Unplug & Reconnect in the Catskills

If you are looking for a place to escape the daily grind and reconnect with family and nature, the Catskills is calling your name. Located just a short hours from the City, the Catskill region of New York offers green forests, lakes, waterfalls, and beautiful mountain views. And yes, it felt like we stepped into an episode of Mrs. Maisel!

Winter Clove Inn offers something rare in today’s fast-paced, smartphone obsessed world: a chance to unplug with the whole family in a retreat setting. In a time where personalized hospitality has practically disappeared, it was a breath of fresh air to vacation at a family run inn where people genuinely want you to enjoy your stay.

Bring your family, make new friends, and enjoy the simple pleasures of being outdoors.

We have compiled a list of the three A’s: Accommodations, Adventures, and Appetite!  If you have any questions about the Catskills or our trip please shoot us an email!

Accommodations

Winter Clove Inn is the oldest single family owned inn in the United States – and you will see a registered historical plaque on the beautiful front porch. This colonial style resort is located on 300 acres and boarders the Catskills Wilderness Preserve. Though they have free wifi, you truly feel like you are stepping back in time. This inn is dripping with charm and you can’t help but think about the history here and how many guests have stayed over the years (the photos from the 1800s in the dining room are amazing).

 

We stayed for five nights and were spoiled with delicious food (expect to gain some weight haha) and friendly hospitality. The staff treat you like family here, and our girls enjoyed chatting with everyone. If getting two deserts a day makes you feel the need to get in some outdoor activities, they have you covered. You have the option of an indoor or outdoor pool, 9 hole complimentary golf course, hiking trails, mountain biking trails,  cross country skiing trails (they provide the gear!), a basketball court, tennis court, and playground for the kiddos.

Along with the old school feel here, you will not see televisions in your rooms – this is a bonus for us (no kids begging to watch). They have a shared great room with a fireplace and HUGE front porch full of rocking chairs (yes please!). We made new friends and exchanged contact information to keep in touch. Our daughter’s favorite part of the trip was meeting her new friends – this really stood out to us because it seems people are so disconnected in every day life, but not here.

 

Adventures

Kaaterskill Falls – This 231′ two-stage waterfall is worth the hike to the bottom. They have a look-out from the top which is a short walk OR you could hike down to the bottom. Honestly ignore the mileage on the signs because it felt way longer and we really think it must be wrong (or we are that out of shape!). However – totally worth it. For more information on the hike visit Kaaterskill Falls Hike with Kids.

 

Zoom Flume Water Park – We went on opening day and the water was cold but that did not stop the fun. It is a great way to cool down in the summer heat.  Whether your littles are dare devils or prefer low key splash pads – they have it all. Our four year old went on every ride she was big enough for and our youngest enjoyed all the splash pads. They are open mid June – Labor day.

 

Howe Caverns – An elevator takes you 156′ below ground into the caves. What stands out here is that you get to go on a boat ride inside the caves – and your tour guide takes you through the very narrow path using their hands and a gondola-type pole. It was very beautiful inside and the 1.5 hour was a good way to spend a rainy day. You are not allowed to bring any food/water, diapers, etc.. into the cave to be prepared with little ones. We also suggest bringing your carriers to keep the kiddos in.

 

Appetite

Winter Clove Inn – As previously stated this is an all-inclusive resort that provides three generously sized meals a day. Home cooking at its finest, you will never be hungry when you are here!

 

Rip Van Winkle Brewing Company – This family owned Catskills craft brewery and restaurant hits the spot. I HIGHLY recommend visiting for some damn good beer and pizza (what more could you want in New York?).  The staff provided excellent service – when they ask if the kid’s food should come out right away and cut up? Those are my kind of people. Be sure to stop here and tell Anthony we said hello!

 

Honey Hollow Brewing Co – A very small farm brewery located in the backyard of the owner. You wouldn’t know there was a brewery back there pulling it but it is super cute. Go at the right time of year and you can see hops growing that they use in their own beer!

Until next time…