A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Exploring the Wonders of the Finger Lakes in New York

Located in the state of New York, the Finger Lakes region is a stunning tourist destination that offers a variety of activities and attractions for all tastes. Known for its eleven long and narrow lakes that resemble the fingers of a hand, hence its name, this region is famous for its natural beauty, its wineries, and its rich history.

The Natural Beauty of the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes are a true paradise for nature lovers. The lakes offer opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, and water sports, while the trails surrounding the lakes are ideal for walking, running, cycling, and bird watching. In addition, the region is home to several state parks, including Watkins Glen State Park, famous for its stunning gorge and its 19 waterfalls.

The Wineries of the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes are also known for their thriving wine industry. The region is one of the main wine producers in the United States, with over 100 wineries and vineyards. Visitors can enjoy winery tours, wine tastings, and special events throughout the year. The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is particularly popular, with over 30 wineries along its route.

The History of the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Visitors can learn about the Native Americans who lived in the region at the Rochester Museum and Science Center, or explore the history of aviation at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. In addition, the region was a major center of the women's rights struggle and is home to the National Women's Hall of Fame in Seneca Falls.

Nearby Attractions

Beyond the Finger Lakes, visitors can explore the city of Rochester, home to the University of Rochester and the Eastman School of Music. They can also visit the city of Syracuse, known for its historic architecture and vibrant cultural scene. And for those willing to travel a little further, the majestic Niagara Falls are just a few hours drive away.

Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, wine tastings, history lessons, or simply a beautiful landscape to relax in, the Finger Lakes in New York have something to offer all visitors.

Finger Lakes Gastronomic Products

Finger Lakes Wines

The Finger Lakes region is known for its production of high-quality wines. With over 100 wineries, the region is especially famous for its white wines, particularly Riesling. The mineral-rich soils and cool climate of the region provide the ideal conditions for producing wines with a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness.
Artisanal Cheeses

Finger Lakes is also home to numerous artisanal cheese makers. The cheeses produced in the region range from aged cheddar to creamy blue cheese and fresh mozzarella. Many cheese makers offer tastings and tours, allowing visitors to learn about the cheese-making process and sample the fresh products.
Apples and Cider

Apples are one of the main crops of the Finger Lakes region, and apple cider is a popular product. The region's cideries produce a variety of ciders, from sweet and fizzy to dry and crisp. Some cideries also produce ice cider, a sweet and concentrated beverage made by freezing the apples before pressing them.

Highlighted Gastronomic Places of Finger Lakes

Finger Lakes is a region known for its rich wine culture and culinary diversity. From lake-view restaurants to cozy taverns, here are some of the highlights:

FLX Table

FLX Table in Geneva is an intimate restaurant offering a unique culinary experience. With only 12 seats, diners can enjoy a multi-course dinner that changes daily, with fresh and local ingredients. The wine list is extensive, with a special selection of wines from the Finger Lakes region.

Stonecat Cafe

Located in Hector, Stonecat Cafe offers organic and seasonal cuisine with a menu that changes weekly. Dishes are prepared with locally grown ingredients and the restaurant also features an extensive list of wines from the Finger Lakes region.

Ports Cafe

Ports Cafe in Geneva is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike. The menu offers a variety of seafood, meat, and poultry dishes, all prepared with fresh and quality ingredients. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, with views of the beautiful Seneca Lake.

Dano's Heuriger on Seneca

Dano's Heuriger on Seneca is the first Heuriger in the United States, a type of Austrian wine tavern. The menu offers a mix of Austrian and Finger Lakes dishes, all designed to be shared. The wine list includes a selection of wines from Finger Lakes and Austria.

Sporting Activities in Finger Lakes, New York

Hiking

With over 2000 miles of trails, Finger Lakes is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. You can explore famous routes such as the Finger Lakes Trail and the Cayuga Trail.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Experience the serenity of Finger Lakes' lakes by kayak or canoe. Places like Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake offer incredible opportunities for these water activities.

Cycling

With scenic routes and varied terrains, Finger Lakes is a popular destination for cycling. You can explore the region by bike at your own pace, enjoying the panoramic views and picturesque towns along the way.

Fishing

Finger Lakes is known for its excellent fishing. The lakes are full of trout, bass, and other fish, making fishing a popular activity all year round.

Golf

With several high-quality golf courses, Finger Lakes is an ideal destination for golf lovers. You can enjoy a game in a stunning setting, overlooking the lakes and hills.

Nearby Places to Finger Lakes

If you're in Finger Lakes and want to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Ithaca

Ithaca, known for its vibrant culinary scene, offers a variety of gourmet restaurants and local wineries. Visitors can enjoy beautiful lake views, hiking in state parks, and exploring the prestigious Cornell University.

Corning

Corning, known as the city of glass, offers a rich tourist experience with its famous Glass Museum. Its culinary scene is equally enchanting, with a variety of restaurants serving everything from local dishes to international cuisine.