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Top 10 Upstate Hotels with Pools
Does the current heat wave have you dreaming of dunking yourself in a pool? With a heat index of 100º this week in the city, it seemed like an appropriate time to drop this list of some favorite Upstate hotels with pools a few hours away. Just in case anyone’s looking for a little relief. Not only do these hotels have refreshing pools with beautiful Upstate views – they also include features like poolside bars, cold plunges, and saunas. (Also worth mentioning: it’s generally ~10º cooler in the Catskills than NYC.) Spend the rest of summer indulging in pool days and bonfire evenings in the mountains! These ten Upstate hotels with pools are the definition of Upstate oasis. Arnold House in Livingston Manor, NY Photo: Clay Banks This newbie on the upstate pool list is an old favorite. Arnold House, a boutique hotel, spa and event space that opened in 2014, was an early pioneer in restoring the Catskills back to its rightful place as the resort mecca it's famous for. The pool addition includes a small pool bar, concrete patio and adult sand box along with yellow and white striped umbrellas and red and white lounge chairs for that vintage upstate vibe. Soak up the sun on a colorful floaty or enjoy a refreshing dip with friends and family. Of note: Beyond the pool, grab carry out from either the pool bar or the Arnold House Tavern and enjoy in their event barn/greenhouse. Trails on property also make this a great pet-friendly escape. Camptown in Leeds, NY Photo: Lawrence Braun From the owners of Rivertown Lodge in Hudson comes Camptown, a throwback to the bungalow culture of Catskills yesteryear. With over 26 cabins and 24 hotel rooms, you can bet on funs vibes around the pool which includes waterbed cabanas, loungers and adult swim hours for those much needed moments away from the kiddos. It's a natural place to spend your days. A true upstate swim oasis. Don't forget dinner at the James Beard Award nominee Casa Susanna, an upscale take on Mexican cuisine or drinks and ceviche at pool bar Piscina. Of note: Camptown's outside campus also includes a sauna, pool bar, and restaurant. Check out their great list of Things To Do, including a nearby drive-in movie theater, plus loads of arts and outdoor attractions. Scribner's Lodge in Hunter, NY Photo: Moriah Wolfe Swimming with killer views of Hunter Mountain is beyond epic at the Scribner's Lodge pool which features full size pool beds for lounging, umbrellas and DJs spinning summer tunes on the weekends. The pool is open seasonally to hotel guests and Scribner's Social Club members, offering the perfect setting amidst 270 degree views of the Catskill Mountains for warm days of sunbathing and swimming. Head inside to Prospect for ...
Perch Cottages in Boiceville, NY
115 miles from New York City, tucked between the Espous Creek and the high peaks of the Catskills, Perch Cottages offers a laid-back mountain retreat in Boiceville, New York. The setting conjures up memories of vacation rentals of the not-so-distant past: a cluster of cottages gathered around a semi-circle drive, each with picnic tables and grills. In the middle, a central courtyard has lawn games, Adirondack chairs and bonfires, with the backdrop of the mountains. Nostalgic yet modern, Perch Cottages is reminiscent of a time when family travel was easy, fun and accessible – minus the 50's cottage decor. Each cottage was (very) recently gut renovated to include totally new bathrooms and well-stocked, well-equipped kitchens. Cooking meals on-site is a breeze. Bedrooms and living spaces are cozy and inviting: entertainment inside the cottages include Smart TV, Bluetooth speaker, board games, and record players with a small vinyl selection. Outside, Perch Cottages' many amenities makes staying on-site for vacation easy: spend days fishing or taking dips in the river, find a hammock to catch up on a book, or grab the family for lawn games. At night, three central gas bonfires are accessible to guests, for evening socializing, s'mores making, and stargazing. Given its communal vibe, Perch Cottages is perfect for traveling families, friends, anglers, and work retreats. Perch Cottages are family and pet friendly; whole property rentals are welcome. Though it'd be easy to spend your entire vacation at Perch Cottages, its central location in the Catskills make it a perfect home base to explore the greater region. Below, we're sharing a few highlights to add to your itinerary. Explore the Outdoors: the Best Hikes Around Boiceville, NY (and Other Outdoor Adventures) The steep trails at Overlook Mountain lead hikers to the ruins of an old hotel in Woodstock, NY. Perch Cottages is centrally located to Phoenicia, Woodstock, Stone Ridge, and Kingston – all with shopping, restaurants, and more. (Check those links for individual guides.) For those seeking outdoor adventure, there's no shortage of hikes and outdoor recreation in the area. One of our all-time favorite hikes is the nearby Overlook Mountain in Woodstock. About ten minutes from Main Street Woodstock, this 4.5 mile loop takes about three hours round-trip, with some time added in at the top for sight-seeing at the top. Features include a fire tower with 360º views (one of six in the region), and ruins from a grand mountaintop hotel that burned down (several times) to explore. Heads up: this popular trail is pretty well known; adjust your expectations and schedule accordingly, getting there early for parking and avoiding the crowds. Also, come prepared: it's no short stroll in the woods! Come prepared with proper footwear, and bring plenty of water. A lesser known trail with similar views is Mt. Tremper Fire Tower, whose six-mile trek also offers stunning 360º views from its own fire tower. Also nearby is ...
