The Vacation FLX restored Vineyard Guest Barn, nestled in Hector, NY, offers one of the most unique experiences in the region, with easy access to all the member businesses in our community. This beautifully restored circa 1812 barn is more than just a charming property—it's a story of history, hospitality, and a couple’s passion for agriculture and restoration.

Josh and Lisa Navone's journey began in their twenties when they met while Josh was studying law, and Lisa was studying travel and tourism. Their shared love of history and love for restoration led them to rehab several historic buildings in the community, including the building that houses Graft in Watkins Glen and the historic Flat Iron Building on 4th Street. Together, they've restored over ten properties, each project completed with a blend of taste and respect for history.

Lisa and Josh received an education in hospitality when they purchased the Schooner True Love sailboat, where they ran a crew and offered daily sailing tours for visitors and locals in the village of Watkins Glen. The True Love is a 1926 John Alden designed racing sailboat with a rich history. In a famous scene from the 1956 movie High Society, Bing Crosby serenades Grace Kelly with the song "True Love" on board the vessel. Having such a historic piece on our lake is truly special, and visitors can still spend an afternoon on the sailboat to this day. Although they parted with the boat in 2020, Lisa and Josh have fond memories of their 12 years managing and bringing this experience to life on Seneca Lake.

In 2016, Josh and Lisa took on a new project: a parcel of land in Hector that included the shell of a circa 1812 barn, once part of Norbud Farm, now Ryan William Farm. The barn had been partially restored by a local timber frame historian named Michael Wyckoff from Lodi, who focused on strengthening the foundation and returning the structure to its original post-and-beam form, a 30x40 barn. Drawn to the barn's history and character, the Navone’s began renovating its basement and upper floors, a project that would take six years of work. In 2022, they were finally able to open the entire Vineyard Guest Barn.

The Vineyard Guest Barn is a blend of elegance and rustic charm. Lisa’s keen eye for design transformed the space, incorporating luxurious touches while preserving the barn's historic essence. This unforgettable vacation home features three bedrooms, two baths, two full kitchens, and a deck that offers stunning sunset views—a perfect spot for morning coffee.

A special highlight of the property is the Navone’s 2.5-acre vineyard located up the hill from the barn, where they grow Riesling and Saperavi grapes, which they have sold to wineries like Atwater Vineyards, Forge Cellars, Dr. Frank and J.R. Dill. Guests are welcome to tour the vineyard. If you’re lucky, you might even meet their spunky golden retriever, Vina, who lives her best life on the farm.

Josh also played a pivotal role in forming the South East Seneca Business Association, contributing his legal expertise to the organization. Both Josh and Lisa are deeply committed to the area and its tourism industry, bringing creativity, passion, and a love of history to everything they do. We are thrilled to have them as members of our community, and their Vineyard Barn stands as a testament to their dedication and vision.