Gracious Mid-Century Modern--Right on Cazenovia Lake, with Expansive Grounds
Looking for tranquility, privacy, and gorgeous lake views? For a place where time slows down and families and friends can reconnect? The Lake House awaits.
Originally built in 1940 by a Syracuse industrialist as a family summer camp, The Lake House remains in the family and has been loved by four generations. The house is set on expansive grounds with huge shade trees, a private dock, two tired deck, an outside fire pit, outdoor eating areas, and plenty of room to spread out.
The Lake House offers a gracious, relaxed layout for both quiet escape and lively connection--- perfectly sited for sweeping views of the lake or surrounding meadows. Considered very modern when it was built in 1940, the house has been largely preserved in its original form. Most of the cabinetry, countertops, and fixtures in the kitchen and baths date from the ‘40s. In practical terms this means that you will not find the granite counter tops, large bathrooms, and fancy detailing you might expect in a house of this size and location if it were built today. What you will find is a gem of the period, a comfortable, well-equipped house with great living spaces that encourage families to linger, talk, slow down and enjoy one another’s company. What it lacks in modern extras, it makes up for in retro charm and period detailing, such as the original wide-plank wood flooring, brick fire places, and original draperies in some rooms.
The kitchen has everything you need for preparing meals, large or small, and the dining room and several outdoor tables have hosted countless animated family dinners over the years. The dining table seats ten, and there is plenty of tableware and serving dishes to accommodate large groups. The dining area is open to the spacious living room, creating the perfect space for casual meals and gatherings. An extra table and set of chairs are located in the one of two front foyer closets. Both areas overlook the lake, with floor to ceiling windows in the living room perfectly framing the view. A large whitewashed fireplace warms the space on cool evenings.
The Lake House has five bedrooms and three baths in the following configuration:
Main Floor: The main bedroom offers a queen bed and a fireplace. In the same wing, the guest room has two twin beds and lake views. These two bedrooms share a bathroom with a good-sized bathtub and shower. Both rooms feature the original built-in drawers and bedside tables.
Also on the ground floor, the back bedroom has a queen sized bed. This bedroom is smaller than the others but boasts a newly redone, private bath with tub/shower. Guest's enjoy a view of the lawn, towering trees, and adjoining garden.
Upstairs: “Nan’s Room” has a king sized bed (can be separated into two twins) and the original built in desk, drawers, and bookshelves. The “Boys’ Room” features a bunk bed (full on the bottom, twin above) as well as a twin bed. These two rooms share a bathroom with tub/shower. Please note: to access Nan’s Room or the bathroom, you must go through the “Boys' Room.” Thus, these rooms, especially the “Boys’,” are best suited for kids or families rather than couples who require full privacy.
As of 2018, the house was equipped with new mattresses in most rooms. Linens and towels are regularly replaced.
If you are looking for a house that offers privacy, a large yard and grounds, a great dock for swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing--- and the feeling of being away from it all within a few miles of downtown Cazenovia—look no further. Our family and our guests love the property because of its timelessness. The tranquil environment encourages visitors to slow down and enjoy being together. Welcome to The Lake House!
Grounds
The grounds are very large and totally unfenced. The dock and lake are accessed via a stone and wood staircase. There is a canoe, two kayaks, two paddle boards and a paddleboat for guest use. We also supply many life jackets, children's water shoes (essential for all) and yard games.
There are no stairs leading into the house, but the main floor does have a couple of steps between the entrance/bedrooms and living room/kitchen. There are two working indoor fireplaces (in the living room and the master bedroom).
There is one covered parking space (carport, not garage).
There is a charcoal grill for guests to use.
Discounts may be available for extended (multi-week) stays. Please let us know what you're interested in.
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No more than 20 people are allowed on the property at one time. All noise must cease by 11:30pm, as neighbors are a few hundred feet away.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: No more than 20 people at anytime.
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Cazenovia
Located in Cazenovia, this holiday home is on the waterfront. Lorenzo State Historic Site and Manlius Historical Society are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include Critz Farms and Critz Farms Brewing & Cider Co. and Land of OZ and Ends. Consider The Nelson Odeon for a night out or Black Mamba Skate Park if you're travelling with kids. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Syracuse Regional Transportation Center - 30 min drive
Syracuse, NY (SYR-Hancock Intl.) - 33 min drive
Restaurants
Circle K - 9 min drive
McDonald's - 8 min drive
Caz Pizza - 6 min drive
SingleCut Barn - 12 min drive
APlus at Sunoco - 12 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Gracious Mid-Century Modern--Right on Cazenovia Lake, with Expansive Grounds pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Gracious Mid-Century Modern--Right on Cazenovia Lake, with Expansive Grounds?
