Planning a budget-friendly yet truly relaxing vacation can often feel like a challenge, but a new destination in the scenic Berkshires is changing that perception. Situated within a sprawling 30-acre lakeside setting, this recently established mountain lake resort offers a distinctive hideaway in one of New England's most celebrated fall regions. Reaching this tranquil spot is most conveniently done by car, a mere 130 miles from New York City via the Taconic State Parkway, just beyond the Massachusetts border. While public transport options like buses and Amtrak are available, a car rental or taxi might be necessary to fully explore the surrounding Berkshires. Its strategic location provides enough distance from the city's commotion to ensure complete relaxation, yet it remains close enough for a spontaneous long weekend getaway.
Evolving from its origins as a picnic spot and later an RV park, this modern nature retreat now features 49 distinct guest cabins, including Lakeside, Lakeview, Knoll, Hillside, and Forest, each offering captivating views of the lake or lush woodlands. From cozy king hideaway rooms with shared bath facilities, evoking the nostalgic charm of summer camps, to spacious cabins complete with private bathrooms that comfortably sleep two to four guests, this destination has accommodations to suit all preferences. Whether you're planning a romantic East Coast getaway or a memorable family vacation, there's a perfect spot for you. Remarkably, rates begin at an inviting $75 per night during the off-season, and a mid-week king hideaway room during peak season is available for $175, complemented by a $30 resort fee covering access to the property’s extensive amenities.
The extensive array of activities and amenities available at this Berkshires resort means you can immerse yourself fully in your stay without needing to venture off-site, unless you desire to explore the wider region. Guests can leisurely enjoy the resort's swimming pool, or for those with a sporty inclination, there are tennis and pickleball courts. Down by the lake, kayaks, paddleboards, and sailboats are readily available for aquatic adventures. During the high season, the resort enhances the experience with special programs led by guest experts, encompassing art, music, cooking, and wellness, alongside engaging activities designed for children.
A highlight of the wellness offerings includes the authentic saunas. Within the pool house, two private Finnish-style saunas provide a dry-heat experience, echoing the traditional methods used in Scandinavian and Russian cultures to combat severe winters. Today, these saunas offer a therapeutic pathway for detoxification and relaxation. The Finnish sauna experience at the resort is complete with amenities such as secure lockers, refreshing tea and water, and convenient showers for use before and after your session. Additionally, two outdoor saunas are situated by the lake, forming part of the shared bathhouse facilities. For an added layer of tranquility, the resort even boasts its own curated Spotify playlist, perfect for enhancing your relaxation during your stay.
The Cliff House, the resort’s signature restaurant, is described as a gathering place for creating unforgettable moments, offering breathtaking views of the lake. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast on weekdays and a lavish full breakfast on weekends. Dinner service is available from Wednesday through Sunday evenings. The restaurant also provides pre-dinner drinks and snacks, alongside a menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients and the freshest produce from local farmers and purveyors. During the warmer, peak season, guests can grab picnic lunches and snacks from the Snack Bar located by the Pool House, perfect for an al fresco meal. There's also a shop, Picnic at the Prospect, offering food and drinks to go, sundries, and unique gifts.
While this Berkshires property offers a complete resort experience, guests are encouraged to explore the rich cultural and natural attractions of the surrounding area. The resort’s website conveniently provides a map highlighting recommended local activities, and its calendar features various community events to pique your interest. A notable suggestion is a visit to the Norman Rockwell Museum, located just 20 miles from the resort in the charming Massachusetts mountain town of Stockbridge. This museum houses an extensive collection of Rockwell's paintings, including all his Saturday Evening Post covers. While in the area, be sure to also schedule a tour of the magnificent 24-acre Berkshire Botanical Garden, established in 1934, for another enriching experience.