

Now, during these times of much-needed respite, the FLX provide a social distance-friendly getaway for all. It is during these retreats that I sleep the best, feel refreshed and immerse myself in the outdoors. Despite the stark blackness of the night, it’s easy finding comfort in the silence. Everyone enjoying their journey, anticipating the payoff of stunning gorges and waterfalls that may wait ahead.Īt night the skies open up revealing jaw-dropping sights of stars above. Couples on bikes stroll alongside creeks and streams.

Off-leash dogs, nose to the ground, lead the way, on paths they’ve walked for years. In the fall and winter as the leaves change and the weather drops, people flock to their nearest trail for early morning family hikes. Nothing but laughter and the clinks of glasses as tastings flow into the early evenings. Up on the hills, breweries and wineries are filled with locals and regulars, dogs by their side, corn hole games setup on the grass. Inside, families and friends are ready to dive into the cold, clear waters. As we get closer to the shores at the bottom of the bluffs, the pontoon boats slowly go by. In spring and summer, the twinkle of the lakes put a smile on my face when they slowly come into view as we drive through winding roads. Even in the face of a global pandemic, the FLX continue to open its arms, eager to show off its unspoiled elements. Each visit a reminder of how generous the land and the people that call it home are. Each visit a playground of nature-filled activities. Each visit has been during a different season. It’s been a little over a year and I’ve since returned to the FLX three times with no plan on stopping anytime soon. I vowed to visit the Finger Lakes in upstate northwestern New York, a new-to-me far off destination, one day. I walked away that evening more in love with wine. I remember hurrying from table to table, excited to try the next glass that accompanied each amuse bouche, surprised with each tasting. I remember taken a back by the sharp, crisp bubbles dancing on my tongue and the sweetness that lingered after.

I’ve had a crush on the Finger Lakes (FLX for short) since my first sip of their famous Riesling wine at an Edible magazine event in New York City several years back. A four-hour-plus drive from both my home state of New York and adopted state of Pennsylvania is a vast region of sloping hillsides, endless acres of farmland and vineyards, winding trails dotted with high waterfalls, and nearly a dozen natural water lakes.
