Hi Everybody! For this blog we are going to venture into our own back yard. As much as we would like, we cannot travel internationally once a month. (One can dream though.) It is important to remember that no matter where you live, you are surrounded by little treasures that are tucked away in every corner.

It is October in northern New York and anyone familiar with the beauty of autumn may have some idea of the spectacular show mother nature puts on up here. We took the opportunity to spend a weekend away at Black Lake in St. Lawrence County, NY.

Nestled just south of Canada and the St. Lawrence River, black Lake is known as a fisherman’s paradise for its well stocked and diverse species of fish. Truth be told, we do not fish. Not even a little. However, we both appreciate peace and quiet. We appreciate having our morning coffee with a view of a lake that is surrounded by every color on a painter’s pallet.

With 60 miles of shoreline, Black Lake has plenty of accommodation options, from family run motels to campgrounds and cabins. Explore the internet to find a fit that works for you. Unlike high cost resort towns, you can find very affordable accommodations with lakeside rooms.

We chose to stay at The Log Cabins run by Jeanine and Ali Atieh. Additional bonus, we were able to bring our feisty seven year old yellow lab, Stella, with us for an additional $5 per night fee.

The Log Cabins was very simple to find with our GPS and even with out modern technology it is right along Route 6. The local owners made check-in easy and stress free. Entering the office, on the right, just past the fishing tackle and Black Lake souvenir shop is the check-in desk. Ali was waiting with our cabin key ready and waiting for us. There are also some essential groceries available in case you forgot anything.

Take a minute to look around, buy a t-shirt or magnet for your refrigerator. That is something we do at every destination. We make sure to take home a small memento to commemorate our trip. Craig tries to avert my eyes and get me out of the souvenir shops as quickly as possible. You can even get your New York State fishing license while checking in.

There are 26 cabins to choose from with different room options. The property map is available on their website so you can get an idea of where you would like to be located. We chose cabin #25, which is in their last stretch of cabins along the lake.

Our cabin came with a large screened in porch. The cabin interior was all knotty pine, giving it that cozy, woodsy feel you would expect in that area. We enjoyed lounging in the recliners with our books, Stella curled up on her bed and the heat turned on all the way. Truly as amazing as it sounds. It came furnished with cable tv and wi-fi, along with a toaster, coffeemaker and assorted pots, pans, plates and utensils.

Basically, you are fully situated to not have to leave for your entire visit. That’s ideal if you are looking to get away from all of the noise for a few days. Of course, cooking is not something that you want to do for every meal while away and for that there are local restaurants where you can dine in, take out or even request delivery. We took a couple of trips to Echoes on the Lake; great coffee, subs and a variety of other choices.

Each cabin had a picnic table, either outside or on a screened porch, as well as an outdoor fire pit. Don’t forget to either bring your own wood or purchase firewood after you arrive. There is nothing like a roaring fire on a cool autumn evening.

For the fishing enthusiasts, there is plenty of room to park your trailer and enough dock space to accommodate your boat. While the cabins are lined up next to each other, you do have a sense of privacy. Each morning we brought our lawn chairs right up to the lake with our coffee to watch the sunrise. With the cabins facing east, it is worth waking up for.

As if the relaxation isn’t enough, this area is also a part of the St. Lawrence Valley Wine Trail. Bella Brooke Winery is a quarter of a mile from the accommodations. This is a must stop for any wine lover or someone that appreciates a beautiful vineyard. Their Tasting and Wine Bar is located within a renovated late 1800’s barn. Yes, it is as charming and cozy as it sounds.

If you want to get out of your cabin for a few hours, it is the perfect place to go and enjoy the local flavor. The wine slushies are a must try! With a variety of beers on tap and daily drink specials, you will find something to fit your tastes. There is also a large outdoor porch to take in the area or watch a local couple get married. Maybe stop and try your hand at the oversized chess board.

This was our second year taking in a weekend at The Log Cabins, and we will be sure to come back again. You can reach The Log Cabins by emailing them at contact@fishlogcabins.com or visit their website at www.fishlogcabins.com.

You can email Bella Brooke Winery at lhollist@twcny.rr.com or visit their website at www.bella-brookevineyard.com.

We chose where we live for a reason and it is good to remind ourselves of the draw to our area. People from all over the world make Northern New York their vacation destination. Take a moment to look at your own back yard from a different angle. Look for the beauty. Look for the joy.

What area are you from? What is your favorite treasure in your area? Let us know in the comment section below. We can’t wait to see your responses!

Thanks for reading, and #NeverStopPlanning!