Located within a leisurely stroll of Upper Saranac Lake, this cottage is within a 10-minute drive of Ampersand Mountain. The cottage includes a kitchen, a patio, and a refrigerator.
Saranac Lake, NY (SLK-Adirondack Regional) - 29 min drive
Restaurants
Waterside Cafe - 12 min drive
Mama's Pizzeria - 10 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.
The Healing Wood Sanctuary at Indian Carry ~Upper Saranac Lake
Near the quiet southern shore of the sublimely beautiful Upper Saranac Lake lies this enchanting and peaceful retreat for those who appreciate charm and serenity. This unique property typically rents Saturday to Saturday, during the Summer months of July 1 to Labor Day. Other calendar dates are flexible with a 2-3 night minimum. Maximum occupancy is strictly limited to 4 adults, double occupancy in King and Queen bedrooms (+ 1 child or petite adult in Twin bedroom) during the Summer months)
This cozy historic home (known as the East wing of the Swenson Estate) was built for the 1932 Olympics and offers 3 bedrooms/3 baths. It is approximately 1850 sq feet on 5 park like acres. The fully equipped unique kitchen has been described by many as award worthy with remarkable attention to detail. "Fairytale like" it has been commonly described as and it has repeatedly been said, "The pictures do it no justice"
All linens are provided as a courtesy, but please DO bring your personal BEACH towels for Summer stays. There are 2 smart TV's for streaming and DVD/VCR, with a plentiful library to choose from, as well as a Bose bluetooth smart speaker with voice control.
During the SUMMER/FALL months there is a small deck with 4 chaise lounges for sunning, a fire pit for camp fires, a small frog pond, and an expansive lawn. The lovely deeded, semi-private shared beach (Upper Saranac Lake) is a 5 -7 minute park-like stroll from the home through a quiet, sparsely populated neighborhood. As a back lot location, it offers a "safety buffer zone" with certain peace of mind for those with younger Children or Grandchildren. With a grass lawn, the beach is clean and sandy with a gentle, gradual drop-off. Again, very safe for young children. There is one green Old Towne Canoe and 2 red Kayaks parked near the beach for your use and enjoyment. No motor boats are permitted. Please note: If you choose to bring your personal kayak, paddle board, etc, and leave them at the cove, it is impossible for me to guarantee their security; mine are not high end and I have never experienced any issue over the years...
During the WINTER, Titus and Whiteface Mountains for downhill skiing are about a 45 minute drive. There's a toboggan run and ice skating in Lake Placid and tubing at Mount Pisgah and Titus Mountain. And plenty of cross country skiing options.
The wilderness area directly across our drive, offers you hiking, biking on endless trails and canoe access to the Stoney Creek Ponds and the Racquette River. The popular Ampersand Trail is just minutes up the road, as well as one of our favorites, the Deer Pond trail, a gentle hike for children. Golfers will enjoy the Saranac Inn Golf Club, ten minutes up the road founded at the turn of the century and designed by Scottish pro and architect, Seymour Dunn; this 18 hole course was designed using the natural terrain to provide a great golfing experience with lovely mountain views. Adventurers can traverse 30 miles of waterways that connect the lakes Oseetah, Kiwassa, Lower and Middle Saranac Lakes. Travel through the lock system which raises and lowers your watercraft to the level of the connecting lake. Take note- there is no lock access to the Upper Saranac Lake thereby granting you an extremely quieter lake experience especially at the southern end....it is pristine. At the Paul Smiths Visitors Center, you can explore gentle hiking trails and learn about the Adirondack region. And be sure to check out the whole wild world of the Adirondacks in Tupper Lake at our Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks. (better known as "The Wild Center") During the summer, on Sunday, you can ride your bikes or walk to the Chapel bound boat which takes you to non-denominational services at Chapel Island, a short ride away.
Secluded, yet very convenient to all amenities...23 minutes to our Olympic village of Lake Placid, 11 minutes to Saranac Lake, 8 minutes to Tupper Lake, 2.5 hours to Montreal. Our regional Adirondack Airport (SLK) is a 25 minute drive up Rte 30.
Keywords: Enchanting, Romantic getaway, Luxury, newlyweds, honeymoon, sanctuary, adventure seekers, age 55+, family with young children, golf. The shore of UPPER SARANAC LAKE is bordered by State land...11 mi. SW from the town of Saranac Lake
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 3 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and a phone. Housekeeping is available on request.
