Entire home

Finger Lakes Mission House Family Retreat

Photo gallery for Finger Lakes Mission House Family Retreat

View of mission buildings from the Road
Exterior
Exterior
view from front porch looking across nature conservancy and Hemlock Lake
kitchen 1
Reviews
9.6

Exceptional

6 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 16279 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Washer
    WasherWasher
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • Kitchen
    KitchenKitchen
  • Fireplace
    FireplaceFireplace
  • Dryer
    DryerDryer
  • Pet-friendly
    Pet-friendlyPet-friendly

Check-in time

4:00 PM

Check-out time

12:00 PM

Explore the area

Map
Conesus, NY
  • Popular LocationConesus Lake18 min drive
  • Popular LocationHoneoye Lake28 min drive
  • Popular LocationBristol Mountain Ski Resort41 min drive
  • AirportRochester, NY (ROC-Greater Rochester Intl.)48 min drive

Most relevant reviews

Rooms & beds

6 bedrooms (sleeps 16)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 4

1 Single Bed

Bedroom 5

1 Double Bed, 1 Single Bunk Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 6

1 Single Bed and 1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Lower Bath

Bidet · Toilet

Main Upper Bath

Toilet · Shower only

Shared Hall Full Bath

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Finger Lakes Mission House Family Retreat

Beautiful and historic 1940's home overlooking Hemlock lake and the historic St. Michael's Mission in Conesus. This secluded home is tucked away from it all, and to use an old cliche, is truly off the beaten path. The home was masterfully crafted into the hillside within a wooded area and has a gorgeous view overlooking the other mission buildings, and a stunning back porch vantage point over and across Hemlock lake. It'll take your breath for a moment, and once here you'll surely feel inspired to write home!

Home is mission style, brick, modernized, and tastefully restored with a flare for the artistic. There are some original stained glass windows, beautiful paint and woodwork, hardwood floors, and custom baths for that special sort of pampering. Historically the home was used as the nunnery portion of the mission, and while the pictures don't quite tell the story, a personal visit will.

* Home is furnished with a basic kitchen setup service for 12, large outdoor bbq grill, TV, microwave, keurig, etc. Basic linens, wifi, electric, water, recycling, and trash are accounted for as well.

This unique property with it's deep gorges, sloping landscapes, and tumbling brooks flowing into Hemlock Lake, was also home to the historic St. Micheal's Mission and other various faith based and benevolent organizations since the early 1900's. The history that happened here is only imaginable today although much has been written about it. On site there are 50 picturesque acres to explore, a pavilion for small or large gatherings, and ample parking. Site could be used for events, although at current the property is only being used for residential purposes, so as a visitor here you'll pretty much have the run of the place while you step into the feeling of timelessness.

While you're here, visit the Hemlock Canadice State forest with it's 6684 glorious acres within walking distance, and another 150 acre nature conservancy directly across the street. (for those nature lovers who really want to get away from it all).

The property may become available for long or short term lease depending on time of year. Could be used for corporate retreats, weddings and wedding parties, or that romantic weekend getaway. Inquire today, you won't be disappointed! As caretakers, we'll work to make your stay here seamless and serene, and of course you'll never forget these views and the hiking on the property.

Property manager

Korey Buzzell
Premier Host
Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Outdoor space
Barbecue grill

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 12:00 PM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

Events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed
Pets should be preapproved.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Outdoors only.

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
Parties and events are allowed on site
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Conesus

Located in Conesus, this holiday home is in a rural area. National Warplane Museum and Ganondagan State Historic Site are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Deer Run Winery and Hunt Hollow. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Conesus, NY

What's nearby

  • Conesus Lake - 18 min drive
  • Honeoye Lake - 28 min drive
  • State University of New York-Geneseo - 30 min drive
  • Letchworth State Park - 39 min drive
  • Bristol Mountain Ski Resort - 41 min drive

Getting around

  • Rochester, NY (ROC-Greater Rochester Intl.) - 48 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Beachcomber - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Conesus Inn - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Ember Woodfire Grill - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Serious Foods - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Twisters - ‬17 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Finger Lakes Mission House Family Retreat pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Finger Lakes Mission House Family Retreat?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Finger Lakes Mission House Family Retreat?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Finger Lakes Mission House Family Retreat located?

