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The best Airbnbs in the Adirondacks

Allison Tibaldi   

The best Airbnbs in the Adirondacks

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  • As states begin to reopen following the COVID-19 shutdown, travelers are making vacation plans for summer and beyond.
  • For vacationers who prioritize maintaining social distance, Airbnb allows visitors to book a private house or apartment without interacting with other guests.
  • East Coasters or urban dwellers craving a pine-scented getaway should consider the uncrowded Adirondacks in upstate New York for year-round mountain scenery, refreshing lakes, and outdoor activities.
  • We compiled highly-rated Airbnbs across the Adirondack region to accommodate a variety of budgets, with nightly rates ranging from $94 to $283, plus one splurge-worthy lakeview castle for special occasions.
  • Read all Business Insider travel reviews.

As states start to reopen, travelers are gravitating towards destinations within driving distance of home that offer ample space for social distancing.

The Adirondack Park in upstate New York is a 6-million-acre patchwork of towering mountains, old-growth forest, and freshwater lakes, making it easy to find seclusion. It feels very remote but is only a 4-hour drive from both New York City and Boston.

The Adirondacks have been popular since the Gilded Age when wealthy industrialists flocked to their wilderness retreats to escape city life. Today, visitors may participate in a variety of outdoor activities year-round. In summer consider fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking. In winter, enjoy top-notch downhill skiing at Whiteface Mountain, as well as ample opportunity to snowshoe, ice-skate on frozen lakes and Olympic ice, and cross-country ski on miles of groomed trails. In autumn, a spectacular display of crimson, amber, and orange leaves weave a photogenic tapestry of fall color.

Small towns like Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Bolton Landing are some of the dozens of quaint villages that dot the region. There's a yesteryear quality to these resort towns, with alfresco lakefront dining and old-fashioned mom-and-pop shops.

Traveling elsewhere on the East Coast?

As safety is on the minds of most travelers right now, rest assured that experts consider renting an Airbnb to be one of the safer options. That's because Airbnb homes are mostly private accommodations without the potential risks associated with crowded hotel lobbies, elevators, and public dining spaces.

However, it's important to note that there is still no vaccine for the novel coronavirus, and therefore, no guarantee for absolute safety. We recommend following CDC, WHO, and other reputable organizations safety guidelines, and to wear a mask, wash your hands frequently, and maintain social distancing.

Fortunately, some Airbnb hosts have implemented stringent new cleaning measures. Airbnb Enhanced Clean was developed with the assistance of medical and hospitality experts. These rigorous upgraded cleaning standards include a standardized 5-step cleaning process, a room by room checklist, and more. Keep in mind, though, that not all hosts are necessarily part of the new program.

All Airbnbs we selected garnered a cleanliness score of at least 4.5 out of 5. Many are hosted by Superhosts, which are experienced hosts who earned this title by providing an exemplary guest experience time and time again. Additionally, homes all meet the following criteria:

  1. All listings are in private homes, cottages, or apartments (no shared bathrooms).
  2. All are highly rated having earned an overall score of at least a 4.68 out of a possible 5. Several have earned a perfect 5.
  3. All properties allow easy access to nature, so get ready to linger in front of a crackling campfire, dive into the glassy surface of a clear lake, or fish in a rolling river.
These are the best Airbnbs in the Adirondacks, sorted by price from low to high.

Historic ice house overlooking a pond in Saranac Lake, $94

Historic ice house overlooking a pond in Saranac Lake, $94
Airbnb
Book this loft cottage starting at $94 per night

In the late 19th century, Saranac Lake gained recognition as a place to heal from tuberculosis. The clean mountain air had a tonic effect, just as it does today. The village is very walkable, with numerous art galleries and a sweet carousel with hand-carved animals for the kids to ride on.

Built in the early 1900s as a pre-refrigeration ice house, this petite cottage has been meticulously renovated while maintaining original details. A sturdy wooden ladder goes to the sleeping loft where you'll find a new mattress on the double bed. The kitchenette has a hot plate and microwave but no stove.

Outside, relax in one of the two Adirondack chairs overlooking Ricketson Pond, toast marshmallows over the fire, and enjoy your morning coffee on the porch. The only noise you'll hear are the two-dozen laying hens in the nearby barn, reminding you to purchase a dozen before you head home.

There's still some availability in July and August while September and October are wide open.

