Entire home

Merlot Bungalow - "Slice of Heaven on Seneca Lake"

Photo gallery for Merlot Bungalow - "Slice of Heaven on Seneca Lake"

Outdoor dining
Beach/ocean view
Exterior
Property grounds
Outdoor dining

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 677.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Penn Yan, NY
  • Fox Run Vineyards
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Keuka Lake Outlet Trail
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Sampson State Park
    ‪38 min drive‬
  • Ithaca, NY (ITH-Tompkins Regional)
    ‪80 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bath 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen

About this property

Merlot Bungalow - "Slice of Heaven on Seneca Lake"

Sunny naps on the shore, cool misty mornings on the deck, and lazy Sunday afternoons with the family in a quiet place all your own: a secluded beach getaway is what you're looking for, and Merlot Bungalow has everything you need! This breezy, tranquil home just steps from the beach features two bedrooms, a full bath, and a gorgeous view of Seneca Lake.

As soon as you step through the door, the vaulted ceilings, soothing colors, and stunning view of the lake lend this home the feel of a luxurious coastal cottage. The brief main entryway leads directly into an 830 square foot semi-open floor plan. On the left is the kitchen, furnished with all the necessary appliances, amenities, and storage. Across the bar-style peninsula, the kitchen opens to the spacious living room, making the space perfect for entertaining close friends or hosting a family gathering.

The living room is naturally lit in the day by skylights and a fantastic wall-length sliding door opening to the back deck, and a small gas stove provides the space with both heat and a touch of rustic charm. Directly off the living room to the right are two cozy bedrooms, each with its own queen bed, and one of the rooms offering its own winning view of the water. Near the bedrooms you can clean up after a long day on the beach in the shower of the full bath.

Walk through the sliding doors from the living room onto the wide main deck, boasting an impressive view of Seneca Lake. Five steps off the deck is a patio with large grill, a stone fire pit, and ample space for entertaining. Descend 17 steps toward the lake and enjoy a secondary deck, where you can lounge in Adirondack chairs all day and night for a closer, more private enjoyment of the lake view. Just below the secondary deck is the boat house, housing two kayaks with life vests, which you are free to use to explore the lake. You may launch these from 112 feet of your own personal shoreline or lounge on the private 30-foot dock.

Craving something flavorful? Merlot Bungalow is located just minutes from dozens of the most highly rated wineries in the world-famous Finger Lakes wine region, such as the award-winning Fox Run Vineyards. This home is also 15 minutes from the Keuka Lake Wine Trail and 30 minutes from the Waterloo Premium Outlet Mall and del Lago Resort & Casino. If the theater arts are more your style, a short drive north will bring you to Geneva's historic Smith Opera house for a show and dinner at one of the many nearby downtown restaurants. These are only a handful of the experiences available to you that will make your time at Merlot Bungalow the perfect lakefront escape

RR Tracks run behind this property.

Upper Deck of Boat House is not available to guests

Occupancy: This property is closely monitored for responsible renting. The maximum occupancy of each home is the number of guests allowed on the premises at any given time. This includes both day and overnight guests.

Note:
1. Smoking is not allowed in any rental property. This includes vaping and e-cigarettes.
2. Homes are not handicap accessible, unless stated in the description.
3. Air conditioning is not available unless listed as an amenity. If available, air conditioning is considered a seasonal amenity and is only available May 15 - October 15.
4. Where pets are allowed it is indicated. Otherwise, pets are not allowed. Homes are not guaranteed allergen-free, even those that do not allow pets.
5. Docking capabilities may vary based on current water levels. Docking is not guaranteed if water levels are low and/or high due to seasonal weather and climate changes.
6. Outdoor amenities, including furniture, watercraft and firepit are not available between October 15 - May 15.

Property manager

Finger Lakes Premier Properties
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Pet allowance is limited to 2 dogs only. An additional $100 non-refundable pet fee will apply per dog.
FLPP requires a verbal confirmation within 48 hours of booking and a representative will reach out to you within 48 hours to review the reservation.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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

About the area

Penn Yan

Located in Penn Yan, this cottage is on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Keuka Lake and Cayuga Lake. Seneca Lake Sprayground and Muranda Cheese Company are also worth visiting.
Map
Penn Yan, NY

What's nearby

  • Fox Run Vineyards - 3 min drive - 2.0 km
  • Keuka Lake Outlet Trail - 12 min drive - 11.0 km
  • Three Brothers Wineries and Estates - 28 min drive - 28.2 km
  • Sampson State Park - 38 min drive - 40.2 km
  • Cayuga Lake - 44 min drive - 48.3 km

