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Our Harvest Hosts Adventure at Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery

Hello, fellow RV enthusiasts and wine lovers! Today, I’m thrilled to share our first experience with Harvest Hosts during our stay at Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery in Ovid, New York. If you’re not yet familiar with Harvest Hosts, think of it as a unique membership program that connects travelers with overnight stays at picturesque wineries, farms, breweries, and museums. For RVers looking to add a dash of adventure to their trips, it’s a match made in heaven.

I’ve always believed travel is about those unexpected yet memorable experiences—and our night at Cayuga Ridge definitely delivered! This winery had all the charm and warmth you’d expect from the Finger Lakes Wine Country, plus a few delightful surprises. So, let’s take a virtual journey through our stay, from vintage barn welcomes to scenic lake views.

A Vintage Barn Welcome

When we first pulled into Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery, I instantly felt that laid-back, rustic vibe the Finger Lakes region is famous for. The setting was breathtaking—rolling hills that slope gently toward Cayuga Lake, dotted with rows of lush vineyards. In fact, a couple of RVs were already parked in prime spots overlooking the water, and it was a sight straight out of a postcard.

The winery directs visitors to a vintage barn, which doubles as the welcome center, gift shop, and tasting bar. It’s a one-stop shop for all things wine-related. We were greeted by a friendly young woman who had just graduated college. Not only was she knowledgeable about the wines offered at Cayuga Ridge, but she was also a service dog trainer! She introduced us to her golden lab in training—a calm, patient pup that made the entire experience feel even more welcoming.

What really stood out, though, was how down-to-earth everyone was. You could tell the staff and owners take pride in their craft, yet maintain that unpretentious, small-town warmth that makes you feel right at home. If you’ve been to a few wineries, you know that friendly service can make all the difference—especially after a day of travel.

A Chat with Tom & Tasting Highlights

As we settled in at the bar, we met Tom, the winery’s owner, who’s been running Cayuga Ridge for the past 30 years. He came over to personally say hello, chat about the land, and offer suggestions on the best place to park our RV for the night. That personal touch is something I’ve come to appreciate more and more when visiting family-run wineries; it’s not just about selling wine but about sharing a passion that spans decades.

My wife and I each sampled four wines. I’ll admit I’m no wine connoisseur, but I do enjoy discovering new favorites. Some wines suited my taste better than others—which is perfectly normal—but each pour had its own character. It’s fascinating how the Finger Lakes region’s climate influences flavor profiles, giving Finger Lakes wines their unique, crisp undertones (Finger Lakes Wine Country, 2020).

One standout was their semi-dry Riesling, which captured the region’s mineral-rich terroir. If you ever stop by, don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations based on your preferences—there’s something for everyone, from sweeter whites to bolder reds. Before you leave, I highly recommend grabbing a bottle or two to remember your stay by (and maybe an extra as a gift for your fellow wine-loving friends).

Harvest Hosts & Scenic RV Camping

The main reason we were here, of course, was Harvest Hosts. This membership program (Smith, 2021) allows RVers to stay overnight at unique venues like Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery. No cramped RV parks or crowded parking lots—just rolling vineyards, quiet sunsets, and starlit skies! Our spot for the night was perched just above Cayuga Lake, granting us panoramic views of shimmering water and farmland that stretched for miles.

Harvest Hosts generally asks that RVers support the property by making a purchase—like a wine tasting or a meal—rather than paying a traditional campsite fee. Honestly, it’s a great trade. You get to savor local wine, and the winery gets some well-deserved support. We also found that meeting other RVers in such a laid-back setting fosters instant camaraderie, creating a sense of community you don’t always find at larger campgrounds.

After the tasting, we settled into our RV, with Tom’s recommended camp spot offering up a gentle breeze off the lake. The sunset was nothing short of spectacular—shades of orange and pink reflected on the water—and at night, the stars felt impossibly close. If you’re into stargazing, you’re in for a treat in this part of the Finger Lakes; light pollution is minimal, so the Milky Way practically leaps out at you.

Some Local Things to Do in Ovid

Ovid, New York may not be huge, but it packs a punch with its scenic surroundings and friendly community. If you’re planning a visit, here are some recommendations:

Experience Finger Lakes Wine Country: Sample diverse wines from local wineries set against the region’s stunning vineyards. Each winery offers its own twist, from cellar tours to live music events.
Explore Seneca Lake State Park: Located just a short drive away, it features hiking trails, boating, fishing, and picnic spots for a relaxing day outdoors. The park’s shoreline offers postcard-worthy vistas at sunrise and sunset (NY State Parks, 2022).
Willard Memorial Chapel: This beautiful Victorian-era chapel is known for its stained-glass windows and functional pipe organ. A must-see for history lovers and architecture buffs.
Shopping & Dining Downtown: Wander through unique shops, boutiques, and local restaurants in downtown Ovid. Don’t miss out on sampling locally sourced produce or artisanal cheeses often featured on restaurant menus here.
Ovid Country Club: Work on your swing at this scenic 9-hole course with outstanding views of Seneca Lake. Even if you’re new to golf, the rolling greens and fresh air make for a relaxing outing.
Ovid Public Library: A community hub offering reading programs, local exhibits, and events. Perfect for a rainy day or quiet afternoon.
Ovid-Elsie Central School District Athletic Field: If you’re timing it right, you might catch a local sports match or community event. Small-town camaraderie is alive and well here, making it a fun diversion from wine tasting.

Helpful Resources & Planning Tools

Whether you’re intrigued by Cayuga Ridge specifically or want to map out a broader Finger Lakes itinerary, these reputable sources will help you plan a memorable trip:

Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery Official Website
(http://www.cayugaridgewinery.com/
– Their official site offers up-to-date information on wines, tasting events, and contact details.
Finger Lakes Wine Country Official Website
(https://www.fingerlakeswinecountry.com/
– A hub for planning winery visits, local festivals, and accommodations throughout the region (Finger Lakes Wine Country, 2020).
Seneca Lake State Park
(https://parks.ny.gov/parks/senecalake/details.aspx
– The official page for detailed park info, activity schedules, and scenic highlights.
Willard Memorial Chapel
(https://www.willardchapel.org/
– Get visitor info and historical context for one of the area’s architectural treasures.

Closing Thoughts

Our stay at Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery was the perfect introduction to the Harvest Hosts lifestyle, blending scenic camping with the delights of local wine. From the gracious owners and staff to the unbeatable views over Cayuga Lake, every moment felt like a mini-vacation for the senses. If you’re passing through the Finger Lakes region, do yourself a favor and swing by Cayuga Ridge. Whether you’re a seasoned wine aficionado or just looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, you won’t be disappointed.

So, what are you waiting for? Plot your course to Ovid, gather your sense of adventure, and raise a glass to new experiences. And if you’ve already visited Cayuga Ridge—or have a favorite Finger Lakes winery—drop a comment to share your own story. The best part of exploring is sharing the journey with fellow travelers. Cheers to new trails and tasty sips!