This list features lakeside cabins, treehouse cottages, and riverside hotels, all of which are the perfect spots to enjoy the water in the morning and a bonfire (or drink in town) in the evening. This list features lakeside cabins, treehouse cottages, and riverside hotels, all of which are the perfect spots to enjoy the water in the morning and a bonfire (or drink in town) in the evening.

Photos: Salvato Mill

Two hours north of NYC in Salt Point, NY, the charming and ultra-unique Salvato Mill is an 18th century mill reimagined as an idyllic escape. Inside, the mansion is filled with a mix of antiques and mid-century modern furniture and decor. With a large living room centered around a fireplace that flows into a dining room with a 10-person table, the living areas are perfect for entertaining. Outside, there is a multi-level patio with a dining table and stainless steel glass grill, perfect for late summer evenings. The building features classic touches from its days as a functioning mill, including a waterfall that flows through the building and into the creek below. In addition to exploring the 11-acre property, relaxing on the patio, or gathering in the stone courtyard, guests can also enjoy the creek through the summer.

This Design Forward Home Features The Most Surreal Outdoor Space

Salvato Mill has an expansive history – its use as a gristmill and sawmill dates to the 1750’s. After stints as a cotton mill, cider mill, and even a button factory, the original mill burned down; its remains are still present, creating a surreal outdoor space where guests can dine and enjoy cocktails to the sound of rushing water

Photos: Clay Banks

These Two Good Cabins, located on the peaceful, non-motorized Lake Muskoday, serve as the ideal getaway for those looking to live out their lakeside dreams. The cabins—one a spacious chalet, one a quaint guesthouse—are connected by a large wraparound deck, making it easy to move around the property. The deck also features an outdoor dining and grilling area that looks out onto the lake, with enough space for guests in both cabins to enjoy a shared meal outside. Guest perks include a pontoon boat, stand-up paddle boards, and kayaks, and the non-motorized lake is perfect for a relaxing swim (or float). For those looking to enjoy the lake views without getting in the water, the grounds have plenty of space for lawn games, relaxing around the fire, or lounging on the dock.

Two Good Cabins: The Great Indoors

The living room in the main cabin, which features a stone fireplace and glass doors that open onto the back deck, provides a cozy space for guests to gather inside after spending the day in the sun. Just over two hours from New York City, this picturesque stay can accommodate up to seven guests.

Photos: Escape Brooklyn

This iconic property sits on a fifty-two acre property in Barryville, NY, less than two hours away from New York City. Nestled in an old-growth pine forest, the main building (also known as the bunkhouse) is built from a reclaimed barn, seamlessly merging rustic and industrial aesthetics. The bunkhouse features a chef’s kitchen, an indoor/outdoor fireplace, a large deck with an outdoor table and seating, and a dedicated yoga and meditation space. Other buildings on the property include Scott’s Cabin (as seen on the cover of Cabin Porn), a one-room “treehouse” that overlooks Beaver Brook, and a natural wood-fired sauna. The brook, which runs throughout the property, is approximately twelve feet wide, and is the ideal place for guests to cool off during the summer months. For those who want to explore the expansive property, there is a suspension bridge that goes over the brook, allowing easy crossing year-round.

Excursions on the Delaware River:

For those looking for a faster-paced adventure, less than twenty minutes north of Barryville is Lander’s River Trips, which offers raft, tube, canoe, and kayak rentals for excursions on the Delaware River. For those less river-sport inclined, check out the shopping in nearby Narrowsburg, Barryville and Callicoon. If you’re there on a weekend, don’t miss the Barryville Farmers Market!

Photos: Dawn Point Studios

Less than two hours north of New York City, Glen Falls House sits at the base of the Catskill Mountains in Round Top, NY. Surrounded by nearly fifty acres of undeveloped land, this boutique hotel provides a unique experience for those looking for a getaway on the water. Hike through several miles of on-site trails to the captivating waterfalls and swimming holes on the property for a refreshing dip. After a day of swimming and relaxing creekside, guests can return to the hotel to enjoy a meal at Trotwood Restaurant before ending their evening by playing lawn games or sitting around a bonfire. For those who prefer to spend their days lounging poolside, Glen Falls House also has a stunning pool for guests.

Three Ways to Stay

Glen Falls House has three different spaces for overnight accommodations, each offering something different. The Main House provides proximity to the hotel bar and restaurant, the Cottage is a cozy (pet-friendly) retreat, and Hilltop provides privacy for larger parties.

