Situated on 15 acres of lush farm land, a cozy valley of imaginative accommodations make up the Gatherwild Ranch. Located in Germantown, NY, owner Laura Sink transformed a former apple orchard into a unique glamping retreat boasting four luxury tents, two cabins, and a tipi. Whether you’re traveling with a big group of friends, or just down for a low-key romantic getaway, it’s the perfect spot to kick back and breathe in the fresh air of the Hudson Valley.
Upon arrival, guests park at the property’s original farmhouse. Just beyond, the shared outdoor kitchen and bonfire pit are the center of activity most evenings. Here, guests can cook fresh meals with their fellow campers, and make new friends by the bonfire. (But if socializing isn’t your vibe, each campsite has its own bonfire pit, too!) From there, accommodations are spread out over several wildflower paths and hills. Each campsite is tucked away enough to be private, but all within easy walking distance to the center of camp. Feeling lazy? Grab one of the cruiser bikes to explore the property; or get some exercise and take the bikes into Germantown for a supply run. It’s just a ten minute ride.
Inside each tent and cabin, the decor is simple, yet totally luxurious by any campers standards. Enjoy a great night’s sleep in plush beds with fresh linens, and in cooler months, a wood stove. All the conveniences of glamping are frowned upon by the die-hard camping community; but we (seriously) beg to differ. As we see it, there’s zero shame in glamping–this removes the hassle of buying, setting up, and breaking down gear. All the better to make more time for bonfire hangs and misty morning sunrises.
Speaking of conveniences, the shared areas at Gatherwild Ranch include a large outdoor kitchen, charcoal grill, solar shower, and compost toilets. Elsewhere around the property, there’s an organic vegetable garden, a medicinal herb garden used for Apis Apothecary, a yoga studio, and a small farm area with animals. (Say hi to Pickles and Pepper, the goats, for us!) Guests may also book a massage in the breezy outdoor treatment yurt, or a private yoga class in the indoor yoga studio.
No matter who’s traveling, Gatherwild Ranch is the perfect place to hold a retreat, celebrate a romantic occasion, or book a weekend away with a group of friends. Conveniently located in the Hudson Valley, there’s tons to do in the area. Read on for our recommendations!
Brewery Visits, Farm Stands, Lake Swimming, and Waterfall Hikes: How to Fill Your Days at Gatherwild Ranch
Though you could easily spend your days at Gatherwild Ranch, there’s tons to explore in this area. All within a thirty minutes drive are the towns of Hudson, Tivoli, Rhinebeck, and Catskill. On a hot summer day, take a dip at Lake Taghkanic State Park or do the short hike to High Falls. On a rainy day, head into town and check out home goods at Alder East, Luddite, and Michael Robbins. Grab a bottle of wine at Lawlor’s Package Store, or go for a tasting at nearby wineries Clermont Vineyard and Tousey Vineyard.
The land in this part of the Hudson Valley is particularly fertile, so there’s no shortage of farms, farm stands, and awesome food in general. First, check out the Red Fern farm stand right on Gather Wild Ranch for fresh veggies and herbs grown on premises. A bit further out, you can pick up additional supplies at Montgomery Place Orchards (produce farm stand, open during summer/fall) and Darlin’ Doe (selling meat and eggs.) In town, Otto’s Market is a cute spot to pick up groceries or grab a sandwich; there’s also a farmers’ market on Saturdays 10-1.
Last, if you’re not keen on cooking for every meal, there are some awesome restaurants nearby–namely, Gaskins. Owned by husband and wife team Nick and Sarah Suarez, Gaskins has changed the fabric of Germantown by creating a beautiful space to gather that serves incredible food. Our recommendations: heirloom salad, oysters, and the patio seating! Also notable is the beer on tap, Suarez Brewery, which is made just down the road. Stop into their beautiful tap room for a beer and a locally baked German pretzel. Last but not least, for breakfast or lunch, we loved the retro vibe and delicious food at the newly reopened West Taghkanic Diner.
