This Boutique Hotel in New York’s Finger Lakes Region Is a Hidden Gem

For those opting for a lake getaway this summer, bump the Lake House on Canandaigua to the top of your list. About 40 minutes away from Rochester by car, travelers will find Central New York’s best-kept secret: a sprawling, serene fixture on Canandaigua Lake. Originally named by the Seneca tribe, Canandaigua roughly translates to “the chosen place,” and, upon arrival, it becomes immediately evident why.

The Lake House on Canandaigua boasts 124 charming guest rooms and suites, spread among different cottages around the property. Designed by Post Company (formerly known as Studio Tack) in collaboration with design collective and developer The Brooklyn Home Company, every space was designed with Canandaigua Lake at the forefront––a color palette of clean whites, natural woods and navy, gray, and gold tones were selected to best reflect the lake view setting. Hand-carved bed frames and wardrobes, marble countertops, and wooden porches add to the timeless charm, while amenities such as Waterworks rain showers and soft, woven linens provide modern comforts.

The main house and lobby area are styled with paneled walls and paneled floor-to-ceiling windows with beckoning views of Canandaigua Lake. The Library is tucked right off of the main area, which evokes an innate feeling of timeless tradition: books like the deep navy painted walls, perfectly-worn leather sofas are scattered throughout the room, and the communal wooden table is topped with various board games.

Just a little ways down the carpeted hallway leading away from the lobby stands Rose Tavern, a New American restaurant serving rustic, seasonal fare inspired by the bounty and beauty of the Finger Lakes region. Centered around a wood-fired hearth, the kitchen utilizes traditional cooking techniques to prepare locally-sourced fare that pairs seamlessly with an extensive wine list that highlights the region’s variety.

After a long day on the lake, spend the evening at Sand Bar, the ideal casual hangout spot. Initially opened in 1994, during renovations, the original character that made it local legend were preserved, while the menu underwent a massive facelift; now, craft cocktails, a wide array of beers and wines, and bar staples like fish and chips are given a fresh twist.

There is no shortage of activities and amenities, all of which are sure to please any and all guests. A new collaboration Veuve Clicquot brings champagne and oyster happy hours overlooking Canandaigua Lake. Yoga and meditation classes are offered almost daily, and lakefront spin classes take place on Saturday mornings. Private drivers are available for excursions to hiking trails or wineries, and a heated outdoor pool and hot tub are open year-round. A boardwalk lines the lakefront, providing a path for leisurely strolls, and Tokyo Bikes are available all over the property to explore the grounds and beyond. To set the tone for a romantic evening, book the two-hour sunset cruise and be sure to bring a bottle of wine along.

For the ultimate relaxation experience, book a treatment at Willowbrook Spa, designed by Cate Mills Studio to connect to all the elements of nature that make the hotel so captivating. Change into a plush robe, lounge on one of the buttery leather sofas and sip a glass of complimentary regional wine before (or after) heading to either of the two lakeside barrel saunas or receiving a skincare or bodycare enhancement treatment.

Lake House on Canandaigua is truly a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of New York State.

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