Photos: c/o Saugerties Lighthouse

In the middle of the Hudson River (yes, the middle), the Bed & Breakfast at the Saugerties Lighthouse is one of the most unique stays in the Hudson Valley. Surrounded by water on a remote shoal, the Lighthouse can be reached only by walking a half-mile trail through the Ruth Reynolds Glunt Nature Preserve. The bespoke guest rooms on the second floor are tranquil and breezy, and provide stunning views of the river. Throughout their stay, guests are welcome to climb into the operational lighthouse tower, or to visit the museum on the second floor to learn more about the historic landmark. Outside, a riverside deck provides space for private grilling and picnicking. This getaway is the ideal spot for a leisurely weekend of fishing, hiking, relaxing riverside, and exploring the surrounding area.

Should You Ever Want to Leave…

Despite the secluded feeling of the Bed & Breakfast, the Village of Saugerties is a quick five minute drive from the nature preserve’s parking lot. For those looking for an evening on the town, Upstate Film’s Orpheum Theatre shows a variety of movies, from experimental short films to classic features. Other key stops include the open-air bar at The Partition, The Kitchen at Salt & Fire, and The Local.

Photos: Clay Banks

This contemporary, lakeside Red Cottage getaway is located in the heart of the Catskills, just two hours from New York City. Nestled on five acres, Spirit Cabin is the ideal retreat for those looking to surround themselves with nature. The cabin’s wraparound deck has plenty of space for outdoor entertaining, with a seating area with a hammock, dining table that seats eight, gas grill, and lounge spaces accessible through the bedrooms. With a heated saltwater pool, hot tub, barrel sauna, outdoor shower, and poolhouse-turned-gym, the property has a spa-like feel that makes this short term rental feel like a resort. Guests are able to swim or boat in the lake using equipment provided, and can enjoy their evenings around the lakeside fire pit.

Beyond the Home: Exploring Forestburgh

Spirit Cabin is nestled in the hamlet of Forestburgh, a quaint Catskills town that has plenty to offer. Should you ever want to leave this decadent home, nearby Forage Pizza’s wood-fired pizzas feature locally sourced ingredients, giving you a true taste of the Catskills. After grabbing a bite, catch a show at the Forestburgh Playhouse, which puts on a variety of performances, from renditions of Broadway favorites to dinner cabarets.

Photos: Walker Esner

Twin Lakes Cottage is a meticulously restored 1930’s stone cottage, perched on a hillside in West Mountain State Forest. Inside, guests can gather around a grand fireplace and enjoy the natural light that pours through the living area’s large windows and skylights (which offer inside views of fall foliage in September and October). Outside, a wraparound deck provides space to lounge and take in the stunning views of the state park. Off to the side, there is a bluestone patio with a fire pit surrounded by Adirondack chairs, creating the perfect stargazing spot. A private stone footpath leads through the forest to the neighboring non-motorized lake. There, guests are able to relax on the beach, kayak, paddle board, and swim out to the floating docks in the water.

Explore the Outdoors

For those looking to explore the forest around the property, the neighboring Blackberry Pond Loop offers a leisurely hike through the forest. The shaded four-mile loop is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the state land beyond the property.

Photo: Escape Brooklyn

Situated on the banks of the Ten Mile River, this magical riverfront cabin is an oasis of tranquility and mid-century modern design. Spend late summer days relaxing in the river, rinse off in the outdoor shower, and move to the streamside dining table for al fresco dinners. For a true “spa in the forest” feel, guests can take a dip in the Japanese-style wood burning hot tub. Load it up on your arrival to get the water warming, then spend the day alternating between creek dips and hot tub sessions. In the evenings, a fire pit on the deck is the perfect spot to get cozy – or gather round the fire pit in front of the cabin for an expansive view of the stars.

Photo: Niv Rozenberg

Should You Ever Want to Leave…

For easy drinks and dinners, the cabin is walkable to the Blue Fox Motel, and just a few minutes into the town of Narrowsburg. Check the Escape Brooklyn Guide to Narrowsburg for more information on the area.

Photos: Escape Brooklyn

Tucked between the Esopus Creek and the Catskills, Perch Cottages offers a laid-back mountain retreat less than two hours north of New York City. 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, grills, and creek access. In the middle, a central courtyard has lawn games, Adirondack chairs and bonfires, with the backdrop of the mountains. Perch Cottages’ many amenities make 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 gas bonfires are accessible to guests for evening socializing, s’mores making, and stargazing. A bonus: Perch Cottages is one of our favorite pet-friendly getaways.

