Mirbeau Inn and Spa – New York’s Finger Lakes

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A Magical Getaway in Any Season

January’s gloom may be enticing you to hibernate, but allow me to offer an alternative. There’s a magical village and spa retreat just a short distance from home, perfectly poised to offer a relaxing mid-winter getaway.

Skaneateles is the gateway to the Finger Lakes, as is a great base – even in winter – to explore this region. Dozens of area wineries and craft cider makers offer tastings and tours. And the village, with its expansive lake views and rolling hills, is charming to explore.

Walking distance to the village is Mirbeau Inn and Spa, a beautiful small hideaway that feels more like a French chateau than an upstate resort. Situated on 12 idyllic acres of tall pines and gardens, the Inn’s 34 guest rooms spread between a main building and four cottages provide a luxurious overnight rest. Aside from the occasional street noise, you’ll feel transported – away from New York State and the stress of daily life – to a magical retreat.

In the wintertime, fireplaces warm the main buildings and guest rooms, and plush furnishings offer a comfortable spot to watch the snow fall.

For the ultimate in relaxation, book a treatment at the resort’s 14,000-square foot spa. The relaxation room is a cozy haven, complete with heated foot pool, fireplace, and ergonomic teak recliners. Outside, a year-round hot soak soothes sore muscles next to a roaring fire.

Resting Area Mirbeau Stock ImageIt’s easy to spend the day in the spa, soaking away your cares or enjoying a massage or facial in one of their lush treatment rooms. A resort policy of wearing your robes to breakfast and lunch in the dining room allows for complete comfort.

Post spa, warm up in the wine bar, where you can sample a variety of wines from around the world next to the fire. The unique wine station dispenser offers three pours; taste, half, and full glass, including local wines from the Finger Lakes.

Next, move into the elegant dining room. Here, you’ll enjoy French inspired cuisine with world influences, like scallop nicoise salad, fresh seasonal fish, and roasted breast of duck with garlic potatoes. Dessert brings another level of excitement, as in-house pastry chefs create seasonal delights ranging from house made beignets to apple turnovers.

Each guest room offers a cozy place to rest and relax, with fireplaces and large claw-foot soaking tubs. Watching the snow gently fall from the window of your balcony, you’ll ease off to sleep in the large king bed.

If indeed you do plan to cocoon until spring, then allow your upcoming getaway plans to get you through. When the flowers begin to burst and the trees again green, Mirbeau offers another layer of beauty in their expansive gardens. Inspired by Monet’s Water Lilies, the layers of ponds, willow trees, cattails, and lily pads create an oasis in the center of the resort buildings.

Here, you’re sure to spot the resident heron. Understandably considered a menace by the garden staff, the giant local bird swoops in regularly to pluck koi fish from the ponds. While unlucky for the fish, the prehistoric-looking bird is a real treat to observe. Not often can you enjoy a world-class breakfast of house-made granola and croissants while wildlife feeds just a few feet from your table.

Strolling through the gardens, brick pathways lead over an elegant arched bridge and to the cottage buildings. The experience is reminiscent of a small European town, as soft music and the smell of fresh baked bread wafts through the air.DSC_3201

Visiting the village of Skaneateles in the warm months presents a new season of beauty. The village’s namesake lake is one of the cleanest in New York State, and the clear blue waters offer swimming and boating fun. There’s daily scenic cruises, and two waterfront parks are great spots for a picnic.

In either season, be sure to visit the Skaneateles Bakery for an amazing cinnamon roll. They sell out daily – so get there early! And the shops in town – everything from upscale women’s clothing to chocolates to housewares – are a treat to visit. There’s even an old-fashioned toy store and entire galleries featuring works by local artists.

A stay at Mirbeau is a world-class experience with small town charm, in any season.

 

Planning Your Stay:

Mirbeau Inn and Spa Skaneateles

851 W Genesee Street Rd

Skaneateles, NY 13152

(877) 647-2328

www.mirbeau.com

 

Every guest room at Mirbeau features the following amenities:

  • Fireplace
  • Large claw-footed soaking tub
  • Spacious tiled walk-in shower
  • Flat-screen television with DVD player
  • DVD library and In-Room Movie Packages
  • Bose® stereo system with CD player
  • Exclusive “Essentials” line of body and hair care products
  • Plush bathrobes
  • Daily newspapers and magazines
  • Turndown service
  • Complimentary high-speed internet access
  • Use of the Spa Mirbeau’s relaxation, health, and wellness facilities

A small number of “Club Rooms” feature three guest rooms opening onto a joint living room area. The Club Rooms include the following amenities:

  • Continental breakfast in Mirbeau’s Dining Room from 7:30 – 10:30 a.m.
  • Afternoon wine and cheese service
  • Milk and cookies each evening at 8:00 p.m.
  • Complimentary coffee, tea, bottled water and fruit available all day
  • Guaranteed early check in at 2:00 p.m.

Note: Keep an eye on the Mirbeau website for special spa deals monthly. The resort also offers special packages for bridal groups, parents-to-be, and couples.