Experience the Best of Seneca Lake Wine Country

Located in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region, Seneca Lake is a paradise for wine lovers. With its amazing views, charming accommodations, and world-renowned wineries, this lake destination is an unforgettable experience for those looking to sip and savor their way through the finger lakes region. Seneca Lake’s wineries have a mix of bold reds and crisp whites surrounded by beautiful landscapes that will leave you falling in love with this region.

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Where to Stay: Cozy & Unique Accommodations

Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

A true gem on Seneca Lake, the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is an elegant and upscale experience right on the water. With large rooms, private balconies, and an award-winning restaurant, this hotel is the pinnacle of luxury in the region.

Belhurst Castle

For old-world charm and extravagance, the historic Belhurst Castle in Geneva is a one-of-a-kind stay. With amazing lake views, a full-service spa, and an exceptional wine cellar, this castle hotel is the epitome of lakeside indulgence.

FLX Treehouses

For a one-of-a-kind stay, check out FLX Treehouses. These secluded treehouse rentals are a unique and fun escape in the rolling vineyards of the Finger Lakes. Designed for comfort and elegance, each treehouse is a rustic yet modern getaway, allowing guests to enjoy nature while being just minutes away from Seneca Lake’s best wineries.

Yale Manor B&B and Yurts

If you’re looking for a mix of historic charm and adventure, Yale Manor B&B and Yurts is the perfect choice. This bed & breakfast has traditional, luxurious rooms, while its unique yurts are a glamping experience like no other. Located near the shores of Seneca Lake, it’s a great home base for exploring the region’s top wineries.

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The Ultimate Seneca Lake Wine Trail

With over 30 wineries along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, it can be overwhelming to choose where to start. I’ve got a suggested route that highlights some of the must-visit wineries to make the most of your wine-tasting adventure. *Note, please drink responsibly and ensure you have a designated driver!

Morning: Start with Sparkling & Whites

• Glenora Wine Cellars – Kick off your wine journey with a glass of their award-winning sparkling wine and enjoy the lake views.
• Wagner Vineyards – One of the oldest wineries in the region, known for its Rieslings and Gewürztraminers.
• Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars – A must-visit for crisp whites and sustainable wine making practices.

Afternoon: Bold Reds & Hidden Gems

• Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard – A pioneer of Finger Lakes wine, with exceptional Rieslings and Pinot Noirs.
• Ravines Wine Cellars – Known for its dry wines, particularly the Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay.
• Red Newt Cellars – Enjoy a tasting with food pairings that bring out the best in their wines.

Evening: Sunset Sips & Final Tastes

• Boundary Breaks Vineyard – A fantastic spot to watch the sunset with a glass of their signature ice wine.
• Fox Run Vineyards – Wrap up your day with a relaxed tasting and some delicious farm-to-table food at their on-site café.

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More Than Just Wine: Additional Activities

While wine is the star of the show here, Seneca Lake does have plenty of other attractions:

Sailing & Luxury Boating Excursions

Seneca Lake’s waters are best enjoyed on a private yacht. Seneca Lake Kayak and Boat Rentals has pontoon rentals. For an elevated experience, book a private charter with Sail True Love for a sunset sail complete with fine wines and gourmet bites.

Helicopter Tours Over the Finger Lakes

For a breathtaking perspective of Seneca Lake, arrange a helicopter tour. This aerial experience gives stunning views of the vineyards, rolling hills, and shimmering lakes—perfect for a romantic moment or a VIP-level adventure.

Visit Watkins Glen State Park

One of the most amazing natural attractions in New York, Watkins Glen State Park is a must-visit while exploring Seneca Lake. The park has 19 stunning waterfalls, picturesque stone bridges, and a gorge trail that takes you through winding rock formations carved by thousands of years of water flow. Whether you’re hiking the famous Gorge Trail or just admiring the views from above, this park is the perfect way to balance your wine tastings with a bit of outdoor adventure.

Where to Eat: Fine Dining with a View

FLX Table

Ranked among the best restaurants in the region, FLX Table in Geneva has a multi-course tasting menu that rivals Michelin-starred experiences. With only 12 seats per night, this intimate dining experience is perfect for a luxurious evening.

Ports Café

Located near Seneca Lake, Ports Café serves up high-end, locally sourced dishes with an extensive wine selection. Their chef-curated seasonal menus make each visit a unique treat.

Veraisons Restaurant at Glenora Wine Cellars

For an amazing meal with vineyard views, Veraisons Restaurant is a top choice. Pair their farm-to-table food with award-winning Glenora wines while overlooking the beautiful lake.

Grounded

A charming café that’s perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a mid-day break from wine tasting. Grounded serves up expertly crafted espresso drinks, fresh pastries, and light bites in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great spot to fuel up before a day of vineyard hopping or to unwind with a cup of locally roasted coffee.

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Luxury Seasonal Events & Experiences

Spring & Summer: Blooming Vineyards & Waterfront Elegance

• Riesling Release Events: The Seneca Lake Wine Trail celebrates the season with exclusive tastings of new vintages.
• Yacht & Wine Dinners: Enjoy a dinner cruise on Seneca Lake with fine wines and gourmet cuisine.

Fall: Harvest Season & Leaf-Peeping Bliss

• Grape Harvest Experiences: Join a winemaker for a VIP behind-the-scenes tour of the harvest process.
• Scenic Hot Air Balloon Rides: Float above the vineyards and rolling hills for an amazing autumn view.
• Fall Foliage Winery Tour: Hire a private guide to take you through the best leaf-peeping and wine-pairing spots in the Finger Lakes Region.

Winter: Cozy & Romantic Escapes

• Ice Wine Tastings: Experience Seneca Lake’s renowned ice wines, harvested in the coldest months.
• Fire & Ice Festival at Geneva on the Lake: Enjoy ice bars, fire pits, and gourmet winter treats at this luxurious estate.
• Private Ski & Spa Retreats: After a day of skiing at nearby Bristol Mountain, unwind with a fireside massage and glass of Cabernet Franc.

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Plan Your Perfect Seneca Lake Getaway

With its world-class wineries, charming accommodations, and breathtaking scenery, Seneca Lake is the ultimate wine lover’s paradise. Follow my recommended wine trail, book a unique stay, and experience all that this incredible finger lakes region has to offer. Cheers to an unforgettable Finger Lakes adventure!