With our film as a main feature at the 2024 New Jersey Documentary Film Festival, Destination Diaries embarked on a journey to the charming lake town of Sparta, nestled in the great state of New Jersey. Just over an hour from New York City, Sparta feels worlds away. With a population of only 19,000, it’s easy to fall in love with this picturesque lakeside town.
Spanning more than 38 square miles, Sparta is a treasure trove of rolling hills, serene lakes, scenic farms, and inviting residential neighborhoods—not to mention a friendly dog or two. The town boasts 11 private lake communities, with Lake Mohawk being the largest. And it was here that we discovered Mohawk House—a true gem for steak lovers. From its stunning rustic, lake-style interiors to its unique menus, handcrafted cocktails, and mouthwatering steak dinners—did I mention the incredible wedge salad?—this dining experience was nothing short of delightful. And that bar? Simply spectacular!
Lake Mohawk itself was breathtaking, and visiting the birthplace of the Appalachian Trail was a truly iconic moment. The next day, we lunched at St. Moritz on the Boardwalk, where the fig cocktail was out of this world, and the grilled shrimp and salad brought smiles all around. Of course, no visit to Sparta is complete without a stop at the Alpine Creamery for one of their incredible sundaes. The Lake Mohawk Boardwalk and Plaza are listed on the State and National Historic Registers, making the experience all the more special.
Sparta is also home to a vibrant community of small businesses. The boutiques and gift shops around Lake Mohawk offer something for every kind of shopper, from gourmet olive oil to stylish lake wear. Let’s just say I may have found a few treasures to tuck into my suitcase on my afternoon off.
After our exploration, we headed back to the Film Festival, where an afternoon spent with producers, actors, and directors was an absolute delight. The biggest surprise? Taking home the coveted award for Best Documentary Short. Ah, Sparta—your lake life, incredible food, warm people, and unforgettable memories will certainly draw me back for my next film.
Thank you, Sparta, New Jersey. You’re the best. We’ll see you soon.
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