Rating: 4.83

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This is a highly rated Superhost who will adhere to Airbnb's new Enhanced Cleaning Protocol before each guest arrives. The property has earned a 4.7 out 5 for cleanliness.

Digital detox overlooking a pond in Vermontville, $109

Digital detox overlooking a pond in Vermontville, $109
Airbnb
Book this intimate retreat starting at $109 per night

East Lake Cabin is an idyllic, well-priced hideaway for two. Located on the property of Camp Arden, it overlooks sparkling Carpenter Pond for swimming or paddling a canoe, which comes complimentary with the cabin.

Newly refreshed interiors are tasteful, with floral prints and homey rocking chairs. There's a full-size kitchen, bedroom with a queen bed and sitting area, cast iron clawfoot tub in the bathroom, and a gas fireplace. The private screened-in porch is a beauty, complete with a sleeping couch.

There's no cell phone service so it's a wonderful spot to decompress. A patchwork of hiking trails entices visitors to take a stroll.

There are a few days left in July and good availability in August and beyond.

Rating: 5.0

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: Airbnb's new Advanced Cleaning Protocol is adhered to, including sanitizing all surfaces and a rigorous room-by-room cleaning checklist.

Log cabin in the woods near Schroon Lake, $110

Log cabin in the woods near Schroon Lake, $110
Airbnb
Book this one-room cabin starting at $110 per night

This quaint cabin was built from cedar logs cut on-site. It is located on a rambling property with a horse arena and two main houses close by, so it's private but not secluded. There's a swimming hole with a floating dock just a short walk from the cabin. The village of Schroon Lake, with its fine public beach, shopping, and dining, is just a short drive away. Note that there is a highway nearby, and while you won't see it, you might hear it.

This one-room cabin has a queen-size bed, a sofa bed, and a kitchenette. Outside, there's a fire pit, chairs, and a picnic table to enjoy. The friendly owners live on the property but the cabin still feels separate and secluded.

This listing is available for most of August and September.

Rating: 4.98

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: While no additional cleaning measures have been put into place this year, the property has earned a perfect 5 out of a possible 5 for cleanliness in 154 guest reviews.

Apartment on the Cedar River near Indian Lake, $120

Apartment on the Cedar River near Indian Lake, $120
Airbnb
Book this riverfront apartment starting at $120 per night

This snug apartment in the woods enjoys a tranquil spot on the Cedar River a few miles from Indian Lake. Enjoy nature and fish, swim, kayak, and canoe in the pristine river, or hike along its edge.

This apartment is just the right size for two. It's loaded with character, including a comfortable queen bed with a vintage quilt, Adirondack chairs facing the river, and a Vermont Castings gas stove. The kitchen is bare-bones, with just a hot plate, microwave, and tea kettle, so it's not suited to preparing big meals, though there is an outdoor gas grill. In the evening, build a fire and enjoy the starry sky.

The helpful hosts live next door with their friendly puppy and pets are welcome for a small additional fee.

This listing has plenty of availability throughout July and August.

Rating: 4.94

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This property has received a 5 out of 5 for cleanliness, so it's not surprising that "sparkling clean" is the way 13 recent guests have described the apartment. It is also hosted by a Superhost.

Restored Schroon River cabin in Warrensburg, $125

Restored Schroon River cabin in Warrensburg, $125
Airbnb
Book this restored cabin with private waterfront access starting at $125 per night

With a deck overlooking the river and a screened-in porch, this low-key cabin is immersed in nature. It's purposely low-tech, though there is a television. The Schroon River is excellent for both fishing and swimming. With 150 feet of private access across the driveway, it couldn't be easier to plunge in.

Decorative accents indoors include a wooden sleigh bed and a stained-glass window. Ideal for families, there are two bedrooms, one with a queen bed, the other with two twins. The kitchen is fully-equipped so whipping up meals is easy.

There's availability beginning in August and beyond.

Rating: 4.89

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: Though there are no enhanced cleaning procedures, the host is a Superhost who has received a 4.8 out of 5 for cleanliness. Seven recent guests marked the cabin as "sparkling clean."

Farm cottage in Moreau, $158

Farm cottage in Moreau, $158
Airbnb
Book this farm cottage starting at $158 per night

Stay in a roomy cottage on a 70-acre working family farm and get a bona fide taste of agrarian life. The hospitable hosts give guests free rein to explore the grounds and get involved with simple chores like gathering eggs.

