Located in the state of New York, Ellicottville attracts tourists with its unique natural beauty and opportunities for active recreation. It is famous for its ski resort, Holiday Valley, which offers excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding during winter months. In summer, the resort transforms into a hub for golf, mountain biking, and hiking.
Surrounded by picturesque hills and forests, Ellicottville is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing, and picnicking. The town hosts numerous events throughout the year, including music festivals, food fairs, and sports competitions. One of the most well-known events is the Ellicottville Fall Festival, which draws thousands of visitors each autumn.
For tourists planning to stay, there are many accommodation options available. Let’s take a look at five of the most popular hotels in Ellicottville.
The Inn at Holiday Valley
The hotel is located in the heart of the Holiday Valley ski resort, just steps away from the lifts (Slope 5 and Mardi Gras Lift). It’s the perfect spot for skiers and snowboarders who want easy slope access. Downtown Ellicottville is a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk away.
- Standard Rooms (1 king bed or 2 double beds)
- Balcony Rooms (views of the slopes or forest)
- Suites (separate living area, fireplace, jacuzzi)
- Family Rooms (spacious, fits 4+ guests)
In every room: - Free Wi-Fi (can be slow during peak hours)
- Coffee maker, mini-fridge
- Cable TV
- Air conditioning and heating
- Toiletries (shampoo, shower gel)
Dining and Restaurants
- The Inn Restaurant — the hotel’s main eatery serving American cuisine (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
- Breakfast (included in some rates): hot dishes, omelets, pastries.
- Dinner: steaks, pasta, burgers, wine list.
- The Lounge — a bar with cocktails and snacks, live music on weekends.
- Nearby dining options: Dina’s, The Gin Mill (downtown).
Recreation and Facilities
- Direct slope access at Holiday Valley (equipment rental available).
- Outdoor pool (seasonal, heated) and year-round hot tub.
- Spa services (Holiday Valley Spa) — massages, treatments (advance booking required).
- Fitness center (small but with basic equipment).
- Free resort shuttle (winter season).
Final Verdict: Who is this hotel for?
- Skiers/snowboarders — best for slope access.
- Couples — romantic rooms with fireplaces and jacuzzis.
- Families — spacious accommodation options.
- Those who want everything nearby — no need to travel far.
The Ellicottville Inn
The Ellicottville Inn is located in the heart of downtown Ellicottville, just a 5-minute walk from the main street with restaurants and shops. The hotel combines traditional American charm with modern amenities. Its prime location makes it an ideal choice for both winter vacations (10-minute drive to Holiday Valley) and summer getaways.
Rooms and Amenities
The hotel offers 50 comfortable rooms in various categories:
- Standard Rooms:
- 1 queen or 2 twin beds
- 300-350 sq.ft.
- Modern design with wooden accents
- Jacuzzi Rooms:
- Upgraded layout
- In-room whirlpool tub
- Garden or town views
- Suites:
- Separate living area
- Fireplace (in some units)
- Up to 480 sq.ft.
All rooms feature:
Free Wi-Fi
Keurig coffee maker
Mini-fridge
Iron and ironing board
Premium toiletries
Dining Options
The hotel’s culinary highlight is The Silver Fox Restaurant, offering:
- Complimentary full American breakfast
- Dinner service focusing on steaks and seafood
- Bar with local craft beers
- Summer terrace
Facilities
Despite its intimate size, the hotel provides:
- Year-round heated indoor pool
- Whirlpool spa
- 24/7 fitness center
- Sauna
- Free parking
Ideal For:
- Couples – romantic jacuzzi rooms
- Groups of friends – thanks to central nightlife location
- Families – connecting rooms available
- Foodies – quality on-site restaurant
Strengths
- Perfect downtown location
- Quality on-site restaurant
- Cozy, “home-like” atmosphere
- Excellent value for money
Weaknesses
- No direct ski slope access
- Limited parking spaces
- Road-facing rooms may be noisy
Booking Tips
- Request garden-view rooms for quiet stay
- Book at least 3 months in advance for peak season
- Inquire about ski lift ticket packages
The Ellicottville Inn is perfect for travelers who want to combine hotel comfort with easy access to all that Ellicottville offers. Its greatest assets are the unbeatable location and the unique atmosphere of a small yet cozy mountain hotel.