As of 2 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Gracious Mid-Century Modern--Right on Cazenovia Lake, with Expansive Grounds on 3 Dec, 2024 start from S$720, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Gracious Mid-Century Modern--Right on Cazenovia Lake, with Expansive Grounds?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Gracious Mid-Century Modern--Right on Cazenovia Lake, with Expansive Grounds?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Gracious Mid-Century Modern--Right on Cazenovia Lake, with Expansive Grounds?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Gracious Mid-Century Modern--Right on Cazenovia Lake, with Expansive Grounds located?
This family-friendly Cazenovia holiday home is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Cazenovia Lake, Owera Vineyards and Lorenzo State Historic Site. Helen L. McNitt State Park and Stone Quarry Hill Art Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Beautiful property, well maintained home, responsive host. We had a wonderful family stay at the Lake House - lots of fun on the water and lots to do in town!
Soledad A.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Jul, 2023
Thank you, Soledad. So glad you enjoyed the house, the lake, and the town! I hope you all enjoy the rest of your summer.
We enjoyed our stay at the house which is located right on Cazenovia Lake. Perfect place to sit and read a book.
Pamela B.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Jul, 2020
Thanks, Pam! It’s the simple things... 🙂
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Albert G.
20 Apr, 2019
Great property!
Very spacious, great attention to detail - a lot of things included!
The house is right on the lake with private dock for fishing, kayaking, boating.
We have really enjoyed the place and would come back any time.
Albert G.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Mar, 2020
Thank you, Bill. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. Please do return!
Had a really nice time at the lakehouse. Was able to accommodate our large group of friends. Really beautiful property that is well kept. Host was very responsive.
Andrew B.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Dec, 2023
Great to hear you all enjoyed the stay, Andrew! Thanks for taking the time to let us know!
This was our return visit to this beautiful property - love the lake view, location and privacy of the property. Great for a family get-together. Great amenities. Property manager Claire & team are very helpful and quickly respond with any requests that are made.
Anne F.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Jul, 2020
Thanks, Anne! So glad you enjoyed the house. And your input has helped me make things even better. Please come back!
The house was the perfect size for our group of 10. The dock was plenty big to accommodate of our boats. Overall , our group was very pleased with the accommodations.
Lovely house and property for our family group. Plenty of space to spread out but still cozy. Very peaceful and private setting while still being just a short drive to town and services. Communication with Claire was superb! We look forward to staying again!
Christine D.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Aug, 2023
Thanks so much, Christine :))) I enjoyed meeting you!
My family stayed together here for a wedding in the area. The managers were helpful and kind. The views were beautiful. Large living area where all could easily talk and be social.
This was a last minute change for our family reunion, but the space was perfect for bringing our 4 families together to celebrate the holiday. Very comfortable with many charming touches including amenities.
Sharon H.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Jan, 2023
Thanks, Sharon! I’m so glad it worked out and hope you all have a wonderful 2023. Thanks for being awesome guests.
Possibly my favorite VRBO / Airbnb I’ve ever stayed at, property and house are beautiful, clean, and as described. Grace (the host) was very responsive and communicative. Couldn’t have been better - highly recommend!
Beautiful lake property inside and out. Lots of outdoor seating. Water amenities - kayaks, pedal boat, paddle boards plentiful and in excellent condition. Inside just as beautiful and clean. GORGEOUS!!!
We had a group of friends stay for a reunion weekend and could not have asked for a better space! The home is large, the dock looks over the lake, and we had an awesome time hanging outside and celebrating. We definitely plan on renting again! The owner also left us a bottle of wine which was a beautiful touch.
Megan M.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Jun, 2023
--->>> we love that you enjoyed the house! ♥
About the host
Hosted by Claire Harshberger
We're a group of siblings/cousins/nieces and nephews who've grown up loving the Lake House, where we gather each year to celebrate milestones and the constance of a special, joyful place to be together: swimming, fishing, sailing, hanging out, catching up, eating entirely too much sweet corn. A few of us have gotten married at the house, and all of us treasure its quiet, its views, and the profound, spacious peace. We have a hired a manager, Claire, to maintain the property and respond to our guests needs.
Why they chose this property
Please see the many wonderful reviews from our happy guests!