A Guide to Enjoying the Great Outdoors in Harriman State Park
Did you know: New York’s second largest park is just 30 miles from NYC? Harriman State Park is a haven for hikers, cyclists, and lovers of the outdoors. Known for its 31 lakes, it also features 200+ miles of hiking trails, along streams, woods, and beautiful vistas of the Hudson Valley and NYC. Sound overwhelming? Let us help!
A Guide to the Whiteface Region in the Adirondack Mountains, NY
In the heart of the High Peaks, the Adirondacks' Whiteface Region is a four-seasons destination – but one that shines brightest in winter. Towering mountains, pristine lakes and dense forest characterize this area that was home to not one, but two, Winter Olympics. From the tranquil forest blanketed in snowfall, perfect for hiking — to its famous white-capped peaks that beckon skiers and snowboarders from around the globe — this winter wonderland offers endless adventure. Four towns make up the Whiteface Region: Au Sable Forks, Jay, Upper Jay and Wilmington. Whiteface Mountain is the region's crown jewel, whose 3,166 foot vertical drop is the highest in the East. The mountain is one of five Winter Olympics sites in the area, and the only location on the East Coast to host the winter games. In summer, the mountain remains a tourist attraction, with scenic gondola rides and hiking. NYC residents may be reluctant to book a trip thinking the Adirondacks are too far for a weekend; but the park begins just 215 miles from NYC, easily reached in under four hours. (Or catch the daily flight from JFK to SLK!) From there, we’re heading about an hour deeper into the park, down its scenic roads through idyllic mountain towns, and into the Whiteface Region. Check out our guide below for the best places to hike and explore – plus where to stay, eat and drink during your stay in the area. Where to Stay Around Whiteface: NewVida in Wilmington, NY NewVida Preserve in Wilmington, NY has striking architecture, a bar and restaurant, plus 14 cozy rooms to choose from. Onsite amenities also include a gym and wellness center and 35+ miles of trails. There's no shortage of lodging in the Whiteface Region – but we love an authentic Adirondack lodge with staff and services, especially in the otherwise pretty isolated landscape. Our lodging pick is NewVida Preserve, who's just reopened to the public after years of private ownership. This classic Adirondack lodge hosts 14 beautiful rooms, a restaurant, bar, and bistro – plus a wellness center with yoga, gym, and massage. Located on a 2,000 mountainous preserve, it also features 35+ miles of hiking trails. Throughout the hotel, guests will spot vintage items alluding to Paleface Mountain; this is NewVida's previous life. For three decades, the property operated as a ski mountain with five lifts and 44 runs. While there are plans to restore and reopen some of the runs, for now, guests may explore on foot. While doing so, be on the lookout for Paleface's former bull wheels, ski warming huts, lean to’s and cabins. A King View Room (no. 10) at NewVida Preserve. Photo c/o NewVida Preserve. Back inside NewVida, its new owners have carefully restored and renovated the lodge, preserving its vintage charm while updating the necessities. The dining room ...
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Sowilo Retreat in Cambridge, NY
Tucked between the Adirondacks and the Green Mountains of Vermont, picturesque glamping getaway Sowilo Retreat offers a peaceful respite from city life. Guests may choose from an array of tiny houses and geodesic domes, each with amenities that provide a cushy experience while in the woods (think kitchens, bathrooms, A/C and heat.) Tiny homes can sleep up to four guests, so groups are welcome – and whole property rentals are available. All accommodations are pet friendly.
Canopy Hill House in Roxbury, NY
Perched high on a hill with incredible views of the mountains, Canopy Hill House is an exceptional Airbnb in Roxbury, NY. The modern farmhouse exudes both tranquility and character, with thoughtful touches for guests like its noteworthy coffee setup, plus Made In and Melsen supplies in its remarkably beautiful kitchen. To help guests relax, bath salts and yoga mats are provided.
