A heron makes itself at home in a wildflower field behind the Spruceton Inn. Photo: Escape Brooklyn.

Have you seen this article by the New York Times: “Plan B, Open a Country Hotel in Upstate New York?” No? Well, it tells the story of a handful of New Yorkers who left the hustle and bustle of the city for a quieter life in the country. And it quite literally tells the story of Casey and Steven – featured in said NYT article – who left the city for the Catskills last winter to renovate a motel-style inn once owned by the Schwartzenager family. What it lacks in cell service it makes up for in cool-factor: rooms are simple but stylish, and much to our delight, one of the rooms functions as a bar. For breakfast? Pop-tarts and Cafe Grumpy coffee.

The Spruceton Inn is great for both holing up and unplugging completely, or as a base to explore the Catskills. Two of the nine rooms have kitchenettes; but all rooms have access to the many grills and fire pits on the property. The fire pits are spread throughout the property, so guests can have their own private fires or join each others. (But if you’re crashing someone’s fire, might we suggest bringing beer or s’more supplies?) We loved the fire pit right next to the creek at night while listening to the water, crickets, and the occasional drift of laughter from the bar while gazing at the stars. Also on the property are two tree-swings and hammocks for ultimate relaxation.

All rooms come equipped with mini-fridges; standard rooms come with a microwave and dishware. Kitchenette rooms are an extra $30 a night but include a full stove setup, which we highly recommend if you’re not planning on cooking over an outside fire. Stock up on supplies at farmers market in Lexington, plus the newly opened Van Dusen’s.

Diamond Notch Falls is an easy 2-mile jaunt in the woods, while hiking West Kill Mountain offers some stunning 360º views of the region. Photo: Escape Brooklyn.

If you’re into hiking, there’s a great set of hikes just a 5 minute drive down the road. You can do either the short or long version of the hike: the short takes you to Diamond Notch Falls, and the long takes you to the summit of West Kill Mountain, with stunning views from the top. Bring a picnic! After a day on the trail, reward yourself with a beer and a bite at West Kill Brewing (a five minute walk from the inn), or in Room One (the bar) at the Spruceton Inn.

In the greater region, visitors are sure to delight in the many roadside farm stands, restaurants, antique markets and shops on the way along Route 28. Some favorite pitstops include Migliorelli Farm, Blue Barn Marketplace, Bread Alone, and the town of Kingston, NY.

West Kill Brewing is a 5 minute walk from Spruceton Inn. It boasts incredible views, and some of our favorite craft beer in the region. Photo c/o West Kill Brewing.

Though you can use the shared grills, or cook in your kitchenette room, you’ll likely be out and about for some meals. One of the closest options is also a long-time favorite, Peekamoose Restaurant & Tavern, about 20 minutes down the road in Big Indian, NY. During summer, their patio seating is divine – during cooler months, the tavern has a fun atmosphere. In the same hamlet (and a similar distance), great food and super fun vibes abound at the newly opened Urban Cowboy Lodge. Reservations are recommended at either of these popular spots.

A little further away, Tannersville – “the painted village in the sky” – has some nice options and a fun Main Street. For breakfast, check out Twin Peaks Donuts, where donuts are made fresh to order. For more of a sit-down experience, Maggie’s Krooked Cafe is another great option; it’s an adorable little cafe serving up fantastic breakfast and lunch. For lunch or just an excuse to get ice cream, newly opened Mama’s Boy Burgers is good vibes and has every variation on a burger you could dream up. And good news for vegetarians: you’ll be well served here with multiple options for patties. For a nice dinner, The Deer Mountain Inn serves up incredible local-inspired dishes, and its lodge atmosphere is straight out of a David Lynch flick.