The Point was the first named Relais & Châteaux in North America, some 39 years ago.   It was built by William A. Rockefeller II (John D’s grandnephew) in 1929 as a retreat in the Adirondacks.  It is 75 acres of waterfront property on the Saranac Lake.  There are 11 guest rooms, 4 in the main lodge and several log houses including one over the large boat house.  All the rooms have stone wood-burning fireplaces and include 3 meals a day, cocktail hour, morning coffee and pastries, snacks and unlimited beverages including wines, spirits, beers, espresso and on and on.  Wed and Sat are black tie dinners whereas other dinners in the Great Hall require coat and tie for men with similar fancy dress for women.  It’s a beautiful property that is well maintained with a staff ready to make your stay the best it can be.  In the large modern kitchen was Executive Chef D’Anthony who was on site every day to prepare the meals.  He is from Texas so he got points for that too.   The pastry chef  (sorry I forgot her name) was also in the kitchen and she did a fabulous job on the morning pastries that come to your room with coffee.  We enjoyed the set menus for meals but also appreciate their flexibility if you want something different.  The food was all nicely done and beautifully presented.  Part of the experience was getting to chat with other like minded people over dinner and cocktails which was very well done.  I decided to break my write up into 2 parts as there were a number of meals to report on.  Bottom line is that if it works in your budget you should go.  It’s a fabulous property and a lovely experience. Continue reading →