Your Guide to the Boutique Hotels of the Hudson Valley
Article by Sabrina Sucato, Julia Colombo, and Matt Moment via HV Mag
Whether you’re dreaming of an upstate escape or a local staycation, charming Hudson Valley hotels and inns are the perfect retreats.
What comes to mind when you think of escape? In the Hudson Valley, escape is as much of a lifestyle as it is a concept. It’s woven into the landscape of forests and mountains, sprinkled across babbling brooks and rivers, and scattered throughout the effortlessly charming collection of towns that comprise the region.
Because of the Valley’s natural beauty, it’s no surprise that it holds such an allure for locals and visitors alike. People have always looked to the Hudson Valley and its chic, boutique hotels for one-of-a-kind stays that allow them to disconnect, unwind, and recharge. Fortunately for all, the region’s hotels are experts when it comes to crafting unforgettable overnights that are beautiful and relaxing.
Without further ado, scroll below to discover the most marvelous boutique Hudson Valley hotels.
Bluebird Hunter Lodge
Hunter
Photo courtesy of Bluebird Hunter Lodge
Part of the Lark Hotels family, Bluebird Hunter Lodge embraces a ‘70s ski lodge aesthetic in the Catskills. The mood is at once cozy, modern, and rustic, which means each stay is designed to offer a true respite from daily living and a chance to connect with the beauty of the Hudson Valley. With its its prime location in Hunter, the lodge is a central hub for activities ranging from skiing and snow tubing to hiking, fishing, and ziplining. Kaaterskill Wild Forest and Indian Head Wilderness are nearby for outdoor explorations, while Phoenicia and Woodstock are in driving distance for anyone in the mood for a day trip.
Eastwind Hotel & Bar
Windham
Photo by Lawrence Braun, courtesy of Eastwind Hotel & Bar
Anyone dreaming of a retreat to Hunter or Windham Mountain will want to bookmark Eastwind, the boutique Hudson Valley hotel led by a hospitality professional and his wife. The 20-acre property is scenic, secluded, and filled with everything guests might need to enjoy a one-stop stay. Rooms range from standard spaces to private lushnas (Scandinavian-style camping units that take glamping to new heights).
Eastwind opens its bar for socializing and cocktails to hotel guests and visitors alike. Outside, it offers bikes, hammocks, and a wood-barrel sauna, not to mention outdoor yoga, to guests who want to spend time in the great outdoors during the warmer months. During winter, it’s a no-brainer destination for skiers and snowboarders who want to make the most of slopeside staycations in the Hudson Valley.
Foxfire Mountain House
Mount Tremper
Photo courtesy of Foxfire Mountain House
With a bohemian atmosphere that thrives on vintage details and natural touches, Foxfire Mountain House is a craveable escape in Ulster County. The boutique Hudson Valley hotel resides upon 10 acres, which also play host to a pond, lily pool, bonfire pits, gardens, bocce ball court, and horseshoes. There are 11 rooms inside the 100-year-old inn, and all are equally sumptuous thanks to handmade king and queen beds, fresh linen bedding, and cozy décor.
Hasbrouck House
Stone Ridge
View this post on Instagram
Hasbrouck House dates back to the 18th century, when it was a Dutch colonial stone mansion in the Hudson Valley. Nowadays, the boutique hotel treats guests to romantic escapes in its 25 bedrooms spread across four buildings. While the welcoming interior is a temptation, so too are the 100-year-old landmark pool and the 50-plus acres complete with a private lake. Plus, visitors to this Hudson Valley hotel would be remiss to pass up a meal at Butterfield, the inn’s restaurant, bar, and lounge that tempts with all those farm-to-table flavors this region does so well.
Guests can book massages and yoga sessions at the House’s Whole Sky Yoga Studio, and each reservation includes complimentary hiking passes to Mohonk Preserve.
The Herwood Inn
Woodstock
Photo by Winona Barton-Ballentine, Shelter Upstate
Anyone craving a close-to-home vacation in Woodstock won’t want to pass up a night at The Herwood Inn. With its hip, socially conscious vibe, the boutique Hudson Valley hotel is a creative retreat in the heart of Ulster County. Rooms at this Hudson Valley hotel are inspired by Aretha Franklin, Carole King, Joni Mitchell, and Stevie Nicks, offering a cheery and bright atmosphere with desirable details that include everything from clawfoot soaking tubs and private outdoor patios to open kitchenettes and pet-friendly spaces. Plus, for couples who want to plan something small, Herwood offers elopements that are intimate and romantic.
Hotel Kinsley
Kingston
View this post on Instagram
Hotel Kinsley is a hotel, but not in the way you might think. Instead, the Kingston venue is more of a concept, one that operates across multiple historic venues around town. The Wall Street building, which dates back to the 1860s, is the flagship, with 10 rooms and an effortlessly cool vibe, thanks in large part to its former life as the New York State Bank.
A stay here pairs perfectly with a meal at Restaurant Kinsley, the farm-to-table, new American eatery that’s a little retro, a little hipster, and 100-percent a must-visit. Nearby, the Pearl Street building is a 1680s stunner with 13 rooms open for overnights. More recently, the Hudson Valley hotel added the Fair Street Building and the John Street Building to its repertoire of experiences.
