3 New York State retreats to escape the city heat

We’re flying the Fourth of July flag for these relaxing retreats just a weekend break away from New York City

From rugged mountains and maple forests, to lighthouse-topped cliffs and white sandy beaches, New York State offers East Coast scenery at its finest. Just a short journey away from New York City you’ll find the glamorous coastal hideaways of the Hamptons, while heading upstate will take you into the wild surrounds of the Adirondack Mountains in Lake Placid or the mineral waters of Saratoga Springs. For a long weekend within driving distance from ‘The Big Apple’, look no further than these back-to-nature breaks and small town escapes…

The Hamptons

The Great Gatsby has done wonders for Long Island’s glitzy reputation, but scratch at its glamorous surface and you’ll find a lot more to this stretch of stylish mansion-sprinkled sand. Home to authors and artists, it boasts glorious beaches, a vibrant food and wine scene, and one of Long Island’s best surfing spots overlooked by the historic Montauk Point Lighthouse. Rub shoulders with the in-crowd at Main Beach in East Hampton – or head to somewhere like Atlantic Avenue Beach for family fun.

Where to stay: A renovated 19th-century mansion near Long Island’s eastern shore, Topping Rose House blends stylish heritage with cool, contemporary comforts. And as the only full-service hotel in the Hamptons (including bicycles and a free shuttle to some of the area’s most beautiful beaches), it’s rather special.

Lake Placid

Lake Placid might be synonymous with the Winter Olympics, but this adventure resort is just as active in the summer. With golf, fly fishing and mountain biking available in the spectacular Adirondack National Park, Lake Placid seems to have sports on tap. For a more relaxing way to spend the day, kick back in an Adirondack chair and simply drink in the views across Mirror Lake.

Where to stay: Eight acres of landscaped gardens surround five lodges at Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa, offering a variety of accommodation from rooms with views to suites with whirlpools and balconies. The lakeside property is perfectly positioned for paddling in one of the inn’s canoes or kayaks, and just a two-minute walk into the charming village centre.

Saratoga Springs

This small spa town has long been an elegant escape for well-heeled New Yorkers, where visitors have come to ‘take the waters’ since the Victorian era. As well as mineral springs, there are acres of walking trails and championship golf courses, picnic spots and classical architecture – not to mention the renowned local racecourse. There’s also a thriving craft beverage scene, with numerous wineries, breweries and distilleries to visit for some thirst-quenching fun.

Where to stay: When you first walk through The Adelphi’s impressive entrance, it’s easy to cast yourself back to the old world grace and grandeur of 1877. Now infused with eclectic, modern touches, the original features of each room have been subtly enhanced by a minimalist aesthetic.