River Run: a Tennis-Centric Getaway in Cummington, MA
Located in the Berkshire Hills three hours from NYC, the idyllic River Run accommodates up to 12 guests. Just steps from the Westfield River, the sound of the water provides a serene backdrop to an already beautiful landscape, complete with a HarTru clay tennis court, cedar hot tub, and great fishing spots right out the front door.
Dawson Farmhouse in Kerhonkson, NY
Two hours from NYC in Kerhonkson, the enchanting Dawson Farmhouse is located on thirteen private acres in the Catskill Mountains. Plan the day with your morning coffee in the screened in patio, spend days out (some help on that below), then return to make a grilled feast in the evening on Dawson’s oversize deck. At night, the fire pit is a perfect spot for drinks and s’mores, surrounded by boulders and forest, with a clear line of sight to the stars overhead.
Rowley House in Eldred, NY
Following an extensive renovation by SOON Architecture Studio, this modern three bedroom cabin with a sauna is filled with treasures from local artisans, designers, and boutique shops. (You may also recognize it in this week's WSJ Real Estate feature on saunas!) From top to bottom, the thee-floor house has tons of space to spread out or get cozy. On its basement level, a lovely bedroom has its own bathroom and is also home to the Rowley House sauna and gym. On the main level, find its expansive kitchen, a living room with a cozy wood stove, and two equally lovely bedrooms that share an additional bathroom. On the third floor, a "snug" loft room has treehouse vibes, and is home to the TV (plus a pull-out sofa for movie nights or sleeping kiddos.)
Poet’s Hill in Hudson, NY
Located on a quiet country road outside of Hudson, NY, Poets Hill was designed with serenity in mind. Rent one or both homes on-site: its pool house accommodates up to four guests in two bedrooms, while its tiny house accommodates two. At the pool house, take advantage of the expansive outdoor area, with a large deck that's home to a Viking grill/BBQ, sink, and large dining table for al fresco meals, poolside. Its 82 foot pool is open May through October 1, weather permitting.
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From Mood-Board to Move-In: Customizable New Build Homes by Welcome
Looking to build a brand-new, personalized home? Based in Upstate and Westchester, New York, Welcome promises that homebuyers can go from mood-board to move-in with just a few clicks. Armed with a mood board and a color palette, we worked with Welcome’s designers to easily create an Escape Brooklyn-inspired dream escape — seen below — within Welcome’s Modern Cabin 3.
With many active build projects along the East Coast, Welcome has taken the homebuilding process entirely online, and has streamlined into just a handful of simple steps. Here’s how it works:
- Use their interactive map to choose your perfect plot of land. All plots have been analyzed by Welcome’s proprietary AI land-vetting technology, so you know they’re conducive to a build!
- Use their interactive digital design studio to design your home. For any given Welcome home, there are over 200,000 design combination options. No “cookie cutter” vibes, ever.
- Make an offer on the land and construction costs. This offer secures your home, as well as a builder. Once your offer is accepted, you sit back, relax (in a cabin somewhere, perhaps?), and let them handle everything else – from permitting, all the way through move-in day.
Whether you’re seeking a forever home, a weekend getaway, or an investment property, check out Welcome to see some of their active build projects in the Upstate and Westchester areas. To play around in the digital design studio as we did, head to welcomehomes.com/models — just proceed with caution, because it’s a little addictive.
For transparency, Escape Brooklyn is a real estate advertising service and may have been paid for this ad. We carefully curate potential paid advertisers; all features are hand-picked and thoughtfully considered.
Love Lamb: Cruelty-Free Sheepskins Made by Hand in Delaware County, NY
Visit an upstate home, and odds are you’ll see a sheepskin elegantly draped over a chair or bench. They’re everywhere, and for good reason: warm, soft, and organic, they’re an easy final touch for the Upstate hygge vibe we all covet.
Before & After: Camp Caitlin
Caitlin Cowger, owner of Camp Caitlin, has a piece of advice when it comes to buying your Upstate dream home: “Don’t look for the house of your dreams. Renovate the house of your dreams.”
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Lakeside: Sleek Modernist Home in Rhinebeck, NY
Exactly 100 miles from NYC near Rhinebeck, NY, the Lakeside residence echoes the subtle ripples of nearby Round Pond, to which it enjoys lake access. Comprised of three wings joined on a single level, the architectural form of Lakeside creates dynamic indoor and outdoor living spaces, perfect for the ease of single-level living.
