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From horseback riding through golden mountain trails and strolling a riverside historic district that looks straight out of a movie set, to intimate dinners and cozy speakeasy nightcaps, their itinerary was a masterclass in slowing down and soaking it all in. Consider this your sign to start planning your own Catskills escape.
We checked in at the James Newbury Hotel in Coxsackie, after an easy 30-minute drive from Albany. The hotel was originally built in 1906 as a manufacturing facility and the property was the site of a former 19th-century shipping port and iron foundry. As an ode to its history, the design and aesthetics pay homage to the site’s industrial and maritime past while seamlessly blending in modern motifs and contemporary luxury.
After settling into our room and exploring the property, we walked around the Reed Street Historic District and Coxsackie Riverside Park in downtown Coxsackie. It’s a place so special that you almost don’t want to tell people about it – but you do because it’s simply too good to keep to yourself. The district has everything from retro eateries to modern and antique shops all set within a town so cute it looks as if it could be a movie set. Fun-to-visit spots include:
For dinner we snagged a reservation from the cozy and stylish Che Figata Bistro, where the warm glow of the patio’s string lights welcomed us in. The menu features classic Italian cuisine with plenty of vegan-friendly options. Notable call outs from the meal were the short rib ragu over fresh rigatoni, the gnocchi and braciole, and the pear, walnut and blue cheese salad. Delizioso! Before heading back to the hotel, we snuck off to enjoy a quick nightcap at the Ravish Liquors Speakeasy just down the street. It’s a bit of a dive bar but what it lacks in square footage it makes up for in ambiance and vibe.
Photo: @Luda_ and @JessieLovesOur morning started with some breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley through our room’s floor-to-ceiling windows. We took our time getting ready and basked in the morning light before leaving for breakfast at Babblers Restaurant and Bakery in Windham.
It was about a 40-minute drive but, with the rolling mountains around us, the time moved really quickly. (Knowing that we had an exciting day ahead of us also helped!) After munching on some yummy breakfast sammies we ventured over to Mountain Brook Farm for the ride of a lifetime. If you’re in the area and able, riding horseback through the Great Northern Catskills is a MUST. The guide was so patient and personable. She took us on a wooded and secluded trail that led out into this big golden field with picture-perfect views of Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain. We were speechless. It’s no wonder that this place is so famous for their foliage.
After a few hours at the farm, we went to Tannersville to refuel. We got lunch at this adorable retro mom and pop shop called Mama’s Boy Burgers and explored the (so accurately nicknamed) “Painted Village in the Sky,” otherwise known as downtown Tannersville. Notable callouts from bopping around Tannersville were Tannersville Antiques, Nat’s Mountain House, Last Chance Antiques & Cheese Café, Bear and Fox Provisions, and The Pantry on Main.
Once the sun started to set on a perfect Catskills day, we settled on dinner at Jessie’s Harvest House. The interior was rusticly chic with a friendly tavern-like atmosphere and the food was *chef’s kiss.* The menu rotates based on the season but always features a diverse mix of American-style cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients. We could really taste how fresh the produce was and the chef’s combination of flavors were to die for.
Photo: @Luda_ and @JessieLovesAfter bidding farewell to the James Newbury, we went to Gracie’s Luncheonette for a final bite on our way out of town. We were told that this old school diner is known for its “upbeat vibe” and homemade sodas, and now we completely understand why. Such a great spot.
With a short drive down the road to the village of Catskill we arrived at the historic home of the famous American Landscape artist, Thomas Cole. Touring where the founder of the Hudson River School of Art spent so much of his time was pretty remarkable and after soaking in the views of the Catskill Mountain range from the property’s wraparound porch, we could easily see how and why he drew so much of his inspiration.
Our two-night getaway was everything we could have hoped for. Until next time, Great Northern Catskills. It’s not goodbye, just see you later.