Located in a rural location, this family-friendly holiday home is within 12 mi (20 km) of Conesus Lake, Sandy Bottom Park and Strong Memorial Hospital. Deer Run Winery is 11 mi (17.7 km) away.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 62 out of 78 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 78 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 78 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 78 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 78 reviews" "

8.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

8/10 Good

Julie W.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Weekend Family Getaway
The owner was very communicative and easy to deal with. He responded to all of our needs. He also sent out info about the place before our trip that was very interesting. I definitely am intrigued by this place and would love to learn more. Unfortunately, I was not able to take a tour. We were visiting for family portraits and only in for a weekend. If I have a suggestion to make the place better, it would be to clean out all leftover food from others stays and to keep only the coffee pot that works as there were others but they were broken. The beds were very comfortable. The place is very homey which is nice! Thank you for being so accommodating to our group!! Great place to stay with a big group.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessica K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lots of space in a great location
We came as a group of family and friends to observe the eclipse. We wanted plenty of space and proximity to other things to do, like hiking and the winery. This fit the bill and was quite affordable too. In addition to enjoying the property, we drove to Letchworth State Park, which’s was only 45 mins away abs very worthwhile. We loved the (steep) hike down to hemlock lake, and the short walk to Oh-Neh-Da Winery too. It was a great home base for our long weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

2/10 Terrible

Julia W.

Liked: Check-in
Disliked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy
FALSE ADVERTISING
The ad on VRBO states, “sleeps 16” & details the beds in every room. During my stay 5 people slept there. In the ad under IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO KNOW it states, “Extra person charge MAY apply & varies depending on property policy.” I was unable to locate anything resembling Property Policy in or attached to the ad on VRBO. I am being charged more than $100.00 for an extra person(s)? The host refuses to refund this money to me! WHAT IS THE POLICY? The host has CHASTISED me for not getting his permission 1st to hold a party in the house prior to doing so. (I held a brunch on a Sunday morning for approx. 25 people.) In his ad he states twice that PARTIES & EVENTS ARE ALLOWED ON SITE AS WELL AS CORPORATE RETREATS, WEDDINGS, ETC.. There is no mention of needing to get permission first. Lastly, when I made my reservation there was a piece in the ad that described a certain level of disinfection they use to clean their high touch areas. That piece is now gone from the ad. Upon arrival it was clear to me that high touch areas were not clean much less disinfected. Thank goodness for CLOROX WIPES, paper plates, aluminum foil, plastic utensils, etc. Most distressing were the RODENT DROPPINGS everywhere including the eating utensils, pots, pans, dishes, countertops & tabletops in kitchen & living room. Also of large concern was the MOLD. My 2 guests took 1 look at the mold all over the ceiling in the upstairs bathroom & stated that they were quite sure it resembled BLACK MOLD!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

