Cayuga Lake may be the longest of the Finger Lakes, but Seneca Lake can claim to be the deepest (632 feet, to be exact). These deep waters combined with the sloping hillsides that ring the lake create an ideal climate for grape growing. In fact, the most active wine trail in New York State is located here. But, wine tasting isn’t all Seneca Lake has to offer. You can spend an afternoon at the Watkins Glen international race track or spread out a blanket and have a romantic picnic near the waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park.
Want to take in all Seneca Lake has to offer? Here are 5 reasons to set your sights on its shores:
Wine-Inn. The Seneca Lake Grape Wine Company opened the first winery in the area in 1866; and, today there are over 30 who specialize in Rieslings, Pinot Gris, Honey Wines and more. Grab the “Riesling to Visit Passport” and enjoy a standard flight of tastings at over 20 participating wineries through this month.
Finding Fun. Start your engines and make your way to Watkins Glen International! American road racing was reborn here after World War II when aficionados drove cars around a 6.6 mile dirt road course through the village’s streets. Get behind the wheel and put the pedal to the metal when you drive three paced laps around this historic course.
Seeing the Sights. Spend a day traversing the miles of scenic trails around Seneca Lake exploring the rolling hills, marshlands and natural glacier-formed caverns. Make sure to stop by Watkins Glen State Park where you can admire its deep pools, water-carved walls and the Gorge Trail that winds under and over waterfalls.
Tasty Treats. Are you in the mood for home-style cooking or something a bit finer? Either way, you’ll find it in Seneca Lake. You can satisfy your full-bodied appetite with a food and wine pairing lakeside or head to Geneva for a hearty steak and seafood combination. If you’d rather taste your way around, check out the Seneca Lake Cuisine Trail which features five restaurants all using locally-grown ingredients in their dishes.
R&R at a B&B. If you’re looking for a cozy bed to rest your head after a long day of adventure, look no further than a Finger Lakes Region bed and breakfast. Located in Lodi, NY, The Fox and the Grapes is an 1885 Victorian inn overlooking the Seneca Lake. Soak in the beautiful lake-front scenery from the deck as you indulge in a gourmet breakfast before spending the afternoon on the wine trail. On the east side of Seneca Lake you’ll find the Sunset on Seneca B&B located in Burdett, NY. It’s a private waterfront retreat located two miles from Watkins Glen. You can enjoy a drink in the sunroom while unwinding from a day of adventure or retreat to your private bath that features a relaxing waterfall.
Seneca Lake is deep – and that goes for the area activities, too. From wine tastings and foodie tours to nature hikes and speed racing, there’s something to satisfy any palate.
Want to see what else the Finger Lakes have to offer? Check out our “Escape to the Finger Lakes” Pinterest board.
