Known as the trout capital of the world, Seneca Lake is the largest of the Finger Lakes in upstate New York. Also referred to as Wine Country, this area hosts a variety of vacation rentals for both families and groups looking for a quiet getaway. Whether you are interested in water sports, fishing, and hiking, or prefer to spend your days hopping from one museum to the next, there are many popular Seneca Lake vacation rental locations that are close to everything. This guide will help you plan your visit and assist you in locating the best place to stay.

1. Montour Falls

From cozy cottages to two-story cabin vacation rentals, Montour Falls is the perfect place for a spring retreat or winter getaway. Located at the south end of Seneca Lake, Montour sits near the Catharine Creek Wildlife Management area, which is a popular place to go to birdwatch. At the end of the day, enjoy one of the quiet restaurants nearby or cook steak on your cabin grill.

2. Watkins Glen

Watkins Glen is a small village just to the west of Montour Falls. If you are looking for a secluded vacation rental, this quaint scenic location is perfect. Visit one of the local vineyards for wine tasting, or peruse the Watkins Glen Farmers Market in the summer for locally baked goodies and homegrown fruits and vegetables.

3. Glass Factory Bay

Located to the North on West Lake Road, the Glass Factory Bay is the perfect place for any oenophile. There are several wineries in the region for wine tasting. You can even take a bottle of your favorite vintage back to your vacation rental to enjoy in peace and quiet on your private deck. Houses in the area are large and spacious, which is perfect for large groups.

4. Seneca Lake Park

Seneca Lake Park is the perfect spot for families with children. A host of cabin vacation rentals are located near or on the water, so you can step out on your deck and enjoy the views. The park itself has a concrete water play area and a playground with slides and swings. In the winter, you can go ice fishing or skiing.

5. Barrett Marine

Located along the northeast portion of Seneca Lake, Barrett Marine is the ideal place to search for a vacation rental if you love to shop. Enjoy luxurious lakefront homes or opt for a quaint villa. The Marina offers boat tours of the lake. You can also rent a boat from a local retailer.

6. Fayette

Fayette is a very small town to the north of Seneca Lake and to the southeast of Geneva. This tiny location is home to a variety of secluded vacation rentals that make excellent getaways. Rent a kayak to explore the water, or go hiking along the Seneca Canal trails. Homes in this area are close to gift shops and restaurants, and Interstate 90 is just a few minutes to the North.

7. Sampson State Park

Whether you are looking for lakefront cottage vacation rentals or a large home for your whole family, the Sampson State Park area provides plenty of spots to choose from. Once you get settled in, you can go hiking or visit one of the museums close by. If your rentals are by the water, cozy up at the end of the day in front of the fire and watch the sunset on the water.

8. Lodi Point Marine Park

Lodi Park Marine Park is another popular spot along Seneca Lake for vacation rentals. Enjoy swimming or boating in the area, and take the children to one of the several playgrounds in the area. When you get hungry, venture out at one of the restaurants in the area for American or International cuisine.

9. Valois Point

Valois Point is a cape in New York on the east banks of Seneca Lake. Valois Point offers condos, waterfront cottages on the water, and several small cabins available for both nightly and weekly use. From Valois, you can enjoy all the lake has to offer, and Finger Lakes National Forest is to the east for hiking, biking, and exploring.

10. Lakeside Park

If youÂ’re deciding on a vacation rental on the south side of Seneca Lake, the Lakeside Park area is just outside of Watkins Glen. Choose from a cozy bungalow or villa, or opt for a luxury professional home to spend the season. For children, there is a spray ground and plenty of beach access. Leave your rental in the morning and go bike riding or explore the park on foot.