Escape to Callicoon Hills: A Modern Retreat in the Heart of Nature

Mar 15, 2025 at 7:00 PM

Nestled within the picturesque Catskills Mountains, just a short drive from New York City, Callicoon Hills presents an idyllic escape for urban dwellers seeking tranquility. This historic retreat, once a boarding house for farmhands and later transformed into a hotel, now offers a harmonious blend of rustic charm and contemporary conveniences. With its on-site amenities like a restaurant, bar, sauna cabins, swimming pool, gym, yoga deck, and glamping options, it caters perfectly to modern travelers. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in nature or explore nearby attractions, this destination promises a rejuvenating experience.

Beyond its accommodations, Callicoon Hills provides easy access to a variety of local adventures. Visitors can enjoy guided treks, yoga sessions, and social gatherings around the fire pit. Nearby, attractions such as the Buck Brook Alpaca Farm, scenic country roads, Seminary Hill Cidery, and natural wonders like Jensen Ledges offer endless opportunities for exploration. For those looking to venture further, Saugerties awaits as a charming upstate destination filled with unique experiences.

The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Nature

Callicoon Hills boasts diverse lodging options designed to cater to every traveler's preferences. The Boarding House, with its modern amenities and breathtaking views, serves as the central hub for guests. Complementing it are the Ridge Rooms and Pool House, ideal for pet-friendly stays. Additionally, a secluded cottage by the creek offers a private retreat for groups, complete with a craftsman-style kitchen and outdoor fire pit. From May to October, guests can indulge in glamping within 11 A-frame cabins, providing an authentic outdoor experience enhanced by shared facilities and communal activities.

This retreat seamlessly integrates comfort with nature’s beauty. Guests staying at the centuries-old Boarding House benefit from direct access to the lobby, coffee shop, and Conover Club restaurant, enjoying panoramic landscapes while being steps away from essential services. For those preferring more privacy, the Ridge Rooms and Pool House provide cozy accommodations near the property's king-size swimming pool and serene hillside. Families or groups can revel in the exclusivity of the private cottage, perfect for self-catered meals and fireside gatherings. Meanwhile, the A-frame cabins, nestled amidst lush forests, deliver a rugged yet refined glamping adventure equipped with electricity, Wi-Fi, and comfortable bedding, ensuring both solitude and connectivity.

A Gateway to Adventure and Discovery

Callicoon Hills not only offers a peaceful stay but also serves as a gateway to numerous exciting excursions. Closeby attractions include the Buck Brook Alpaca Farm, ideal for families, and Bethlehem Road, offering runners miles of scenic, car-free paths. Food enthusiasts can explore the local farmer’s market or savor artisanal ciders at Seminary Hill Cidery. Outdoor lovers will relish hikes to Jensen Ledges, boasting stunning views of the Upper Delaware River Valley, and educational tours with The Outside Institute, which delve into wildcrafting and botanical mixology.

Guests at Callicoon Hills find themselves surrounded by countless possibilities for adventure. A short drive leads to the enchanting Buck Brook Alpaca Farm, where children and adults alike delight in interacting with these gentle creatures. Runners rave about Bethlehem Road, praised for its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque scenery. Culinary explorers have much to look forward to, whether sampling fresh produce at the farmer’s market or indulging in flavorful ciders crafted at Seminary Hill Cidery. Nature enthusiasts can embark on rewarding hikes to Jensen Ledges, culminating in awe-inspiring vistas, or join guided walks with The Outside Institute, gaining insights into foraging and crafting botanical concoctions. For those eager to extend their journey, Saugerties beckons as a hidden gem brimming with cultural richness and vibrant charm, making it a must-visit location during any Catskills getaway.