For our tenth anniversary, we decided to take a quick weekend trip to The Sagamore Resort for a family getaway. The Sagamore is one of my favorite resorts on the East Coast. Why? Because of its unbeatable view of Lake George. Located in the hamlet of Bolton (Warren County, New York), The Sagamore sits on the shores of Lake George surrounded by the Adirondacks. From recreational activities to various eateries, The Sagamore will transport you far, far away. There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with The Sagamore, but our favorites are:
The perfect setting:
Located at the very tip of a peninsula, The Sagamore offers gorgeous sunrises over the water — while you sip coffee on one of the resort’s sprawling lawns or many patios. A perfect way to wake up in the morning!
Accommodations for all types of travelers:
On previous visits, our family stayed in the lodge because the kids were young and we needed a kitchen. This time, however, we opted for a suite in the main historic building. While our room included a separate living area with a sofa bed for the kids, I highly recommend the condos or the lodge for larger families or longer stays. Though you won’t get the same feel as the historic building, the condos and lodge have the added convenience of kitchenettes, a living room, and multiple bedrooms.
Tip: The view is spectacular from the terrace of the main building’s third floor.
While my husband and I love this resort because of its dramatic view and the traditional resort feel, my kids love it for the various activities that the resort has to offer.
Outdoor activities:
Outdoor (and indoor) pools:
The Sagamore has two heated pools with the most magnificent view of Lake George. My kids enjoyed swimming in the outdoor pools for hours. They were able to play and even chase a duck that became a new friend! The resort also has an indoor pool — and a hot tub — for cooler days. My husband and I enjoyed sipping drinks (the resort serves both milkshakes and alcoholic cocktails) and having a light bite while the kids played. When you’re lounging in a chair overlooking the lake, it’s easy to forget that you’re not on a tropical beach somewhere. The frozen drinks make this quick getaway feel like a real vacation.
The fishing shack:
If your kids love fishing as much as mine, they’re going to love The Sagamore’s dock-side fishing shack! At the shack, you can borrow fishing rods for free and purchase bait. My kids had a blast fishing off of the resort’s dock. Together, the kids managed to catch more than 15 fish of several varieties, including large-mouth bass. Of course, we let the fish go; but that didn’t take away from the fun. Be prepared. The fishing shack can get pretty busy during the peak summer months!
A beach and swimming in the lake:
As if the resort’s three pools weren’t enough, there is also a beach and a protected swimming area right on the lake. This well-maintained beach is the perfect place for kids to run, swim, and play while parents relax worry-free. Oceans are great, but not having to worry about waves and riptides is even better!
The Morgan boat tour:
This free, one-and-a-half-hour tour on The Morgan is a highlight of The Sagamore. The boat is a 72-foot replica of a 19th-century touring vessel, complete with quaint wood paneling on the two decks. Guests board on a first-come-first-served basis for a scenic tour of Lake George. The tours begin at 11 am and 1:30 pm (at least on weekends). The crew narrates the history of the lake and surrounding areas as you take in the sensational views. This is a great, stress-free way to see the natural beauty the area has to offer.
Tip: Check the hotel for the tour schedule before you go. The schedule may change seasonally.
Bolton Boat Tours: https://www.boltonboattours.com
While my kids enjoyed the tour aboard The Morgan the last time that we visited The Sagamore, they needed more so we rented a boat for a couple of hours to explore the lake. If you decide to rent a boat, the front desk at The Sagamore can help you organize a boat rental, as well as water activities. We enjoyed exploring the narrows, and it felt like a grand adventure as we saw private islands, churches, and sunken boats. To top it off, my kids had a blast tubing! A private boat tour will definitely make your weekend at The Sagamore even more memorable!
This is only a sneak peek at all of the recreational activities that The Sagamore has to offer. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, then don’t forget to look for other scenic tours, adventurous hiking trails for all ages, and tennis.
Indoor Activities:
If outdoor activities aren’t your thing, or the weather just isn’t cooperating, there are plenty of daily indoor activities for children and adults alike. The Sagamore also gives you a chance to flex your culinary skills with one of its patented “culinary adventures.” The recreation center has activities on a constant rotation — for example, arts and crafts one day and a movie the next. The recreation center also offers indoor rock climbing, whiffle ball, mini golf, table tennis, indoor basketball, and video games for cold and rainy days. And the kids’ club at the recreation center is a great option if you want to take a break and visit the spa or the golf course.
While we checked out the recreation center, the weather was fantastic during our visit, so we never used it. I’ve heard from other families, however, that it has been the highlight of their trip.
Tip: Please check the opening times, which may season to season, as well as wedding and conference schedules.
The Sagamore’s restaurants:
The Sagamore has several restaurants. We enjoyed eating lunch at the Pavilion, an Asian-inspired lakeside restaurant. Then there is La Bella Vita, an Italian restaurant for breakfast and dinner. For a casual pub experience, complete with rustic Adirondack décor, you can visit Mr. Brown’s Pub. Or you can take a shuttle to The Club Grill Steakhouse restaurant, located on the Golf Course. Of course, you can also enjoy tasty, authentic cuisine while enjoying the panoramic view from the terrace. (If you want to cook yourself, you can make s’mores at the fire pit every night.)
Tip: Most of The Sagamore’s restaurants are seasonal and/or open only on weekends. Please call ahead.
The town — Bolton Landing
A charming hamlet on Lake George, Bolton Landing is only a few minutes walk — or a free shuttle ride — from The Sagamore. The town center has plenty of restaurants and shops for the whole family to enjoy.
We really enjoyed The Huddle Kitchen & Bar, which offered a great surf-and-turf experience. The food was excellent, as was the service!
The Huddle Kitchen & Bar
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing solo spa weekend, golf getaway with friends, or family-friendly destination, The Sagamore Resort has something for everyone. With such a long list of indoor and outdoor activities to try and delicious restaurants to sample, you’ll want to come back for more!
Wow.. this places seems to be amazing. Will plan a trip soon. Thanks for sharing details