Where Brave Women Breathe
Let fresh air and self-care be your guide. When you’re feeling like you need to hit pause and be present, there’s no better place to slow down, take a breath, and regain focus on yourself. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes and take advantage of self-care practices like meditation and yoga. Enjoy historic walking tours, healthy local foods, and peaceful lodging.
Day One
Matilda Josyln Gage Center – Fayetteville, NY
Breathe deep and dive right into your day with a visit to the Matilda Joslyn Gage Center, former home to the ‘forgotten suffragette’. Gage co-founded the National Women Suffrage Association. Many of the movement’s ideas came from Gage’s observance of how the Haudenosaunee treated women equally. In fact, she was adopted into the Wolf Clan of the Mohawk Nation. Alongside Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Matilda co-wrote the six volume series History of Woman Suffrage. However, after a dispute with Anthony over the separation of church and state in government, Cage’s name was removed as an author.
Gage then left the NWSA and founded the Women’s National Liberal Union. She was the mother-in-law to L. Frank Baum (author of The Wizard of Oz) and her steadfast character was the inspiration for Dorothy. Her home also served as a station on the Underground Railroad.
Explore the Village of Skaneateles
Breathe in the beauty, warmth, luxury, and hospitality of Skaneateles. This village is nestled on the shores of Skaneateles Lake and it’s reminiscent of the setting for romance novels. The pristine lake, quaint but affluent shops, and occasional celebrity sightings make this place the perfect escape. The historic downtown district’s shops and galleries are housed in restored buildings dating back to 1796. Browse for unique foods, distinctive fashions, original art, home accessories, or a special antique. If you’re visiting around the holidays, you’ll be delighted as Dickens Christmas is celebrated. Every weekend from Thanksgiving til Christmas actors in period clothing carol along the streets and special events fill the calendar.
Inns of Aurora – Aurora, NY
It’s time to relax, enjoy and take a breath of tranquil serenity at the Spa at Inns of Aurora. Situated on the crest of a hill overlooking Cayuga Lake, the farm-inspired spa campus is designed to promote healing and harmony for the body and mind. The Spa is dedicated to a holistic approach to wellness, with two hydrotherapy circuits, thoughtfully designed single and co-ed spaces, and therapeutic treatments provided by Rasa Spa. Enjoy a delicious end to your day, at the spa’s complimentary grazing table in their seasonally inspired café. The Spa’s pool, sauna, steam room, and café are open to all booked spa guests to enjoy at their leisure.
Your peaceful retreat awaits at one of the five charming accommodations at the Inns of Aurora. Scattered throughout the walkable village of Aurora, the secluded atmosphere at the Inns is perfect for a cozy, intimate experience. Curl up by the fire with a glass of Finger Lakes wine and immerse yourself in Finger Lakes culture steeped in food, arts, and heritage.
Day Two
Explore the Village of Aurora
Begin your day taking a stroll and breathing in the beauty of the quaint village of Aurora, a designated National Historic District. At just under one square mile, you can enjoy a harmonious respite from the busy world. Visit the village market and browse the local shops. You’re sure to find a special treasure that you won’t be able to leave without! For special items for your home, stop by nearby MacKenzie-Childs.
Lime Hollow Nature Center – Cortland, NY
Find some breathing space and fresh air when you spend some time hiking, snow-shoeing, or cross-country skiing at Lime Hollow Nature Center. You will be in awe as you traverse across 13 miles of trails through the picturesque landscape. Spend some time at Gracie Pond and take in the quiet as you watch for the colorful array of birds that nest nearby. The center is also a proud advocate of ‘trails for all’, making more trails accessible for everyone.
Lift a Latte – Cortland, NY
Warm up with a delicious cup of coffee at this woman owned cafe. Lift a Latte has the perfect afternoon pick-me-up to revitalize you before continuing to explore women-owned places in Cortland.
All My Friends Books – Cortland, NY
There’s nothing quite as relaxing as cozying up with a good book. Armed with a hot beverage, now is the perfect time to visit All My Friends Books. This new, women-owned bookshop is filled with shelved of both new and used books for your browsing pleasure.