Getting around

  • Ithaca, NY (ITH-Tompkins Regional) - 80 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Fox Run Vineyards - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Cam's New York Pizzeria - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Loyal Order of Moose - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Rylee's Place Family Diner - ‬39 min drive
  • ‪Seneca Stag Brewing - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Merlot Bungalow - "Slice of Heaven on Seneca Lake" pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Merlot Bungalow - "Slice of Heaven on Seneca Lake"?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Merlot Bungalow - "Slice of Heaven on Seneca Lake"?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Merlot Bungalow - "Slice of Heaven on Seneca Lake" located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is 1.2 mi (2 km) from Fox Run Vineyards and within 9 miles (15 km) of Billsboro Winery and Lacey Magruder Winery. Keuka Lake Outlet Trail and Roy's Marina are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

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. 32 out of 33 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 33 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 33 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Sharyn F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Doug L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic lake house!

Merlot Bungalow is the perfect house for those looking for a quiet scenic lake house still close to the local wineries and the town of Geneva. The house is nicely remodeled and offers all of the comforts one would want in a vacation home. Incredible views of Lake Seneca can be seen from the living room and master bedroom as well as from the huge deck. There is also a gas firepit (on the deck) as well as a wood firepit at a separate sitting area in the backyard. Kayaks are also available for a cruise on the lake (we used them and highly recommend). Ports Cafe is a 10 minute drive away and is always an amazing spot for dinner. Loved it and will definitely consider staying here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Marcia R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing week at the lake!

The Merlot Bungalow was extremely clean, comfortable and accommodating. The location is convenient to wineries and restaurants making it a great place to spend a relaxing week!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patti Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location and patio view

Loved my stay - it is my new happy place! Great views from the patio and perfect location for visiting wineries then enjoying a bottle on the patio Beds were comfy and house had everything I needed
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amanda S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Couples delight

The house was perfect for us. The size, amenities and the cleanliness of the house was perfect for the 2 of us. It rained almost every day but the views more than made up for it. The street was quiet and not right up next to the neighbors. I would like to stay there again with my dogs and hopefully some better weather.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Lakeside Getaway in January

We had a fabulous stay and found everything to be just as described. Property was clean and well stocked with cookware to meet our needs. This is a great location for exploring the abundance of breweries and wineries in the area. We were pleased that so many were still open in the Winter. We would definitely come back for another getaway.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

carrie r.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Weekend

We had a very relaxing weekend. The view of the water is amazing from the porch and there are tons of local eateries, wineries and breweries to visit just down the road.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

kristin j.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway

House was very clean. Well equipped. Beautiful views. The outdoor fire pit thing was a very nice bonus. Bed was comfy. Would def recommend and return for another trip.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amanda C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

perfect lake house

Cute Quiet and right on the lake. Dog friendly
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

James C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful view of sunrise!

Great time, great location.
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stupendous & adorable cottage on the lake.

This was our second time at the Merlot. We loved it there. The place is very clean and cozy.
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Pamela W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Place

This was the second time we rented this gem. It’s so peaceful and the house is absolutely adorable perfect for a couple or small family. The lake views are gorgeous and it is a perfect spot to visit all the wineries and breweries . Quiet nights gathered around the fire pit. Amenities are great. We can’t wait to go back.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

8/10 Good

Nancy D., PA, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Lovely lakeside cottage.

Everything about the cottage was great. I had issues with not getting emails from property management company, but the emergency late night person was great since it was 11p when I arrived and didn’t have the code to enter.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jeff E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Idyllic retreat

Clean, quiet, lovely, lake access. It's easy to reach many charming destinations from this wonderful home. Highly recommended.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stupendous & Cozy & cute cottage on the lake of Seneca

We love this place. Great view of the Seneca lake. The place is very clean. Great bonfire place. They have a great deck that we can sit and watch geese and loons. Even a great place to see the sunrise!!! We definitely will go back there. We love it there.
Stayed 9 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kristen V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family getaway

Great house in the finger lakes! Perfect location between Penn Yan and Geneva with many wineries nearby. Our pups loved being on the lake and we loved the kayaks and floats available. House was very clean and had everything we needed.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

olga S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very good

Really clean and comfortable property. Loved kayaks and all water “toys”. I would definitely come back.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Matthew A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great lake house!

