We know you can’t go too long without getting on an airplane. But this time of year, there’s a reason to hop in the car instead. Fall is prime time to take the scenic route, peep at some leaves, and road-trip upstate for the weekend. Maybe there’s a hayride involved. Or a hike up a mountain. Either way, there’s definitely apple cider. And now, there are hotels that are worthy of your standards. This is your go-to list for the top places to stay during your fall NY road trip.
Those of us who love the city know that a NY road trip to the Hudson Valley can be a perfect way to recharge while staying close to home. And there’s perhaps no better time or reason to explore this local oases than fall. If you’re on the fence, the three inns below will bring you to your senses.
1. Wildflower Farms, Gardiner
Opening in October, Wildflower Farms is your fully forested getaway this fall. Nestled amongst the color-turning trees with views of the Shawangunk Ridge (a.k.a. the Gunks), the 140-acre property is just 90 minutes from the city, and a perfect NY road trip. The 65 freestanding cabins, cottages, and suites are as sleek and functionally beautiful as you would expect from the Auberge Resorts Collection. And with a 9,000-square-foot spa and 3,000-square-foot fitness studio made from all-wood joinery, Auberge brings its luxury A game.
It’s hard to imagine the bustle of the city when transported to Wildflower Farms. And though the natural environment does half the work, the folks at the inn understand that a vacation means a vacation. There are miles of hiking trails. But there’s also a three-mile loop that makes going for that jog easy. Although it might not be too easy if you’re full from a meal at the inn’s restaurant, Clay, which sources fresh ingredients from its on-site farm. To cover off on the culinary and agricultural arts, the Maplehouse Farm Education Center has classes on everything from botanical baking to mixology. Skills you can easily use after you return to the city.
And Wildflower Farms has got you covered whether you’re alone or with an entourage. If you’re bringing kids on your NY road trip, outdoor living areas give you your own gathering space to play around in. Value your privacy? Each residence has its own terrace accessed by floor-to-ceiling sliding doors.
One thing that’s great about a road trip here is that you get to slow down. Wildflower Farms is a memory maker. Even if you just let yourself spend all day at the spa with lemon water in hand, you won’t forget it. And you deserve it.
2. Piaule, Catskill
If you’re in need of a place nearby that’s impossibly romantic, Piaule is for you. Piaule is a collection of unique, private cabins nestled in the landscape of the Catskills. Accommodations vary in view and size and each is completely sustainable. Because they are truly “cabins-in-the-woods,” their materials include timber, stone, and large windows that offer full forest views literally from your bed.
But don’t let the word cabin fool you. Piaule in no way lacks the creature comforts you’d expect. Heated floors lead the way to bathrooms where waterfall showers and natural, Piaule-branded products will let you forget you’re in a hotel. And a trailway from your cabin connects you to a state-of-the-art spa. Several pools, including a hot pool and mineral plunge, use temperature-controlled water and the surrounding nature for relaxation and holistic healing. Of course, massages and several types of spa treatments are also on the menu.
A restaurant with a view for days is just up the hill from the spa. Executive chef Ryan Tate leads the dining room, crafting special dishes with seasonal food from local farms.
Whether you just want a quick breather, a couples retreat, or are in dire need of a real reset, Piaule is the epitome of escapism. It should be a regular on your list of not-to-miss destinations when you’re in the mood for a road trip.
3. Hasbrouck House, Stone Ridge
Hasbrouck House is your kind of place if you enjoy luxury and history. The 25-room hotel is mostly housed in an 18th-century Dutch Colonial mansion in the small hamlet of Stone Ridge. It preserves its rich heritage well but is contemporary at the same time. It’s the type of destination where you can have nightly s’mores by the campfire — that is, after your dinner at Buttermilk, a farm-to-table Southern restaurant. (An attraction unto itself, Buttermilk’s dark roast coffee and and donuts will rouse even the latest of sleepers for breakfast.)
Rooms are decorated with an eclectic collection of cozy design elements. At the same time, bathrooms have bespoke marble detailing, and such thoughtful details are everywhere.
The nearby ponds and trails make it easy to experience nature. You’ll feel like you’re venturing into the wild while still on the property. Eventually, you’ll find yourself back at the Cauldron Bar, Hasbrouck’s outdoor fireside lounge. This spot is a crowd-pleaser, with guests stopping in year-round for a seasonal menu and craft cocktails. But fall is perhaps best. When it gets chilly out, the fire stays warm.
Related: Where to stay in the Catskills
3805 Main St, Stone Ridge, NY 12484
