Adirondacks

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At a Glance

On its own island in Lake George, The Sagamore is an iconic lakefront property that’s been an Adirondack region mainstay since the 1880s. 

Indagare Loves

• The manicured lawn and pool area overlooking Lake George
• The Morgan, a 72-foot touring yacht that takes guests on complimentary cruises 
• The Pavilion restaurant, with outdoor seating on the lakefront

The Sagamore Review

Driving over the bridge to get to Green Island, just outside of Bolton Landing, you’ll get a fleeting glimpse on the right of Lake George and the eastern Adirondacks. Then the road swoops upwards through wooded grounds towards the Sagamore’s front portico entrance. It’s not until after checking in that you see that view again, through French doors off the traditional, yellow-and-white-walled lobby, opening to the sprawling lakefront backyard. A central walkway separates a sloped lawn on one side from the terraced pool area on the other. With rows of umbrella-shaded pool loungers, motor boats zigzagging through the lake and forested mountains rising in the distance, it all bears a surprising resemblance to Lake Como. 

That back lawn is also the main draw of the Sagamore. Accommodations themselves are simple, though perfectly comfortable. In the hotel’s historic main building, 137 guest rooms and suites are spread out over three floors. The Governor’s Suite, with a king bed and queen-sized sleeper-sofa, has the best lake view, while the balcony suites have the best outdoor space. Beyond the main hotel, seven out-buildings are home to additional rooms and suites. These are more Adirondack in style (light-hued pine replaces darker woods in the furnishings), and come with kitchens, making them ideal for those looking to eat in some days.

Most of the Sagamore’s dining venues have outdoor seating with prime lake views. For families with kids who may get bored during a meal, Caldwell’s opens up to the lawn—perfect for running around between courses. La Bella Vita, on the terrace above Caldwell’s, has better views and a slightly more formal ambiance, though families are still welcome. At the lakefront, the Pavillion’s outdoor patio and open-air dining room seat diners right at the water’s edge. Menus at all three skew Italian, though American fare is also available at the Pavillion and Caldwell’s. 

In the middle of Green Island, tennis and volleyball courts along with bocce are available for anyone willing to leave the lake view behind, but the majority of activities (and guests) cluster around the water. Fishing is available from several docks, and guests can swim and use floaties in roped-off sections, one of which has a lifeguard on duty to ensure kids are safe. The pool area is family-focused, though adults will find pockets of solitude at loungers throughout the terraces. And twice a day, The Morgan, a 72-foot yacht, takes guests on one-hour guided excursions around Lake George, cruising between islands and offering prime bald eagle sightings along the way.

Who Should Stay

No other resort in the Adirondacks matches the Sagamore for grand lake views and iconic architecture. The Sagamore is ideal for travelers who want to explore the Adirondack region and still be in a luxurious resort setting with a pool (a rarity in the area). Families with kids will feel well taken care of, while couples and those looking for a more quiet escape can always find space for themselves. For a more private atmosphere, consider Lake Kora.