Hillcrest Cottages Introduce
For residents across the New York region, the call of the Adirondacks is a seasonal tradition that promises a release from the rapid pace of urban and suburban life. Nestled along the north shore of the peaceful outlet of Brant Lake, Hillcrest Cottages offers a quintessential mountain retreat that has been family-owned and operated for over 50 years. This destination is widely recognized by local travelers as an "unspoiled jewel," providing a serene environment where the focus remains on natural beauty, clean fresh air, and the simple joys of lakeside living. Whether you are planning a summer family vacation or a quiet weekend escape, these cottages provide the perfect balance of rustic Adirondack charm and the essential modern comforts required for a restful stay.
The atmosphere at Hillcrest Cottages is designed to make every guest feel right at home. The property consists of four well-maintained, rustic housekeeping cottages that capture the classic "camp" aesthetic of the region. Known for being LGBTQ+ friendly and welcoming to a diverse crowd of visitors, the community vibe here is inclusive and professional. The hosts are frequently praised by local New Yorkers for their responsiveness and attention to detail, ensuring that every cabin is immaculately clean and prepared for arrival. From the comfortable bedding and pillows to the carefully maintained grounds, every element of the property is curated to foster a peaceful and restorative experience in the heart of Wayne County's neighboring wilderness.
Location and accessibility are among the strongest attributes of Hillcrest Cottages. Situated at 6676 NY-8 in Brant Lake, NY, the property is remarkably easy to reach for travelers from all corners of the state. For those driving from New York City, the journey is approximately four and a half hours, while residents of the Capital District in Albany can reach the lake in just 75 minutes via the Adirondack Northway (I-87). By taking Exit 25 toward Chestertown and heading east on Route 8, visitors find themselves at the doorstep of the cottages in just a few miles. This strategic position makes it a convenient home base for exploring the broader region, located only 20 minutes north of the bustling Lake George Village and about an hour south of the Olympic Village of Lake Placid.
The immediate surroundings of Brant Lake offer a quieter, more intimate alternative to the larger, more crowded tourist hubs. The cottages are located just across the road from a private, sandy beach area that serves as a focal point for guest recreation. Accessibility to the water is seamless, with the lake's outlet providing calm conditions ideal for launching watercraft. Additionally, the property is within walking distance (approximately 0.2 miles) of local favorites like The Hub Café, which serves as a community hub for food, ice cream, and live music, as well as a gateway to professional mountain biking and hiking trails on Bartonville Mountain.
- Housekeeping cottage rentals featuring two-bedroom layouts that can accommodate up to six guests.
- Fully stocked kitchens in every unit, equipped with a stove, refrigerator, toaster, microwave, and essential utensils.
- Cable TV services and complimentary Wi-Fi for guest entertainment and connectivity.
- Complimentary use of rowboats, kayaks, and paddleboards for exploring the waters of Brant Lake.
- Pet-friendly accommodation options (subject to specific cottage availability and fees).
- Maintenance of a private, sandy beach area with a gentle slope suitable for all ages.
- Provision of fire pits and firewood for evening campfires under the Adirondack stars.
- Contactless check-in and check-out options to enhance guest convenience and safety.
- Screened-in porches attached to each cottage, featuring picnic tables for alfresco dining without the bugs.
- Immaculately clean interiors with a focus on high-quality bedding and pillow comfort for a restful night’s sleep.
- Direct access to 275 feet of private waterfront, including a well-maintained beach and fire pit area.
- Private charcoal grills provided for each cottage, perfect for summer barbecues.
- Breathtaking views of both the lake and the surrounding mountain ridges from the property.
- Proximity to world-class outdoor activities including fishing for bass and trout, hiking state lands, and cycling.
- A dedicated LGBTQ+ friendly environment that ensures a safe and welcoming space for all New York residents.
- Quiet, low-traffic location that avoids the noise pollution of major commercial zones.
For New York residents looking to secure a reservation or inquire about seasonal rates, direct communication with the owners is encouraged. The property operates on a first-come, first-served basis, particularly during the popular peak summer months from June through August. You can reach the management team using the following contact details:
Address: 6676 NY-8, Brant Lake, NY 12815, USA
Phone: (518) 504-0325
Mobile Phone: +1 518-504-0325
Email: hillcrestcottagesbrantlake@gmail.com
Prospective guests are advised to leave a message if calling after hours, as the family-run nature of the business means they often return calls personally to ensure a tailored experience for every visitor. It is also helpful to check their official website for updated policies regarding check-in times (typically 4:00 PM) and check-out procedures (typically 10:00 AM).
What makes Hillcrest Cottages worth choosing is the authenticity of the experience. In an era where many vacation rentals have become impersonal and overly commercialized, this property maintains the heart and soul of the Adirondack tradition. It is worth choosing for those who value a personal touch; the hosts are known for going above and beyond to ensure a perfect stay, from providing local hiking tips to ensuring the kayaks are ready for a morning paddle. The balance between "rustic" and "modern" is struck perfectly here—you get the woodsy atmosphere of a cabin with the cleanliness and comfort of a high-end rental.
Furthermore, the value proposition is exceptional for families and small groups. Having a private kitchen, a screened porch, and free access to watercraft significantly enhances the vacation experience while providing a cost-effective alternative to multiple hotel rooms. The private beach is a standout feature, offering a safe and well-maintained space for children to play and for adults to relax without the crowds found at public New York state parks. Choosing Hillcrest Cottages means choosing a peaceful escape where the most difficult decision of your day will be whether to go fishing, take a hike, or simply sit by the fire and enjoy the mountain views. For many New York families, this is not just a place to stay—it is a "gem" they return to year after year.
Location
Customer Reviews
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful cabin! It struck the perfect balance between rustic charm and modern comfort. Everything was immaculately clean, and the attention to detail was clear throughout the space. The bed and pillows were incredibly comfortable—honestly some of the best we’ve experienced in any rental, which made for restful, cozy nights.Our host was outstanding—responsive, kind, and truly accommodating. They went above and beyond to ensure our stay was perfect, and we really appreciated how easy communication was.We would absolutely return and recommend this cabin to anyone looking for a peaceful, comfortable getaway with a touch of rustic charm. A gem!
Perfect escape. Clean cottages with plenty of space and everything you could need. The little beach at the lake is well maintained. We loved kayaking!Thank you!
We've been coming to Hillcrest Cottages for 4 years to celebrate our son's birthday every year. We absolutely love it here! The cabins are the cleanest cabins I have ever been in! I cannot express that enough! They are older charming cabins, but have some great upgrades and are super clean! The owners are amazing! It's an old family business that they clearly take pride in running. Super close to Lake George and they have a very cute sandy beach across the street on a different lake. They have paddle boards and kayaks to use. The huge screened in porch is great for rainy vacation days or dinner outside. We've been coming with our son since his 2nd bday and hopefully will be celebrating his 20th here too! Thanks Krista and Karen for these memories!
We had a fantastic stay at Hillcrest Cottages! The accommodations are absolutely beautiful - even better than we anticipated! The cottage is pristine inside and out - a perfect blend of vintage and modern. The location is beautiful with views of mountains and trees in every direction. The screened in porch is fantastic on rainy days. The beds are supremely comfortable, and we slept very well. The shower and bathroom are fantastic, modern, and clean. The kitchen, too, is simple modern and clean. There are stores, eateries, and shops within a very short driving distance. The hosts are lovely and friendly - including Chip! We couldn't recommend this place anymore strongly. I can't wait to go back!
I highly recommend these delightful cottages. The lovely wooded setting is amazing. The lake views inspiring and relaxing, words can't really express how impressive this place it - you can't find better in this area.. The cottages are very cozy and the staff goes out of their way to make you comfortable. It is complete heaven really, very peaceful and I am going to make my reservation for next summer - and the next! We were here for a week and the place completely rejuvenated us. Thank you!
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