Holiday Valley Resort
Holiday Valley Resort is New York State’s premier ski destination, located just 0.9 miles from downtown Ellicottville. Spanning 290 acres, the resort features:
- 60 diverse ski trails
- 13 lifts
- 750-foot vertical drop
Operating season from December through March
Accommodation Options
The resort offers multiple lodging choices:
The Inn at Holiday Valley (4-star):
- 80 slope-view rooms
- Spa and outdoor pool
- Direct lift access
Tamrack Lodge (condominiums):
- Full kitchens
- Separate bedrooms
- Common lounge areas
Slopeside Lodge (luxury suites)
- Fireplace rooms
- Private balconies
- Premium services
Ski Facilities
- Trails for all levels (30% beginner, 40% intermediate, 30% expert)
- 2 terrain parks
- Night skiing (weekends)
- State-of-the-art snowmaking system
Dining Options
On-site restaurants include:
- The Lodge Restaurant – main dining hall
- Cockaigne – fine dining
- The Depot – slope-side panoramic restaurant
- Several slope-side cafés and bars
Off-Slope Activities
- 18-hole golf course (summer)
- Aerial adventure park
- Mountain biking trails
- Hiking paths
- Kids’ club
Advantages
- Top-rated East Coast resort
- Comprehensive infrastructure
- Diverse trail selection
- High-quality service
Disadvantages
- Peak season premium pricing
- Weekend lift queues
- Limited slope-side chalets
Visitor Tips
- Book accommodations 4-6 months in advance
- Consider pre-purchasing ski passes
- Weekdays offer shorter lines
- Summer packages provide great value
Holiday Valley Resort delivers exceptional year-round active vacations, combining outstanding recreational facilities with premium hospitality services. Its perfect blend of challenging terrain and family-friendly amenities makes it a standout destination for winter sports enthusiasts and summer adventurers alike. The resort’s continuous investments in snowmaking and lift infrastructure ensure reliable conditions throughout the season, while its charming village atmosphere creates an unforgettable mountain getaway experience.
The Wingate by Wyndham Ellicottville
The Wingate by Wyndham is located just a 5-minute drive from downtown Ellicottville and Holiday Valley Ski Resort. This modern Wyndham hotel combines business-hotel convenience with mountain getaway comfort, making it ideal for those who want easy slope access while preferring quieter, more affordable lodging.
Rooms & Amenities
The hotel offers spacious, modern rooms with:
- Standard Rooms (1 king bed or 2 double beds)
- Suites with extra space and a sofa
- Jacuzzi Rooms (available upon request)
All rooms include:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker
- Work desk (great for remote work)
- Flat-screen TV with cable
- Air conditioning & heating
Dining
- Free hot breakfast (waffles, omelets, pastries, yogurt)
- 24/7 coffee & tea in the lobby
- Restaurants & bars just 5 minutes away (downtown)
Facilities
- Indoor heated pool (open year-round)
- Fitness center (cardio machines, free weights)
- Free parking (including trailer spots)
- Business center (printing, computer access)
Who Is It For?
- Families – Comfortable rooms & kid-friendly pool
- Skiers/Snowboarders – Close to Holiday Valley
- Business Travelers – Reliable Wi-Fi & workspace
- Budget-Conscious Guests – Great value for money
The Wingate by Wyndham is a great choice for travelers seeking affordable comfort near Holiday Valley. It covers all the basics well—just don’t expect luxury. If you don’t mind a short drive to the slopes, this is one of the best budget-friendly options in the area.
The Bavarian Lodge
Nestled just 1 mile from Holiday Valley Ski Resort, The Bavarian Lodge transports guests to a European mountain village with its authentic Bavarian architecture—think timber beams, wrought-iron details, and flower-lined balconies. Despite its old-world aesthetic, the hotel delivers modern amenities perfect for romantic getaways or small groups.
Room Categories & Features
The lodge offers 28 uniquely themed rooms, each blending rustic charm with luxury:
1. Classic Rooms
- King or queen beds with hand-carved wooden headboards
- 300 sq ft, mountain or courtyard views
- Heated bathroom floors
2. Fireplace Suites
- Separate sitting area with gas fireplace
- Oversized jacuzzi tubs for two
- Private balconies (select units)
3. The Tower Suite (Signature Experience)
- Two-story loft with spiral staircase
- 600 sq ft, sleeps 4
- Dual-sided fireplace visible from bedroom and bathroom
All Rooms Include:
- Premium linens & down comforters
- Smart TVs with streaming capabilities
- Mini-fridges & complimentary sparkling water
- Robes and slippers
Dining & Drinks
The Bierstube Restaurant (On-Site)
- Cuisine: Authentic German (schnitzel, pretzels, bratwurst) + American classics
- Bar: 20+ imported beers on tap, extensive wine list
- Breakfast: À la carte (not included; $15–25/person)
Pro Tip: Try the “Apres-Ski Platter” (artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and house-made mustard).
Slope Access & Amenities
- Shuttle Service: Free rides to Holiday Valley (8 AM–10 PM)
- Ski Storage: Heated locker room with boot dryers
- Summer Perks: Discounted golf packages at nearby courses
Wellness & Relaxation
- Outdoor Hot Tub: Cedar-lined, open year-round
- Massage Services: In-room treatments available (advance booking required)
- Sauna: Traditional Finnish-style (complimentary for guests)
Ideal For:
- Couples: 85% of guests are romantic partners (per hotel data)
- Small Groups: Max 4 adults per room
- Travelers Seeking Atmosphere: Those who prioritize charm over mega-resort amenities
The Bavarian Lodge excels at creating a storybook mountain escape without sacrificing comfort. While not the most budget-friendly option, its authenticity and intimate scale make it a top choice for travelers who value character over corporate polish.
