2 Best Hotels in Skaneateles, The Finger Lakes

The large 1848 colonial-revival house sits on 300 private acres of woods and meadows across the street from Skaneateles Lake. Interiors are plush but not fussy, with a leather sofa, silk and velvet drapes, Oriental rugs, and a hallway mural. Two bedrooms have fireplaces; most have four-poster beds. Lake views are especially nice from the front and side porches.

Understated elegance is the rule at this châteaulike property. Mirbeau is French for "reflected beauty" and appropriately, the complex wraps around a water garden with lovely lilies and an arched wooden walkway. The 10,000-square-foot Roman-style spa has the region's most extensive treatment menu. Rooms have fireplaces, French-country furnishings, down comforters, and soaking tubs. On Saturday night the elegant Giverny restaurant, which serves contemporary takes on seafood and game, hosts live jazz. Four- and five-course tasting menus are available.