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Directly on Skaneateles Lake, Expansive Deck; Boathouse & Dock

Photo gallery for Directly on Skaneateles Lake, Expansive Deck; Boathouse & Dock

Endless deck view
Outdoor dinning with melamine dinnerware
Property grounds
Spacious tiered deck with step lighting
Fire pit area

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
5 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 10195.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
Skaneateles, NY
  • Place, Skaneateles Lake
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Syracuse University
    ‪44 min drive‬
  • Place, Cornell University
    ‪51 min drive‬
  • Airport, Syracuse, NY (SYR-Hancock Intl.)
    ‪56 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 5

1 Double Bed

Common area 1

1 Single Futon

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden

About this property

Directly on Skaneateles Lake, Expansive Deck; Boathouse & Dock

Soothe your soul with the magic of "Sweet Dreams". A walk along the stone steps, surrounded by lush landscaping will lead you to the expansive lakefront decking.

Endless views of the pristine water of Skaneateles Lake affords you the perfect place to chill & relax, or inspire you to jump into the clean water for a swim, paddle or sail in the lake.

The home's revitalized interior has a genuine luxurious lake feel. "Sweet Dreams" offers an open floor plan with new furnishings, fully stocked kitchen including indoor & outdoor dinnerware, with a stately stone fireplace for enhanced ambiance.

Wake up to peaceful lake views in this spacious retreat designed for relaxation and connection. The first-floor bedroom features a king-sized bed and French doors opening directly to the water, creating the perfect spot to start your day with coffee and calm.

Upstairs you’ll find three interior designed bedrooms with queen-sized beds, plus a cozy room with a full-sized bed. (Note: this room is a walkway to the other bedrooms, so it’s not completely private.)

For extra flexibility, there’s a full-sized mattress in the boathouse and a pullout futon in the downstairs living area—ideal for larger groups or family gatherings.

(A different set of stairs leads to private bedroom which is reserved for owner’s use and will remain locked and is not for guest use.)

Whether you’re planning a lakeside family vacation, a couples’ getaway, or a friends’ weekend, this home offers comfort, versatility, and a beautiful waterfront setting.

New multi-zone air conditioning, venting & heating system is in place, as well as all new windows & doors with no see screens for the days when you prefer the sweet lake fresh air.

Please note that there are many stairs down to the lake and this is not wheelchair accessible. There are no child gates on the property. There are 2 documents that are required to be signed prior to booking. Since VRBO is not set up to attach here, we will email the rental agreement & the liability waiver to you upon booking request.

Loving Skaneateles & the views are what drew us to this property. Caring for and enjoying the creation of the home's interior, its exterior 1500 sq ft.deck & landscaping is our labor of love & pride.

Skaneateles is the best-kept secret for a true village with unique shops, and an abundance of excellent restaurants with an updated, yet historic feel.

Skaneateles Lake is triple A-rated and offers the rare treat of swimming in clean cool water.

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  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 28
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings and birthday parties
Events are for only guests.
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Liability Waiver must be signed before booking is complete. NO WET CLOTHES ON INSIDE FURNITURE. PLEASE CONSERVE WATER.
TAKE ALL FOOD OUT OF REFRIGERATOR; AND TRASH TO DUMPSTER LOCATED AT TOP OF CARLTONS CLIFF UPON DEPARTURE
PICK UP AFTER EACH MEAL; DO NOT LEAVE FOOD, OR DIRTY DISHES AFTER EACH MEAL. PLEASE KEEP IN CONDITION AS WELL AS YOU FOUND IT UPON ARRIVAL.

Important information

You need to know

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings and birthday parties) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 12
Note from host: Events are for only guests.
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Skaneateles

Located in Skaneateles, this holiday home is on a lake. Anyela's Vineyards and Highland Park Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Bahar Nature Preserve and Frozen Ocean State Forest. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and horse riding.
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Map
Skaneateles, NY

What's nearby

  • Skaneateles Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • New York State Fairgrounds - 43 min drive - 52.9 km
  • Syracuse University - 44 min drive - 57.2 km
  • Destiny USA - 49 min drive - 58.5 km
  • Cornell University - 51 min drive - 69.6 km

Getting around

  • New York State Fair Station - 34 min drive
  • Cortland, NY (CTX-Cortland County) - 30 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Lakeside Vista - ‬29 min drive
  • ‪Amber Inn - ‬30 min drive
  • ‪Mandana Inn - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Niles Gourmet Bistro - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪1820 House - ‬30 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Directly on Skaneateles Lake, Expansive Deck; Boathouse & Dock pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Directly on Skaneateles Lake, Expansive Deck; Boathouse & Dock?

As of 3 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Directly on Skaneateles Lake, Expansive Deck; Boathouse & Dock on 18 May 2026 start from NZ$2,149, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Directly on Skaneateles Lake, Expansive Deck; Boathouse & Dock?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Directly on Skaneateles Lake, Expansive Deck; Boathouse & Dock?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Directly on Skaneateles Lake, Expansive Deck; Boathouse & Dock?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Directly on Skaneateles Lake, Expansive Deck; Boathouse & Dock located?

