The village of Skaneateles exudes wealth and charm. Victorian mansions overlook the tranquil waters of Skaneateles Lake as lazy boats bob on the horizon. The beach is bordered by upscale boutiques and there is enough variety in restaurants to satisfy both the sampler of New England cuisine and the experienced gourmet. In the summertime, you may want to try a dinner cruise instead. Clift Park sits smack in the center of town where the cool water laps the grassy shore. If you'd like to just sit and listen to the tide, take a seat on a park bench or in the gazebo.

The town's dignified quiet only extends to its inns and motels, which are designed in keeping with Skaneates's atmosphere and structure. These are attractive as well as comfortable, and peaceful. If your impression of a motel is one pressed up against a busy street, this will be a welcome change. Skaneates, night and day, is relaxation for the senses.

Skaneateles is about 40 miles from Syracuse on Route 20. For more information, look at the sidebar at the left-hand side of the page.