Three bedrooms, two and a half bathroom modern home | 2,770 square foot house on 4.5 acres | Sleek modern finishes including oak hardwood floors, Danish cabinetry, and new Bosch appliances | Large chef’s kitchen with secondary scullery kitchen for food prep | Primary bedroom features ensuite bathroom with freestanding soaking tub, walk-in shower, radiant heated floors and double vanity | Large outdoor entertaining patio | Lake rights to Round Pond | Asking $2,495,000
Listed by Doug Maxwell at Upstate Modernist. View the original listing here. For showings or inquiries, email doug@s3arc.com or call/text (212) 518-3130.
Less than two hours from Manhattan, this to-be-built home brings contemporary style and city-like charm to rural living. The property’s inspired interiors showcase natural materials and textures celebrating the structure of the home: a quintessential country respite.
The front door opens to the midsection of the home’s three wings. To the right is the main space with open living plan, leading first into a lavish kitchen with a large eat-at island, and a second scullery kitchen for additional prep and food storage. A dining space is connected to the kitchen, whose large windows and doors lead to the outdoor entertaining patio. The space is separated from the living room with a double-sided fireplace, adding even more drama to the living room encased by large walls of windows.
All three bedrooms are located on the north wing of the home, with the primary suite located at the end. Privately located, the king-size space includes a glazed sleeping room, freestanding bathtub, shower, double vanity, radiant floor heat, and stunning views to the natural setting. An additional flex space completes the suite, stamping it as a truly luxurious space. Secondary guest bedrooms and a covered porch complete the residence.
Throughout the home, design features include luxury materials like oak hardwood floors, designer finishes, Danish cabinetry, Bosch appliances and high efficiency HVAC system. An attached two-car garage connects to the family entrance with a mud room and laundry.
Located on 4.5 acres, Lakeside is surrounded by beautiful wooded terrain, rock outcroppings and mossy knolls. Access stunning Round Pond a short walk away via shared dock, perfect for morning swims or weekend kayaking adventures. This desirable non-motor lake is the perfect complement to modern home. Less than ten minutes away from the Village of Rhinebeck, the property neighbors popular local restaurants and shops like Le Petite Bistro, Bia, Paper Trail, Zephyr, and Hammertown. For a longer, more relaxing local getaway, The Omega Institute offers a variety of all-inclusive weekend and five-day …
Mountainside Home in Gardiner, NY
Experience captivating views of the Shawangunk Ridge from this hilltop home on a secluded 16+ acres. This stunning modern new build comes with direct access to Mohonk Preserve, with its thousands of acres of hiking and biking trails, swimming holes and waterfalls.
Three bedroom, three bathroom contemporary home | 2,337 square foot house on 16.22 acres | Private, climbable face of Shawangunk Ridge | 360 degree rotating fireplace | Custom kitchen with high-end appliances | Primary bedroom features ensuite bath with soaking tub | Flex space loft | Screened-in porch with cathedral ceiling, outdoor kitchen and fireplace | Large windows with panoramic forest views | Private backyard entrance to Mohonk Preserve | Asking $2,650,000
Listed by Anne Rajs at Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty. For showings or inquiries, email anne.rajs@fourseasonssir.com or call/text 845-797-1034.
Upon entrance to the home, the open layout with white oak floors, soaring ceilings, and large windows creates a warm and airy atmosphere. The custom kitchen features carefully chosen Brazilian quartzite counters, custom walnut cabinets, and high-end Wolf, Subzero, and Thermador appliances. Beside the kitchen, a sliding glass door opens onto a screened porch with a cathedral ceiling, outdoor kitchen with a pellet grill/smoker, fireplace, and plenty of lounging room.
Back inside, the breathtaking living space anchors the home. With built-in shelving, a cozy reading nook, views of the property and a suspended Fireorb wood-burning fireplace with 360 degree rotation, the living room provides a handsome gathering space. A versatile loft sits above the living area, and offers a flex space perfect for a home theater, office, or library. Privately set in another wing of the home, there are bedrooms on the main floor. The primary suite evokes a spa-like feeling, with an ensuite bathroom complete with a soaking tub overlooking the grounds, double sinks with a marble vanity, and a tumblr marble floor. A third bedroom with a private bathroom sits on the lowest level of the house, along with a spacious mudroom, laundry area, and garage access.
The property’s landscaping is a mix of level front and backyard lawns and beautiful moss covered rock outcroppings. Well-worn trails beyond the house take you to a perennial creek, seasonal waterfall and continue to a lookout with views over the Hudson Valley and beyond. Enter the neighboring Mohonk Preserve through the property’s private entrance, or climb in on the face of the Shawangunk Ridge that sits on the grounds to access an 85 mile network of hiking, biking and world class rock climbing.