Explore numerous hiking options and relax in the saltwater hot tub. Horseback riding (with pony rides for kids) is possible for an additional fee, as is the chance to learn to butcher a chicken. The farm is only 20 minutes from Saratoga Springs, a cultural hot spot known for its healing mineral water, horse racing, and dynamic dining scene.

This free-standing cottage has a queen-sized bed in the bedroom plus a single bed and sofa bed in the common space, so there's plenty of room for the kids. The eat-in kitchen is spacious but for nights when you'd rather someone else do the cooking, the farm sells ready-to-eat throwback favorites like chicken pot pie and chili with cornbread.

Hobby Farm Cottage is very popular, with only a few scattered days left to book this summer. There's excellent availability in autumn, a fun time to be on a farm.

Rating: 4.98

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific policies are listed but guests note Hobby Farm Cottage is "sparkling clean" with a perfect 5 out 5 of rating for cleanliness.

Riverside camper on the Hudson in Warrensburg, $160

Riverside camper on the Hudson in Warrensburg, $160
Airbnb
Book this riverside camper starting at $160 per night

If you're seeking a connection with nature but don't want to forgo creature comforts, this camper sits on a shady swath of the Hudson River only seven miles from Lake George Village.

This heated, air-conditioned camper has simple yet sufficient amenities and is roomier than it first appears. It includes a full kitchen, a queen and two double beds, and a full bathroom. Additionally, there are two sofa beds in the common space.

Kayaks, canoes, and fishing poles are included, so it's easy to explore the river. Miles of hiking trails are at your doorstep. After a full day, kick back and relax with a bonfire as the sunsets over the water.

There's still decent availability for July and August, and most days are open this fall.

Rating: 5.0

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No new cleaning procedures are in place but the camper has a perfect 5 out of 5 rating for cleanliness.

Cozy cabin in the heart of Lake Placid, $175

Cozy cabin in the heart of Lake Placid, $175
Airbnb
Book this in-town cabin starting at $175 per night

Lake Placid is a four-season resort so there's no wrong time to visit. It has twice hosted the Winter Olympic Games, so expect plenty of recreational options, including Alpine skiing and ice-skating on the Olympic oval in winter, and kayaking and hiking in summer and fall.

If you're looking for accommodations just a two-minute stroll from Main Street's shopping, dining, bars, and movie theater, this cabin is a winner. It's situated next to leafy Teddy Bear Park with stellar views of Whiteface Mountain.

The cabin sleeps up to six people and there's also a portable crib and stair gate if you're traveling with a baby or toddler. The kitchen features brand new appliances home chefs will enjoy and the patio has a grill for summertime cookouts.

There's still one week available in July and several weeks open in August. Fall and winter are wide open.

Rating: 4.93

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The host is a Superhost and the cabin has garnered a 4.9 out of 5 rating for cleanliness. In addition, the host is taking part in the new Enhanced Cleaning standards.

Romantic cottage in Lake Placid, $195

Romantic cottage in Lake Placid, $195
Airbnb
Book this compact cottage starting at $195 per night

Lake Placid is a classic mountain town surrounded by high peaks. There's plenty of shopping and dining, though nature is never far. Mirror Lake is in the center of town, offering excellent swimming in summer and snowy sleigh rides across the frozen surface in winter.

This listing is a stylish bungalow immersed in greenery, just a short walk from the village. The design-forward 1920s studio cottage has been fully renovated and was even featured in Country Living, Domino, and on HGTV.

Amenities include a stainless-steel kitchenette, heated California king bed, claw-foot bathtub, teak lawn chairs on the patio, and a yard with a fire-pit. It's especially ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

There are still a few weeks left for peak summer visits and excellent availability for fall and beyond.

Rating: 4.79

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The cottage is committed to offering the new Airbnb Enhanced Cleaning Protocol. Guests give this listing a 4.9 out of 5 rating for cleanliness.

Remote cabin near Indian Lake, $200

Remote cabin near Indian Lake, $200
Airbnb
Book this cabin starting at $200 per night

This cabin is mere steps from crystal-clear Indian Lake and comes with a kayak so you can paddle away. Hiking trails are at your doorstep and the educational Adirondack Museum is nearby.

Newly remodeled with hardwood floors throughout, there's one private bedroom as well as an open sleeping loft with two beds. A fireplace with plenty of firewood and a vast collection of DVDs are perks for a cozy night in. Note that there's no grocery store in the vicinity, so come prepared with provisions.

This cabin is very popular, but there are still two weeks open in August. Autumn leaf-peeping season is stunning at Indian Lake and there's good availability from the second half of September on.