Had a great week long stay. Perfect location to explore the finger lakes from.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent Mother's Day weekend at The Merlot Bungalow!

Beautiful, cozy place inside, huge decks and dock outside with a gorgeous view of the lake! Would highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Christine K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Getaway

The house was perfect for a girls weekend in wine country. Very clean, great location, dog friendly. We will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Merlot Bungalow

Fantastic location with a beautiful setting. Very comfortable house located close to many wineries and a short drive from the towns of Penn Yan, Geneva or Watkins Glen.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Michelle C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Winter Getaway!

My husband and I came up to have a weekend getaway and celebrate his birthday. We were so pleased with the Merlot Bungalow- clean, cozy, comfortable and a GORGEOUS view of Seneca Lake! Love the indoor fireplace that gave off lots of warmth. The house is close to many nearby points of interest including wineries (Red Tail Ridge and Anthony Rd right nearby), the town of Geneva (we ordered out from FLX Fry Bird) and Belhurst Castle (Edgars restaurant was delicious!). It snowed on and off throughout our stay and it didn’t impact our ability to go anywhere. Overall it was a lovely stay and we will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Gary H., Westwood, NJ

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic!!

This place is great. The photos in the listing made the main area look a little bigger than it actually is, but the two of us were happier with reality than with what we thought we would find. Nicely decorated and well-maintained. Nice, open main area with a three-person couch and a small LR chair near the TV. Four-person dining table conveniently near kitchen and kitchen island/bar. Gas "heating stove" in the corner near the slider to the deck. We stayed during cold weather and boy does that stove throw some heat! 👍 Two nicely sized bedrooms. Almost the entire lake side of the house is glass (with shades or curtains, but you don't really need them because you have plenty of privacy). The road off Route 14 (Serenity Road) is easy to find and easy to drive. The location of this house is excellent for it's proximity to Geneva, and to several truly great nearby wineries (you can practically walk to Red Tail Ridge, Kemmeter and Anthony Road but there are many more worth visitng that are beyond this tiny radius). If we had been here during warmer weather, we would have been on the deck or at the fire pit every minute we were not out on the road. The lake view is phenomenal and the dock is easy to get to (if stairs are workable for you...no way around those). The wifi is a little slow, but defintely functional. The TV is decent-sized and has a native Google Chromecast app so we streamed from Netflix and Hulu in the evenings. FWIW...we grocery shop on our way up through Watkins Glen, and cook at home more than we eat out. But on this trip we tried FLX Fry Bird in Geneva (on the recommendation of another reviewer of this house!) and really enjoyed it. Better yet, a Google search showed us Sans Dumplings about 5 minutes away (it's actually part of Kemmeter Wines) and we got take-out from there twice. SUPER GOOD!! 😃 We find ourselves coming to Seneca Lake whenever we need to get away, and we will be specifically looking for this house again when we plan our next trip.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tim H., Bowie, MD

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful getaway on the Seneca shore

My wife, dog, and I stayed three nights in late October. We were delighted by the property, the location, and the view. Unfortunately the weather was a little too cold and rainy to get out and enjoy the deck, dock, or kayaks, but we made lots of use of the fireplace and watched the lake from the cozy living room. The property is in a perfect location - on a quiet dead end street so traffic is minimal and we could walk the dog up and down any time of day or night, plus it's a 3 minute drive to Anthony Road, our absolute favorite winery in the area, and 15 minutes to either Geneva or Penn Yan, where there are excellent restaurants for carryout. (Highly recommend FLX Fry Bird in Geneva and Union Block in Penn Yan.) The bungalow is appointed with all of the cooking supplies, dishware, wine glasses, etc. you'll need. Only complaints are the tv and internet connections, though we did figure out how to cast video from my phone to the built-in Chromecast in the tv, which worked ok when the weather didn't interfere with the satellite internet. Some instructions for the tv options and fireplace (which we could turn off and on but not figure out how to adjust otherwise) would be helpful for future guests. All in all a great location and property -- we're thinking about coming back in early summer when we could make use of the dock and kayaks!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

andrea c.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A lovely place right on Seneca Lake- nestled in by some great wineries!

it was great, simple and clean. the deck overlooking lake seneca was fantastic. the dock and boat house lakeside were perfect: nice comfy chairs and cushions kept safely away with easy access. the dock is great and makes for perfect lake swimming and tons of fun; there are kayaks and inflatables. everything was really very comfortable and well kept. we loved it.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

About the host

Hosted by Finger Lakes Premier Properties

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Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests