Condé Nast Traveler | A Guide to New York's Catskills, for Nature, Art, and Boutique Hotels

This region, just two hours north of Manhattan, beckons with storybook countryside and enchanting towns.

Just 120 miles north of Manhattan, the Catskills offer a dreamy escape where nature, history, and artistic soul collide. Rolling farmland, dome-shaped peaks, and postcard-worthy towns set the stage for a region rich in both history and creativity. Scenic hikes lead to hidden swimming holes, roadside farm stands spill over with local produce, and the coziest diners serve up hearty, seasonal fare. In winter, slopes at Windham and Hunter lure skiers in; whereas summer plans call for exploring streams and trails, inviting lazy afternoons and wildflower walks.

From Woodstock to Phoenicia, each town offers its own flavor, with colorful streets, farm-to-table restaurants, and a laid-back but cheerful vibe. Long a magnet for artists and free spirits—Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, and Mark Twain, to name a few—the region still buzzes with a creative pull (now, of course, just more contemporary). The dynamic blend of creative urban transplants and nature lovers has amped up the region’s ever-growing innovation. And today, chic lodges, hotels, and Airbnbs nestle into colorfully restored villages, while boutique shops and contemporary galleries showcase a vibrant presence of local talent. The Catskills’ charm is undeniable, with its mix of culture, adventure, and natural wonder. Read on for where to eat, stay, and play when you’re headed this way.

 

Where to Stay

Wildflower Farms, part of Auberge Resorts, is a spa retreat nestled in the Shawangunk Mountains with a working farm, cooking classes, a spa, and freestanding cabins offering stunning views. It’s a premier destination for both nature lovers and those simply seeking solace. Piaule Catskill, another standout, combines sustainable design with wellness in a stylish setting, featuring 24 designer cabins and a large communal spa. Also in Ulster County, the Eastwind Oliverea Valley is a cozy getaway with a woodfire-warmed lounge, sauna, nearby ski slopes, and summer activities like outdoor yoga and DJ sets, ensuring year-round appeal.