Girlfriend getaways galore in the Finger Lakes this winter

Kids aren’t the only ones who get cabin fever. As the mother of three active boys, girlfriend getaways are not a luxury for me — they are a necessity. The ideal escape has three key components: not having to cook or clean, a good night’s sleep, and doing something that gives you the time and space to rediscover yourself. Luckily, the Finger Lakes region has fantastic getaway options. Here are three fabulous ones:

1.  del Lago Resort & Casino

   Not far from Rochester, del Lago is a unique fusion of European (Italian) and local Finger Lakes ambiance. The overall effect is that of unpretentious opulence.

   The attention to detail is amazing. Highlights include a complex system of scents that’s piped into every sector of the building, each one specifically chosen to amplify the visitor experience.  And the friendly employees appear to really enjoy working there. If you’re the trend-setter in your group, it’s time to check out this getaway spot right in your own backyard!

   Spa del Lago has a wide variety of spa and salon services to choose from. The cedar sauna is soothing, the steam room aromatic, and the sanctuaries truly peaceful. Multiple treatment rooms are pristine and inviting, and the Sociale Café & Bar delivers whatever “gastro spa” treats you might desire. After a day of rejuvenating and pampering at Spa del Lago, visit the rest of the resort for a fun evening.

   Begin with dinner at the sophisticated Portico, where Chef Fabio Viviani prepares Old World Italian-inspired dishes from seasonal ingredients. The more casual Farmers Market Buffet, a winning combination of healthy food station options is also a tasty option.

    If you’re in for some late-night girlfriend fun, the casino has plenty of opportunities for individual (slot machines) or group (poker, blackjack) gaming. Or take in a comedy or music show at The Vine, del Lago’s state-of-the art entertainment center, bar, and restaurant. No matter how you all choose to spend your evening, make a point of staying up past your usual bedtime. After all you can sleep in (uninterrupted!) the next morning.

2. La Tourelle Hotel, Bistro & Spa

   This classic, yet contemporary, country inn has been family-owned since the 1960s. When you enter the lobby, with its brightly glowing fireplace and walls overflowing with photos of the many famous guests who have stayed there over the years, you’ll feel a warm, welcoming vibe.

   Get the girlfriends together and agree on a 2018 date to reserve the three-story Yellow Barn Suite, which sleeps six comfortably and has two and a half baths, a gas fireplace, and a small kitchenette. Enhancing the “slumber party atmosphere,” there’s a large-screen television allowing friends to group-watch movies. (If the Yellow Barn isn’t available, try the three adjacent king bedrooms instead.)

   Be sure to schedule a relaxing afternoon at August Moon Spa, where it’ll be all about you. I recommend the winter treatments — Buttermilk Falls Sugar Scrub or the Oxygen Facial; both are great for soothing dry, cold-weather skin. Afterward there’s a sauna, a steam room, and two luxurious tranquility rooms, one with a waterfall and one with a fireplace, to relax in.

   A nightly complimentary Finger Lakes wine tasting gives the hosts, guests, and perhaps a friendly dog or two, a chance to mingle and socialize before heading separate ways for dinner.

   You might be in the mood for a typical steakhouse menu at John Thomas Steakhouse located on the hotel property, but if you’d rather try the local cuisine in town, it’s a short drive down the hill to “Restaurant Row” on Aurora Street. Downtown Ithaca has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars, theaters, and music venues.

   And if the group wants to explore the specialty of the Finger Lakes region — the wineries — ask the Wiggins family about their partnership with “Experience! The Finger Lakes,” a full-service touring company that picks up and drops off guests who want to explore local wineries — no designated driver necessary. If you’re visiting in the dead of winter, ask the guides to show you the Ithaca-area waterfalls and gorges. They are spectacular in the ice and snow — so grab your cameras for your unique girlfriend photo ops. 

3. Hope Lake Lodge

   Across the road from Greek Peak Mountain Resort, Hope Lake Lodge is anything but a typical ski lodge. A five-time winner of TripAdvisor’s “Certificate of Excellence,” the Lodge overlooks scenic Hope Lake and the Virgil Valley.

   Described as “Rustic-chic,” this lodge is perfect for friends to get in touch with their feminine side, rekindle old bonds, and make some new memories.

   Start your getaway by escaping from the stresses of everyday life at the serene, full-service Waterfalls Spa. The pedicure room features three luxurious seats facing a panoramic view of the countryside. Treatment rooms, many with personal saunas and showers, are gorgeous.

   Spa services include various types of massage and facials or, for something different, try the “Beer Hops Sugar Scrub” or a seasonal special. Suites and private consultations are available for groups to help customize and maximize their day at the spa.

   Once you’ve been pampered at Waterfalls, catch up on your busy lives in the Bobcat Lounge over a specialty cocktail or a local beer. Follow drinks with dinner at the Acorn Grill, with a menu comprised of American classics (pot pies) and a few surprises, like the Pear Bacon Brie Burger or dishes featuring local game.

   The grill also has breakfast, lunch, and late-night dining options. Afterwards, enjoy the outdoor pool, heated to a cozy 85 degrees year round, and hot tub under a starry winter sky. 

   The next day head over to Greek Peak’s Outdoor Adventure Center. Sign up for a Zip Line Tour on one of the four dual zip lines or take a Nor’Easter Mountain Coaster ride (you control the speed!) surrounded by snow-covered terrain. Renting tubes, skis, or kicksleds are other fun outdoor options.

   If you’d rather watch active people than be one, Trax is Greek Peak’s lively, trendy restaurant/pub. Everyone there, from the drinkers and diners to the wait staff is high-spirited.

   After the hustle of the holidays takes its toll, you and the girlfriends will be ready to treat yourself to one of these rejuvenating experiences.

   I’m planning my own 2018 winter girlfriend getaway … hope to see you there!