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Nestled in western New York, wine, and lakefront landscapes meet in quite possibly the perfect combination in the Finger Lakes.
With 11 lakes in the region, there’s plenty of shoreline for everyone to find a place to unwind.
Explore hiking trails riddled with waterfalls by day and cheers to them with award winning local wines by night. Or just spend your time vineyard hopping along the popular wine trails — no judgement here. Not into wine? No problem: craft breweries and cideries are very much a thing, too.
You can hike through the famed Watkins Glen, where you’ll count at least 19 waterfalls along its soaring cliffs. Shop in adorable and historic hamlets, or hit up museums like the Corning Museum of Glass or the Glen H. Curtiss Aviation Museum. You can even get your adrenaline pumping with a drive on the Watkins Glen International Speedway, on the National Register of Historic Places. But no matter what you do, make time to dip those toes in one of the gorgeous lakes.
Inhale that Upstate New York fresh air, gaze at glacier-made lakes, and treat yourself to top notch food and beverage offerings – the Finger Lakes Region is the stuff that long (or short) weekend dreams are made of. Below are 12 of the most beautiful airbnbs in the Finger Lakes to ensure you sleep in comfort on your well-deserved getaway.
1. Skaneateles Lakefront Cottage
Why you should stay: Primo location! You can practically roll out of bed into the lake.
- Location: Homer
- Sleeps: 8
- Minimum stay: 6 nights
- Rates from: $600/night
Go for the panoramic views and stay for the…continued views. Seriously. That’s not all though. This three-bedroom lakefront cottage on the southern edge of scenic Skaneateles Lake has a lush lawn, custom boat slip, and 100-foot dock, in addition to 90 feet of water frontage. Inside, an open living space with vaulted ceilings creates an airy atmosphere with a dining table surrounded by windows to maximize views.
If you can tear yourself away from the property, an outdoor playground awaits nearby. You can get out on the water, try your luck at fishing, or hit the hiking trails. If you’re hoping to visit a local vineyard, Anyela’s Winery is less than fifteen minutes away.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 12 of the Best Airbnbs in the Adirondacks
2. Paradise Point
Why you should stay: If the name didn’t hook you, the views will.
- Location: Middlesex
- Sleeps: 11
- Minimum stay: 4 nights
- Rates from: $1,080/night
Welcome to paradise…literally. Paradise Point sprawls out on the edge of picturesque Canandaigua Lake. Its one of the best airbnbs in the Finger Lakes to truly get a taste of the region; it’s an idyllic place to unplug. With four bedrooms, it’s a fantastic place to bring friends and family. (Or not. Either way works.) The nifty separate entrances create the opportunity for a dual-family getaway with a little privacy, as well.
The nearby Bare Hill Unique Area has hiking trails and, of course, the lake is the star attraction for boating, swimming, and kayaking. Don’t miss the local wineries and breweries like Arbor Hill and Naples Brewing Company to quench your thirst.
Soak up the vista and the sun from the large deck, and in the cooler months, warm up in front of the stunning stone fireplace. This property is proof that any season is a good season in the FLX (Finger Lakes District.)
Check Availability3. Heard it View The Grapevine
Why you should stay: Walk to a winery near a charming small town.
- Location: Hammondsport
- Sleeps: 8
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates from: $252/night
High on a hill overlooking Keuka Lake, Heard it View The Grapevine is exactly what you think it will be: a stay that promises easy access to both views and wine. Take in the lakeside vista from the sizable deck, patio, or lawn, or from the wall-sized picture windows strategically placed in the common areas
Pick one night to whip up a delicious meal to enjoy at the lengthy wooden table and wrap up the evening by roasting marshmallows in the property’s fire pit. Take the short walk to the neighboring Dr. Frank’s Winery for some vino tasting in between lake and land ventures, or take a short drive to stroll through the quaint town of Hammondsport. The listing says it sleeps six, but talk to the owners if you have a larger group since the loft can sleep additional guests in a pinch.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 7 Coolest Treehouse Rentals in New York
4. 1875 Schoolhouse
Why you should stay: Stay in a renovated schoolhouse from 1875 (or in a bubble.)
