Sagamore Resort

This upscale property on a private island in the middle of Lake George is a journey into American history – but updated for the 21st century.

The Sagamore, a landmark hotel on the National Register of Historic Places, has been welcoming moneyed guests since 1883, who came for the luxurious privacy of the island and the magnificent views of the surrounding Adirondacks.

Privacy and the views are still the big draws, but the contemporary Sagamore is also all about the amenities – the indoor and outdoor pools, the eight restaurants, an expansive spa and an excellent 18-hole golf course.

It’s impossible to be bored here: when you’ve gone through the list of activities – from fishing and hiking around the lake to rock climbing and basketball in the huge gym – there’s always sundowners on gorgeous terrace, sitting in the old-style rocking chairs just like the original guests would have done.