Skaneateles, New York: Unwind in a Relaxing Lakeside Town

Quaint Skaneateles, New York, has long served as a getaway for cosmopolitan New Yorkers and other big-city dwellers. Nestled on the northern tip of pristine Skaneateles Lake—which is considered the gateway to the Finger Lakes—the sleepy upstate New York town is surrounded by breathtaking forests and waterfalls. Visitors can take a boat tour of gorgeous Skaneateles Lake, relax at a plush spa, or dine at a laid-back restaurant that serves delectable fresh seafood.

Skaneateles’ main attraction is the pristine lake for which the town is named. Mid-Lakes Navigation offers several cruise options ranging from a 45-minute sightseeing cruise to a 2.5-hour dinner cruise. Visitors can eat fresh New England clam chowder as they enjoy a leisurely cruise on one of the cleanest lakes in the United States.

If you’re a waterfall lover, a trip to Bahar Preserve and Carpenter Falls is an absolute must. The Bahar Preserve is home to a handful of trails that allow travelers to explore a lush forest bursting with natural grapevines, ferns, and moss. Visitors can also enjoy 64 feet of Skaneateles Lake shoreline. The Bahar Preserve is adjacent to a trail that leads to a cascading 90-foot waterfall known as Carpenter Falls. Thundering Carpenter Falls is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in New York State.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa offers soothing spa treatments such as calming mineral baths, facials, and massages—as well as luxurious overnight accommodations. After a day of spa treatments, visitors can sip sparkling wine and snack on an artisanal cheese board at the French-themed Bistro & Wine Bar, which overlooks a Monet-inspired garden. Mirbeau Inn & Spa enthusiasts often say that the complimentary heated foot pool in the waiting area is the grand highlight of the entire experience.

Skaneateles is home to several delectable seafood restaurants. The Bluewater Grill—which is a casual restaurant that overlooks Skaneateles Lake—serves lobster bisque, fried calamari, and grilled salmon. Doug’s Fish Fry serves a mouth-watering fish dinner with a side of fries and coleslaw. Seafood lovers don’t have to walk far to enjoy a delicious meal in Skaneateles.

Visitors in search of cozy accommodations can book a room at the Sherwood Inn. Isaac Sherwood founded the Sherwood Inn in 1807 as a tavern that doubled as the headquarters for his successful stagecoach business. The Sherwood Inn features comfortable rooms with sweeping views of the gorgeous town of Skaneateles.

Hannum House is a stately yet warm 19th-century home with 5 finely furnished rooms that are conducive to rest and relaxation. Visitors can relax in a comfy bed by a roaring fire after a day spent cruising on the lake and exploring the quaint streets of Skaneateles.

Travelers who are searching for an active vacation full of hiking and cruising, or a relaxing trip where they can catch up on their sleep and enjoy a spa treatment, should book a stay in Skaneateles straightaway. The quaint town that is often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Finger Lakes’ will leave you feeling rejuvenated.