For even more outdoor experience, the nearby Minnewaska State Preserve is an ideal spot for hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. The Village of New Paltz is minutes from the property, and is home to dozens of popular businesses including the Lemon Squeeze piano bar, Huckleberry, Lagusta’s Luscious, and Water Street Market. For those looking to indulge in a resort experience, the
Classic Country Mercantile in Staatsburg, NY
Tucked in the Dutchess County hamlet of Staatsburg, this mercantile is the picture of a quintessential country lifestyle. The versatile retail space can function as a café, market, butcher shop, or general store, and features classic touches such as checkerboard tile floors and stainless steel finishes. In addition to the commercial space, this property has two residential income-producing apartments on the second level. The landlord-investor use yields a solid 7.63% cap rate, while an owner-operator business can achieve an impressive 28.32% cap rate based on current business sales.
Heute Haus in Glen Spey, NY
A fine example of high-performance new construction by a local boutique design-build team, Heute Haus offers a forward-thinking material mix for the discerning dweller seeking an exclusive retreat. A modern exterior with a reverent nod to the community’s Bavarian heritage gives way to bespoke interiors blending mid-century European modernism with the designers’ signature Catskills style.
Three bedrooms, two and a half bathroom modern home | 2,125 square foot home on 5.08 acres | New construction by local design team Major Jacks x Wishbone | Sunken living room with wood burning stove | Chef’s kitchen with high-end custom cabinetry and new appliances | King-size primary bedroom features oversize window with panoramic woodland views plus ensuite with double sinks, soaking tub and shower | Primary suite access to outdoor shower and barrel sauna | Zen courtyard with dining table, fire pit area | Black Forest Club membership and amenities, including exclusive access to 1,100 acres of hiking trails and swimming holes | 5 acres with option to purchase adjacent 5-acre lot to preserve privacy | Asking $895,000
Listed by Erica Keberle at Anatole House. For showings or inquiries, contact erica@anatolehouse.com or call/text (917) 690-5405.
Photos: Catskill Image
On entrance, an open concept great room welcomes you to Heute Haus. The chef’s kitchen, a marvel of bespoke cabinetry rivaling custom furniture, flows seamlessly into the sunken living room. The wood-burning stove and built-in couches upholstered in fine mohair deliver an elevated yet supremely loungeable experience. Oversized glass doors seamlessly transition to the rear deck and Zen courtyard, enhancing the ease of indoor-outdoor living. Practicality is not overlooked, with a mudroom and vintage infused half-bath with laundry facilities completing this wing of the home.
The home comprises two queen-sized bedrooms, each with its own armoire, flanking a full bathroom enhanced by double pocket doors and ample linen storage. Just beyond, a versatile bonus room could serve as an office, den, or additional living space. Behind a handsome antique door lies the primary suite, secluded from the rest of the house. This private sanctuary offers a king-sized room with a cinema-sized window, panoramic woodland views, floor-to-ceiling closets, and a vanity or coffee nook. From the ensuite with double sinks, soaking tub and shower, step directly outside to a cedar barrel sauna and outdoor hot/cold shower for a complete spa experience. With no neighbors in sight, the choice to don a robe is entirely optional.
Design highlights include custom built-ins and millwork, a curated selection of vintage and modern finishes, rounded bullnose corners, and white oak hardwood floors complemented by warm cork flooring in select areas. Completed in 2024, this home boasts construction quality that matches its exquisite interiors. Advanced HVAC systems ensure a comfortable living environment. Sound-absorbing materials between interior walls, and insulation in exterior walls that surpasses air sealing codes, aids in both energy efficiency and serenity.
Set on 5 wooded acres with hand-laid bluestone patios, …
Wedding Venue & Charming Farmhouse in Jefferson, NY
Situated in the rolling hills of Jefferson, NY, this 30-acre former horse farm offers incredible income potential as a wedding venue in one of the Catskills’ most beautiful areas. Currently an established business with 7 weddings booked for 2024, the property includes a farmhouse, 3,300 square foot renovated indoor event space, 10,000 square foot outdoor welcome area with a rose garden and lounge, a large pond, open meadows, and forest trails.
Multi-Use Converted Church & Yurt in Stone Ridge, NY
Located in the historic district on busy Main Street (aka Route 209) in Stone Ridge, NY, this beloved property spans 3.4 landscaped acres and includes two buildings. In the front of the property, a mixed-use converted church is leased by Marbletown Multi-Arts, a popular yoga and dance studio. Behind it, a newly constructed yurt is used for events and ceremonies. Last, a spacious 2-bedroom apartment off the side entrance provides additional income. Three potential income streams at this super central, very unique property offers a compelling opportunity: current rents yield a 7% cap rate, with potential to reach 10% at market value.