8/10 Good

Jennifer C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely Holiday Getaway
We had a lovely time at this property. Korey was very helpful and quick to respond to any questions we had. The home is definitely older and showing its age in some areas (the one shower only worked sporadically, the oven worked but we couldn't turn it above 350, small things like that), but we had a great time regardless. Unfortunately the weather wasn't the best while we were there so we were unable to fully explore the property but it was in a nice, quiet area and we were all comfortable during our stay. Having 2 families together, we loved that there were 2 rooms with King beds and more than enough room for the children to sleep! It was nice to have extra freezer space with the chest freezer and there were plenty of games for the kids to play with. Overall a nice home and a great visit!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bruce R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Daughter's wedding
This place was fantastic. Kory was accommodating to special needs. Friends and family that came in for our daughter's wedding enjoyed their stay and loved the view and amenities that was offered.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Pamela W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wedding Weekend
We chose the Mission house for its proximity to the wedding venue. We wanted a larger location for family to stay if needed. It was perfect. We will definitely be looking for another reason to stay again!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melvin J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Mission House conesus, NY
Excellent accommodations. House fully stocked with any and all utensils needed. Host Korey Buzzell was always available to address any concerns we had. Rural location nice and stores nearby. Would recommend it to anyone. Only problem I encountered was the BBQ grills definitely need to be replaced. Can't wait to return next year.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing place
What a cool old place in the woods! I took the downstairs bedroom with the comfiest mattress! Our host was friendly and gave us a personal tour of the old Mission in front. We wish we had stayed longer to explore more. The chickens running around were so cute and it added to the country woods charm of this old place! Cool woodwork inside, stained glass windows, a real bargain at twice the price!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jill K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nature and History
We really enjoyed our stay in the old convent house! The property is amazing. We explored the old grotto, hiked down to Hemlock Lake, saw coyotes and deer and snakes, enjoy the fire pit, and played in the grassy yard. It was a great place for our horde of kids to run amok. Korey was gracious enough to give us a tour of the buildings and provide information about the history of the mission. The neighborhood is great for running and biking as well. We are so appreciative of the chance to stay here and would highly recommend to anyone.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

William R., St. Pete Beach

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Finger Lakes area stay in July
The Mission was as advertized and all of our guests were pleased with the accomidations.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Heather C., Carmel, IN

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
WONDERFUL!!!!!
We drove in to see family nearby. The scenery was so beautiful and with the extra room it was a great place to talk with family and close enough to everything that you would need. The host was fantastic. Very friendly & attentive, I would definitely recommend staying here if you are traveling with a small or large group, we had s very nice time playing the piano and singing as well as enjoying the campfire. It would be perfect for a reunion or just a get together, there’s so much to see just on the property. Definitely recommend staying there, especially if you enjoy history & are looking for a large place with a reasonable rate. Next time I would recommend reserving for longer! Great time😊
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Jenny S., Ottawa

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Mission
We stayed in the the old convent. It housed all 12 of us easily. This home is older and has its quirks. It does not have all the amenities of a newer home. It does not have any AC. The home is on the property of an Old Mission. There are people that reside in the Mission year round and another part that is rented out for short stays. I say that to let you know you are not alone on the property. The host and people that live there are very accommodating and willing to give you a tour of the Old Mission. The Grotto is in ruins and fun to explore at your own risk. The winery down the road is amazing and we highly recommend a visit. This property is very remote and has beautiful scenery. You will be about 20-30 mins away from gas stations/grocery stores. We enjoyed our time!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Christine B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wedding guests
Property was private with plenty of room for our family. 12 plus 2 dogs! Comfortable beds. Convenient for traveling for wedding in Naples. Enjoyed several winery and breweries in area.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eric S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a great place!
Korey was an excellent host and the mission house was a wonderful, charming, and SPACIOUS location for our family Thanksgiving celebration. The kitchen is large and open, there are several comfortable bathrooms, and there was ample space for board games and meals. Couldn't have asked for more!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kathy E.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family Christmas Gathering
The house was perfect for our needs. We had a big group of 11 adults and some grandchildren and had a great time. The kitchen has no dishwasher but that was no problem. It was spacious and had plenty of all the kitchen things one would need. I was worried the living room might be small but it was fine and very cozy. There was a basement and attic the kids had space, too. One afternoon we drove half an hour to go skating, we enjoyed walks outside too and what an interesting area to hike in. Mostly it was needed for us to hang out, exchange christmas gifts and enjoy a reunion. We also booked a dinner 10 minutes away at the turtle stone grill through emails and they were so accommodating. This place was good for us because it's not pristine and with so many kids you didn't have to worry too much about them bumping into things, etc.. they had games and puzzles available too. Korey was a great host, ready to field and question and very easy going
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Todd S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family trip to see Daughter at Geneseo
Perfect for the extended family to see our daughter play soccer at Geneseo. Plenty of space for everyone! The winery down the block was great as well.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Erica K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Big houses are hard to find!
Having enough room for our group was great! The house had bedrooms with a variety of bed sizes and 2 1/2 bathrooms so everyone was comfortable. We loved the location! Hiking down to the edge of the lake was beautiful and there are many hiking trails nearby. The host was accessible and friendly. We will consider a longer stay in future!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lani F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A fun spot for families
A unique place to stay - very private and quite. Korey was easy to work with and very responsive.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

