We’re in that weird time of winter where one day it will feels like spring and the next we are reminded that nope it’s still winter, y’all. Most of us don’t really have much time scheduled for vacations at this point, or maybe we just got back. Maybe we’re not leaving till later in the spring or summer. Maybe we’re stuck at home because the kids’ sports activities have started. Sigh.
But, if you’re lucky, there is still room for those little weekend jaunts to places not so far away that feel like a true escape and with winter still lingering on and snow always a possibility, I wanted to share a recent retreat for us that was perfect even in snow.
Skaneateles (pronounced Skeenee-atlas) is located in Onondaga County, NY. Its name, which is Iroquois for the Skaneateles Lake, meaning “long lake”. The lake itself is said to be one of the cleanest in the country.
As for the village, it is small and quaint with gorgeous homes and cute shops. On a snowy, cold weekend with no particular holidays to be celebrated, it is especially dreamy, yet bustling with friendly locals who enjoy all their town has to offer.
The almost 4-hour drive from our home was easy, even with the snowfall. There are several lovely hotels in the area, as well as really sweet B&B’s to choose from but instead we chose a cabin rental secluded off road on wooded land.
Away from the world, at least it seemed.
Skaneateles has about 11 trails to explore, 3 of which are perfect for cross-country skiing. (Check out Trails.com, one of my favorite hiking resources, for more information.) Carpenter Falls is a nearby waterfall to seek out, though a bit tricky to get to as it is unmarked. During warmer days, the lake is bustling with people taking part in water activities and festivals. In January, the village celebrates Winterfest where local businesses display specially carved ice sculptures, locals participate in a polar plunge, and you can purchase tickets for a Taste of Skaneateles. One of our favorite spots to definitely stop in for a taste is the Skaneateles Bakery where we warmed up with a drink and freshly made donuts.
We decided to spend an entire day of bliss at the Mirbeau Inn and Spa. My honey surprised me with a couple’s day spa package where we got access to the gym for a nice long workout and the Aqua Terrace, a large and calm-inducing hot spa pool with a waterfall, massage jets, and fireplace next to a food and beverage bar. We topped it all with a much-needed full-body massage. It was everything I needed.
Sitting outside in warm water and steam, surrounded by mounts of freshly fallen snow reminded me of our time in Mount Tremblant. So lovely.
That evening, we had a delicious dinner at the Sherwood Inn which overlooks the lake and is right in the center of town and enjoyed some Dr. Konstantin Frank wine, a Finger Lakes winery.
The next day, we ventured a bit further to Syracuse where we found Funk ‘N Waffles, a live entertainment spot that also serves some pretty awesome chicken and waffles. Yeah, I know. Random and epic. Before we knew it, our time for fun was over and we had to make our way back home and to real life.
A weekend trip like this, especially when you are starting to feel like you are over the cold weather, is the perfect way to recharge, feel inspired, and get to enjoy great food in a pretty little town of nice people.
I’m excited to add it to my list of fun Finger Lakes getaways and can’t wait to return in warmer weather.
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