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The Best Catskills Cabins for a Peaceful Upstate Escape
Tucked into the mountains of Upstate New York, the Catskills are home to some of the region’s most compelling cabin stays. These retreats — from lakefront cottages in Roscoe to timber-clad chalets in Big Indian and minimalist hideaways near Saugerties — pair considered design with close proximity to nature. Set within a few hours’ drive of New York City, the best Catskills cabins offer quiet settings, access to hiking trails and rivers, and the character of nearby small towns. Each one is designed for unhurried days and a deeper connection to the landscape.
A Guide to Kerhonkson, NY
Set between the Catskills and the Shawangunk Ridge, Kerhonkson, NY is a low-key gateway to some of the Hudson Valley’s most dramatic landscapes. Here, glacial lakes meet ridge-line trails, and post-hike afternoons wind down with small-batch cider, tacos, or natural wine beneath the trees. Home to Minnewaska State Park Preserve – a 22,000-acre expanse of cliffs, forests, and panoramic viewpoints – Kerhonkson draws hikers, swimmers, and day-trippers with its blend of rugged terrain and relaxed hospitality. A six-mile hike might wrap with a sandwich and a cider flight, while a Friday night could mean craft cocktails at a roadside motel. Kerhonkson moves at its own pace – mornings on the ridge, evenings around the table, with plenty of space to breathe between. Read on for our full area guide, including where to hike, eat, and drink.
A Guide to Saugerties, NY
Saugerties sits where Esopus Creek meets the Hudson River, offering a quiet village atmosphere framed by water and woods. Known for its blend of historic charm and creative energy, the town’s walkable center is filled with vintage shops, boutiques, and cozy cafes set into old brick buildings. Just beyond the village, forested trails and tidal marshes open into riverside views and sculpture parks, creating a balance between small-town ease and outdoor adventure. Today, Saugerties quietly draws artists, makers, and independent businesses – a community that honors its past while shaping a thoughtful, design-minded identity. Read on for our guide to Saugerties, with recommendations on where to hike, eat, shop, and stay.
A Guide to Kingston, NY
Ninety miles north of NYC, the Hudson River Valley town of Kingston, NY sits at the base of the Catskill Mountains on the Rondout Creek. As New York’s original capital, it’s loaded with history and incredible architecture — but today, it’s equally defined by a vibrant art community and a wave of new restaurants, shops, and cultural spaces. Divided into three walkable neighborhoods — Uptown, Midtown, and the Rondout — each has its own rhythm, from the painted facades and vintage storefronts of the Stockade District to Midtown’s creative edge and the charming waterfront of the Rondout. Whether it’s browsing antiques, catching a gallery opening, kayaking the creek, or dining in spaces that feel straight out of the city, Kingston continues to evolve as one of the Hudson Valley’s most dynamic destinations. What to Do in Kingston, NY: Shopping, Galleries, and Exploring Town Wall St in Uptown Kingston, NY is lined with boutique shops, galleries and restaurants. Much of Kingston’s appeal is being at the epicenter of “Upstate” culture in the Hudson Valley. Exploring town, and the region, is a must! The town is comprised of three distinct neighborhoods: Uptown (also called the Stockade District), Midtown, and the Rondout (downtown.) Uptown Kingston is the most architecturally distinctive, with colorful painted building facades along Main and North Front Streets – plus some exceptionally preserved historic buildings in the blocks surrounding. In this part of town, don't miss staples like Kingston Consignments (consignment & antiques for the home), Rhino Records (vinyl, books & curios), Lovefield Vintage and Capital Vintage (two spots with great hand-picked vintage), Blue Cashew (kitchenware), Hamilton & Adams (women & menswear), and Everywhere Shop (gifts & stationery). In Midtown, Kingston’s more industrial neighborhood, is probably the epicenter of its creativity, where many artists and entrepreneur-types have taken up residence and have studio spaces in old factories. Keep your eyes peeled for the murals in this part of town, whose numbers grow every year thanks to Kingston's annual O+ Festival. While in Midtown, don’t miss Zaborski Emporium, a massive warehouse filled with antiques and architectural salvage stuff for the home; vintage clothing, furniture, and decor at Red Owl; and Village Coffee & Goods, where you can sip on a latte while browsing goods made by local artists. Or, skip all that and zen out in a sensory deprivation tank at Zephyr Float. Last, the Rondout (downtown) neighborhood is perhaps Kingston’s most idyllic, boasting some serious old-world charm. Its main street, Broadway, is a slope lined with cute shops and cafes, including some favorites like Kingston Wine Co., Clove & Creek, Milne, and Hops Petunia. From here, stroll down to the Rondout Canal, which cuts along old railroad tracks while taking in the stunning views of the Hudson. Galleries of note in this part of town include Artport Kingston, Monument, and One Mile Gallery. Explore the Outdoors in Kingston, NY: ...
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Hemlock Hideaway: A Design-Forward Stay in Bethel, NY
Created by local design/build studio Homestedt, Hemlock Hideaway in Bethel is an elevated, Scandi-inspired escape in the Western Catskills. Set on six private acres surrounded by evergreen forest, the property feels secluded without being far from in-town amenities.
Hutton Brickyards: A Riverside Retreat in Kingston, NY
With uninterrupted views, spa amenities, an on-site restaurant, and more than 100 acres of grounds to explore, Hutton Brickyards offers an elevated retreat on the Hudson River in Kingston, New York. Set just outside the city's Rondout district, the property is close to downtown boutiques, antique shops, bars, restaurants, and coffee shops, while remaining within easy reach of Midtown and Uptown Kingston.
