{Destination Spotlight on} Mirbeau Inn & Spa
In this issue, our spotlight destination is the award-winning Mirbeau Inn & Spa in Skaneateles, in the heart of Finger Lakes wine country.
Located approximately 20 miles southwest of Syracuse, the Mirbeau Inn & Spa is set on 10 acres of forested parkland amid a bower of 100-foot-high spruce trees. Nearby Skaneateles Lake, carved by a glacier during the last Ice Age, is one of the cleanest and most picturesque bodies of water in America. The surrounding region has become renowned wine country. And with water, land, and clear skies in abundance, the area offers no shortage of active diversions, from sailing, golf, hiking, trout fishing, and hot-air balloon rides in the warmer months to crosscountry skiing and skating in the winter. The village’s tree-lined streets, architecturally rich homes, antique shops, and art galleries complete the picture-perfect Finger Lakes region tableau.
With architecture modeled on a classic French chateaux, the Mirbeau offers a taste of Old World style with services and amenities truly befitting an aristocrat. Guests have a choice of 34 tastefully decorated guestrooms appointed with one king or two queen beds; all of the spacious rooms feature fireplaces and grand bathrooms complete with walk-in showers, soaking tubs, and double sinks (the first floor rooms offer patios, as well). For couples interested in even more intimate accommodations, the Mirbeau also offers four private cottages nestled beside masterfully
landscaped Monet-inspired gardens.
While staying at the Mirbeau, guests may indulge in the worldclass facilities and services of the 14,000-square-foot luxury spa, including classic massages, body wraps, and facial treatments available by appointment, and complimentary use of the heated foot pool, herbal-infused steam rooms, and dry saunas. For brides interested
in planning a day of pre- or post-wedding relaxation, a spa package might just fit the bill. In 2008, Mobil Travel Guide awarded the Mirbeau’s spa its top ranking of four stars—one of only two spas in New York State to attain this distinction.
The Inn’s experienced staff offers a full array of reception options and venues for parties of up to 100 guests. Whether you choose the Mirbeau’s French country-style Provence Room or the Monet Deck overlooking the gardens, each refined reception site is sure to stun your crowd. Elegant surroundings notwithstanding, it’s the Mirbeau’s award-winning fine-dining that puts the icing on the cake. Recognized in Wine Spectator’s “Where to Eat” feature, the Inn’s Giverny restaurant features a superb wine list and sumptuous cuisine, overseen by executive chef Ed Moro.
As much as guests may imagine themselves in the French countryside, a relaxing weekend at the Mirbeau won’t cost a fortune in airfare. For exceptional accommodations, truly fine dining, and a world-class spa facility, this Finger Lakes gem will not disappoint.
Photos: Alisha Clark
