8 Best Hotels in the Catskills and Hudson Valley for an Unforgettable Summer
Discover the ultimate stays in the Catskills and Hudson Valley, from rustic retreats to stylish lodges and serene spa escapes for your 2025 summer.
With sprawling mountain vistas, charming small towns, and a vibrant new wave of hospitality, the Catskills and Hudson Valley have become some of New York’s most enticing summer destinations. As the warmer months approach in 2025, these regions offer an alluring blend of rustic escapes, design-forward lodging, rejuvenating spas, and farm-to-table cuisine. Whether you’re searching for a luxe countryside retreat or a hip, art-filled motel, this list spotlights eight of the very best hotels to book this summer in the Catskills and Hudson Valley.
1. Urban Cowboy Lodge
Location: Big Indian
Perched on 68 wooded acres, Urban Cowboy Lodge reinvents the classic upstate escape for a new generation. Each of its 29 guest rooms is uniquely decorated with Pendleton textiles, hand-printed wallpapers, antler accents, and salvaged wood headboards, evoking a playful yet luxurious camp vibe. Special features in select rooms include:
- Clawfoot tubs and gas fireplaces in the Alpine building.
- Japanese cedar soaking tubs in some Walden rooms, perfect for unwinding after a hike.
Although there’s no on-site swimming pool, Urban Cowboy guests are encouraged to try nearby swimming holes and rivers for an authentic Catskills experience. The property leans into its whimsical side with a two-lane bowling alley and a lively cocktail bar called Ralph’s, making it an ideal pick for groups and couples seeking fun amid laid-back luxury.
2. The Starlite Motel
Location: Kerhonkson
This roadside relic from the 1960s has been transformed into a stylish, retro-inspired home base for exploring Catskill landmarks including Minnewaska State Park, Mohonk Preserve, and Sam’s Point. Motelier Alix Umen, artist Adriana Farmiga, and arts collaborator Gwen Hill preserved the original motel’s turquoise doors and bones, but gave the exterior a new lease on life with an eye-catching pink paint job reminiscent of a Wes Anderson film set.
- Each of the 16 rooms combines Shaker, Scandinavian, and midcentury design elements, featuring works by local artists with deep Catskills ties.
- On property, guests enjoy a saltwater pool and a spacious deck, the perfect post-adventure unwind space.
- The Canteen (located in rooms 11 and 12) offers convenient local snacks and beverages, as well as quick breakfasts to fuel your Catskills outings.
With a welcoming, creative spirit and a prime location near iconic hiking, The Starlite Motel is beloved by adventurers and design enthusiasts alike.
3. Troutbeck
Location: Amenia
For city dwellers looking to truly immerse in nature without compromising on sophistication, Troutbeck is a perennial favorite. Spanning several beautifully restored buildings—including the 1919 Manor House, late 18th-century Benton House, and the Cottage—the hotel’s 37 guestrooms are thoughtfully appointed with Connecticut-crafted four-poster beds dressed in crisp linens, grasscloth wallpapers, and subtle plaid or striped patterns (especially in the newer Benton House).
- Sweat it out in the on-site sauna or on the tennis courts.
- Enjoy yoga in the barn or cool off with a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool.
- Interior design showcases bold custom beds in saffron or navy, adding distinct flair to each room.
Troutbeck artfully balances country living with refined hospitality, making it a destination stay for travelers who prioritize comfort, wellness, and outdoor lifestyle.
4. The Henson
Location: Hensonville
Opened in 2024 in a lovingly restored 1918 building, The Henson immediately evokes a feeling of home. This 16-room, dog-friendly boutique hotel offers contemporary comfort in a cozy, approachable setting. Standout features include:
- Herb garden and a rooftop deck with sweeping views of Windham Mountain.
- A spacious lawn with bocce courts and a creek perfect for summer dips.
- Rooms equipped with Casper mattresses, Marshall speakers, and Grown Alchemist amenities.
