New York: Finger Lakes–Keuka Lake Wine Trail

Watkins Glen, Seneca Lake & Historic Corning

Eleven glorious lakes offer spectacular beauty. We focus on Keuka and Seneca Lakes, taking in the historical and agricultural bounty of this region. Highlights include seeing the traditional horse and carriage of Amish and Mennonite farmers, the serenity of lakeshore rides, rolling farmland dotted with picturesque dairy farms, and a visit to the Corning Museum of Glass.

Our rides have been carefully crafted to take you on a journey back through time, as you will enjoy several rural towns including Hammondsport, Watkins Glen and Penn Yan. With a fully supported route and a “cycle at your own pace” itinerary you’ll have ample time to explore these towns with their antique shops and Victorian buildings. Comfortable lodging, scenic cycling, and stops at noted wineries will also be highlights of each day.

For the wine lover there is much to be excited about, as our route includes some the best in the area, including Dr. Konstantin Frank, Heron Hill, Fox Run and Glenora. And you may enjoy the simple visual pleasures of meticulously maintained vineyards and ornate gardens. Please join us!!

Daily Itinerary

Day 1. Arrive at Esperanza Mansion, a recently renovated 1800’s inn with breathtaking views of Keuka Lake. Bicycle fitting followed by a 5 or 15-mile warm-up ride, wine reception & dinner.

Day 2. Wind through the charming village of Penn Yan with its quaint shops and the Oliver House Museum. The ride continues to the lakeshore, gently making its way to Hammondsport. The town square gazebo, boutique shops, and old time ice cream parlor hearken back to early days of America’s history. The Glenn Curtiss Museum (named for the father of naval aviation) depicts early days of flight.

Lodging: Esperanza Mansion. (29 or 45 miles)

Day 3. Pass by well-known wineries, including Fox Run and Anthony Road, and end at the acclaimed Glenora Winery, situated on Seneca Lake. Ride through Amish & Mennonite countryside and gently rolling farmland.

Lodging: Lodge at the award winning Glenora Inn overlooking Seneca Lake. (20 or 41 miles)

Day 4. We cycle along Seneca Lake through the countryside to reach Watkins Glen, world-renowned for its gorge and its racetrack. We’ll enjoy a hike along the sculptured rock chasm of the gorge and enjoy the 19 glistening waterfalls along the way. Additional wineries, including Castel Grisch, may tempt you on your ride home to Glenora. (25 miles biking coupled with two-hour hike.)

Day 5. Ride through a breathtaking valley following a gentle river and ending at Historic Corning. We’ll lodge on Historic Market Street. The central location allows you to discover the charming village with its unique architectural treasures. Shops with original artwork, hand crafted pottery, custom jewelry, as well as restored buildings from the 1800’s may delight you. We’ll visit Corning Glass Museum, home to the world’s most famous collection of glass. (29 or 44 miles)

Day 6. Breakfast, final farewells, and transfer back to Rochester Int’l Airport or your car.