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Note from host: Only allowed in yard or at the Fire ring.
Services and conveniences
Housekeeping (on request)
Iron/ironing board
Phone
Location highlights
In a village
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a zoo
Things to do
Golf
Kayak
Ski-in/ski-out access
Snow sports gear
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Hunting nearby
Kayaking nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Rafting nearby
Rock climbing nearby
Sailing nearby
Sledding nearby
Snowmobiling nearby
Swimming nearby
Water skiing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Safety features
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
General
Garden
Housekeeping (on request)
Unit size: 1,872 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 10:30 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
1 total pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Note from host: No teething Pups nor incontinence issues please.
Children and extra beds
Note from host: 5-7 min walk to Beach offers safety for children
Events
No events allowed
Additional overnight Guests = +$75/pp/night
Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Only allowed in yard or at the Fire ring.
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
Note from host: Additional overnight Guests = +$75/pp/night
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 and a first aid kit
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: 10:30 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.
Note from host: Additional overnight Guests = +$75/pp/night
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
Long-term renters welcome.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to see around this cottage?
This cottage is located in Tupper Lake within a short 5-minute walk of Upper Saranac Lake. You'll also find Wild Center and Ampersand Mountain nearby.
Is there parking available at this cottage?
No, there isn't parking at this cottage.
Is this cottage associated with a casino?
No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this cottage?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.
What amenities will couples enjoy at The Healing Wood Sanctuary at Indian Carry ~Upper Saranac Lake?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this historic cottage include a kitchen and a smart TV along with ski-in/out access.
Are there hot tubs at The Healing Wood Sanctuary at Indian Carry ~Upper Saranac Lake?
No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.
Does this cottage offer breakfast?
No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this cottage allow pets to stay free of charge?
Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.
Are there connecting rooms at this cottage?
No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
How close is the airport from this cottage?
The closest major airport to this cottage is Saranac Lake, NY (SLK-Adirondack Regional), which is 19.1 mi away (29 minutes by car). Another top airport is Lake Placid, NY (LKP), which is located 23 mi away (33-minute drive).
Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at The Healing Wood Sanctuary at Indian Carry ~Upper Saranac Lake?
Yes, every accommodation at The Healing Wood Sanctuary at Indian Carry ~Upper Saranac Lake comes with a deck with some featuring mountain views.
The Healing Wood Sanctuary at Indian Carry ~Upper Saranac Lake 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. 74 out of 75 reviews
10 - Excellent
74
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 75 reviews
8 - Good
1
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 75 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 75 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 75 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Kim K.
Oct 16, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
This truly is a sanctuary in the woods, it was everything we hoped it would be and more. Like others have said, the pictures don't do it justice. We can't wait to return :-)
Kim K.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jyotsana L.
Oct 9, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
This is a very unique, special property. The grounds are beautiful and the lake is a short walk down a private road. The house is very comfortable and there are many places to relax and enjoy meals. The kitchen is a cooks dream as everything is high end and fully stocked, including spices. I would highly recommend this property and hope to visit again.
Jyotsana L.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Brian R., Georgetown, Tx
Oct 4, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We had such a wonderful time. The cabin was just what we expected. A beautiful property and community.
Brian R.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
8/10 Good
Laura S., Roswell, GA
Sep 21, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
The property is a lovely older home in a beautiful location. Full of antiques, furniture, and collectibles, the house is a dream retreat for anyone who loves a "homey" feel (although it did seem to lack space for guests to "spread out" with their own "stuff").Our hostess provided many thoughtful touches throughout her home, advised us early about the "quirks" of the house (which were minor), and remained available for help or questions while she resided in the close-by garage apartment. Beds were fairly comfortable, and two full baths are located on the second floor with the three bedrooms, but it should be noted that the bath adjacent to the king bedroom had only a tub with a handheld shower head (too short to stand under). A third full bath (with shower) is located on the first floor.
Laura S.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kris C.
