Newcomb, NY is a haven for hikers, with nearby trails leading to the eastern High Peaks, Mount Goodnow, and into Great Camp Santanoni. It also is home to Lake Harris and the Hudson River for boating, camping, or just relaxing.
And now Newcomb residents Kelly and Tony Audino are looking to feed hungry visitors and offer beds with lake views. I met up with Kelly earlier this week and got a glimpse of the future Lake Harris House Lodge and adjoining glamping sites.
The couple moved to Newcomb from the Albany area to open the Hoot Owl Lodge, fulfilling their dream of moving to the Adirondacks. Kelly said there isn’t a place in Newcomb for dinner, so she decided to rectify that. Hence, their latest project, the Lake Harris House Lodge.
Situated along Route 28, the road that cuts right through the town, stands the shell of the soon-to-be Lake Harris House Lodge. The restaurant is slated to open late October 2018. Kelly gave me a tour of the enormous space that will include three fireplaces, leather couches and chairs, cathedral ceilings, a capacious bar area, screened-in outdoor seating overlooking the lake, and 90 or so tables. The plan is to become a year-round destination for hikers and visitors in summer and fall, and skiers and snowmobilers in the winter. While still heavily under construction, it was easy to envision the warm, traditional Adirondack-style lodge to come.
We then walked down the the edge of the property adjacent to Lake Harris to tour the first of four glamping sites. Glamping is luxury or glamorous camping — a mix of hotel room amenities in an outdoor setting. The completed tent is outfitted with a queen bed, a dresser, and seating area. There is also a porch with more seating that faces the lake. There’s a ceiling fan, electric outlets, and canvas windows to enjoy Adirondack breezes.
Guests will be able to order room service from the lodge and enjoy dining in their personal elevated and waterproof “tent.” Of note is Kelly’s attention to detail; each bed has 1,000-count sheets and fluffy down duvets.
Outside, Tony will be building docks where glampers can tie up their canoes and kayaks, or use just for sitting and enjoying the view. Each site will have its own bathroom facilities.
Kelly says she envisions the sites as romantic getaways, and they even plan on installing a wood stove to test out winter glamping.
I’ll keep you posted with more photos when the doors open! Once you've booked your stay, check out our unique dining options and other attractions.
