Where to rent in Finger Lakes?
 

We've just made a last-minute decision to spend the last week or so of August in the Finger Lakes region, where we've never been before. For that length of time we'd like to rent a cottage on the shore of one of the lakes.

I'm getting mixed messages from what I read -- it's relatively uncrowded and quiet, but watch out for the NASCAR races in Watkins Glen, the state fair in Syracuse, and forget kayaking unless you like dodging jet-skis and motorboats.

Which is it, travelers? Anyway, we're not recluses, but would prefer a relatively uncrowded, quiet area. My online forays suggest there are many -- perhaps too many -- available rentals, on all shores of all lakes. Any recommendations about a spot that would suit our preferences but would still be within reach of some shopping, good restaurants, etc.?

It's been many years and I wasn't there in high season, but we found Keuka Lake to be beautiful. There are terrific small wineries, B & Bs and restaurants. We stayed in Hammondsport one night. You could check into rentals there.

You haven't said what your preferences are, but I love Skaneateles . . .

Go to fingerlakescottages.com.We found a great cottage on Canadaigua!

I can see you've done your research!

NASCAR is happening this weekend, and you won't be affected by the State Fair (8/25-9/?) on Senenca or Keuka lakes (probably not Cayuga either). Kayaking is hard in mid-afternoon, but if you go out early (before 10am), all you'll find on the lake is the occasional fisherman. The lake is very serene early in the morning.

Ithaca on Cayuga has the most shopping/ restaurant choices, however I would stay away since all the college students will be coming back at that time.

Hammondsport on Keuka, Watkins Glen & Geneva on Seneca are your best bets. Seneca has the most restuarants and things to do, although Hammondsport fits the bill for a quaint town. I would stay anywhere on the lake, it doesn't take long to drive into town.

I don't have any advice on specific rentals, sorry! Good luck and let us know what you decide. SG