Hotel Tivoli
Tivoli
View this post on Instagram
How idyllic does an upstate escape to Hotel Tivoli sound right now? With its 100-year-old history and eclectic, modern décor, the Hudson Valley hotel does a beautiful job of merging Tivoli’s small-town charm with Brooklyn-esque pops of color. It comes part and parcel with The Corner, the hotel’s Mediterranean-focused restaurant and bar that tempts with farm-fresh ingredients and delectable cocktails designed by the team behind New York City’s Employees Only. In short, it’s just the place for foodies who crave a break upstate in one of the Hudson Valley’s loveliest little towns. Fun fact: Hotel Tivoli is owned by artists Brice and Helen Marden.
Little Cat Lodge
Hillsdale
Photo by Max Flatow, courtesy of Little Cat Lodge
With an idyllic location in Columbia County, Little Cat Lodge is an Alpine-inspired hotel and restaurant located at the base of Catamount Mountain. Because it’s smack dab between the Hudson Valley and the Berkshires, it’s an ideal homebase for anyone in search of winter fun in the region. In addition to overnight stays and dining, the lodge offers a private dining room that’s perfect for larger gatherings and celebrations in the Hudson Valley.
The Maker
Hudson
Photo by The Maker Group
Yes, The Maker is a boutique hotel in the Hudson Valley. Yet it’s also so much more than that, thanks to its mixed bag of luxe attractions that include a café, lounge, restaurant, and—more recently—a fitness center and juice bar. The property is owned by the co-founders of global beauty brand Fresh and, more locally, Bartlett House in Ghent. Inside, guests can immerse themselves in a world of bohemian luxury, with rooms named after different types of creatives and filled with unusual antiques and eye-catching treasures.
In addition to unforgettable overnights, The Maker treats visitors to everything from house-made snacks and a dreamy library to an idyllic pool and decadent cocktails and dining at its three eating spaces. Add to all that the fact that The Maker sits squarely in the heart of ever-popular Hudson, and locals have every excuse to book a staycation in the Hudson Valley.
The Millbrook Inn
Millbrook
View this post on Instagram
If history is what you seek, head to The Millbrook Inn, which resides in a building that dates back more than 100 years. Countryside charm is the name of the game here, but not in the way you think. With a focus on the luxury, boutique experience, the hotel exudes an elegant warmth in the form of antique furnishings, vibrant wallpapers, and textured fabrics in each room (seriously, ogle them here).
Of course, the rooms are only half the story. Each morning, The Millbrook Inn delights guests with a farm-to-table breakfast that’s more than a little dreamy. Expect local eggs, yogurt, and produce to grace the table in the a.m. and, if you stop by The Vintage restaurant and bar for dinner, see that theme continue into the p.m. as well.
Scribner’s Catskill Lodge
Hunter
View this post on Instagram
Deep in the heart of the Catskills, Scribner’s Catskill Lodge awaits to welcome visitors on snowy and sunshine-filled days alike. The mountainside resort is only a short drive away from Hunter Mountain, making it a delight for skiers and snowboarders. In addition to its 38 cozy rooms onsite, the Hudson Valley hotel and lodge also treats visitors to dining by Prospect, the onsite restaurant, for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Plus, for guests who want a memento for the road, the gift shop stocks Scribner’s paraphernalia from mugs to tote bags.
Shandaken Inn
Shandaken
View this post on Instagram
The former clubhouse for Rip Van Winkle Golf Course was revived as a delightful inn in the Catskills in 2019. It sits on over 12 acres, with 15 rooms and amenities available to keep guests happily occupied. The vibe inside the Hudson Valley hotel is elegant and warm, with thoughtful details like Frette linens and Malin & Goetz bath products in each room. As for the extras, the fitness room with Peloton bikes, seasonal tennis court, outdoor pool, and fire pits are all exactly what guests need to revive and unwind. In regard to food, The Clubhouse is the inn’s onsite restaurant and a go-to for local cuisine on Wednesday through Sunday evenings.
Starlite Motel
Kerhonkson
View this post on Instagram
Part Schitt’s Creek, part I Dream of Jeannie, Kerhonkson’s Starlite Motel delivers a dose of 1960s magic in Ulster County. With an artistic duo at the helm, the retreat delights with Wes Anderson-esque pops of color that stand out against the serene Catskills backdrop. Its handful of rooms are adorned with old Americana touches that contrast wonderfully with the modern, minimalistic design. In season, Starlite’s saltwater pool is a must-visit, as is its crackling fire pit. The Hudson Valley hotel is a perfect home base for adventures into the mountains.
Urban Cowboy Lodge
Big Indian
Photo by Ben Fitchett, courtesy of Urban Cowboy Lodge
The whispers of Ulster County’s storied resort culture past (remember the Borscht Belt?) come alive once more, this time with a hip and modern twist, in the form of Urban Cowboy Lodge. Set just a short drive from Phoenicia along the Esopus Creek, the wilderness retreat resides on 68 acres and serves as a hub for outdoor attractions like fly fishing, hiking and skiing.
