The Most Charming Hotels in New York’s Mountain Regions

1. Mirror Lake Inn, Lake Placid

The Mirror Lake Inn is a historic, family-owned property in Lake Placid that’s been around for nearly 90 years. Beautiful views of Mirror Lake and the surrounding mountains are available from a small beach area, some of the 130 rooms, and restaurants. Rooms are charming and lodge-like, plus some suites add fireplaces, jetted tubs, and balconies. There is an outdoor and indoor pool, as well as a large hot tub, in addition to a stellar spa and salon, tennis courts, and fitness center. Free afternoon tea and cookies add to the homey vibe, and live music is available on Friday nights. To enhance the relaxing atmosphere, phone calls are not allowed in common areas.

2. The Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid

Opened in 2005, the family-friendly Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid is an upscale boutique amid mountains. The 94 homey suites are spread across two buildings, and all have full kitchens with stainless-steel appliances, laundry machines, jetted tubs, and free Wi-Fi, plus furnished terraces. There are tons of on-site features, such as KANU restaurant and lounge, which serves three meals (including free breakfast), a full-service spa, a kids’ program, and indoor and outdoor pool areas with hot tubs. Other freebies consist of coffee, tea, and refreshments in the afternoon, use of a sauna and steam room, and s’mores around the bonfire in the evening.

3. The Lodges at Cresthaven, Lake George

The upscale Lodges at Cresthaven is an 11-acre lakefront property suitable for couples and families. The 54 two-bedroom units (which fit up to six guests each) are attractive and lodge-like, all with fully equipped kitchens, furnished porches, jetted tubs, gas fireplaces, and washer/dryers. The Boathouse restaurant and bar is a popular spot, and the outdoor pool and lovely private beach with calm waters and a number of kayaks and canoes for guests are also big draws. Be aware that the property closes each year from November through March.

4. The Sagamore Resort, Bolton Landing

The Sagamore Resort is a historic, upscale property located on a private island on Lake George. This is a suitable spot for families and couples, thanks to the array of room types and features. The 387 rooms have a traditional style and patios with Adirondack rocking chairs, plus suites come with modern kitchens. The property is also home to a whopping eight restaurants and bars (including a steakhouse and Italian eatery), a full-service spa and salon, an 18-hole golf course, multiple tennis courts, and both an outdoor and indoor pool. Beautiful lake and Adirondack Mountain views are on display here.

5. Silvanus Lodge, Hillsdale

Housing just eight rooms and one apartment amid five acres is the budget-friendly Silvanus Lodge. Located in Hillsdale, this hotel offers a good value close to the Hudson Valley, Catamount Ski Area, and the Berkshires. Steele, who opened the property in 2001, is the only man in charge and will share local advice and history with guests. Rooms have a retro, funky style (think shimmery golden bedspreads and polka-dot headboards) as well as private baths and air-conditioning. The Studio Apartment has a kitchen and a daybed for little ones. Amenities are limited here, but expect free morning coffee, a rectangular outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi.

6. Blue Lagoon Resort, Lake George

Opened in 1984, Blue Lagoon Resort is a charming, family-owned property with a 200-foot private beach along Lake George. The owners welcome many repeat guests, who are drawn to the outdoor activities and 24 units that come in a range of sizes. Motel rooms feature mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers, while freestanding two-bedroom cottages have fully equipped kitchens and living spaces. All have porches. A grassy lawn holds barbecue grills and picnic tables, and visitors can use the Adirondack chairs, kayaks, and rowboats. Nightly campfires are a highlight.

7. Lake Placid Lodge

A Relais & Chateaux hotel, the upscale Lake Placid Lodge is a beautiful waterfront property in the Adirondack Mountains. This family-friendly hotel has standard lodge rooms with cozy decor, wood-burning fireplaces, and furnished balconies overlooking the lake and mountains, as well as suites and cabins with living areas. A lake-view restaurant serves seasonally inspired fare, while a pub offers a variety of drinks and games. In-room massage treatments are available, plus tons of outdoor activities can be arranged.

 

8. Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort, Lake Placid

The upper-middle-range Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort has a private beach area and has been family-run since 1974. While other hotels in downtown Lake Placid sit across the street, this property has direct water views from the lobby and many of its rooms. The 165 rooms are contemporary and elegant, all with Keurig coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and microwaves; some add fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and/or kitchens. Generations, the hotel restaurant, serves all three meals and has an attached bar, plus live music is found here on Friday nights. Water sports, parking, and Wi-Fi are all free of charge.

 

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