Start planning now for a weekend retreat from the city this Spring. Here are my top local escapes.
Shandaken, NY (120 miles NW of NYC)
From Zen morning meditation to gentle yoga in the evening, Copperhead Resort and Spa offers the perfect venue to unwind. A New York state Catskills boutique retreat that balances comfort and elegance, relaxation and fitness, gourmet and healthful dining. Juice fasting and ayurvedic treatments are examples of their wellness services. A place to indulge your senses and calm your spirit. They have detox packages including a 21-night "Break Your Old Bad Habits" Plan!
Hudson, NY (120 miles North of NYC)
A true combination of local charm with hints of urban living. The newly renovated Front Street Guest House is located in the heart of historic Hudson, New York with views of the Catskill mountains. The guest house is small and intimate, but their lovely one, two, and three bedroom suites are quite spacious. The owners have dedicated themselves to providing their guests with a luxury sleeping experience featuring 500 thread count sheets. Mission accomplished... Front Street is steps from the town's galleries, hip boutiques, cafes and restaurants. If you haven't been to Hudson in awhile, you'll be pleasantly surprised with its Renaissance, since so many artists and gallery owners have discovered its many charms. Rates are very reasonable in the springtime!
Hudson, NY (120 miles North of NYC)
When Martha Stewart gave this inn a thumbs up, I knew that I needed to book a stay. The Hudson Merchant House is a gorgeous boutique Bed & Breakfast. Innkeepers, Roy and Mike, make you feel immediately welcome by sharing captivating stories over your morning gourmet breakfasts. The boutique inn offers a sophisticated country experience in the center of the quaint town of Hudson. The 1770's house has been completely renovated... a perfect blend of past and present. Surrounded by quaint vintage shops, cool cafés and gastropubs, you'll have much to do when you decide to venture out and explore the town.
Hawley, PA (100 miles NW of NYC)
Poconos retreat located on 75 acres in the Pennsylvania lake region... a true respite for mind, body and spirit. Their farm-to-table culinary experience is outstanding, along with their spa experiences. Favorites of mine are the "Rosemary Awakening" massage and the "Lavender Garden Dream" treatment. Visit the website for exclusive seasonal packages, including their
Beauty Weekend Package May 17-19.
Washington, CT (90 miles NE of NYC)
Nestled in the idyllic town of Washington, CT, this
Relais & Châteaux 5-star resort offers five star accommodations and gourmet dining overlooking the Shakespeare Garden. Partake in their array of exceptional spa treatments, relax in their library, or stroll through the
Steep Rock Nature Preserve. Whatever your pleasure, you'll feel completely renewed. They currently have a
Midweek Package through May 31st.
New Palz, NY (90 miles North of NYC)
"The lake in the sky" is situated on 2200 acres of scenic wilderness. Mohonk Mountain House is a grand 265-room Victorian Castle in upstate New York. It is one of America's oldest family owned resorts. 85 miles of hiking trails, golf, mountain biking, tennis, carriage rides, rock climbing, a Barn Museum, and their award-winning spa. Check out their
Day Spa and Meal Package through May 23rd, as well as their
Seasonal Specials.
Beacon, NY (60 miles North of NYC)
When I recently learned that the renowned Rockwell Group was behind the design of the Roundhouse, I was immediately intrigued. Easily accessible by car or train, is the picturesque town of Beacon, New York. Both the sleeping rooms and the dining experience at the Roundhouse get my approval. We ate at
Swift Restaurant, where locally inspired, seasonal menus and artisanal cocktails are offered. Al fresco dining, when warm enough, overlooks the Fishkill Creek Waterfall. Walk around the town's many shops, markets, galleries and restaurants. Don't miss an afternoon visit to the famous
Dia: Beacon contemporary art museum that occupies the old Nabisco factory. The Dia Art Foundation displays collections from the 1960's to the present.
Morris, CT (90 miles NE of NYC)
An extraordinary getaway amidst 113 acres, housed in a Relais & Chateaux Hotel and beautifully appointed cottages with unique themes (like the Treehouse, Beaver Lodge, and Log Cabin). Experience outstanding cuisine, and indulge in spa treatments, along with an array of seasonal activities. I enjoyed it all, and took time to relax in their spa! Stop by nearby Kent... a quaint New England Village - a town with magnificent scenery, art galleries, shops and restaurants. Check out their midweek special rates on their website.
Hudson Merchant House
