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Lakefront refuge, 20 minutes from Saratoga Springs, NY

Photo gallery for Lakefront refuge, 20 minutes from Saratoga Springs, NY

A wooden dock with a kayak and a paddleboard.
Children’s area
A cozy room with a large window overlooking a snowy landscape, a rocking chair, and a sofa with a book on it.
A two-story house with a red roof, large windows, and surrounded by trees and dry leaves.
A room with a bed, a wooden cabinet with drawers, a mirror, and a shelf with baskets and a sign that reads "LIVELOVE LAKE".

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
4 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Barbecue grill
  • Deck or patio

Explore the area

View in a map
Middle Grove, NY
  • Place, Lake Desolation State Forest
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Saratoga Racetrack
    ‪36 min drive‬
  • Place, Saratoga Performing Arts Center
    ‪37 min drive‬
  • Airport, Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.)
    ‪64 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

2 Single Beds

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Dining area

About this property

Lakefront refuge, 20 minutes from Saratoga Springs, NY

The best of many worlds is here for you at Lake Desolation! Relax and take in the view of the picture-postcard lake from the huge windows while being warmed by a fire in the stove. In winter, it's a snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling paradise- just head out the door and go for miles in the pristine woods. Downhill skiing is just minutes away at West Mountain and a bit farther at Gore. In summer, take out a paddleboard and paddle around the glassy water, or sit on the dock and read in the sun. Cook dinner in the open kitchen with the latest upgrades or grill dinner out back while you sit in the screened-in gazebo. Hang out at the fire pit and look up at the stars. Soak in the whirlpool tub while you watch the moon rise. It's the ultimate in relaxation.

If you prefer activity, Saratoga Springs is just 10 miles away, and you will find shops, excellent restaurants, premium concerts at the SPAC, skiing at West Mountain and Gore, Skidmore College, the famed Saratoga Race Track and much more. This is a 4-season area so you can enjoy the beauty all year round.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
Pets must be well-behaved and housebroken.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2403006vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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
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

About the area

Middle Grove

Located in Middle Grove, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Golf World and The Saratoga Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Saratoga Performing Arts Center and The Children's Museum at Saratoga. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's going on at Saratoga Polo Grounds, or consider a night out at Universal Preservation Hall. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as ice skating and snowmobiling.
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Map
Middle Grove, NY

What's nearby

  • Lake Desolation State Forest - 5 min drive - 2.2 km
  • Skidmore College - 28 min drive - 26.9 km
  • Saratoga Springs City Center - 33 min drive - 26.9 km
  • Saratoga Racetrack - 36 min drive - 28.0 km
  • Saratoga Performing Arts Center - 37 min drive - 30.4 km

Getting around

  • Saratoga Springs Station - 21 min drive
  • Schenectady, NY (SCH-Schenectady County) - 44 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Stewart's Shops - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Village Pizzeria - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪The Post Pizza & More - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Tinney's Tavern - ‬20 min walk
  • ‪Château Mishoe - ‬17 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Lakefront refuge, 20 minutes from Saratoga Springs, NY pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking at Lakefront refuge, 20 minutes from Saratoga Springs, NY?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Lakefront refuge, 20 minutes from Saratoga Springs, NY?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lakefront refuge, 20 minutes from Saratoga Springs, NY?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Lakefront refuge, 20 minutes from Saratoga Springs, NY located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from Lake Desolation State Forest and within 6 miles (10 km) of Daketown State Forest and Middle Grove State Forest. Golf World and Homestead County Forest are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 31 out of 34 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 34 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 34 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 34 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 34 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lara H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We’ve stayed here a couple times now, and it was wonderful again! Having everything on a single level was especially helpful for mobility.Thanks again for a fantastic trip!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Salvatore S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice lake house. Clean and full of amenities. We had a great time!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

marie-pier l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great vacation

great place, great host
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lara H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent stay - again!

This was our second time staying at the cabin, and it was wonderful again. The view is amazing and we found ourselves just sitting and enjoying watching the lake. The location was perfect for us. Plenty close to Saratoga and Albany for the events we needed to attend.All in all, another fantastic stay! We’ll be back again!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daniel D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Second time here, it’s still amazing

A great house on a great lake!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Aug 2023
Daniel, Thank you for such a stellar review. Your review bumped us into the Premier Host zone! That means a lot to us. Thanks!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning view of the lake

Perfect for our family of 8 for a winter getaway! The house offers a stunning view of the lake and is in a great location--- somewhat secluded but only a short drive to restaurants. Looking forward to future stays!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 18 May 2022
Elizabeth, Thanks for the awesome review! We're glad you enjoyed your stay and that your parents had a great anniversary celebration. We're looking forward to hosting you for your mom's upcoming birthday. Dave and Diana
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely, peaceful getaway

The house was more than expected. A great getaway but also close to Saratoga Springs where our friends live.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Philip B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

2nd stay and still perfect.