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An Abandoned Cider Mill Gets a New Life — Before & After — North Branch Cider Mill in North Branch, NY
A husband and wife team – serial renovators and home builders – take on their biggest project yet: an abandoned cider mill. "A charming, historic, mess." That's how Tom Roberts describes the condition – and the irresitable allure – of the North Branch Cider Mill when he and his wife Anna Åberg were passed the torch in late 2022. “It wasn’t for sale, but it wasn’t in use. So we pestered the owner for 18 months until he sold it to us.” Fast forward to nearly a year since its re-opening in November 2023: an incredible amount of work has been done, made possible by the colossal vision and talent from their parent company/design studio, Homestedt. Its charming and historic parts remain, but this diamond in the rough has been polished back to its original glory. Below, Escape Brooklyn interviews the design-savvy duo who share stories from the renovation, plus give us the scoop on future plans at the North Branch Cider Mill.
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.
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.
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.
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.)
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Winter in the Catskills: Cozy Mountaintop Rental in Livingston Manor, NY
Perched above the town of Livingston Manor in the Catskills, this cozy two-bedroom home is available as a furnished winter rental from January 1 to May 1, 2026. A perfect winter home base for anyone craving time Upstate, the house is well-suited for remote work, creative projects, or long winter weekends — featuring strong Wi-Fi, a dedicated office, wood-burning fireplace, hot tub, and home gym.
2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home | 1,700 square feet | Outdoor shower | Stone fireplace & 2 outdoor fire pits | Home office with large desk and printer | Cell service & strong WiFi | Hot tub | Back deck with table for six and BBQ | Stone patio with lounge set and garden | Gravel firepit area with benches | Fully equipped kitchen new dishwasher, new electric stove, Breville Nespresso machine | Freshly renovated bathroom in 2024 | Washer/dryer | Detached garage with home gym | $3,000/month for either two-month period (January 1–March 1 or March 1–May 1), or a discounted $2,750/month for renters committing to the full four months from January 1 through May 1, 2026
For more information or inquiries, contact ShandeleeMountainCottage@gmail.com.
This mountaintop home has been optimized for relaxation and work from home ease. The main floor has two bedrooms, one of which is currently being used as a home office. An additional bedroom is upstairs in the finished attic space with vaulted ceilings, great for kids or visiting friends. The plant-filled house gets plentiful natural light throughout winter, especially during the morning when the direct sun hits the couch (perfect for cozy morning fires) and afternoons at the dining table (a great WFH spot.) The house is pet friendly, but suited best for medium and small animals.
Inside the home office is a sliding door leading to a private deck with a hot tub and grill, overlooking a fenced-in garden – one of three at the house – which grows specialty flowers including sunflowers, poppies, and dahlias; plus herbs and vegetables. During harvest season, pull from the garden for an array of lettuces and tomatoes for fresh salads. On the side of the house, a beautiful outdoor shower is perfect for rinsing off after a hike. Year-round, a hot tub located just steps from the back door is a quick escape and perfect spot for stargazing.
The property sits atop a mountain with a stunning view a field where hay was once grown and harvested. Today, the deck overlooks the field, where you’ll spot neighboring horses and cows graze their days away in the distance, along with lots of wild rabbits, deer, turkeys, and other wildlife. (Keep an eye out for bald eagles, too!) A stone fire pit area was installed in 2024, perfect for days outdoors. Firewood will be provided.
On a warm day, make use of the screen door on the front of the house and let the Catskills air breeze in. In chilly weather, the super-cozy living room is an …
The Smithwood House in Bethel, NY
The Smithwood House is a newly built, one-of-a-kind modern home set in a wooded landscape, designed with a striking architectural profile and a sense of refined detail. Clean lines, soaring windows, and thoughtful accents come together in a layout that feels both bold and livable. Inside, every element has been carefully considered, from custom built-ins to sleek appliances, creating a home that balances contemporary form with everyday comfort.
PerryWood in Bethel, NY
Set on five wooded acres with views over Hunter Lake, PerryWood offers a private retreat framed by forest and water. The double A-frame rises through the trees, its walls of glass and vaulted ceilings bringing the surrounding landscape fully into the home. Light shifts across the wood-clad interiors, while decks and pathways extend living spaces into the treeline, creating a sense of calm and continuity between indoors and out.
The Catskill Overlook in Saugerties, NY
Set at the end of a long private drive, The Catskill Overlook rises on steel and concrete pillars, its glass-and-concrete form elevated above 13.4 wooded acres. Walls of glass frame mountain ridges, while soaring ceilings with exposed beams and polished concrete floors create interiors that feel both sculptural and serene — a home defined as much by its architecture as by its natural surroundings.
Camp Woodridge in Lake Placid, NY
Camp Woodridge stretches along the westerly shore of Lake Placid, tucked beneath Loch Bonnie Mountain. Framed by mature trees, the property opens onto private lake frontage with sweeping views of the Adirondack High Peaks. A wood-clad main cabin and a newly built guest cabin anchor the grounds, together offering three bedrooms and three bathrooms that balance shared gathering space with private corners for retreat. The lake and mountains form a quiet, ever-present backdrop, and the setting feels both intimate and expansive, offering a sense of retreat without ever losing sight of the surrounding natural beauty.
Modern Farmhouse Estate in Bovina Center, NY
Set at the end of a tree-lined allée with cascading waterfalls, this modern farmhouse is nestled into landscaped grounds overlooking the Bovina Valley and distant ridge lines. Defined by its seamless connection to nature, the home opens to wraparound porches, bluestone terraces, and French doors that frame sweeping views. Beyond the main residence, the property unfolds into gardens, outdoor rooms, and guest spaces — a Catskills retreat designed for both quiet living and convivial gathering.