The heart of The Henson is its inviting living room, outfitted with a wood-burning fireplace, games, books, and blankets. Its crowning glory, however, is Matilda, a restaurant founded by chefs Jeremiah Stone and Fabian von Hauske Valtierra (of NYC’s acclaimed Contra and Wildair). Matilda’s menu is a tribute to the bounty of the Catskills, with seasonal dishes like Hudson Valley trout and roasted onions with rhubarb or bonito, all sourced from local farmers. Hotel guests have the convenience of a world-class meal just downstairs, making The Henson both a culinary and hospitality destination.
5. Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection
Location: Hudson Valley, just outside New Paltz
Just a 90-minute drive from Manhattan, Wildflower Farms offers a sense of serene remoteness on a former tree farm beneath the Shawangunk Ridge. Its 65 freestanding cottages, festooned with locally made quilts and mementos, grant both privacy and immersive nature views.
- Three miles of trails wind through the property, with opportunities for forest bathing or a morning stroll.
- A working farm supplies seasonal vegetables and wildflowers to the on-site restaurant, Clay, where farm-to-table cuisine reigns supreme.
- Thistle Spa offers luxurious facials and massages utilizing hand-harvested botanicals.
- Guests may gather eggs for breakfast straight from the chicken coop, deepening the sense of rural connection.
Wildflower Farms is an exemplary blend of wellness, gastronomy, and natural immersion, providing a holistic upstate getaway.
6. Driftwood Ranch Resort
Location: White Lake, Sullivan Catskills
At Driftwood Ranch Resort, a 200-acre working ranch opened in April 2025, the Catskills meet the spirit and culture of the American West. Run by lifelong equestrians Steve and Anne Dubrovsky, this all-suite, luxury property is imbued with authentic cowboy heritage and a relaxed, ranch-lodge ambiance.
- Four uniquely designed suites (minimum 1,000 sq ft each) feature custom-built beds, large fieldstone fireplaces, hand-hewn beams, and rich leather and Native American–inspired textiles.
- Each suite contains local artwork—including chainsaw-carved wood sculptures by Paul Stark (whose studio is on site)—and includes a local treat gift basket.
- A 30,000 sq ft indoor arena allows for year-round horseback riding, lessons, and equestrian events.
- Onsite recreation includes hiking trails, a man-made pond for kayaking, and nightly fire pit gatherings.
Driftwood Ranch’s hands-on hosts, striking landscape, and robust equestrian offerings make it ideal for animal lovers, adventure seekers, and those craving a distinctively immersive escape.
7. Piaule Catskill
Location: Catskill
Famed for its minimalism and sublime approach to modern nature retreats, Piaule Catskill sets a new standard for elegant, restorative upstate lodging. Guests stay in private, Scandinavian-inspired cabins positioned for uninterrupted woodland views, and chic communal spaces invite contemplation and connection:
- Spa facilities include steam rooms, saunas, treatments, and an outdoor pool designed for all-season relaxation.
- The onsite restaurant serves seasonal, locally sourced cuisine in a space awash with light and natural textures.
- A focus on sensory connection—through forested outlooks, clean-lined furnishings, and tranquil amenities—makes Piaule a haven for wellness-driven travelers and couples.
Architecturally cutting-edge, yet grounded in the calming ritual of being in the woods, Piaule offers a distinctly modern retreat amid the Catskills wilds.
8. Kenoza Hall
Location: Kenoza Lake, Sullivan County
Residing on the peaceful shores of Kenoza Lake, Kenoza Hall is a lovingly restored early 20th-century boarding house reimagined as a sophisticated resort. Here, classic Catskills nostalgia meets modern amenities and thoughtful design.
- Stately guest rooms feature antique oak floors, plush beds, and soaking tubs, with many offering lake views or private balconies.
- The Hemlock Spa adds a contemporary wellness touch with a sauna, treatment rooms, and serenity-inducing common areas.
