Written/edited by Erin Lindsey/Escape Brooklyn. Contributing Local Creative: Tom Roberts

Nestled in the bucolic heart of the Catskills, North Branch, New York, is a small hamlet renowned for its picturesque landscapes and historic charm. With a population hovering around a few hundred, North Branch is characterized by its historic homes, perfectly patinated storefronts, rolling farmland, and the gentle flow of the East Branch of the Delaware River.

Though the hamlet – yes, we said “hamlet” – is by definition tiny, North Branch is central to some of our other favorite towns, including Callicoon, Roscoe, and Livingston Manor – there’s no lack of things to do or see in the area. (Unless of course, you want to do nothing, which is welcome here too.)

Our guide for North Branch comes with intel from Tom Roberts, owner of North Branch Cider Mill, which he and his wife just spent the last few years renovating. The hamlet’s landmark cider mill dates to 1942, and is now enjoying its new life as a destination shop selling pantry provisions and breakfast foods, cider, coffee, kitchenware and home decor. Though Roberts’ newest venture is still new in the area, it’s his third small business in the greater region of the Sullivan Catskills in 10 years, making him a worthy local expert.

As to why someone might pick North Branch above other nearby towns to stay? Tom explains its allure: “It’s like a postcard depiction of a small rural hamlet: a small street with a charming old inn, quaint old shopfronts, and all surrounded by streams, farms and fields.” If you’re looking for a peaceful spot away from the crowds, but central to everything, North Branch is your spot.

Whether you plan to stay – or are just driving through – here’s some highlights in North Branch, NY not to miss.

The North Branch Inn dates to 1868, and is under new ownership. Photo c/o North Branch Inn.

Nestled in the rolling hills between the Catskills and the Delaware River Valley, the North Branch Inn offers a cozy, unpretentious getaway in the countryside. This boutique inn, once a haven for turn-of-the-century travelers, dates to 1868 and just changed ownership. Its new proprietors hail from Brooklyn, but recently made the jump from weekenders to full-timers after spending years at their homes in the area.

Though one of the partners comes from an award-winning hospitality background – that includes Michelin-recommended/Condé Nast Best New Restaurants awarded, Le Fond in Greenpoint, Brooklyn – the North Branch Inn’s approach to hospitality is that luxury isn’t about opulence. It’s about crafting a genuine, exceptional experience that money can’t buy.

With that in mind, hotel guests can expect personalized service that’s only experienced through in-person hospitality. Each morning, guests are treated to an indulgent breakfast, included with every room stay. During the evening, enjoy a farm-to-table meal at the onsite bar & restaurant, or grab a bite while you’re out and about in the area, and enjoy a nightcap at the NBI bar.

Each of the fourteen rooms at this historic inn is unique, with different configurations spread across three buildings. (Editor’s tip: book one of the Salon King rooms, each with a clawfoot soaking tub.) All guests can enjoy multiple common spaces filled with vintage magazines, interesting books, fun board games, old records, cozy wood stoves and a foosball table.

Last, for those traveling in groups, the Library House and Post Office are available to rent separately from the inn and enjoy all the amenities of the hotel. It’s suitable for weddings, too – just reach out.

You can’t miss the beautiful North Branch Cider Mill, a destination shop carrying candies, pantry provisions, home goods and of course, apple cider. Photo: Catskill Image

North Branch may be small, but there’s loads to do in the greater region. Below, our Local Creative expert Tom Roberts, owner of North Branch Cider Mill, shares some of his favorite regional highlights:

• North Branch Inn: One of the most charming and authentic boutique hotel and restaurants I’ve ever been to. The whole place is filled with character and no two rooms are the same. Plus, the food is some of the best in the area: an ever changing menu based on what’s delicious, and in season.
• Buck Brook Alpacas: They have lots of Alpacas – they’re curious, goofy looking and very fluffy. What’s not to love?
• Crystal Lake: My go to for a leisurely hike with plenty of things to look at – with the added bonus of circling a pristine lake that’s perfect for a dip on a hot summer day.
• Fly Fishing: While the Beaverkill and the Willowemoc get most of the acclaim in the area, the small tributaries of the Delaware river are much quieter and teeming with brook trout. For me fishing is more about seeking solitude in nature than it is about landing a giant trophy fish – so I love these little streams.
• Callicoon Farmers Market: The market every Sunday is a definite highlight. A gathering of the best produce in the area as well as an eclectic mix of residents and visitors alike. From fresh baked bread to freshly picked berries, they have it all.
• Seminary Hill Orchard and Cidery: The region was once world famous for its apples, and there is no better place to try some exceptional cider than at Seminary Hill. The views over the orchard and Delaware river and incredible, their cider is delicious, and if you drink too much you can even stay the night at their hotel!

North Branch Inn dining room and bar in North Branch, NY. Photo c/o North Branch Inn.

For a tiny town, there’s no less than three spots for breakfast, shocking for a hamlet this size. You won’t have to go far; especially for guests of the North Branch Inn, for which breakfast is included.

If you’re not staying, your best bet for breakfast is at North Branch Cider Mill or Rease’s Cup. At the Mill, find coffee (hot or cold), tea, pastries, and bagels from the very beloved Grizzly Bagels. These regularly sell out, so get there early to make sure you’re able to grab one! Take it to-go to enjoy, or head to the riverside seating at the Cider Mill. Down the road at Rease’s Cup, find diner-style food like egg sandwiches, pancakes, and the like.

For lunch or dinner, head to nearby Callicoon (Callicoon Wine Merchant is to die for) or Seminary Hill for good food and incredible views. Other nearby highlights include Stumble Out (happy hour, elevated plates for dinner) and Sunshine Colony (natural wine and snacks) in Livingston Manor.

And then there’s the obvious choice: the North Branch Inn, which is absolutely lovely. Prior to making the move Upstate, NBI’s Chef Jake owned Michelin-recommended Le Fond in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, named one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Best New Restaurants of 2014. Jake, a Cordon Bleu alum and veteran of the kitchens of La Roche Le Roi in Tours, FR, brings his French technique and training to an American concept at NBI. Meals are local, unfussy, and delicious. Click here for a sample menu, hours, and reservations.