Inn at Erlowest on Lake George
A historic stone castle with refined Adirondack luxury on Millionaires Row.
Erlowest, perched on Millionaires Row overlooking the Queen of American Lakes, Lake George. All photos courtesy Erlowest.
Set along the coveted stretch of Lake George once known as Millionaires Row, the Erlowest rises from the shoreline like something out of a Gilded Age daydream. Turrets, terraces, and sweeping lake views announce its presence—but it’s the quiet sophistication behind those stone walls that defines the stay.
Just north of Lake George Village on Route 9N, Erlowest offers a rare Adirondack balance: proximity without chaos, elegance without excess. This is where Lake George slows down—and sharpens its edge.
Grand accommodations and design.
Erlowest pairs historic grandeur with a thoughtful range of accommodations.
Inside the main castle, guest rooms and suites feel intimate yet elevated—rich wood finishes, fireplaces, spa-style baths, and lake views that quietly command attention. Each space leans into the building’s architectural heritage while offering modern comfort.
One of Erlowest’s castle suites.
Beyond the inn, the property expands into townhouses, villas, and rustic cabins. These are ideal for longer stays or travelers who want a bit more privacy without sacrificing access to the lakefront experience.
The Erlowest experience.
Erlowest attracts a particular kind of traveler—one who values calm over crowds, quality over quantity.
Days unfold at an unhurried pace. A morning coffee overlooking the lake. A swim in the heated outdoor pool. An afternoon on the private beach or dock. Evenings that revolve around a meal worth dressing up for.
This is less about checking boxes and more about settling into a rhythm. Couples, especially, will find their stride here.
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The Erlowest complex is set on 15 acres overlooking Lake George.
Amenities and standout features.
The setting is exceptional, but Erlowest delivers on substance.
A heated outdoor pool overlooks the lake—an uncommon luxury in the Adirondacks. The private beach and dock offer direct access to Lake George, whether for swimming, boating, or simply lingering at the water’s edge.
Grounds are beautifully maintained without feeling overdesigned. Adirondack landscaping meets estate-level care.
And then there’s the dining.
Dining at Shepards: a destination in its own right.
Erlowest’s on-site restaurant, Shepards, is a AAA Four-Diamond experience—and one of the most refined dining rooms on Lake George.
The Grand Dining Room, once a social hub during the Gilded Age, still carries that sense of occasion. High ceilings, lake views, and attentive service set the tone before the first course arrives.
The Grand Dining Room at Erlowest.
The menu leans distinctly farm-to-table, sourcing from regional producers like Whitefield’s Farm, Fresh Take Farm, Maple Brook Farm, Toad Hill Maple, and Thomas’ Poultry Farm. The result is seasonal, ingredient-driven cuisine that feels both elevated and grounded in place.
Breakfast follows suit. Thoughtful, farm-fresh, and far from an afterthought—it’s the kind of morning meal that lingers just long enough to justify a second cup of coffee overlooking the lake.
Location and nearby things to do.
Positioned between Lake George Village and Diamond Point, Erlowest offers access without immersion.
Guests can dip into the village for boat cruises or activities, then retreat to something far more serene. Many, however, will gravitate north toward Bolton Landing—home to boutiques, galleries, and a more refined dining scene.
The view from one of Erlowest’s lakefront villas.
Golfers are within easy reach of the Sagamore Resort Golf Course, a Donald Ross-designed course known for its challenging layout, mountain views, and classic character.
The famous and historic Saratoga Race Course, the oldest thoroughbred racetrack in America, is only a 30-minute drive away in Saratoga Springs, NY. It’s often cited as a premier "bucket-list" venue.
In winter, Erlowest becomes a quiet basecamp for skiing at Gore Mountain, New York State’s largest ski resort, and for Nordic trails throughout the region.
A Gilded Age legacy, thoughtfully preserved.
Built in 1898 for Edward Morse Shepard—a prominent Brooklyn attorney and civic figure—Erlowest was conceived as a grand summer retreat on Lake George.
Its name nods to Shepard’s family roots in Westerlo, while its design reflects the opulence of the era. The home quickly became a gathering place for influential figures of the time.
After Shepard’s death, the estate remained in the family before passing through notable hands, including entrepreneur Charles “Charlie” Wood. In 1999, the current owners undertook a meticulous restoration, transforming the property into the refined inn it is today.
The result is not a museum, but a living piece of Adirondack history—one that continues to evolve while honoring its past.
Dine on the patio for spectacular lakefront views.
Seasonal appeal.
Summer is peak Erlowest—lake days, terrace dinners, and long golden evenings.
Fall brings foliage that feels almost theatrical, with hillside color reflected across the water.
Winter leans into intimacy: snow-covered grounds, fireplaces, and easy access to skiing.
Spring offers a quieter luxury—fewer crowds, softer light, and often the best value of the year.
ADK Taste recommendations.
Best rooms: Lake-facing suites with balconies in the main house
Best for: Couples, anniversaries, and luxury travelers seeking calm
When to book: Peak fall and summer weekends fill early
Good to know: Erlowest is a sought-after wedding venue—ask about event schedules if seeking a quieter stay
Stay style: Main Inn for romance; villas/cabins for space and privacy
A bird’s-eye look at Erlowest and Lake George.
This aerial footage showcases Erlowest’s iconic castle architecture and its dramatic position along the shoreline of Lake George.
Drone footage of the Inn at Erlowest highlights its lakeside setting, historic stone architecture, and expansive grounds on Lake George. Video courtesy Adirondack Drone.
From above, Erlowest’s perch on Millionaires Row—and its seamless blend of history and luxury—comes into full view.
The ADK Taste perspective.
Erlowest doesn’t compete for attention—it earns it quietly.
It’s a place for those who want Lake George without the noise. For travelers who appreciate history, design, and a meal that lingers as long as the view.
In a region known for its natural beauty, Erlowest adds something rarer: refinement that feels entirely at home.
For more information and to book your stay, visit the Erlowest website.
Places to stay, shop, eat, and things to do near Erlowest and Lake George.
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