New York City has no shortage of luxury, but few places offer the kind of total sensory reset you get from an island resort tucked into the middle of a quiet mountain lake.
While most travelers head to the Hamptons, those in the know are boarding a train at Penn Station to reach a historic Victorian landmark that has defined classic elegance since 1883.
Inside The Sagamore: Luxury Tucked Away in the Mountains
Stepping onto the property feels like entering a secluded mountain village, where quiet lake views and historic architecture make the bustle of everyday life feel miles away.
- The Aesthetic: Expect classic Adirondack Great Camp style mixed with high-end Victorian luxury—think dark wood beams, massive stone fireplaces, and white-linen dining.
- The Morgan: The resort even has its own replica 19th-century touring boat, The Morgan, which takes guests on sunset cruises around the lake’s hidden bays.
- World-Class Dining: With eight different culinary experiences, you can choose from a high-end Italian trattoria to an authentic New York steakhouse, all located right on the water’s edge.
How To Get There: The Most Scenic Train Ride in the Northeast
The journey to The Sagamore is just as aspirational as the destination itself, turning the trip north into part of the experience. What begins as a simple train ride from New York City quickly becomes a scenic escape, with sweeping river views, mountain landscapes, and a final arrival that feels worlds away from the city.
- The Route: Board Amtrak’s Adirondack Line at Penn Station. This route is consistently ranked among the top 10 most beautiful train rides in the world.
- The Views: As you head north, the tracks hug the Hudson River, offering floor-to-ceiling views of the Palisades, the Hudson Valley, and eventually the rugged peaks of the Adirondacks.
- The Final Stretch: Take the train to the Fort Edward-Glens Falls station. From there, a quick 25-minute shuttle or car ride brings you across the bridge and onto the private gates of the island.
The Views: 360 Degrees of Lake George Magic
Because the resort sits on its own island, the vistas are constant and immersive.
- The Lake: Lake George is known for its “crystal clear” water—often cited as some of the cleanest in the country.
- The Mountains: The resort is framed by the Adirondack High Peaks, creating a dramatic silhouette during the “Golden Hour” that is a dream for photographers and Discover feeds alike.
- The Terraces: The iconic Veranda terrace offers a panoramic view of the lake’s many islands, making it the perfect spot for a morning coffee or a sunset cocktail.
What To Do In Lake George: Hidden Gems Near The Island
While it’s tempting to never leave the island, the surrounding Adirondack region is full of “hidden” opportunities:
- Bolton Landing: A charming, walkable village just off the island filled with artisan boutiques and local breweries.
- The Pinnacle Hike: A short, high-reward hike just minutes away that offers the “best view in the Adirondacks” overlooking the entire lake.
- The Shelving Rock Falls: A hidden waterfall on the eastern shore of the lake that is accessible by boat—a true “insider secret” for guests.
The Sagamore Resort remains New York’s ultimate “island” escape. It’s a rare place where history and nature collide, proving that you don’t need to leave the state to find a world-class fairytale.
Ready to trade the subway for a lake breeze? Your seat on the Adirondack line is waiting.
For booking and more information, see the resort’s official website.