Rating: 4.86

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: You'll be hosted by a Superhost who has received a 4.9 out of a possible 5 for cleanliness. Eight recent guests have marked it "sparkling clean."

Post-and-beam house in North River, $217

Post-and-beam house in North River, $217
Airbnb
Book this house starting at $217 per night

Guests of this beautiful home may enjoy the use of Garnet Hill association's private beach and boat launch on stunning 13th Lake. Stroll the path to a private babbling brook, gaze at free-roaming wildlife, or try white-water rafting on the nearby Hudson River. Garnet Hill is known for its fine Nordic skiing and groomed snowshoe trails in winter so cold temperatures are anything but a deal-breaker.

This 3-story house is roomy, with four bedrooms, two full baths, and an extra half bath. A fireplace, screened-in porch, carved wood accents, and peaked pine roof add rustic touches. The well-stocked kitchen has a charming collection of antique teapots. Paintings of birds and native wildlife decorate the walls, bringing a bit of the outdoors inside.

There's availability in August and into autumn.

Rating: 4.68

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The host notes that he will stringently follow all Airbnb and CDC cleaning guidelines. As an additional protective measure, he's leaving the house empty for 24 hours between guests. The property scores a 4.5 out of 5 rating for cleanliness.

Lake cabin with use of boats in Saranac Lake, $275

Lake cabin with use of boats in Saranac Lake, $275
Airbnb
Book this fish cabin starting at $275 per night

Lake Colby is a boater's paradise and this cabin comes with an assortment of rowboats, kayaks, and canoes. It is situated just 300 feet from the water's edge so it will be easy to spend most of your vacation swimming, fishing, or boating out on the water.

Fish Cabin, as it's named, is furnished in a rustic style with wood paneling, bed frames made with local lumber, old-fashioned quilts, and a screened-in porch. There's a bedroom with a queen bed plus a single and a sofa bed in the living room. The cabin is a private listing but there are three other cabins nearby so you may have neighbors a few steps away.

Fish Cabin is available in the later part of August and throughout the autumn, a beautiful time to boat on Colby Lake. Winter is also an option as the lake is known for ice-fishing.

Rating: 4.86

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: Guests have given this Superhost a 5 out of 5 for cleanliness. The host has committed to the new Enhanced Cleaning Protocols.

Lakeside cabin on Glen Lake, $283

Lakeside cabin on Glen Lake, $283
Airbnb
Book this cabin starting at $283 per night

Glen Lake is an impressive body of water and the cabin's views fully showcase its pristine beauty. It's a serene spot nestled in the pines so the only noises you'll hear are birds chirping and the leaves blowing in the breeze. Glen Lake is popular with families, some who've been vacationing here for generations.

The wood floors, panoramic deck, and updated kitchen are inviting. There are two bedrooms as well as two baths. For larger families, there's also a futon in the upstairs living room. The cabin comes with a canoe, kayak, and bicycles, adding numerous ways to be active in the great outdoors.

There's availability in August for a late summer getaway and October for the fall foliage season.

Rating: 4.70

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: There are no new cleaning procedures outlined, but the host is a Superhost. It has been described as "sparkling clean" by seven recent guests.

Castle overlooking Lake George, $895

Castle overlooking Lake George, $895
Airbnb
Book this storybook castle starting at $895 per night

This captivating mini-castle is nestled in the mountains with panoramic lake views and loads of luxury just a few minutes from Bolton Landing, Lake George's premier village. While it's likely out of your price range for a casual weekend away, it's an excellent choice for a honeymoon or small celebration for a special occasion.

This specific listing has just two bedrooms, but a gatehouse and a larger castle sit on the property as well, so there's the possibility to rent all three and sleep up to 21 people. With many weddings sadly needing to be reworked due to COVID-19 and many international destinations still off the table, this makes for a dreamy domestic choice for an intimate ceremony. And, despite its high price tag, it still comes in cheaper than many traditional venues.

The palatial stone structure is striking on the outside, with all the amenities you can think of on the inside, including decorative touches like stained-glass windows. The private terrace has spectacular lake and mountain views for picture-perfect moments.

The castle is available for much of July, August, and beyond.

Rating: 4.95

COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific policies are listed, but the castle has earned a perfect score of 5 out of 5 by each of the 61 guests who have reviewed it. In addition, this Superhost is noted to go above and beyond guest expectations.

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