While New York City is known for its remarkable luxury and boutique hotels, Upstate New York offers a refreshing change of pace for travelers seeking natural beauty and vibrant community life.
Upstate New York typically refers to the areas north and northwest of New York City, encompassing regions such as the Hudson Valley, the Catskills, and the Finger Lakes.
These areas are not just picturesque; they are becoming increasingly popular as urban dwellers escape the concrete jungle in search of relaxation and revitalization.
To cater to this growing demand, Upstate New York boasts an impressive selection of design-forward accommodations.
From elegant mansion estates to charming boutique inns, we delve into some standout hotels recommended by design and travel experts.
**Camptown Catskills (Leeds, New York)**
Camptown Catskills brings a modern twist to the nostalgic motor lodge experience.
According to Rachel Cope, co-founder of Calico Wallpaper, it offers a stylish upgrade to a classic concept.
Designed by Kim Bucci and Ray Pirkle, notable for their work on Rivertown Lodge, this hotel is set at the foot of the Catskill Mountains in quaint, forest-green buildings.
Guests can enjoy cozy king-sized rooms adorned with burl wood side tables and seagrass wallpaper.
For a more private experience, the property includes log cabins featuring retro kitchenettes and wood-burning fireplaces.
Cope highlights the on-site restaurant, Casa Susanna, as a must-visit, especially for their homemade masa tortillas.
In addition to the charming accommodations, guests can bask in a heated saltwater pool, unwind in an outdoor sauna, and gather around a fire pit in the evening.
**Eastwind Oliverea Valley (Big Indian, New York)**
For travelers who enjoy the essence of camping but prefer the comfort of luxurious bedding, Eastwind Oliverea Valley is a perfect destination.
This unique hospitality brand is rooted in European-style holidays, offering a rustic yet refined outdoor experience.
Jackie Caradonio, author of The Inn Crowd, describes the mini A-frames available for rent, which accommodate a king-size bed and feature upscale amenities like private outhouses with hand-fired tiles and skylights.
As guests venture outside, they have direct access to the McKenley Hollow Trailhead, with options for hammock lounging, nightly bonfires, and outdoor meals, emphasizing the stunning natural surroundings.
**Glenmere Mansion (Chester, NY)**
Glenmere Mansion stands as a beacon of luxury and elegance in Upstate New York.
Its opulent design and historical significance prove to be a remarkable escape from the city.
**Hotel Kinsley (Kingston, New York)**
Hotel Kinsley serves as a bridge for urban New Yorkers hesitant to venture far from the city.
Located in the heart of Kingston within four restored 19th-century buildings, this contemporary hotel redefines the Upstate aesthetic with its modern touches.
Interiors, crafted by Studio McKinley, offer warmth and sophistication, featuring sleek wooden furnishings and art from the owner’s collection, rather than the traditional rustic motifs of plaid and antlers.
Each room boasts unique elements, including cozy fireplaces, mid-century chairs, and high-end linens, ensuring a refined yet comfortable experience.
**Hotel Lilien (Tannersville, New York)**
The charming Hotel Lilien, set in an 1890s Victorian mansion near Hunter Mountain, is perfect for those seeking a blend of historic charm and modern comfort.
Developed by the Lost Boys Hospitality Group and designed by Field Theory, the boutique inn features eclectic interiors that merge various styles.
The space includes stained glass windows, exposed brick, and midcentury art, creating an inviting environment where guests can unwind.
With no televisions in the rooms, visitors are encouraged to explore the natural beauty of the Catskills or relax by the swimming pool.
**The Henson (Hensonville, New York)**
The Henson has quickly gained popularity as an Instagram-worthy retreat in Upstate New York, thanks to the efforts of Ely and Danielle Franko.
What began as a collection of Airbnbs has transformed into a 16-room inn, carefully designed to embody the essence of an Upstate escape.
Caradonio appreciates the hotel’s shared spaces, such as an honor bar filled with natural wines and artisanal chocolates, alongside a cozy atmosphere created by curated book collections and thoughtful decor.
Personal touches, like the painted portraits from Ely’s grandmother and Danielle’s floral arrangements, foster a homey vibe.
The standout restaurant features exquisite dishes, including wood-grilled oysters that guests rave about.
**The Maker (Hudson, New York)**
In Hudson, The Maker offers a unique immersive experience for guests who appreciate eclectic design.
Set across three historical buildings, this inn harmoniously combines elements from various design periods, creating a visually stunning ambiance.
Rachel Cope notes the artisanal focus, with every detail curated, from vibrant fabrics to the exclusive bed linens.
Beyond enjoying luxurious accommodations, guests can also indulge in cocktails at a fire-lit carriage house bar and dine at the observatory restaurant while exploring Hudson’s antique shops nearby.
**The Six Bells Inn (Rosendale, New York)**
Transitioning from a curated shop in Brooklyn to a beloved hospitality spot, The Six Bells Inn captivates with its thoughtful design.
With just 11 rooms, the inn draws in design enthusiasts seeking the ideal countryside getaway.
Created by Adam Greco, the interiors reflect both British and American influences, showcasing cozy features like fabric-draped four-poster beds and charming quilts.
**The Villa at Saugerties (Saugerties, New York)**
The Villa at Saugerties epitomizes a hidden gem known only to those in the know.
Boasting only four rooms, this Mediterranean-style B&B prioritizes luxury and personalized service under the watchful eye of its owners.
Amanda Zaslow’s interior design showcases exquisite handmade Moroccan textiles and rustic wooden beams, setting a serene atmosphere.
Additionally, Joe Moseley, a Food Network alum, prepares delightful breakfasts that guests look forward to every morning.
Surrounded by blooming gardens, guests can enjoy a tranquil pool area before indulging in refreshing boozy lemonade, emphasizing the B&B’s commitment to relaxation and indulgence.
**Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection (Gardiner, New York)**
Spanning 140 acres in Gardiner, Wildflower Farms combines luxury with nature, making it a top-tier destination for relaxation.
Andrew Kline, of Workshop/APD, highlights the seamless connection between the architecture and the serene landscape.
The design skillfully melds rustic textures with elevated aesthetics, creating an inviting space for guests.
The lobby’s indoor/outdoor concept allows for breathtaking views, while the luxurious cabins and cottages echo the vibrant colors and materials of the surrounding area.
Outdoor amenities include scenic footpaths, secluded meadow hot tubs, and one of the finest spas in Upstate New York, catering to guests’ desire for both adventure and pampering.
In conclusion, Upstate New York’s emerging hospitality scene, rich with unique boutique hotels and breathtaking landscapes, is attracting visitors yearning for a serene escape.
Whether you prefer the playful nostalgia of a rejuvenated motor lodge or the refined elegance of upscale hospitality, there is no shortage of exceptional accommodations waiting to be explored.
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