No televisions. No menus. No signs. And no stranger to receiving awards from Condé Nast Publications Ltd., “the most trusted name in travel.”  

The Point, in Upper Saranac Lake, was honored as “Most Excellent Lodge,” a category of the 2006 America’s Awards for Excellence. Nineteen awards were presented on January 12^th at the publication’s annual awards gala at New York City’s Hotel Plaza Athenée.  

Condé Nast Johansens, the international luxury travel guide of premium resorts, hotels, and spas, “recommends only properties that meet our exemplary standards, so the nominees for the Excellence Awards represent the best of the best, the very finest hotels and resorts in the world,” sail Lesley O’Malley-Keyes, Condé Nast Johansens vice president and publishing director for the Americas. The nominations in each category were selected from 285 properties, and are based on excellence, unique style, cuisine, diverse character, and exceptional location.  

The Point was built as a “rustic” retreat for the William Avery Rockefellers, who relished the quiet mountain splendor as a peaceful counterpoint to their busy life in Manhattan. Originally furnished with antiques and carpets that overflowed from the family’s city residences, in addition to local pieces befitting the mountain environment, it now retains the same gracious, eclectic style for present-day visitors. The peaceful setting is enhanced by exceptional multi-course dining, personal service, and a variety of recreational pastimes that make one feel like a guest at one of the fabled “Great Camps of the Adirondacks”—harking back to that far-away world of Teddy Roosevelt and Edith Wharton, where relaxation and romance were taken very seriously. 

Now that is excellent! 

The Point, Lake Placid Lodge and The Inn of The Five Graces, all operated by The Garrett Hotel Group, are members of Relais & Châteaux, the prestigious international association of privately owned hotels and restaurants embodying the highest culinary standards and the French “art de vivre.”