Escape isn’t just a concept in the Hudson Valley—it’s woven into the landscape of forests and mountains, sprinkled across babbling brooks and rivers, and scattered throughout this effortlessly charming collection of towns. It’s no wonder that the region’s hotels are experts at crafting one-of-a-kind overnight experiences that allow guests to disconnect, unwind and recharge. From storied retreats with century-old traditions to glamping sites that redefine what it means to pitch a tent in the wilderness, discover the region’s most unforgettable hotels.
The first thing that you’ll notice about Woodstock is its eye-catching hotel, which looks like it’s melting from the surrounding mountains. Its rooms, cabins, and suites are just as enchanting, with contemporary aesthetics that pair perfectly with the hotel’s conscious and sustainable sensibilities. The hotel also has a rooftop bar and spa, plus a medley of standalone retreats that are perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
While the hotel’s rooms are a dream, its restaurants are a foodie’s paradise. The hotel works with local farmers to source ingredients for its restaurant. The restaurant offers a diverse menu with different cuisines, including French, Italian and American.
Make a reservation at the restaurant for a taste of some of its best dishes, including its signature fried halloumi with smoked tomato and green onion chutney and its three-cheese fondue. You can also order up a bowl of its creamy mac and cheese with Challerhocker cheese. This is the 20th restaurant for founder and restaurateur Natalie “Nat” Freihon of Strange Bird Hospitality Group, but it may be her most fun.
Located just an hour north of NYC, this is a town that’s rich in history. The town’s Main Street is lined with interesting boutiques, quaint cafes and upscale restaurants. It’s also home to some of the area’s most breathtaking historic mansions, such as the Rockefeller estate Kykuit and the Gilded Age Lyndhurst Mansion. The nearby Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is where Washington Irving’s final resting place is located.
For a dose of culture, visit the local galleries and museums. The largest is the Dia:Beacon, which features works from the 1960s and 70s, such as Louise Bourgeois’ multimedia installations and Dan Flavin’s fluorescent lights. You can also see outdoor sculptures by world-renowned contemporary artists at the Storm King Art Center.
The town is also a great place to shop for artisan-crafted goods and luxury brands. Its many shops, boutiques and a plethora of antique stores are perfect for some retail therapy. Shoppers can also check out the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, which houses a range of designer and luxury brands at discounted prices.
In the mid-19th century, landscape painters started leaving their Manhattan studios to find inspiration in the unspoiled beauty of the Hudson Valley. Their works would become known as the Hudson River School and attract international acclaim. Today, visitors can tour the former home and studio of Thomas Cole and visit the nearby home and gardens of Frederic Edwin Church.