frank g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
always great place to stay
excellent as always.. will stay again and again
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brenda K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The “Castle”
Family ranging from 2 to 82 years old (including teenagers!) all were busy, safe and comfortable. Hiking, campfires, lawn games, firefly chasing, stargazing, kite flying and movie watching! The kitchen is very well equipped, the ceiling fan in ever room was much appreciated, the house was very clean, the beds were comfy. Streaming service was put to good use. This was my second stay and I knew if I needed anything Corey was a text away.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022

8/10 Good

Bonnie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
relax meditative time
Delightful experience and some great relax meditative time. We also did some great day trips to Niagara Falls and the small lakes in the area . there was a turning point park that was the most enjoyable walk on a boardwalk along the water. Letchworth state park was a great time and they also have a pool. The place is not a five-star or even a four-star hotel it is a missionary with a great history and needs a lot of work but it’s what you’re looking for a great relaxing experience. We had a wonderful time.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tim O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent stay at the Mission House
Eight High School friends got together for a few days to catch up after many years of not seeing one another. The property was the perfect place to do this. There was lots of space, comfortable bedrooms, a good kitchen, and a great firepit for an evening fire. Korey was an excelent host. Highly recommended.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

john D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
perfect for us
we have a yearly weekend, first day of trout fishing. usually, 8-10 0f us. This place accommodated all of us comfortably .
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jackie I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Weekend Getaway
This home is perfect for a family getaway. We were 13 people total and the house was of great size to support us all. Being it was during off season I was concerned about not having much to do, but the weathered cooperated and everyone had a great weekend exploring the property. Korey, was absolutely wonderful. He brought us farm fresh eggs from their chickens and gave us a tour of the buildings. When I found this booking, I honestly thought it was too good to be true, but it was exactly as it states and even better than I imagined. Everyone who came is excited to book again in the summer, but for a week next time! Thanks again Korey!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

John M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I've been favoring short-term rentals for The last 5 years and this is my favorite so far.
I have to start by saying this location might not be for everyone. If you're looking for a fancy pampered experience, you might not find it here. But, if you are looking for a TRUE EXPERIENCE, then you should not let this gem slip away. The mission buildings are an ongoing restoration project. We did not choose a single room rental, but instead went with the full rental of the nunnery. Creaky wooden floors and Good vibes for the people who used to call this home. Deer in the yard EVERY morning, chickens on your walk down to the grotto's. Ahhh, I want to go back now. The coolest and rarest experience was to explore those grottos. It's not deemed safe but you are allowed to enter at your own risk. This means, no tour guides, just you exploring ancient ruins. Okay, I think it has to be more than a hundred years old to be called ancient, but you can tell yourself whatever you want as you carefully explore these caves. I imagined I was playing tomb raider or uncharted 😁 Korey was ready for any questions we had ( yes the grottos are posted, but it's on the mission grounds and you're a guest) and I would absolutely book again because there is so much in the area that deserves a lot more attention than we were able to give it in five days.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021

About the host

Hosted by Korey Buzzell

Host profile image
I am a husband, father of five, obsessive carpenter/builder, hobbyist pilot, entrepreneur, and most importantly a believer in the divine providence that is and was embodied by the creator of this world. Go ahead, ask me why?

Why they chose this property

I discovered this wonderful place in the spring of 2015 when my wife and I learned that the current caretakers were going to move away. This left the mission with very few folks to care for it. I love history and so found myself researching almost every day, and still find myself digging for more information here. The history intrigues me, and so I encourage guests to see what they can find! I'm most willing to share what I have learned via email or personal tours.

What makes this property unique

It's quiet and peaceful, and nature abounds. Could one ask for anything else?

Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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