- Guided lake kayaking, walking trails, and culinary events showcase the region’s natural and culinary bounty.
- A celebrated restaurant serves up refined takes on regional classics, while craft cocktails can be enjoyed in richly appointed lounges or on the garden terrace.
Kenoza Hall excels at merging refined relaxation with the timeless charm of the Catskills, making it a sought-after destination for couples and groups alike.
Why the Catskills and Hudson Valley Are the Perfect Summer Escape
The Catskills and Hudson Valley are more than just a backdrop for a getaway—they are a destination defined by their natural wonders and creative communities. Travelers flock to this corner of New York for a mix of:
- Rejuvenating nature—from forest hikes and lakeside kayaking to wildflower meadows and swimming holes.
- Culinary innovation—with a bounty of farm-to-table cuisine and local craft beverages.
- Eclectic design and hospitality—evident in vintage motels, boutique hotels, and wellness resorts.
- Arts and culture—providing galleries, music festivals, and craft markets in picturesque towns across the region.
Many of the region’s best hotels are rooted in historical buildings or local materials, keeping the spirit of the Catskills alive while ushering in a new era of hospitality and comfort.
Comparison Table: At a Glance
| Hotel | Location | Signature Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Cowboy Lodge | Big Indian | Playful decor, soaking tubs, bowling alley | Groups, couples, quirky stays |
| The Starlite Motel | Kerhonkson | Retro design, saltwater pool | Adventurers, design-lovers, hikers |
| Troutbeck | Amenia | Historic buildings, luxe bedrooms, outdoor activities | Comfort-seekers, wellness lovers |
| The Henson | Hensonville | Matilda restaurant, homey living spaces | Foodies, families with dogs, relaxation |
| Wildflower Farms | Hudson Valley | Private cottages, farm experiences, spa | Wellness, nature-focused retreats |
| Driftwood Ranch Resort | White Lake | Equestrian activities, luxury suites | Horse lovers, active travelers |
| Piaule Catskill | Catskill | Minimalist cabins, forest views, modern spa | Couples, design-centric travelers |
| Kenoza Hall | Kenoza Lake | Lakeside setting, historic charm, spa | Romantic getaways, relaxation |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best time to visit the Catskills region?
A: While the Catskills and Hudson Valley are beautiful year-round, summer through early autumn is the most popular time for outdoor activities, events, and enjoying the region’s natural scenery.
Q: Do these hotels offer pet-friendly accommodations?
A: Several options, including The Henson, welcome dogs. Always check the specific pet policies before booking, as some hotels have designated rooms or additional fees for pets.
Q: Are there wellness and spa facilities at these properties?
A: Yes, many of the featured hotels offer spa services or wellness amenities. Wildflower Farms, Piaule Catskill, and Kenoza Hall are known for their tranquil spas and emphasis on holistic well-being.
Q: Do I need a car to get around the Catskills and Hudson Valley?
A: A car is highly recommended for exploring the region, as public transportation options can be limited and many points of interest are spread out.
Q: Which hotels are best for families?
A: Properties like The Henson (with its spacious lawn and creek) and Kenoza Hall (offering family-friendly activities and room layouts) are great for groups. However, always verify age restrictions or policies, especially at working ranches like Driftwood Ranch Resort.
Tips for Planning Your Catskills & Hudson Valley Stay
- Book early: Summer is peak season, and the region’s most sought-after hotels fill up fast, especially weekends.
- Plan for dining: Reserve tables in advance for top restaurants like Matilda or Clay, particularly if you’re visiting over holidays.
- Pack for all conditions: Upstate weather can be changeable—bring layers, swimsuits for lakes and pools, and hiking shoes.
- Explore beyond the hotel: Visit local farms, towns, and nature preserves to experience the full spectrum of Catskills and Hudson Valley charm.
Whether you’re a weekender from New York City or traveling from farther afield, these best-in-class hotels in the Catskills and Hudson Valley promise a summer to remember—full of nature, comfort, and discovery.
