremonies or cocktail hours. For an intimate woodland atmosphere, the Grotto provides a secluded setting among trees and ferns. Event planners can choose plated dinners with multi‑course menus, passed hors d’oeuvres, pizza parties or cocktail‑themed gatherings. The resort can also arrange live music, sip‑and‑sail boat tours around the island, horse‑drawn carriage rides, late‑night pool parties at the adults’ pool and custom fudge takeaway boxes. A 25 percent service charge and bartender/server fees apply, ensuring professional service and staffing.

Rooms and cottages

Accommodations at Stonecliffe fall into three categories: Mansion House rooms, Summer House rooms and Private Cottages. Mansion House rooms feature historic touches and water views; Summer House rooms provide contemporary décor and patios; Private Cottages have three bedrooms, full kitchens, fireplaces and outdoor seating areas. All rooms include plush bedding, spa‑style bathrooms and curated amenities like Nespresso machines and locally sourced bath products. For guests seeking the utmost privacy, a private entrance and dedicated concierge service can be arranged.

Culinary highlights

Dining at Stonecliffe emphasises fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Straits restaurant offers seasonal menus with Great Lakes fish, Michigan produce and artisanal cheeses. Horsey’s Pub serves craft cocktails and small plates with a casual, convivial ambience. Guests can request picnic baskets for hillside dining or join cooking demonstrations led by the resort’s chefs. During events, the culinary team creates custom menus ranging from formal multi‑course dinners to themed pizza parties. Wine and fudge pairings, a nod to the island’s sweet heritage, are a signature experience.

Wellness and recreation

The 24/7 wellness centre includes strength and cardio equipment, a sauna, and spaces for yoga and meditation. Outdoors, the family pool offers a lively atmosphere for children, while the adults‑only pool provides tranquility with cabanas and beverage service. Guests can arrange for personal training, spa treatments and guided hikes. The resort’s proximity to the island’s trail network makes it an ideal base for biking or running. For golfers, there are courses on the mainland in Mackinaw City and St Ignace. Anglers can book charter fishing trips on Lake Huron. In winter, though the inn closes after late October, visitors can return for cross‑country skiing and snowshoeing experiences via other accommodations on the island.

Planning checklist and tips

1. Choose your package early. Limited‑edition offers like Taste of Stonecliffe and Lock‑In Island Luxury require advance booking. Once 250 slots are filled, these packages disappear.
2. Pick your season. For lilacs and festivals, visit in June. For warm weather and full activity menus, choose July or August. For fall foliage and fudge, plan for late September or early October. For quiet escapes, May or early June are ideal.
3. Plan your transport. Decide whether to fly or drive. If flying from Chicago after May 21 2026, book the direct flight to Pellston. Otherwise, plan a road trip or fly into nearby airports. Allow extra travel time for ferry transfers and luggage handling.
4. Secure ferry tickets. Ferry tickets can be purchased online ahead of time or at the dock; reservations are not required, but planning ahead shortens wait times. Arrive 15 minutes before your desired departure during peak season.
5. Pack appropriately. Layers are key. Even in summer, evenings can be cool. Bring comfortable walking shoes, rain gear for unpredictable weather and a sweater or jacket. If traveling during the Lilac Festival, consider packing purple attire.
6. Plan on‑island activities. Reserve bike rentals, yoga classes and specialty experiences ahead of time. If you’re interested in events like painting classes or sip‑and‑sail tours, ask the concierge about scheduling.
7. Factor in service fees. For events and group bookings, remember the 25 percent service charge and additional staffing fees that apply to food and beverage.
8. Consider midweek travel. Midweek stays often feature lower rates, fewer crowds and easier ferry transfers. For Michigan residents, weekdays are especially good for taking advantage of the resident rate.
9. Prepare for car‑free living. Pack lightly or arrange porters for your luggage. Plan to travel by foot, bicycle or horse‑drawn carriage once on the island. Schedule carriage pickups for check‑in and check‑out to avoid waits.

Frequently asked questions

1. When is the best time to visit Mackinac Island? The island is open May through October. Peak season is late June through August with lively events and full services. Shoulder seasons (May–early June, September–early October) offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
2. How do I get to The Inn at Stonecliffe? Most visitors take a ferry from Mackinaw City or St Ignace. The nearest airport is Pellston (PLN) with shuttles to the ferry docks. Starting 21 May 2026, direct flights from Chicago O’Hare to Pellston will make the journey easier.
3. Is Stonecliffe open in winter? No. The Inn at Stonecliffe is a seasonal property operating from May through late October. Plan your stay within this window; the resort closes for winter each year.
4. Are pets allowed at Stonecliffe? Pets are not permitted in guest rooms or cottages. However, service animals are welcome. You may bring leashed pets on the ferry if your pet is staying elsewhere on the island.
5. Do packages include ferry tickets? Packages generally do not include ferry tickets, but Stonecliffe’s concierge can assist with ferry reservations and timing. Ferry tickets are valid for any departure time.
6. Can I book a wedding or event during the public festivals? Yes. Stonecliffe hosts weddings and events during the Lilac Festival and other events. However, popular dates book far in advance, so secure your venue early. Additional planning is required to accommodate festival crowds and logistics.
7. Is there Wi‑Fi on property? Yes. High‑speed Wi‑Fi is included in all guest rooms, cottages and public areas. For travellers who value connectivity, this amenity meets modern expectations while preserving the island’s historic charm.
8. What is the cancellation policy? Stonecliffe’s cancellation policy varies by package and season. Most reservations require a deposit and have a 14–30‑day cancellation window. Check the policy when booking and consider travel insurance.

Conclusion: plan your escape today

Mackinac Island is more than a destination; it’s a feeling – a blend of Great Lakes breezes, historic charm and modern indulgence. The Inn at Stonecliffe elevates that feeling by combining a lovingly restored estate with purpose‑driven hospitality. Whether you’re raising a glass to America’s 250th anniversary, sharing laughs in a private cottage, supporting local charities or simply seeking a serene escape, there’s a package designed for you. Each offers exclusivity, curated experiences and the knowledge that your stay contributes to a greater good. With the resort’s first full seasons upon us, new direct flights from Chicago and festivals on the horizon, now is the moment to secure your place.

Visit The Inn at Stonecliffe to explore rates, availability and additional details. Your Mackinac Island adventure awaits – a landmark reimagined, a private resort renewed and a travel experience with purpose.

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