I just returned from a very relaxing week at Pinewood Cottage. I stayed with my wife, brother, sister, two nieces, and my two medium/large dogs. The only thing I wish I could have changed, would have been spending two or more weeks, instead of only one. Pinewood is private and peaceful. Always a nice cool breeze on the deck. Few mosquitoes. The lake was surprisingly quiet for this time of the year. Much less boat traffic compared to several different places we've rented on Owasco Lake. The cottage itself is very well stocked. Everything needed for cooking, eating, showering and sleeping was already there. All the beds were comfortable and everyone slept exceedingly well. Plenty of fans provided, if desired. Lots of room for dining and relaxing, both inside and out.

The dock was nice, and space was available for my canoe, and a power boat that we rented one day. There was plenty of room on the shore to leave my kayak. There are two parking spaces right next to the cottage. Lots of extra parking space available 100 feet or so from the cottage. The ability to walk up and down steps is necessary, especially to get to the lake/shoreline/dock.

Access to excellent swimming was paramount to us, and Pinewood Cottage did not disappoint. The water was always clear, weed free, and delightfully cool, but not too cold. The lake bottom is rocky, so water shoes were used by some, but not all. Approx four feet deep, 25 feet from shoreline.

Smallmouth bass fishing was excellent. I caught 13 while out on my friend's fishing boat one day, 10 more over a few different days from my kayak (within a 1/4 mile paddle from the cottage), and several smaller ones directly from the dock/shore. We caught a few 18 inch smallies, many in the 14-16 inch range, and two northern pike. Also caught a lake trout jigging in 90' deep water.

Owners Barbara and Ken were perfect hosts. Never intrusive, but available any time you need them. They greeted us upon our arrival with a plate of freshly baked cookies, a nice card, and two large dog treats. They spent about 5 minutes showing us around the cottage and grounds, and then left us alone for the remainder of the week.

Several good hiking areas are within 20-25 minutes. Skaneateles Conservation Area and Bear Swamp were favorites. Lots of room on the property above the cottage for the dog's regular bathroom duties.

Thank you Barbara and Ken. We'll be back the next time we visit Skaneateles Lake.