Marchay advisor Elyssa Roberts checked out some exciting new hotel openings in the northeast this past October. She began with a few nights in Lenox, Massachusetts at Miraval Berkshires and continued on to the Finger Lakes in upstate New York where she stayed at The Lake House on Canandaigua. Keep reading for a review of her stay and first look into these properties.
Photos courtesy of Miraval
Overview: Opened in July 2020, Miraval Berkshires marks the third resort run by the renowned wellness company. Similar to its sister properties, Miraval Arizona and Miraval Austin, Miraval Berkshires features a fantastic Life in Balance Spa (the brand’s largest), expert-led activities and healthy and delicious cuisine. The resort’s 100 rooms and suites are spread across five buildings and showcase Scandinavian-inspired décor. In addition to fitness classes, yoga, cooking demonstrations and meditation, the hotel has a variety of unique offerings such as axe-throwing, equine therapy, beekeeping and more. One can even dabble in the more metaphysical side of things, like learning about Chakras and exploring the fundamentals of astrology. While the 40+ daily activities available (most of which are complimentary) keep guests busy, the hotel is also home to two pools, an 18-hole golf course and multiple nearby nature trails. There is one all-day dining restaurant called Harvest Moon along with a café/evening bar, Roost, where guests can stop by for a quick smoothie or snack in between activities. Since all of the buildings on property are connected by indoor walkways, Miraval works equally well in the warmer and cooler months.
Best For: Those looking for a relaxing and unstructured destination spa experience. Miraval Berkshires allows guests to completely customize their stay. You may choose to do as many (or as few) activities as you want, eat what you want and drink what you want.
Photos courtesy of The Lake House on Canandaigua
Overview: After a multi-year renovation, the family owned and operated Lake House on Canandaigua opened in August to much anticipation. This is the first luxury property to open in the Finger Lakes region in recent history. While still undergoing construction, the hotel will be finalized by Spring 2021 and offer 125 rooms and suites, both casual and fine-dining restaurants, spa by London-based skincare company Soveral, pool, boardwalk for watersports, fitness center and year round hot tub. The Lake House has a prime spot at the northern end of Lake Canandaigua, which enables them to offer a variety of activities including boat charters, kayaking, fishing and paddle boarding. Within an hour’s drive of the hotel are over 50 wineries and ample hiking trails (Watkins Glen is a must!).
Best For: Anyone looking for an easy weekend getaway from the northeast who has already done the Hudson Valley or Adirondacks.