Onsite, the Hudson Valley hotel welcomes guests to its 28 rooms, freestanding cabin, and cozy chalet for overnights. From there, visitors are free to explore the outdoors or stick to lounging on the private outdoor deck or soaking in one of the in-room cedar or copper tubs. Of course, Urban Cowboy isn’t just a hotel. Its eatery, Public House, has a holistic focus that prioritizes fresh, local produce for each of the meals it serves. With food, relaxation, and endless things to do, it’s not a bad place to spend a weekend in the Hudson Valley, right?
Vanderbilt Lakeside
Philmont
View this post on Instagram
If you’ve never heard of a Victorian lake house before, don’t be surprised. Columbia County’s Vanderbilt Lakeside might just be the only one in existence. The Hudson Valley hotel resides on an enviable plot of land with its very own lake. Of course, that means the property is a delight for guests, who are free to sit waterside or picnic outdoors in the warmer weather. Inside, the bohemian, hipster hotel calls to mind literary characters like Jay Gatsby and Dorian Gray, thanks in large part to its moodily romantic décor. There are eight rooms in total, and they all come with private bathrooms. Also on the grounds, the hotel’s eponymous restaurant is just as much a local favorite for its flavor-driven menu as it is for its curated bar offerings.
The Villa at Saugerties
Saugerties
Photos by Amanda Zaslow, courtesy The Villa at Saugerties
Does a villa count as a boutique hotel? Yes, if you’re looking for one of the most indulgent overnight locations in the Hudson Valley. The Saugerties retreat resembles a European escape, even though it’s just a short drive from the center of town. As for the four rooms, they’re a study in elegance, with thoughtful details like plush beds, gas fireplaces, cozy robes, and deep soaking tubs. During the warmer months, guests are welcome to lounge away on private patios or skip on over to the picturesque pool to swim a few laps. The experience at this Hudson Valley hotel is unforgettable as is, and even more so when paired with one of the owners’ homemade, farm-to-table breakfasts. Just-baked muffins and fresh frittatas, anyone?
Wm. Farmer and Sons
Hudson
Sure, you could just stop by Wm. Farmer and Sons for a delectable farm-to-table meal. Yet when the Hudson hotspot comes with its very own boutique hotel, it seems a shame to pass up a visit here without planning an overnight to go with it. Visitors from both near and far will fall in love with the medley of rooms available across the Hudson Valley hotel’s historic handful of buildings. The main building, which dates back to the 1830s, houses seven guest rooms, while The Merchant House next-door comes with four unique rooms that offer access to a serene garden. On the opposite side, The Annex Suites are a go-to for families that crave additional space or a longer stay at the Hudson Valley hotel.
The Woodhouse Lodge
Greenville
View this post on Instagram
Did someone say hidden retreat in the Catskills? Because that’s precisely what The Woodhouse Lodge is. With 10 rooms to its name, the 1962 hotspot is just as striking outside as it is within, due in part to its partial A-frame construction and mid-century modern décor. The property sits on four airy acres featuring fire pits, hammocks, and scenic views. The 10 rooms, meanwhile, are designed to help guests unwind, with everything from beds that are almost too lovely to tuck into to bathrooms stocked with Woodhouse Provisions products. Plus, this Hudson Valley hotel launched Woodhouse Pizza, “for takeout or hangout.”
Woodstock Way Hotel
Woodstock
View this post on Instagram
Located a hop and skip away from the heart of town, Woodstock Way is eye-catching from the start. The Hudson Valley hotel sits just behind a waterfall, where it channels a contemporary aesthetic that pairs perfectly with its conscious and sustainable sensibilities. Guests can choose to stay the night inside the hotel’s medley of cabins, rooms, and suites, which range from standard queens and kings with tubs to standalone retreats so welcoming that they’re nearly impossible to leave.
While the rooms are an attraction in themselves, equally enjoyable is The Tannery, the hotel’s historic lobby space that once served as a tannery in the 1800s. Today, it’s a stopping point for refreshments, art, and artisan wares. And did we mention the wellness offerings? Woodstock Way is ready to help visitors turn each stay into an experience, thanks to in-room massage therapy, private yoga instruction, and individualized spiritual healing sessions upon request.
Wylder Windham
Windham
Photo by Sabrina Sucato
At Wylder Windham, it’s all about the experience. With an idyllic location next-door to Windham Mountain and a short drive away from Hunter Mountain, Wylder Windham is a top choice for overnight guests in Greene County. Because the hotel spans seven properties, comprised of lodges, inns, manors, and cottages, no two stays here are the same. Visitors can pick and choose between The Pines Inn (28 rooms), The Tamarack Lodge (16 rooms), The Manor (14 rooms), The Spruce Cottage (14 rooms), The Evergreen Lodge (25 rooms), The Main Lodge (13 rooms), and the Farmhouse (1 key residence).
When the hunger pangs hit, Wylder Windham is a one-stop shop for dining as well. The hotel plays host to Babblers, a restaurant that walks the line between comfort food and fine dining. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and live music on select days adds to the mood of conviviality.