Nestled in the southeastern Adirondacks, the town of Schroon, bordering the tranquil Schroon Lake, is the quintessential vacation hub for many seeking recreational opportunities. This part of New York is known for its pristine lakes, locally grown food, and craft beer. But this small Adirondack town offers travelers a unique spin as a wellness destination. With many ways to feed your mind, body, and soul, it’s a destination worthy of gracing your wellness travel bucket list.
Driving into the town of Schroon, New York, evoked memories of days gone by graced with summer camp. Afternoons were spent splashing in the lake and skipping rocks, followed by evening campfires complete with marshmallow s’mores. With a small-town feel and lively Main Street adjacent to Schroon Lake, I knew I was in for a treat. I couldn’t wait to park the car and have a look around.
Exploring The Lodge at Schroon Lake
With its numerous options for accommodations in the town of Schroon, New York, I chose a stay at The Lodge at Schroon Lake for its unparalleled views and full range of amenities. I arrived earlier than planned, so I took the opportunity to explore the entire complex. What I love most about the Lodge at Schroon Lake is how many options you have when booking a stay here. If a lakefront cabin with all the bells and whistles is your style, you’re in for a treat. Several cabin types – from luxurious to simplistic – are available for rental.
Feel like glamping for a few nights? You’re in luck; you can find glamping tents on elevated platforms here as well. Whether you prefer a luxe lodge experience or a simple tent platform outdoors, there’s an accommodation to fit everyone’s style and preferences. Not all accommodations come with a view of the lake but fear not. Due to the property’s proximity to Schroon Lake, the sitting lakeside is less than a five-minute walk from anywhere on the property.
Outdoor amenities at The Lodge at Schroon Lake
The entire complex is paved, with the exception of the gravel driveways leading to the glamping tents and camping platforms. Those roads are gravel but flat and easily accessible. In the rear of the complex, kids and adults alike will be thrilled to find a miniature golf course, a giant playground, a fenced-in basketball court, and a full-court beach volleyball area.
Walk across the street to the dock to reserve a kayak, stand-up paddle board (SUP), or even a pontoon boat for the day. Swimming is allowed in the roped-off area, and a small beach with soft sand is the perfect spot to soak up the sun.
Wellness travel looks different for everyone. Whether a client is seeking a luxurious spa with a full menu or a sparkling lakeside destination with stunning views, there’s quite literally a wellness travel experience for everyone. The key is to have a clear understanding of the experience or the result they wish to cultivate before designing their trip.~ Colleen O’Neill Mulvihill, Certified Transformational Wellness Travel Coach
Exploring Inside The Lodge at Schroon Lake
Now that I had a sense of the place, I ventured inside the lodge to explore. The upscale Adirondack mountain feel was apparent all around, from the wood-beamed ceiling to the cozy river rock fireplace. With the tasteful decor and framed photos of vacationers from as far back as the 1920s, lake life was on full display.
Centered in the enormous gathering space is a four-sided stand-alone bar with real floor-to-ceiling trees gracing the center. Along one side, overstuffed couches and chairs await evening gatherers. In the far corner stands a piano, hinting that live music is also on the weekly menu. A few steps away from the bar area, but completely separate, is a full-size game room. Completing the space is a gym with floor-to-ceiling windows.
A large indoor pool and hot tub make the lodge feel extra special. Although swimming in the lake is permitted and even encouraged in the designated areas, there’s nothing quite like a soak in the warm spa waters after a day of outside adventuring.
Dining at The Lodge at Schroon Lake
With an on-site restaurant and separate pub, it’s easy to grab a great dinner without leaving the property. I opted for an early dinner in the restaurant after checking their menu online to ensure they had vegetarian and gluten-free options. A quick two-minute stroll next door was just what I needed after a long and rain-soaked drive to Schroon from northeast Vermont.
The interior of the restaurant harkened me back to the restaurant scene in the movie Dirty Dancing. Although it appeared somewhat dated based on the decor, the food was delicious and decidedly upscale. The roasted eggplant with curried farrow hit the spot. Now that I had a full tummy, it was time to walk down to the lake and relax for a bit.
