Hi friends! 

Another long absence on this space usually means I’ve been attempting to spend less time behind the screen and more time out exploring. But I come back with an apology gift - a new roundup of favorite lodgings in New York! 

Growing up in the Northeast, I have to admit, I totally took Fall for granted. Sure, my family had its traditions in place - a hike or two in the Adirondacks, an afternoon spent at the local pumpkin patch, haunted hayrides with cider donuts…

It wasn’t until I got a little older that I started to appreciate, and look forward to, this time of year - especially in New York! From the city, it’s just a short car ride to reach the enchanting Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley region. There, you’ll find countless small communities full of beautiful boutique lodgings, cozy restaurants and cafes, and eclectic storefronts for local artisans. 

As a skier and, let’s say ‘avid outdoors explorer’, I always had two key components in mind when booking lodging - how close is it to hiking/ski trails, and how cozy will I be when I return. 

In Windham, the answer to this is the newly opened resort - Wylder Winhdam. With a backyard view of Windham Mountain (which just happens to be the only Ikon Pass destination located in New York State!), sprawling grounds, outdoor pool, sauna, on-site dining + bakery, it’s the perfect solution for those looking to get away to recharge the mental batteries. 

Built over 140 years and spanning across 7 historic lodges, there’s ample accommodations to choose from. Ranging from Victorian buildings to more modern rooms and residences, you can choose from a collection of Suites and King- and Queen-bedded rooms. Several of the rooms also boast large balconies with unobstructed views of Windham Mountain or the Batavia Kill River.

If you do decide to venture out a bit further than the grounds, there are e-bikes available to guests - perfect for a bit of nearby exploring! Grab a bite at Union + Post, or take some baked goods from Babblers, and head over to Windham Path to stretch your legs and breathe in all that fresh, mountain air. 

In the town of Windham, you’ll find several more dining options, like The Windham Local, Tap House Grille, and Ze Windham Wine Bar. 

If you’re searching for a unique family-friendly glamping experience, look no further than Autocamp Catskills. Located between the towns of Saugerties and Woodstock, you can easily grab groceries, access dining options, and explore off-site as you please. But if you’re in need of grab and go options, the Clubhouse has ample snacks and beverages to choose from! 

Sleeping arrangements vary from the classic airstreams, luxury tents, or premium suites - all accommodate three adults (or two adults and two children). Make sure to grab your campfire and s’mores kits to properly enjoy a night under the stars at your private fire pit (or head back to the Clubhouse for nightly bonfires).

Of course, I can’t share a collection of favorite Catskills lodgings without including Scribner’s Lodge. Located just down the road from Hunter Mountain, it’s a beacon for snow bunnies, city dwellers, and cozy aficionados alike. And because it’s an all-season adventure area, there’s no BEST time to visit! 

This was actually my first occasion of experiencing the lodge in the warmer months, so I took full advantage of the countless outdoor activities offered on site. From sun bathing by the pool, enjoying a picnic on the grounds, and even watching a classic Summer film (Dirty Dancing!) in the garden. The area has countless hiking trails to choose from (including some of the most popular for the region) just a quick car ride away. 

If you’ve read through my previous lodging round ups, the next name may also be familiar to you. Eastwind’s first location in Windham is a Catskills favorite, and they’ve recently opened their second outpost in the infamous Olympic village of Lake Placid. The Adirondacks are near and dear to me, being my home base through different parts of the year. The mountain range is also where I grew up skiing in the winter, hiking in the fall, and island camping in the summer. Suffice it to say, because my family home is so close, I don’t often find myself looking for getaways in the area! 

But when Eastwind announced this new location, I knew I wanted to make the short journey from North Creek to Lake Placid to experience it for myself. 

Featuring the same Lushna cabins that the Windham location is known for, the Lake Placid destination makes for the perfect base camp for those wanting to experience the High Peaks region of the Adks in peak foliage season (though I imagine this place will be EXTRA cozy come winter, when it’s just a 15 minute drive away to get to some of the best skiing in the state at Whiteface Mountain. 

After a day of exploring nearby trails, nestle up by the fire, grab a drink in the bar, or enjoy a session in the sauna. In the morning, you have the option of having your own personal picnic breakfast basket delivered if you’d rather stay in PJ mode a bit longer - which, no judgement, it’s easy to do here!

While this year’s golden leaves may have come and gone, these all-season lodges make for cozy ‘reset’ retreats no matter the time of year.

Make sure to Pin your faves for future trips to Upstate New York!

xo

J.