Sep 8, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Joanne has created a truly magical and restful home in the ADKs. Location is great for access to many hikes, lakes and rivers. Her home is immaculate and stocked with all you need to enjoy your stay. Dog friendly, with wonderful places to walk right from the property or short drives to trails. Whether you are looking for a landing place at the end of exploring the many beautiful areas of ADKs or seeking a place to rest and re-energize, Healing Woods hits the spot. Thanks for a wonderful stay! K&A
Kris C.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Dan M.
Aug 28, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Very pleasant. Everything we needed.
Dan M.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Rachel R.
Aug 5, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We had an amazing stay at Joanne's place! It is such a beautiful, peaceful location, and the historic home has been kept in meticulous condition. We especially enjoyed the gardens, the frog pond, shooting stars, listening to the loons from the screen porch, and swimming and canoeing in the crystal clear Upper Saranac Lake (which was an easy 5min walk from the home). Joanne was very attentive, and had great recommendations for hikes, blueberry picking and local restaurants.
Rachel R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jessica L., Philadelphia
Jul 30, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Joanne's home and the surrounding property are all the things we'd hoped for in a vacation spot in the Adirondacks: warm, inviting, serene, beautiful, convenient, clean, and comfortable. I'm picky about things like mattresses and pillows and had zero complaints. As others have mentioned, this is not a blank, neutral space. The objects, art, live plants, personal mementos, and family photos that Joanne has collected over the years are everywhere, making you feel as though you're visiting a friend's home rather than a generic/anonymous living space. We only did the most basic of cooking since going out to eat is part of what we enjoy on our vacations, but we noted that the kitchen was very well-stocked with all the cookware and tools you could need. We ended up only getting on the lake twice; once to canoe and once to swim. Hitting the lake to swim during the "golden hour" on a warm day was glorious. We could've stayed there for hours, but dinner beckoned. We loved how easy it was to get to the towns of Tupper Lake, Saranac Lake, and Lake Placid. Joanne was easy to communicate with and provides a very helpful and comprehensive welcome guide prior to your arrival. We would not hesitate to stay here again. Some recs for future travelers: Mt. Arab and the Red Dot Trail were beautiful hikes that are shorter and easier (kid-friendly). Food: Raquette River Brewing Co., Rosco's New York Pizzeria, Heritage Indian Grill.
Jessica L.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer T.
Oct 17, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Nostalgic stay
Wonderful environment to rest and relax with many opportunities to explore near by. Joanne’s home is lovingly adorned with personal touches, nostalgic warmth and every amenity for a guest’s convenience.
Jennifer T.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Dirk B.
Oct 1, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Whimsical Place
We liked our stay at Joanna's house, Great location, quiet, fun old house full of interesting stuff. Close to the lake. well equipped kitchen. Wifi is somewhat slow. It was fine for us, but don't come here is you want to work remotely,
Dirk B.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kerry R.
Jul 27, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
ADK paradise
Joanne thought of everything to make our stay relaxing and fun. Her watercraft and equipment made exploring the lake easy; her kitchen was the best equipped kitchen we've ever been in; beds and linens lovely; garden and lawn a sheer delight, screened porch a perfect haven. We loved our week and could have easily stayed much longer! Thank you, Joanne.
a gt
Kerry R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
James F.
Jul 24, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Week away
Joanne’s house is cozy, charming, and comfortable. In a word, enchanting. We swam every day and barbecued every night. It’s a wonderful place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature in the most comfortable, accessible way.
James F.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Laurie L.
Jul 24, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
ADKS 2024
This is a lovely home, beautifully equipped. The large screened porch was especially appreciated along with a spacious, bright laundry area. A ten minute walk through the woods leads to a beautiful view of Upper Saranac with sandy bottom swimming access perfect for our needs.
Laurie L.
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Karalyn I.
Jul 9, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Magical Adirondack vacation
Our family had such a wonderful stay for the July 4th week. This home is close to so many Adirondack activities, from hiking trails, lakes to swim and boat, and kid friendly fun. There was something for everyone in our family, aged 5- adult. Our host put so much thought and attention to detail into our stay. We were welcomed and felt at home and so cozy. This home truly is healing and is a peaceful sanctuary! We can’t wait to come back and stay again!!
Karalyn I.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Dominic B.
Jun 10, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Brilliant stay in a beautiful location.
Beautiful home in perfect location for an ADK stay. Lots of local activities close to Lake City for restaurants and shops.
Great host, great vacation.