Deepen Your Relaxation on the Lakeside Deck
As I plopped down in an Adirondack chair and glanced out across the lake to the mountains in the distance, a wave of appreciation washed over me. I inhaled deeply and let the gentle lake breeze caress my skin. Listening to the loons call and the waves gently lap the shore lulled me further into relaxation. Although it’s summertime and there are people around, the lake area seems quiet. Somehow, it must have escaped the throngs of over-tourism that have robbed so many of our country’s outdoor wonders. Tonight, I was especially grateful for that.
Exploring Downtown Schroon, New York
After a good night’s sleep at the lodge, I set out for a walk to downtown Schroon. There’s a sidewalk stretching from the entrance to the lodge all the way to Main Street in town, and it’s an easy half-mile walk. As I approached town, I detoured along the lakefront, where I found a beautiful veteran’s memorial dedicated to the soldiers who once called Schroon home. Standing there lakeside, looking out over the water at the mountains in the distance, I couldn’t help but say a silent thank you to all of those soldiers who allowed me to have this moment.
Walking along the small sandy beach as the lake waves gently lapped, it became apparent to me that this is what outdoor wellness travel means to me. Between the sunshine, sand, scent of sea air, and gentle breeze, my body was happy, and my mind was at ease. I felt very safe here, each passing person offering a smile or a greeting.
Passing by the boat house, I watched as an older couple launched their kayaks for a morning paddle. Families with kids in tow set up their beach blankets and coolers, settling in for a gorgeous and relaxing afternoon. Hillside, several folks sat on benches in the shade with their morning coffee to take in the views. I was falling more in love with Schroon, New York, with each passing moment.
Discovering the Unexpected in the Town of Schroon
Strolling through the neighborhood adjacent to the lakefront, I passed the library and town hall. It must have been a quiet day there, too, with only two cars in the parking lot. Making my way back toward Main Street, I passed the idyllic Loch House Inn Bed and Breakfast, which has a massive wraparound porch and lovely flower gardens. The innkeeper was outside tending to her flowers and waved as I passed by.
As I stepped back onto Main Street, I made a left to return toward the lodge. Although downtown was bustling, it wasn’t overcrowded. Outdoor tables were available for the coffee shop, several empty parking spots lined the street, and an overwhelming sense of calm crept in as more passersby smiled and waved.
Likely the most unexpectedly pleasant moment was when I discovered a vibrant community garden tucked away on what must have been at one time a vacant lot. I took the liberty to walk through, admiring the hearty plants – tomatoes, lettuce, squash – all healthy and vibrant. It was obvious that the sense of community in Schroon was as vigorous as this garden.
Why Schroon, New York, Makes the Perfect Wellness Travel Destination
So, why choose wellness travel in the first place? Today’s savvy traveler is looking for an escape and wants more from a destination than spa treatments. With so many outdoor recreation activities like hiking, kayaking, swimming, and biking, it’s easy to feel healthy and vibrant while enjoying your getaway. Schroon, New York, is as much a family travel destination as it is a quiet spot for a solo traveler like myself to absorb nature’s stunning beauty. It proves you don’t need to fly overseas to experience rejuvenation.
One of my greatest joys is presenting my audience with a destination or town not typically known for wellness travel. Curated wellness travel is all about thinking outside the box, understanding client getaway goals, and matching their desires with a new-to-them destination. It’s one of the most fun ways to take a step toward better health and deeper well-being.
Schroon, New York, Wellness Resource Guide
Best Trails in and around Schroon Lake for hiking or gentle walks.
Take the 26-mile Schroon Lake Loop, a bike route that travels around the lake, to see the entire shoreline. The peaceful east side of the lake has some elevation changes, and the west side features wide shoulders along a busy highway.
Take a beginner yoga class at The Lodge at Schroon Lake. Classes are complimentary for resort guests, but the public is also welcome for a $20 per class fee. Some yoga mats are available for use, but if you have your own, you should bring one.
Play a round of golf at the Schroon Lake Golf Course. Open 7 days a week during the summer months. Cart rental is available.
Visit an animal sanctuary to learn about how you can help rescue farm animals from abuse. Purchase homemade goat cheese from the farm store, or sample a cheese board at the Hitching Post Tavern located on the farm.
Indulge in bodywork treatment at the Schroon Lake Massage and Wellness Center, or treat yourself to a fresh haircut at Hello Beautiful Salon. Both are located at The Point at Schroon Lake.
For everything else, visit the Chamber of Commerce website in Schroon, New York. The friendly folks there are happy to help you create the perfect getaway in their favorite New York town.