This is our second time staying at this lovely lake house. It was still perfect. More than enough space for six adults and very clean and comfortable. The lake was beautiful and we enjoyed some lovely kayaking even in the middle of April. We will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Natalie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Serenity with everything you need!

My husband and I had a four day stay. It was delightful, as are the owners. Positives include: dog friendly, spacious and cozy, well stocked/supplied with items you may need, peaceful and secluded location. We would definitely stay again!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 19 May 2022
Heidi, we're so glad you enjoyed the house and the serenity that it offers! The previous owner named the house il Rifugio and we just had to keep it, as it does feel like a refuge. We'd love to host your family again sometime. Diana and Dave
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Donna S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wedding weekend

In the area for our son’s wedding. The house was comfortable and relaxing with beautiful, serene lake view.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Philip B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A wonderful lake front stay.

The house is truly lovely, with amazing views of the lake and a dock right across from the house. The house is spacious and comfortable and the kitchen is well equipped for everything you need to prepare meals. Proximity to Saratoga is a real plus also. The hosts were very responsive and every little detail was taken care of. We can’t wait to come back soon.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ruth S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hidden Treasure

Beautiful, private home. We felt like we were living in a treehouse overlooking the lake.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely Lake House

We loved everything about this house. It had everything we needed plus lovely views and, of course, access to a beautiful, peaceful lake. The house was very clean and well-appointed. And the owners were lovely to deal with; very responsive and helpful. We hope to return. Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Philip S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, quiet home

My family and I needed a place to stay while visiting my brother in Middle Grove. Diana and Dave's place was perfect. Beautifully finished home that is the perfect size for us. Great view out the main windows, and very cozy. Diana and Dave are also very responsive and were happy to answer any questions. We would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Mar 2022
Philip, It does our hearts good to hear that you and your family enjoyed your time at the lake house. Glad to hear you found it cozy and spacious enough for your family. You all were awesome guests and we'd love to host you again! Diana and Dave
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful

Stunning view and exceptionally clean. The beautiful kitchen was supplied with everything we could hope for and more. The owners went above and beyond providing information and answering questions. We had the perfect weekend!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2022
We are so glad you enjoyed your reunion with childhood friends at the lake house and that you were able to get out for some hikes together. In addition to this great review, thanks for the nice note you left in our guest book. It sounds like you all had a blast together!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cindy F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing getaway on the lake

We took my college-aged kids and nephew to this beautiful lake house. It was a pleasure to make family meals in the well stocked kitchen, play games in the great room, and have our morning coffee on the screened in porch. We loved having the freedom to take a quick dip in the lake, kayak, or paddle board then back to the house to relax or take a nap. The young adults loved the proximity to Saratoga Springs. Overall, a great trip for the whole family.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laila W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Perfect Place

We had such a good time at Dave and Diana's property! The open concept dining room, living room and kitchen provided the much needed room for our whole family to join us for breakfast one day. The 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms made the stay extremely comfortable with the 4 adults and 3 children that lived in the house for the week. I would recommend this property to any family looking for a spacious house in the middle of nowhere with all the amenities you could ever need to be comfortable.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2022
Laila, speaking of perfect! Thanks for your kind review! We're glad that you were able to stay so close to your relatives who live just down the road and happy to hear that you were able to host the whole group for breakfast. Awesome!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

This is a beautiful place to stay!

Everything you could ever need is at the house. We were seven people ranging from 6 to 72. There were board games for the kids, video games, a wood-burning stove for my daughter-in-law , a beautiful lake — the surrounding trees were turning color!! Everybody was very happy. The location was only about eight minutes from my brother’s,which is super convenient. We went to the Sagamore hotel on Lake George for a beautiful luncheon. Yesterday we took the scenic train ride from Corinth— The grandkids were thrilled. It was a perfect trip.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Mary K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Secluded Lake Retreat

From the house we walked to Colleen’s dock where we swam every day. The grands learned all about fishing . We brought three rods. They loved paddling and rowing to the island in the middle of the lake with their Dad. We hiked around Archer Valley Lake twice which was an easy mile drive to get to. Nice to have a stocked pantry and condiments in the fridge. Especially coffee. We will recommend this gem to friends
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2022
We're so glad to hear that you made it up to Archer Vly for some hikes, as we find the lake so pristine and peaceful. Our relatives (in one of the first houses on the private road as you drive in) said they saw some folks out on the water quite a bit enjoying the fishing. That must have been your family! Awesome!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location and house

