Under pressure? Are the day-to-day doldrums giving you the blues? Ready to run away from reality to a secret hideaway in the mountains? We know just the place to get away from it all, where all your troubles will melt away. Escape with us to the Hill Side Hideaway in 7 easy steps.
STEP ONE:
Begin by clicking here, to book Cortland County's newest mountain stay. This Mid-Century ski chalet, located just across from Greek Peak Ski Resort, boasts 6 bedrooms and comfortably sleeps 12 guests (including your favorite four legged friend). But it's your vaca- so we'll leave it up to you to decide whether you want to pack up the whole rowdy family, or maybe just escape with your bestie for a weekend. We won't judge. We defiantly left our partners and pups to fend for themselves, while we enjoyed a long overdue girl’s trip.
STEP TWO:
Even though this mountain retreat is just seconds from the slopes and minutes from downtown Cortland, we recommend grabbing some dinner on your way in. While Greek Peak is home to Carver Steak House and Trax Pub & Grill (both fantastic dining options) they require shoes, and perhaps something more elegant than pajamas. So, we suggest saving those for day two, and grabbing some serious comfort food, like ramen from Yori House. And maybe a pie for late night munchies, from nearby Hollenbeck's' Cider Mill.
STEP THREE:
After you've wandered around the sprawling chalet, admiring all its vintage charm and claiming your room, it's time to light a fire. The towering fieldstone fireplace stands at the center of the double height living room, directly across from soring floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing an endless mountain view. Grab a blanket and a glass of wine. You won't want to miss the sunset from the second story balcony. Raise a glass and make a toast to yourself for booking a long overdue holiday. In just a few hours you'll have forgotten why you needed it in the first place.
STEP FOUR:
Come in and warm up by the now cozy fire. Grab your wine, your noodles, and curl up on the couch for a good gab session. Feel your stress melt away as you sink into the world's most comfortable sofa, next to a cracking flame. It is at this time that I highly recommend donning some extra fuzzy socks. Forgot yours? Homer Men & Boys has got you covered, along with any mittens, hats and necessities you may have left on your bed at home. Laugh, eat, drink and repeat until the stars come out. Then it's back out on the balcony for epic stargazing views.
STEP FIVE:
Your toes are now cold. There is only one solution. It's time to hit the sauna. Did I fail to mention there is a traditional redwood steam sauna on the first floor of the house? I mean, how else would you literally melt away your worries without one? Check the fridge for instructions, grab a cold bottle of water, and set your timer for 10 minutes- you're about to be transported. From here you have two options; you can either run barefoot in a bathrobe through the snow or pick a game from the bookshelf. Again, we won't judge. Just remember there are neighbors.
STEP SIX:
Now that you're toasty and relaxed, it's time for a little friendly competition. Toss another log on the fire, grab some popcorn and maybe another glass of wine and try not to cheat through a game of Monopoly. Or, put on a classic movie on the monstrously large flat screen. The couch has built-in recliners, perfect for taking bets on who will fall asleep first. Eat some chocolate, flip through the Cortland County Visitors Guide and map out your weekend adventures. When you can't stifle the yawns any longer, climb into the king-sized bed with a good book and promptly fall asleep after two pages.
STEP SEVEN:
Wake up refreshed. Take in the mountain sunrise with a cup of steaming Coffee Mania joe in your hand. Head into the kitchen and fry some eggs, or don't (Carver's offers a killer breakfast, just across the road). Now that you've all your cares in a puddle at the front door, it's time to embrace the adventure.
The Hill Side Hideaway is conveniently located off NY-Rt 391, just a few miles from Route 11 and Highway 81 and 7.5 miles from downtown Cortland. Greek Peak Mountain Resort, Adventure Center and Water Park (located less a quarter mile away) is an epicenter for four season fun.
In the evening, catch a live performance in downtown Cortland at the Cortland Repertory Theater or The Center for the Arts in historic Homer. Both venues are just minutes away, and each downtown has an array of restaurants bound to satisfy the pickiest of pallets. Nearby, the 1890 House Museum and CNY Living History Center are perfect for a rainy day. If embracing the season is more your style, head over to Lime Hollow Nature Center for year-round outdoor activities and education. For a list of events happening during your stay, visit our events page.
Experience Cortland is rounding up unique and cool Airbnbs across Cortland County. Stay tuned throughout the year as we highlight accommodations and their nearby attractions to ensure guests have an inspiring experience. Please note, locations and their amenities grow and change throughout the year. Contact the host directly through Airbnb if you have any questions.
Share your Cortland County winter adventures with us for a chance to be featured! Tag @experiencecortland607 and use hashtag #experiencecortland.