Dominic B.
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveler
Feb 27, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Winter Wonderland Fairy Tale
Arriving at Joanne's cottage is like walking up to Hansel & Gretel's home in the woods. It was immaculate, quaint, completely adorable. There is nothing, and I mean NOTHING you will need in this extraordinary house! From the amazing toiletries to the library to the history of the home, it is a ONCE IN A LIFETIME experience! If you ever get the chance to walk away from reality, do it HERE!
Verified traveler
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2023
10/10 Excellent
Glenda C.
Jan 2, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Winter Get Away
This property was AMAZING! It met every expectation and then some. Joanne was such a kindhearted hostess. She puts a lot of effort into making her property relaxing, and welcoming for all. Thank you, Joanne.
Glenda C.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
Ellen K., Delmar, NY
Sep 3, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Upper Saranac Lake
Lovely, relaxing week. Great kitchen, comfortable beds
Ellen K.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Ernie B.
Aug 30, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Mini version of an Adirondack Great Camp
This is a simply beautiful home. Unlike most short term rentals, Joanne's house is her true home and feels a lot like our own as opposed to the usual ski condo and the like. Fabulous kitchen, lots of space for our group of 4. A short walk to the shared beach, which wasn't used by others during our stay. The location is excellent for long canoe trips, and We enjoyed the backcountry cycling and hiking in the area as well.
Joanne was a great host, living right next door she's ready to help with anything, but otherwise seems to disappear. And she liked our dog.
We enjoyed a memorable week, and Joanne's place was a big part of that. Thanks. Ernie, Carol, Spencer, Ellie, and Rake.
Ernie B.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
David s.
Jul 13, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
So beautiful and relaxing!
We truly enjoyed our week long stay! Joanne was a wonderful, gracious hostess. I loved cooking in the beautiful kitchen. The backyard was very relaxing with the decorative pond and hammock - great for taking naps! We also enjoyed having a couple of campfires and gazing at the stars. The beach is just a quick 5 minute walk from the house. My husband and son enjoyed using the canoe and fishing. It was nice that it was only a quick drive into Tupper Lake or Saranac Lake area for restaurants and shops. Lake Placid is only a 35 minute or so drive away. Overall, this was a very much-needed, relaxing vacation for our family. Thank you Joanne!!
David s.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
10/10 Excellent
gerry c.
May 23, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous
Very beautiful interior with all the high quality wood. Beautiful property.
gerry c.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
10/10 Excellent
Ryan B.
Mar 12, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Great communication
Host did a great job of helping when we needed it and suggesting local options as well. The location was great and very pretty.
Ryan B.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022
10/10 Excellent
Holly O., Dunwoody
Mar 5, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect vacation home
The house was perfect for our family of 3 teenagers. The beds were comfy, the house was clean, and the kitchen was stocked with everything we needed. There were plenty of books and movies to enjoy on our down time with the fireplace going and the scenic views of the snowy woods out every window. Joanne was hospitable in every way. We would love to go back any time of year.
Holly O.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2022
10/10 Excellent
Alan D.
Oct 28, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Comfort Par Excellence
We stayed in Joanne's lovely home for eleven nights. We loved everything about it. The house is a unique and solid construction, and so well-insulated that you can hardly hear any outside weather. The living room and library have ample soft chairs and couches with multiple lighting options. The kitchen is a rarity. Unusual and attractive design elements are combined with full functionality. It is stocked with all the appliances, tools, dishes, pans, etc that you would want or have in your own kitchen. The baths and bedrooms are fully equipped and comfortable. We loved the location between Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake. It is a very quiet location and it felt remote even though it is a short drive to either Tupper or Saranac Lake. Hiking of all kinds is nearby and the house has access to a beautiful lake with a canoe and kayaks available for use. And Joanne is a most gracious host whose concern for her guests' comfort is apparent. We did not want to leave and we do want to return.
Alan D.
Stayed 11 nights in Oct 2021
10/10 Excellent
Gerard D.
Sep 29, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Home filled with antiques
This lovely, comfortable and well maintained home is exceptional in every way. It has great privacy, is quiet and is surrounded by beautiful trees and gardens.
It does not have a lake view but has access to a shared beach which is an 8 to 10 minute walk. Beach use comes with some limitations.