Visiting The Interlaken Inn: Connecticut’s Beautiful Lakeside Retreat

By Carly Pifer

The Interlaken Inn is located in Lakeville, Connecticut on the sweet spot between Lake Wononscopomuc and Lake Wononpakook. The middle of nowhere vibes combined with a scattering of cute little nearby towns makes it a very welcoming destination for refugees from the city.

Lakeville, Connecticut. The middle of nowhere.The George F. Landegger Collection of Connecticut Photographs in the Carol M. Highsmith's America.

The Digs

A variety of lodging is offered at Interlaken Inn, to suit a range of vacation needs. If you’re cozying up for a romantic weekend, rent a room in the Sunnyside House, a pristine Victorian that overlooks a wide field and one of the lakes.

The wrap around porch is suited with everything you need: Adirondack chairs to wile away an afternoon. But if what you want is peace and privacy, the Lakeside Cottage is your best bet. It sits at (you guessed it) the lakeside, down a long drive from the main property. Complete isolation.

Watch this video to get a glimpse into the Inn:

If you’re taking a trip with a few friends or family members in tow, a kitchen-equipped Townhouse Suite will house everyone. And if you want to bring a pup along for the ride, stay in the pet-friendly Woodside Rooms. If you’re in the mood for a private rooftop hot tub (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?) the Penthouse Suite is a well-appointed room that provides just that, and more—there’s a deep soaking tub if you tire of the jacuzzi. Unlikely.

The Eats

When we leave New York City for the weekend, we’re not leaving good food behind, we’re in search of meals that are even closer to the source. In rural, upstate Connecticut, at Interlaken’s dining establishment, Morgan’s, you get real close. Chef Brandon Scimeca designs a changing menu to reflect what’s in season, and often what’s popping up on his own farm, or others nearby.

From the bread basket that arrives (more like doughnut holes, but herbal and creamy) with local butter and sea salt, to the finishing touch of homemade ice cream in flavors like graham cracker and pretzel, the menu is thoughtful from start to finish. The entrées are focused on veggies, which Chef Scimeca prefers to be the star of the show, using meat as an accompaniment. Mains like the Hudson Valley Duck Breast, with farro, lacinato kale, pickled golden beets, and red wine-caramel, delight both carnivores and herbivores alike.

The Must Do’s

On a warm sunny day, head straight to your choice of lakes and boat, swim, fish or float. Or you can simply explore the property. There are lots of spots to just sit and relax, and you can request a picnic from Morgan’s if you want to stay out in the wilderness all day. Bring your bike on the MTA and take a ride on the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. There’s also easy access to the famed Appalachian Trail. For all hike and bike spots, visit this handy page on Interlaken’s site.

The Local Tip

Check out the nearby town of Millerton, NY. Millerton Antiques Center is a miniature flea market, set up with lots of nooks full of wonderful (and affordable) treasures. Your weekend away wouldn’t be complete without a pop into The MovieHouse on Main Street for art house films, classics and new releases—it’s Meryl Streep approved.

The Directions

Take Metro North to Wassaic. Call the hotel ahead of time for help with taxi arrangements.

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