The Lodges at Cresthaven

There are two separate entrances to look for from the road that winds around Lake George: one for Cresthaven and one for Boathouse restaurant. Both come alive each year in May after hibernating between the months of November and April. Though Cresthaven is relatively new, there is neat history to the land as it used to be the summer home of Alfred Ochs, the former publisher for the New York Times. During his heyday, Mr. Ochs hosted several notable guests including FDR. The Boathouse restaurant was part of his estate and was built in 1876. The Cresthaven reception area is located in a separate building close to the road, and there is a temporary parking lot nearby lot for easy access before heading down the hill. Guests will check in and get all their information here. They may return to borrow paddles for the kayaks and canoes, buy local merchandise, pick up a cup of Keurig coffee, or sign in visitors, who are required to pay a fee to use the grounds. Halfway down the steep driveway is a large log cabin-style building that is the newer section of Cresthaven called Oak Tree with three floors of units. Farther down the hill are a number of freestanding two-bedroom units either facing the water or tucked back from it (some of these are more private), as well as another building that houses the fitness center and game room. Past that is the pool area and large lawn leading to the beach and restaurant. Families with active kids and groups tend to make up most of the clientele in the summer, but in the autumn, it’s mostly romantic couples who come to enjoy the foliage and peace and quiet -- especially mid-week. (Weddings on weekends keeps the place active during spring and summer.) The crowd here tends to be well-heeled since this is one of the more luxurious places close to downtown Lake George, where most accommodation options are motels and chain names. 

This hilly 11-acre property sits between the lake and the highway called 9N. The Village of Lake George is two miles to the left, and has grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, and shops. Fort William Henry is based in town as well next to Million Dollar Beach for scenic steamboat cruises across the lake. By turning right, guests can take a 15-minute scenic drive toward charming Bolton Landing, a ritzier area also known as the gateway for the elite staying at Sagamore Resort. During peak season, there are some nice restaurant options along 9N, as well. The mountainous area of Lake George is a popular summer destination that sees a big surge in tourism during summer months. Unlike fellow Adirondack sister Lake Placid -- better known for winter sports thanks to Whiteface Mountain and Olympic game facilities -- the area around Lake George slows down during winter months (which is why many hotels close down). The freshwater namesake is the main attraction and it provides opportunities for swimmers, boaters, and water sports enthusiasts, with beautiful views in every direction. The lake is located in the southeastern part of Adirondack State Park -- the largest state park in the lower 48 states with more than 3,000 lakes and 2,000 miles of hiking trails to explore. Because this is a slightly vertical property, anyone requiring assistance getting to the main office, restaurant, or beach can call the front desk for golf cart rides. 

There are 50 or so units on the property, and all are decorated with authentic wood furnishings and mountain decor (think: bear patterns on blankets, light fixtures in the shape of acorns). The wood paneling and log-beam ceilings in many units adds a lodge-like vibe. They are spacious -- these will feel like a vacation home -- and they are equipped with kitchens, laundry facilities, living/dining areas, gas fireplaces, covered porches, and charcoal barbecues. The fully equipped kitchens includes stainless steel refrigerators, microwaves, oven ranges, and dishwashers. Entertainment centers have stereos, CD players, and DVD players; units have up to three flat-screen TVs. Central air and heat come standard. All units can sleep up to six people; there are two bedrooms (the second bedroom has either either a king, two twins, or queen and twin), and a sofa bed in the living room. There are two full bathrooms, and the master bath comes with a jetted tub. Toiletries, besides a bar of soap, are not provided. The newer Oak Tree Lodge building faces the lake, and is three stories tall (lower floors might hear noise from upstairs neighbors). Standalone cottages are closer to the waterfront, and some are duplexes while others are one-story. These units have varying views; those facing front will have guaranteed water views but less privacy from neighboring porches. Meanwhile, others that are tucked slightly away do not have water views but offer more privacy. An extra charge of around $25 is charged for day visitors. Pets are not allowed. 

The biggest feature of this lakefront property is the sandy private beach area with calm water for swimming -- great for all ages. There are plenty of Adirondack chairs as well as reclining lounge chairs for sunbathing. A number of kayaks and canoes are available for guests (paddles have to be checked out at the reception area). Guests can go fishing; if bringing their own vessel, they can rent a boat slip and dock in front of the property. Above the beach area is a wide and hilly lawn area with hammocks, wooden swings, and benches for enjoying the view. Also notable is the indoor/outdoor pool area that sits close to the water, again taking advantage of the natural backdrop. In this gated area is a terrace with several more lounge chairs for sunbathing, as well as an outdoor kiddy pool. Inside the pool area (the pools attach to each other) are bathrooms. Fitting in with the lodge theme, the wooden fitness center is next to the pool and offers cardio and weight machines overlooking large windows. For kids, there is a arcade game room next to the fitness center and an outdoor playground. Other activities include a putting green, volleyball court, bocce ball court, and horseshoes. During peak weekends, entertainment and special activities take place.The lobby area sells local merchandise and offers Keurig coffee. Guests have free assigned parking near their units. Wi-Fi is free.   

The waterfront restaurant, Boathouse, offers a classic American menu. Lunch is more casual with sandwiches and gourmet salads, while dinner has higher priced surf and turf options such as filet, prime rib, north Atlantic salmon, and pasta dishes like lobster macaroni and cheese. Both indoor and outdoor seating is available, and two bar areas serve craft beers, wines, and specialty cocktails. The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner daily in summer months. Operations are more limited in spring and fall months, and private events like weddings may shut down the restaurant.  The building has an interesting history; the restaurant, built in the late 1800s, gets its name because it was the former boathouse of American banker George Foster Peabody.