There’s nothing like summer by the lake. For those of us who don’t have a cottage to escape to, I’ve found the next best thing. The Lake House on Canandaigua is the next best thing to having your own cottage. In fact, it’s even better, because you can relax by the lake without having to maintain your property and pull out the dock.
We left our toddler behind and headed out on a much needed weekend road trip. In less than 3 hours from Toronto, we had arrived in the Finger Lakes. It was my first time visiting this region, and I can’t wait to return. There’s so much to explore!
The Lake House is coastal chic personified. Natural wood furniture, cozy nooks with roaring fireplaces and driftwood accents. The overall effect is welcoming, bright and modern. I particularly liked the old fashioned key fobs and the store in the lobby (complete with a ladder that’s straight out of Beauty and the Beast’s library.)
The Room
We stayed in a Town King room with a view of the lake. The room was really relaxing and had all of the cozy extras, like plush robes, and a Nespresso machine. When we checked into our room, we found a delicious charcuterie platter waiting for us.
I was obsessed with the Born Bathing lotion and hand wash scents. The scent was custom made for the Lake House, and it was such a relaxing and calming aroma.
We enjoyed hanging out on the generous walk out patio to catch the sunset or sunrise.
The Spa
Willowbook Spa’s has created a unique service to relax and recharge. You can unwind in a custom made barrel sauna for a exclusive sauna experience. The service is perfect for a couple or a group of up to 4 friends. The service includes a custom aromatherapy scent that can be spritzed in the air while you get your sauna on. The sauna can be experienced in 15 minute increments.
Japanese inspired towels resting in ice chips are used to cool down, or you can pour water onto the stones to heat things up. It was really nice to de-stress with a view of the river.
Once you are done the 15 minutes, you’re invited to take a cold shower outside, and repeat the process. A DIY honey face mask is provided to use on your second round. After the service is complete, we headed inside to chill in the spa lounge. There’s a cozy fireplace, herbal water, tea and snacks. I was in love with the giant fiddle leaf plant!
The Vibe
The entire property has such a fun, relaxed vibe. There are tons of spots to curl up with a good book, or admire the lush gardens. There are daily activities to participate in like yoga, meditation and a tour of the gardens. You can rent a bike and cruise around the property and town, or check out some on-site water activities.
If you know your way around a boat, rentals are available. You can also try your hand at stand up paddle boarding, or use a water bike.
Of course, you could also choose to just lounge by their newly renovated pool. Their heated pool and hot tub is open year round. You can even reserve a daybed so that you have a prime spot to people watch and tan.
In the evening, you can pick up a cute DIY s’mores kit from the lobby and head out to the firepit to make some new friends, and enjoy a gooey treat.
The Eats
You can dine at two restaurants at the Lake House, and both are amazing. I had the opportunity to try both restaurants, and I can say that all of the dishes were outstanding.
The Sand Bar
The Sand Bar is a casual restaurant near the lake with a beach vibe. Here you’ll find simple but tasty eats. Think tortilla chips with fresh salsa, grilled octopus, crispy chicken cutlets and delicious cocktails.
The Rose Tavern
The Rose Tavern is in the main building, and specializes in American cuisine with a menu centered around their beautiful wood fired hearth. I really enjoyed my meal here, especially the warm Parker house rolls, crispy salmon and fresh straciatella cheese.
All in all, this has become one of my favourite places to visit in New York. I can’t wait to return and see what fall is like!
The Lake House on Canandaigua is located at 770 S Main St, Canandaigua, New York
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