As the winter chill sets in, many people seek a reprieve from the cold with a cozy, restful getaway. Enter the concept of 鈥淗ibercation鈥 鈥 a hybrid of hibernation and vacation that focuses on slowing down, unwinding and embracing the winter season. This trend is all about escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life to recharge in a tranquil, relaxing environment, surrounded by the beauty of winter.
Cayuga County, with its picturesque landscapes and welcoming accommodations, is the perfect place to embrace the art of Hibercation. Whether you're looking to unwind by a roaring fire, indulge in comfort food or enjoy scenic winter walks, the county offers a range of activities that allow you to embrace the quiet serenity of the season.
Start your Hibercation by booking a stay at one of Cayuga County鈥檚 charming accommodations. For a truly unique experience, consider Abby's Tiny Homes in Aurora, where Hibercation guests receive a 10% discount and a complimentary welcome basket featuring your choice of local red or white wine from Constantia Winery. Prefer something more traditional? The Auburn Hilton Garden Inn offers modern comforts, while 34 State, a historic inn, combines boutique hotel luxuries with spacious private suites 鈥 perfect for unwinding after a day in the winter air. Whether you鈥檙e savoring hot cocoa by the window or relaxing in cozy surroundings, your perfect winter retreat awaits.
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Dining plays an important role in the Hibercation experience. Sweets by Sarah Bakery offers a delightful selection of homemade pastries, perfect for a cozy treat during your stay. For a satisfying meal, Curley鈥檚 Restaurant serves hearty comfort food with a local flair, ensuring you feel right at home. If you鈥檙e in the mood for a glass of wine, Izzo's White Barn Winery provides a welcoming atmosphere to relax and enjoy its exceptional local wines, making it a great place to unwind after a day of winter exploration. The Finger Lakes region is renowned for its culinary scene, and during winter, local chefs focus on hearty dishes made with seasonal ingredients 鈥 imagine a bowl of hot soup followed by a rich entr茅e, winter vegetables and a decadent dessert to cap off the meal.
Curley's in Auburn.聽
Throughout your Hibercation, you can indulge in a variety of local flavors, thanks to our partners offering unique experiences. Start your morning with a freshly made bagel or a warm bowl of soup from Auburn Bagel Co., a downtown favorite that鈥檚 perfect for a cozy breakfast. For something a bit more adventurous, visit Combgrown Mead, where you can enjoy a flight of their craft mead 鈥 mention "Hibercation" for a free sample of Owasco Starlight in its inviting tasting room. After a day of exploration in the picturesque Fair Haven area, including a visit to the Sterling Nature Center or Fair Haven State Park, unwind with a delicious meal at Turtle Cove Restaurant. Not only will you enjoy a great meal, but you'll also be treated to stunning views of Little Sodus Bay. If you鈥檙e in the mood for a local brew, stop by Prison City Brewing, where you can savor a light vanilla porter brewed just for the Hibercation season, crafted with Madagascar and Tahitian vanilla beans for a unique twist. Each of these spots provides a perfect way to embrace the comforting flavors of winter during your relaxing retreat.
For those who want to venture outside, Cayuga County鈥檚 natural beauty is ready to be explored. At Sterling Nature Center, you can borrow a pair of free snowshoes and wander through serene, snow-covered trails, immersing yourself in the tranquility of winter. Or head to the shores of Cayuga Lake to admire the winter wildlife. Whether you鈥檙e exploring the trails or simply soaking in the snow-capped scenery, the slower pace of the season invites reflection and relaxation.
Hibercation isn鈥檛 just a retreat; it鈥檚 an opportunity to embrace a slower, more intentional way of living 鈥 one that invites you to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with the simple pleasures of winter. Cayuga County鈥檚 welcoming accommodations, delicious cuisine and serene landscapes make it the perfect place for a winter retreat that鈥檚 all about rest and rejuvenation.
Many of our Hibercation partners are offering exclusive savings and discounted deals from Jan. 15 to March 15, making it the perfect time to plan your winter getaway in Cayuga County. Whether you're looking for special offers on accommodations, dining or local experiences, our website has all the details you need to make the most of your winter Hibercation.
To explore these exciting deals and start planning your relaxing winter retreat today visit our Hibercation homepage at .
Noah Howard is the Cayuga County Office of Tourism’s new public relations and communications manager. He is a Finger Lakes native returning to Auburn after working for 10 years with the Olympic Regional Development Authority based in Lake Placid. The office is the designated tourism promotion agency for Cayuga County and promotes the county’s attractions, events and lodging establishments. For more information, visit .
