Located in Sheldrake, this vacation home is within a 5-minute walk of sights such as Cayuga Lake and Sheldrake Point Winery. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a dining area, and a refrigerator.
Thirsty Owl Wine Company - 6 min drive - 4.5 miles
Lucas Vineyards - 7 min drive - 4.7 miles
Taughannock Falls State Park - 18 min drive - 13.7 miles
Getting around
Ithaca, NY (ITH-Tompkins Regional) - 41 min drive
Restaurants
New Dragon - 9 min drive
McDonald's - 9 min drive
Aurora Ale & Lager Co. - 61 min drive
Finger Lakes Cider House - 8 min drive
Thirsty Owl Wine Company - 6 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Historic Home at Sheldrake in the Finger Lakes
“The Gables” is a historic 1851 home in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region and a short walk to the shores of Cayuga Lake. Named one of the "Landmarks of Seneca County," this beautiful home has been family owned for over 100 years and four generations. Relax in this spacious and comfortable Gothic Revival home with beautiful interior and a large wraparound front porch. Enjoy the charm and elegance of an 1800s home with its beautiful woodwork, formal dining room, living room and parlor. A winding staircase greets you as you walk in the front door.
A large stained glass light fixture hangs over the table in the dining room. The living room invites you to sit in front of the fireplace and read your favorite book. The front parlor is a great place to play your favorite card game, board game or put together a challenging jigsaw puzzle.
Upstairs are four comfortable bedrooms (one king and three queen) and, as a bonus, another cozy living room to relax, enjoy your favorite TV show or read. The front porch has rocking chairs and tables to dine al fresco. This home has more than enough room for everyone to have their own space or gather together. The property is surrounded by a large lawn, beautiful trees and has a large paved circular driveway for vehicle parking.
Located perfectly for your vacation while visiting the Cayuga and Seneca Lake Wineries, Taughannock Falls, Watkins Glen, Ithaca, Cornell, Ithaca College, Geneva, or Hobart and William Smith Colleges.
Conveniently located near Cayuga Shoreline event center for your family wedding or event.
This is your starting place to get out and enjoy the heart of the Finger Lakes. You will be amazed how uncrowded and wonderful it is. Walk along beautiful County Road 153 as it follows the shores of Cayuga Lake passing many stately old lake houses as well as award winning Sheldrake Point Winery. Not far down the road is O’Malley’s Cabin on the Lake restaurant.
If you own a boat or watercraft, there is a boat launch just down the street so you can enjoy being on the waters of Cayuga Lake.
Also, just down the street, you can board a boat for the “Water to Wine” tour which takes to you to wineries located on Cayuga Lake. If you would rather go by car, hire the “Main St. Driver”, a chauffeur who uses your car to take you to any of the more than 200 Finger Lakes wineries and brings you home safely.
A short drive can also take you to the famous Lively Run Goat Dairy, where delicious local cheese is crafted, and you can meet the fun- loving goats!
If you are a hiker, you’ll love the many local hiking and walking trails at Taughannock, Watkins Glen, Ithaca and Hector. If you’re a bird watcher, you can see Canada Geese, wild ducks, Loons, Herons, Osprey, and even Bald Eagles on or along the shores of Cayuga. You can also visit the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge at the northern end of Cayuga Lake. A short drive will take you to Deer Haven Park, the official site of the Seneca White Deer tours to see rare white deer.
We provide literature about these exciting adventures.
Get the idea? Relax… or go see…. or do both!
Here is what we offer at The Gables:
• Individual air conditioners in each bedroom and large air conditioner downstairs.
• Laundry room with washer, dryer, iron and ironing board.
• Kitchen with dinner ware, silver ware, cookware, dish washer, drip and Keurig coffee makers, gas cooktop, electric oven and two refrigerators.
• WiFi included.
• Two TVs (with streaming), One in the upstairs living room, one in a bedroom.
• Pamphlets and information about local recreation, tours and entertainment and dining.
• Outside gas grill.
• Three full bathrooms, two up and one down.
PLEASE NOTE:
ELECTRIC VEHICLES - Public recharging stations are available in nearby Trumansburg NY. There are no convenient outside outlets on the property for recharging. Use of extension cords from the house to your vehicle are prohibited for safety purposes.
NO PETS POLICY- NO exceptions
NO CHILDREN UNDER 12 YEARS OF AGE: Exceptions for non-walking infants (Contact before booking)
NO SMOKING IN HOUSE OR ON PREMISES – No exceptions
NOT SUITABLE FOR WEDDINGS, RECEPTIONS, PARTIES OR GATHERINGS including outside guests. Property is for the use and enjoyment of registered guests only unless prior approval from owners given.
DON’T GET US WRONG! – We love, Pets, Children, Weddings and Parties. We establish these rules simply to keep our property in the best possible condition for your arrival and stay with us. Thank You, and we look forward to your visit.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and 3 bathrooms, and there's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and an ironing board.
Property manager
Karl & Patricia Messmer
Languages
English
Similar properties
Remodeled Lake House 4 Bed/ 3 bath, Pet Friendly Enjoy Fall on Cayuga Lake!
Remodeled Lake House 4 Bed/ 3 bath, Pet Friendly Enjoy Fall on Cayuga Lake!
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Garden
Unit size: 3,500 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
Long-term renters welcome.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do within easy reach of this vacation home?
This vacation home is situated in Sheldrake, just steps from Sheldrake Point Winery, and within a 10-minute walk of Cayuga Lake and WeBeTilin' Studios. You'll also find Thirsty Owl Wine Company and Lucas Vineyards within a short drive.
Is parking available on site at this vacation home?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer parking.
Is this vacation home adjacent to a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.
What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Historic Home at Sheldrake in the Finger Lakes?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this vacation home include access to a chef, a kitchen, and a meal delivery service.
Are there hot tubs at Historic Home at Sheldrake in the Finger Lakes?
No, this vacation home doesn't have a spa tub.
Does this vacation home include breakfast service?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.
Are there connecting rooms at this vacation home?
No, there aren't connecting rooms at this vacation home.
What is the closest airport to this vacation home?
The closest major airport to this vacation home is Ithaca, NY (ITH-Tompkins Regional), which is 29.5 mi away (41 minutes by car). Another top airport is Cortland, NY (CTX-Cortland County), which is around 25.3 mi away.
Are there rooms with balconies at Historic Home at Sheldrake in the Finger Lakes?
Yes, every accommodation at Historic Home at Sheldrake in the Finger Lakes comes with a porch.
Historic Home at Sheldrake in the Finger Lakes Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 15 out of 15 reviews
10 - Excellent
15
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 15 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 15 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 15 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 15 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Property conditions & facilities
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Judith P.
Jul 21, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely, welcoming and comfortable!
From the moment we reserved the property, Karl and Pat were welcoming. From the homemade baked goods to the well stocked kitchen, laundry and bathrooms, everything was perfect! The house and surrounding area had lots of fun, little hidden gems!
Judith P.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Paul G.
Jul 2, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Stay
This was an incredible stay. Everything you could want as if it were your own home. Our only regret is, we couldn't stay longer!!
Paul G.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Linda B.
Jun 22, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful historical property!
Just lovely Very close to lakePeaceful and tranquil
Linda B.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Maria P.
May 27, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful, historic home!
This home is AMAZING!!! History in every room, primo location - close to the lake, wineries and only a 30 minute drive to Ithaca! The owners were so thoughtful- they even welcomed us with homemade assorted sweet breads! The house was clean and inviting. It was stocked with all necessary supplies, including towels! We will definitely be staying here again and would highly recommend it for a family gathering!
Maria P.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jim C.
Oct 21, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Family Reunion
Property was centrally located allowing us to enjoy both Cayuga and Seneca lakes. Karl and Pat were very congenial hosts. We enjoyed the loaves of bread that Pat had baked. Being an 1850's house it had a lot of interesting nuances that we all enjoyed investigating. If in the area again we would definitely consider staying at the Gables at Sheldrake.
Jim C.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
joanne b.
Sep 3, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect!!
Beautiful historic home, comfortable, spacious, impeccably clean and great location very close to the venue where our niece was married. Karl greeted us on arrival to explain a few things and was very responsive when we needed anything. I highly recommend this place and would stay here again in a heartbeat.
joanne b.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
John S.
Aug 27, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Epic family vacation
We loved this large house with living room, dining room, family room, and 2 staircases. Enough room for everybody around the dining room table, and 2 dining tables on the large wraparound porch for everyone to relax at. A gorgeous house with really cool historic features. A terrific location near multiple wineries and the lake right nearby. Took the wine boat tour around the corner about a blocks walk. Took us to multiple wineries on this side and across the lake. A nice grill and even a farm stand a half mile up the road that had the best produce. Enjoyed the lovely green lawn and had epic badminton battles while others sipped mimosas on the porch. Everyone from the 24 year olds to our 86 year old mother was comfortable here. We will be back! Pat and Karl could not have been more helpful, offering us advice on what to see and do and when we were short an egg one night, even providing two from their kitchen next door.
John S.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Anthony M.
Aug 4, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Long weekend at the Sheldrake
Historic home well situated.
Anthony M.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Paula V., Eden Prairie
Jul 16, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Comfortable and convenient location
We attended a wedding at Cayuga Shoreline and the Sheldrake home was conveniently located for our planned group of 8 (4 minute drive). We had an unexpected issue so we ended up having only 3 people stay at the property. The beds were very comfortable, the kitchen was well stocked and the owners who live next door responded very quickly when we asked about beach chairs, delivering them within 15 minutes. The kitchen is a bit dated but it served the purpose, and everything worked as it should. The porch was a great place to have coffee in the morning. We stopped at the Sheldrake winery for a wine tasting, went to Taughannock Falls State Park and Cayuga State Park, both within 30 minutes. We ate at Wolffy's deck overlooking Cayuga Lake and enjoyed music at the boat bar at lake level. Overall, we enjoyed our stay at the Sheldrake house.
Paula V.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jenifer G., MCKINNEY
May 28, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
A great experience.
This is a great home for a family to get away from it all. Clean, large house with all the amenities. We enjoyed sitting outside on the wrap-around front porch, plenty of space for everyone. Not too far from Cornell, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and highly recommend this rental.
This house was warm, clean and comfortable. Everything you would want in a charming house. We enjoyed our stay!
Ann
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
10/10 Excellent
Russell D.
Aug 12, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent place to stay.
The Gables had everything needed on hand. Plenty of bedrooms and a nice porch to enjoy the evenings outside. A large kitchen and dining room. Also, a nice sitting room to relax and watch TV upstairs.
Russell D.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
John B.
Aug 2, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Waterfalls
Beautiful historic home close to several waterfalls. Nice quiet location. Walking distance to lake. Enjoyed breakfast on a large porch.
John B.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jenny B.
Jul 27, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Gorgeous home in a perfect location
This place is even more gorgeous in person. My friends and I enjoyed everything about our stay. Learning the history of the house and its owners added to the enjoyment. Our hosts were responsive and welcoming. The front porch was our favorite hang-out spot. I also appreciated the quality of the beds and bedding…comfortable beds and more than enough blankets and pillows. Thank you again!
Jenny B.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Pat R.
Jun 11, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Loved The Gables
We had five family members staying at the Gables for a college graduation. The home is as charming as it looks, and we had a wonderful time here just a few blocks from Cayuga Lake. Karl and Pat went above and beyond to help make our stay comfortable and memorable, from the baked blueberry and lemon loaves, to helping us find a way to charge our EV each night. For those with mobility issues, it's good to know that one set of stairs in the house is steep and the risers quite narrow, and there is currently no first floor bedroom. This is because the house is still a tribute to its rich history, much of which you can learn from the photos and maps gracing the walls, as well as the excellent summary books of the area in the front parlor. Being able to walk down and take a dip in the lake was a welcome bonus, and the entire neighborhood is a delight to explore. In short, we had an outstanding visit at the Gables, and will certainly check in with Pat and Karl when we're next near Ithaca.