This home was beautiful, on a hill overlooking the lake with large windows that was truly the centerpiece of the house! We were there for a Fall Colors trip and the view was spectacular, heading down to the dock was great for the views and just sitting on the calm water. The stay was comfortable with 6 adults, 2 children, and 1 toddler with plenty of space to spend quality family time together, rest, and sleep. The kitchen was lovely with everything needed for cooking and prep. The location was fantastic, a few times taking the dog out there was absolutely no sound under a full moon - very surreal and special. Even so, it is only a quick 20 minute drive into Saratoga through a beautiful winding forest road. You really feel like you get the best of both worlds with this house! I would highly recommend this for anyone looking to get away smack in the middle of the outskirts of Saratoga and the Adirondacks.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2022
Gary, your words about the house and your time on Lake Desolation really do warm my heart! My 21-year-old son put it so well when he read your review and shared, "Dad, it's so cool that other people can stay at the house and make their own memories together." I'm so glad you and your family were able to be up there for some relaxation and memory-making in the fall colors. Dave
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anna C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Even better than the photos! We all loved our stay. The owners were very responsive to our questions and really lovely people. It was very peaceful on the lake and in the woods. Tinney's Tavern is a few minutes away, which we went to many times, one day on the rowboat. We kayaked and had an amazing time. The house is on a long gravel, private road which we walked almost every day. We loved the Great Room with an unobstructed lake view where everyone hung out and enjoyed a glass of wine (or two). We were in Saratoga almost every day either for dinner or meeting up with friends. It usually took 18 minutes to downtown. Loved the Village Pizzaria which has great steak, fish, pasta, etc. besides pizza and also the Marina Grill right on Sacandaga Lake. The country roads have lots of deer, which we enjoyed spotting. If your navigation system can't find it, just put in Tinney's Tavern and follow directions from there. Wifi is spotty on the roads but great in Il Refugio! Thank you Diana and Dave. We all had a fabulous time and would love to go back. Diana & Dave's place is at the top of the North end, safe and gorgeous inside and out. It's the best part of the lake. Here are drone shots. You can see a couple of docks at the bottom, with their floating dock.
Stayed 35 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Donna R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
House was very roomy & well kept. There was an abundance of supplies for everyone. There was a lot of vegetation all around the house if you are looking for that secluded environment. Lake was down the hill from house, beautiful to look at from the big windows in the house. Wonderful place down the road to get lunch, friendly staff. Grocery store 20 min away. Local Stewart’s shop had plenty for the morning breakfast items. Family & pet friendly home.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic home. Very nice, clean and lots of little perks.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cooper R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful spot!

The hosts were very communicative and helpful. The spot was calming and peaceful.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barb C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful lake home

This is a beautiful, clean, comfortable lakefront home that has everything you need for an awesome vacation! We enjoyed the peacefulness and relaxing on the docks, using the boats and evenings in the gazebo! The hosts Dave and Diana could not have been nicer and were excellent communicators! We appreciated the information provided on the lake, hikes, restaurants, etc... It is a wonderful place to stay!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022

About the host

Hosted by Dave & Diana

Host profile image
Diana and Dave love this home and this special lake and are excited to share it with you. It truly is a special place. We have been coming to Lake Desolation for many years.

Why they chose this property

Diana and Dave have been coming to Lake Desolation for years. They love long-distance swimming in the lake, and it's a mecca for distance swimmers. When the opportunity presented itself to buy this beautiful refuge, they jumped a the chance to ensure that their 3 children would be able to experience Lake Desolation as they have.

What makes this property unique

The warmth of the home is unmatched, and every detail has been thoughtfully put into place. Just walking through the front door, taking a deep breath and looking at the lake gives us a feeling of peace. Listening to the owls, loons, and woodpeckers in the early morning, and noticing the activity of beavers at night, makes us aware of our connection to nature and is restorative. Hike to Archer Vly and feel like you're the only one there, row to the island and explore, or swim in the perfect water. You can't help but feel at home.

Lake Desolation is a quiet lake only 10 miles from Saratoga Springs. It is a perfect place to swim. In the summer you can enjoy Saratoga Lake and the famed Saratoga racetrack. In the fall and spring, there are wine and beer festivals and many fun events. Bring your hiking boots and the hiking in the Adirondacks is unmatched! From here you have easy access to points North if you want to hike the peaks or ski.

https://www.saratoga.com/winter/cross-country-ski/

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