There are tons of lodging options in the magnificent Adirondacks but there is only one Sagamore Resort.  Majestically mounted on the shore of Lake George at the end of “millionaire’s row,” guests feel like a million when they stay. Summers are booked far in advance when a pool lounge chair is a hot commodity among the 1100 people on property. As one guest said, relating to her love of September, “In June it was take a number.” Shoulder seasons are the way to go here, especially fall for the brilliant foliage.

The Sagamore is a mansion with surrounding rim lodges where rooms are updated with modern appointments. Fireplaces, art deco lighting and private balconies view the trees and lake without light pollution. Off the main lobby, the boutique is uniquely stocked to tickle any fancy with fine gifts, clothing and golf gear. Bear props are part of the decor but rarely seen on the extensive nature trails.  Hike them all or for indoor exercise, the workout room faces the lake and has a sitting room to rival most lounges. Pool settings are gorgeous in and out. Rent a pontoon, paddleboard or anything in between, at the dock below.

History buffs like to head 20 minutes north to Fort Ticonderoga or to Fort William Henry at the south end of the village. In the village are water and amusement parks and more than one mini golf ventures for kiddies in tow. For a real golf thrill, take the shuttle to the Sagamore Golf Course. Donald Ross architected a classic layout, converting environmental splendor into a golf gem. Number one overlooks Lake George with a phenomenal representation of the Adirondacks. It was a soggy day at the Sagamore with an absolute downpour by the time we reached the first green but with the absence of lightning, we continued to tackle the layout and the elements. The second green was practically under water but otherwise the drainage was impressive as was the occasional foliage so early in autumn. Danny in his Antigua rain gear and Alice in Sunice ended up dry at the turn, surprising Dave Cummins, the pro in the shop. On the back nine, the weather cleared to showcase more spectacular scenery and natural design incorporating brooks, streams and ponds framed by the towering forest. At one with the deer in the woods, absent of traffic noise and homes, this course will invoke memories for a lifetime.

Back at The Sagamore Resort, The Morgan cruise sets sail on most afternoons for a complimentary guest tour of the lake through the narrows with more than 100 small islands, some available for families of six to camp for $30. Tongue Mountain guards the north and Paradise Cove makes the perfect roundabout on the east side. For post cruise social interaction, the lobby bar and terrace over look the pool terrace, the marina and beach, then wide-open water. For more libation enjoyment, try the Country Thyme Lemonade at the Lakeside Restaurant– Absolut Citron, Bacardi Limon, plump blueberries, hand picked thyme, agave, lemonade and splash of soda – served with a smile and local knowledge such as celebrity homeowners, including Derek Jeter. Dinner reservations are recommended at La Bella Vita’s fine dining restaurant where the view is again extraordinary and the steak is succulent.

Purchased by Opal, The Sagamore has extended back to year round accommodations, hoping to attract snow lovers with Gore Mountain, a popular ski area nearby.  The conference and banquet books are looking good so far.  While the fireplaces feel so cozy in the fall, imagine their wintertime warmth and glow. In any season, a stay at The Sagamore Resort on Lake George in Bolton Landing, New York is full of splendor.  For reservations, go to www.thesagamore.com.