Situated on a lake, this holiday home is steps from Skaneateles Lake and within 3 mi (5 km) of Carpenter Falls and Bahar Nature Preserve. Niles Town Hall is 3 mi (4.8 km) away.

Reviews

9.4

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. 9 out of 12 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 12 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 12 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 12 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 12 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thomas M.

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

Miller/MacLaughlin Family Gathering

Beautiful property in a beautiful setting. Great for a family gathering.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela B.

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

The house was beautiful and the view spectacular!!

We had everything we needed/wanted. We all agreed we would definitely stay again! Thank you to the owners who were always responsive! We love your property♥️
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

6/10 Okay

Laurie C.

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

Sibling vacation

This property is exactly like the pictures as shown, an amazing spot and a very well appointed home. The lake was amazing and Susie patiently answered all of our questions along the way with great local knowledge and tips. Would highly recommend!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katherine D.

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

Great family lake house!

We stayed with our toddler, one set of grandparents and one set of Aunt/uncle. It’s a great location about 15 min from downtown Skaneatles and lesss than 10 min to Carpenter’s Falls. The lake was a little cold but we enjoyed the kayaks and rented a pontoon boat for a day. So much fun!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Doreen C.

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

Family Getaway

Our family had a great family getaway at Susie’s house. The house was very clean and had everything we needed to cook dinner at night. The view from the house is breathtaking. The village of Skaneateles is lovely and we felt very welcomed. Looking forward to visiting Skaneateles again. Doreen
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Brian M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location
Check in went smoothly. We were discouraged from using the washer due to septic but the owner made an exception for us. Surprisingly, the master bedroom was off limits. I don't believe that was mentioned in the ad and although I've used VRBO many times, I've never experienced that. The owner was however quite responsive to any and all inquiries we made and got back to us promptly.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole L.

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

Incredible Views!!

Great property, amazing deck, perfect lake house! We loved our stay here, great location on a gravel road on the W side of the lake. House had nice furnishings. Susie was very responsive and we arrived to a cute welcome gift. Only comment would be that this is a nicely renovated cottage - with that, ceilings are a little low and overhead lighting is limited - it gets dark in the evenings as the sun sets.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michele S.

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

Amazing property

Our stay at “Sweet Dreams” was just that. The home is lovely and the view of the lake from the minute you enter the house is mesmerizing. My two adult sons and family joined us for a week of fun. My 7yr old grandson attended day camp at Baltimore Woods during our stay. The kitchen had everything we needed for meal preparation. I cannot say enough to encourage you to rent this property. There are many stairs to the lake but a little exercise is good for you!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mara P.

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

Absolutely perfect

We had an unforgettable stay in Skaneateles. This house was absolutely perfect for our family of 8. Susie did a beautiful job decorating and thinking of all the small details that make it inviting and relaxing. From well appointed kitchen to cozy throws on the couches, plushy beach towels, upscale toiletries, and fresh flowers getting us on the counter - she really thought of everything! The property is gorgeous - the views from the family room and the deck are like no other. The dock and the boat house are absolutely serene. Kids (teens) spent lots of time kayaking, swimming, and sunbathing on the dock. The layout of the house was great to spend time as a family - large living room with open kitchen, expansive deck with very comfortable furniture. The evenings were cool and we spent almost every night at the fire pit and taking in the beautiful sunsets and star gazing. Susie herself is a fabulous host. Incredibly attentive, responsive, and pleasant to deal with. It was obvious she was determined to make us feel welcome and provide every comfort to make this a perfect vacation. She took a lot of time answering my questions before our stay (this was our first visit to Finger Lakes) and making recommendations for activities and restaurants. We hope to return to Sweet Dreams soon.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Fabulosa vista y áreas sociales

Magníficas vistas. Confortable y amplias áreas sociales. Cocina y barbecue con todo lo necesario. Amplio parking. Muy limpia y ordenada. Anfitrión maravilloso. Grandiosa propiedad pero las habitaciones y los baños muy pequeños y pocos closets.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

diane a.

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

Adult Family Reunion

Great deck. Amazing view of the lake. Beautiful living space and property landscape. Has everything you need. All family members thoroughly enjoyed visit/stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Lisa M.

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025

About the host

Hosted by Susie Birchenough

Host profile image
Blair and Susie is are adventurers and lovers of nature. Their travels center around seeking places of magnificent nature.
Sweet Dreams fills this discovery and they created this home with many hours of creation together.

Why they chose this property

Being a native of Skaneateles Susie had been searching for the right property that drew her in for many years. When this property became available, she & Blair, knew this was the one. Together they put many hours of labor and passion to create this home with fine comfortable living quarters truly located on the most serene and beautiful part of the lake. This home wowed all of their senses while being infused with a great sense of serenity. They now share their home for just a few select weeks with those seeking the same.

What makes this property unique

THE VIEW!! Absolutely it was the view that Susie & Blair fell in love with! That, and the fact that is on the most beautiful triple A rated lake they love,...and the stately stone fireplace.
The feeling of peace received in Sweet Dreams stills the mind and soothes the soul .
Skaneateles, a 10 minute drive, is a vibrant sweet historic village with an abundance of excellent restaurants and shops.
The Finger Lakes offers some of the most beautiful hiking with gorges and waterfalls, and an abundance of wineries and breweries.
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