Weekend Happenings in the Catskills

Through the summer, The Pines (a cozy restaurant in nearby Mt. Tremper) turns their backyard into a popular destination for casual hangs, live music, specialty drinks, and hot dogs served up by The Dog House.

Photos: Escape Brooklyn

Just over two hours from Manhattan, The Leeway is a picturesque, nine-room boutique motel in Mount Tremper, NY. Previously Kate’s Lazy Meadow, the landmark hotel has undergone a massive facelift, and immerses its guests in a perfect blend of modern comfort and natural beauty. The property itself is a tranquil oasis, with two meadows, a seasonal stream, and direct access to the Esopus Creek. Guests can spend their day creekside, enjoying the water, fly fishing, sun bathing, or playing fetch with the dog (yes, this is a pet-friendly stay!). In the evenings, The Leeway hosts thoughtfully curated fireside gatherings at their creekside fire pit, where comfortable seating, ambient lighting, and relaxing hammocks create the perfect atmosphere for unwinding.

Solitude is Bliss: Spend Midweek at The Leeway

The Leeway is one of our favorite “work from home” getaways. With strong wifi, complimentary locally roasted coffee, and stunning views of the Esopus, even the busiest work day can feel like a vacation here. Read more about The Leeway in our August Escape Club newsletter.

Photos: c/o The Roundhouse

Just over an hour north of New York City, The Roundhouse is a boutique hotel in the center of Beacon, NY. This group of restored industrial buildings sits on the Fishkill Creek, at the foot of the beautiful Beacon Falls. The Roundhouse’s main building houses its lobby, restaurant, bar/lounge, and the main portion of the hotel, with an additional building called The Mill adding extra space for guests. One of the highlights of this hotel is its restaurant patio, which overlooks the creek and waterfall. Enjoy an incredible meal (there are plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options) while listening to the sounds of the falls, and then pop back inside to grab a drink at the hotel bar. Rooms at The Roundhouse feature amenities like jacuzzi tubs, fully-stocked wet bars, and walk-in showers, making it a sought-after waterside getaway.

Car-less Getaway from NYC:

To get to Beacon from New York City by train, hop on the Metro-North from Grand Central Station and arrive in less than two hours. Once in town, catch an Uber to The Roundhouse, which is in a walkable location on the east end of Main Street. Check out our Guide to Beacon to see some of our favorite spots in Beacon.

Photos: Camille Tokerud

Set on the serene Walton Lake, Pine’s Reach gives us summer camp vibes in the best way possible. Designed with its surroundings in mind, these adjoining cabins with wooden floorboards, folding doors, and outdoor walkways give the sense of being in a giant adult treehouse. Inside, the home is filled with relaxing touches like a large Japanese soaking tub, an indoor hammock, and a cozy wood burning stove. The large cabin’s open kitchen, dining, and living areas are ideal for cooking large meals and entertaining. Outside, the walkways turn into a deck that has a grill, fire pit, and a lounge area that looks onto the lake. A private path takes you from the house down to the lake, where guests can swim, kayak, or float with ease.

Beyond The Ridge:

Less than half an hour from Pine’s Ridge is Harriman State Park, the largest state park in the region. For a fun-yet-challenging hike, the Seven Hills and Reeves Brook Loop is a 4.4 mile hike with expansive views atop each hill (there are seven) of the New York City skyline, Torne Valley, and Catskill Mountains in the distance.

Photos: Marsh Meadows

Once a studio belonging to acclaimed painter Reginald Marsh, The Pond House sits at the base of the Catskills, looking out over the Indian Head Wilderness. Inside, the spacious living room, anchored by a stunning wood-burning stove, expansive ceilings, and large windows, offers plenty of space for gathering. Its eclectic interior merges mid-century and art deco style, making this the ideal getaway for the design-savvy. Outside, guests can relax on the stone patio and admire views of the pond and cedar trees beyond. The swimming pond, steps away from the house, is the perfect place to take a swim or float in a raft. In the evenings, grill up a meal and enjoy it sitting by the water, catching an incredible sunset over the mountains.

While Staying in Woodstock:

For those looking for a relatively easy hike in the area, the Overlook Mountain Wild Forest offers one of our favorite hikes in the Catskills; The Overlook Mountain Trail. At the summit, climb to the top of the fire tower to see a fantastic view of the mountains, all year round. Afterward, reward yourself with a drink at Small Talk or a meal at Good Night.