Editors' Picks

The Lake House on Canandaigua

Design-forward, Lakefront, Relaxed

770 South Main Street, Canandaigua 14424

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At a Glance

On the northern shore of Lake Canandaigua, in the western Finger Lakes region of New York, The Lake House is an ultra-stylish resort with a laid-back vibe, beautiful design and an unbeatable lakefront location.

Indagare Loves

  • The south-facing views over Lake Canandaigua, visible from your room's balcony, the lakefront pool or restaurant, or from on the water itself
  • The thoughtful décor, with purpose-built, custom wooden furniture throughout the hotel
  • The s'mores kits for guests of all ages to make by the fire pits

Review

The white-clapboard, traditional buildings of The Lake House give the impression that the hotel has been here for decades. And while there had been a popular lakefront motel here since 1970, this current structure—in all its retro-glory—dates only to 2020. The hotel's owners are the billionaire family (and Finger Lakes locals) behind Constellation Brands, which includes Robert Mondavi Wines, Svedka, Modelo and Corona. They also run Brooklyn Home Company, a design and development firm responsible for some of the most coveted townhomes in Brooklyn. For the hotel, the family's first hospitality project, they seemingly spared no expense. Brooklyn Home Company partnered with Studio Tack (behind Marram Montauk and Scribner's Lodge in the Catskills) to create its airy, refined look, and every element—from the mobile-like chandelier and sturdy timber reception desk in the lobby to the hand-crafted, spiraled four-poster hardwood beds—feels purposeful and well made.

Rooms are divided between three three-story buildings, including the main Lake House. And while all three technically have water views, only the south-facing rooms of the main building have direct lakefront views (with private balconies perfect for morning coffees and evening wine hours). The design in all the rooms is ultra-clean, with pale-wood furniture and white walls. Some rooms have a separate sitting area.

For food, Rose Tavern serves New American in a bright space with blue banquette seating plus a large screened-in terrace. During the summer, Sand Bar is The Lake House's reincarnation of a popular restaurant on the property for decades. Its all-day menu here has updated, casual bar staples done excellently, plus daily specials and a good wine & beer list and cocktail list. Off the lobby, the Library is a club-like lounge with a separate bar. Come sunset, and on cooler days, guests gather here for board games, reading and cocktails. (Another popular hangout spot: the fire pits scattered along the lakefront, where guests can roast their own s'mores using the hotel's prepared kits.)

Days are spent lounging by the beautiful lakefront pool and oversized hot tub. The fitness center is good-sized as well, and has windows looking out to the pool. For a more scenic workout, though, consider joining one of the small-group fitness classes and yoga sessions on the waterfront. Complimentary bike access lets guests explore the immediate area, and motor boat rentals (not included) take guests down the lake for half- or full-day excursions. There is also a spa as well as lakefront saunas.

Who Should Stay

Anyone looking for a luxe home base from which to explore the Finger Lakes and its buzzy wine scene—or simply a great lakefront retreat for a relaxing few days. Families are entirely welcome, though there isn't much in the way of specific kids programming.

Getting There

Canandaigua is a (mostly beautiful) six-hour drive from New York City or Boston. It's also possible to fly into Rochester, which is under an hour away.

Written by Peter Schlesinger

What's Nearby
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