A Fire Sale--Literally--On Lake Placid

Six weeks ago, a fire destroyed part of a great resort, the Lake Placid Lodge, in upstate New York.  However, many of the luxury cabins were not damaged, and management is offering 60% off original rates for all of 2006.  Which means a cabin with a view of the lake that normally costs $700 is now $325 a night.  There are 12 guest cabins, including a two-bedroom suite that was formerly $1,100 a night and is now $550.

If you've always wanted to visit the gorgeous Adirondacks and the Lake Placid region, this is the place to stay.  The special deal includes a full American breakfast and free use of sporting equipment for winter (cross-country skis, snow shoes, and sleigh rides) and summer (bikes, kayaks, canoes, and guide boats for nightly cruises on the lake).  And all details are five-star, from the lavish breakfasts to the apple cider pound cake during turndown in the winter.

One cabin has been converted to a dining area serving breakfast and light lunches.  Dinner will be served there beginning in the summer.  Another cabin is a mini-theater with nightly movies complete with a popcorn machine and open bar.  Both the theater cabin and the dining cabin offer an open bar.  A third cabin is a game room and library. 

In addition to the loss of the main lodge building (with its dining rooms and 17 guest rooms), the lodge lost a wine collection it estimates to have been worth $250,000.  Management is in the process of rebuilding its cellar.

For details and reservations, call 518-523-2700.