- Location: Burdett
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $169/night
This unique, newly-renovated two-bedroom stay will have you snoozing back in time, paired with modern amenities to keep you comfy-cozy. With a mix of vintage schoolhouse and clean, Scandinavian styles, the owners crafted the FLX Schoolhouse with serious relaxation vibes in mind. On a hill, you’ll be surrounded by picturesque farmland but only five miles from the shops, restaurants, and grocery store in Watkins Glen.
Your sailing, kayaking, and canoe dreams can become reality on nearby Seneca Lake, and hiking trails abound in the nearby gorges and Finger Lakes State Forest. For adult beverage enthusiasts, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is mere miles away as well, with vineyards, breweries, cideries, and distilleries at your disposal. Or just stay put and hang out in the stargazing bubble igloo – all are good options.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 6 Road-Ready Campervan Rentals Near New York City
5. Sheridan House Loft Apartment
Why you should stay: Near Keuka Lake but centrally located on a historic main drag.
- Location: Penn Yan
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $214/night
This hip industrial-style loft is centrally located on Main Street and just steps from the picturesque shoreline of Keuka Lake. You’ll be staying in a bright, open, and renovated space with modern amenities, though it still keeps its vintage characteristics intact. As a bonus, the apartment is perched above a coffee shop, making that caffeine fix easily accessible.
Whether you stroll the quaint downtown, browse the local Windmill Farm and Craft Market, swim in the lake, or kayak the canal, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in the area. Make sure to pick up some wine from the nearby Fox Run or Keuka Spring Vineyards, too.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 10 Glamping Spots Near NYC for a Wooded Escape
6. Secluded Canandaigua Lakefront Cottage
Why you should stay: One of the more remote airbnbs in the Finger Lakes (with a hot tub.)
- Location: Naples
- Sleeps: 8
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $349/night
Just try not to unplug and unwind at this Canandaigua Lakefront cottage. Cuddled in a cove at the base of a cliff, you’ll have incredible views of the lake without any neighbors getting in the way. Oh, except for the resident eagle family that nests nearby.
When you’re not wildlife watching from the comfort of the property’s ginormous deck or 450 feet of private shoreline, check out the hiking trails at Ontario County Park or explore Grimes Glen, a wilderness area packed with waterfalls. It’s also close to ski resorts and cross-country ski trails.
Plenty of restaurants and wineries are close; however, you may just want to scoop up provisions to maximize your time at home. On your way in or out, stop into the Plenty Bakery in Bristol Springs for one of their famous sticky buns.
Check AvailabilityRelated read: 10 Beautiful Mountain Resorts in the Adirondacks
7. Burdett Eco-Barn
Why you should stay: Proximity to Seneca Lake and stunning sunsets? Yes, please.
- Location: Burdett
- Sleeps: 2
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates from: $400/night
This energy-efficient new eco-friendly barn home joins the outdoors and the comfortable interior in perfect harmony. From the screened porch and the glass-doored great room to the organic garden and pond, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better Finger Lakes postcard.
Discover natural wonders at Watkins Glen State Park and Taughannock Falls State Park, where you’ll find the tallest waterfall in the east. Visit the National Women’s Hall of Fame and the Women’s Rights National Historic Park for a little history appreciation 101 if you have time, too.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 10 Romantic Getaways in the Adirondacks for a Two-Person Stay
8. Baby Blue at Sugar Creek
Why you should stay: A stylish tiny house with big character and friendly wildlife.
- Location: Branchport
- Sleeps: 2
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $100/night
This tiny house crafted from a shipping container is poised in the midst of 10 acres and delivers on the secluded lodging front. Baby Blue might be small in space (there’s a Murphy bed), but more than makes up for its tiny stature with sophisticated character and a remote location.
A deck, garden, and fire pit will practically beckon you outside where you might even get to wave at a friendly fox or two. Spend your days hanging on nearby Keuka Lake, get a workout on the hiking or cycling trails at the state park, and sample drinks at Hunt Country and Stever Hill Vineyards.
Wash off your adventures in the luxurious rainwater shower before settling in for a cozy night at home. Wake up to the sounds of birds chirping, have your morning coffee on the veranda, and enjoy the morning views over the creek. If there’s any one of the Airbnbs in the Finger Lakes where you can seriously relax, this is it.
Check AvailabilityFollow ’em: @babyblue_sugarcreek
9. Locke’s Glen Lakefront House
Why you should stay: Million dollar sunsets. (And probably a million-dollar house, too.) Enough said.
- Location: Geneva
- Sleeps: 10
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $350/night
Feel like a million bucks slumbering at this sprawling lakefront property perched on the northeastern edge of Seneca Lake. Fantastic views are just the cherry on top when staying at Locke’s Glen; while wineries, breweries, and restaurants are within close proximity, the rural roads and quiet nights will make you feel worlds away from any urban center.
The hosts provide kayaks and paddleboards so you can explore the lake, though you could also opt to chill on the dock or in the dock house (yes, it has its own house.) You can also spend the day strolling the vineyards at nearby Zugibe Winery.
Make sure to grab fresh fruit and veggies from the local Amish produce stands to cook up a storm in the massive kitchen. Warm up by the beach bonfire, and at the end of the night, do some epic stargazing before letting the sound of the stream lull you to sleep.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 12 Tranquil Lake House Airbnbs Around the U.S.
10. Walnut Pond Retreat
Why you should stay: The private pond might just inspire you to paint a masterpiece.
- Location: Canandaigua
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $124/night
This historic farmhouse dates to the 1870’s and will have you channeling your inner artist. If you time your trip with the water lily bloom (usually starting in June), you’ll have the chance to saddle-up pond-side and paint a scene to rival Monet’s work. The attention to detail and cocktail of modern and vintage will have you swooning while contemplating a permanent move.
The wood-fired stove is the perfect place to cozy up with a cup of coffee or glass of local wine. Located less than fifteen minutes from Canandaigua Lake, there’s no shortage of activities to appreciate Mother Nature’s work in this area.
In the winter, Bristol Mountain offers skiing and a plethora of state parks present fantastic hiking year round. Get your shop on with an excursion to downtown Canandaigua, only 10 minutes from the property, filled with boutiques and restaurants catering to any interest.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 10 Enticingly Romantic Getaways in New York State
11. Keuka Outlet Cabin
Why you should stay: Secluded, classic log cabin minutes from Keuka Lake.
- Location: Penn Yan
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $289/night
This three-bedroom log cabin is on the historic Keuka Lake Outlet Trail and only a handful of minutes from the charming town of Penn Yan. Beautifully decorated inside and out, you’ll find comfort in the cabin wherever you choose to chill.
The expansive deck practically begs for an al fresco dinner while sipping local wine from nearby Keuka Spring or Rooster Hill Vineyards. During the day, stretch your legs on the Outlet Trail simply by stepping out the cabin’s door. The seven-mile trails has views of the old paper mill and access to Seneca Falls and Seneca Lake.
As a bonus, the hosts provide bikes in case you’d prefer to explore the area on wheels. In addition to the property’s 40-plus acres, Keuka Lake is only three miles away. it’s one of the best airbnbs in the Finger Lakes region if you want a classic wooded cabin-type of experience.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 10 Best Hikes in the Finger Lakes for Adventure in the Gorges
12. Seneca Lake Cabin
Why you should stay: Epic lakefront sunrises from the private beach.
- Location: Penn Yan
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $249/night
This lakefront cabin is cute as can be with its own beach to boot. On the western edge of beautiful Seneca Lake, this sort-of A-frame (but not totally an A-frame) guarantees panoramic views from any room in the house. Any. Room.
Whether you absorb the lake landscape from the upper deck or venture the steps down to the private beachfront, it’ll be a feast for the eyes. Spend your days paddling the kayak or canoe, lounging on the sand, or playing with the provided water toys.
If you can manage to leave the beach cabana, you’re near the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Oh, and if you don’t wake up early for the sunrise at least once during your stay, you’re doing it wrong. You can always go back to sleep later.
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Seen in: New York, Northeast, Where to Stay
