UP A LAZY RIVER Stillwater, N.Y. June, 1996

While returning from the New York upstate area, we were fortunate to stumble upon "The River's Edge" bed and breakfast. Just 13 miles east of Saratoga, this lovely little hideaway sits right on the Hudson River and at the base of Saratoga National Historical Park. We rented the "cottage" (which is a two-bedroom, fully equipped house) for two very wonderful days.

Our hosts, Erika and Roger Casey could not have been more accomodating. Coffee comes to your door in the morning along with the newspaper. Although the cottage has full kitchen facilities, Erika whips up a tremendous breakfast from pancakes to eggs with home-baked bread and fresh picked fruit from her garden. They also have two rooms available in the main house, both with beautiful water views.

Since we travel with all our toys, i.e. bikes and canoall our toys, i.e. bikes and canoe, this place was a haven. We spent the first morning biking up to the Historical Park. For a small fee, you can tour the great battlefields of Saratoga. The complete trip from the house is approximately 16 miles. But if your will is strong and your legs are weak, Roger will pack the bikes up in his van and drive you up to the top where the visitor's center is and from there it's mostly a gentle ride downhill through the tour. After our little trek, we couldn't wait to dive into the river -- how refreshing! As for the fishing, right now it is catch and release only due to the PCBs in the water. But if you are interested, the Battenkill is not very far off. Another nice attraction for all you golfers, is Roger's immaculate putting green.

There is not much to do at night in this neck of the woods unless you go to Saratoga. We preferred to stay put and enjoy the scenery. Roger lent us the grill, and Geoff cooked up some fine fare. After dinner, we put the canoe in the river and enjoyed a beautiful sunset cruise.

If you are ever in this area, and are looking for accommodations, I recommend the River's Edge. They are a seasonal operation so you will have to phone ahead. I cannot say enough about the beauty and serenity of sitting back and watching the river flow.