1. Introduction to Piaule Catskill
If you enjoy planning adventurous, active vacations, it can be challenging to prioritize doing nothing at all. However, at Piaule, a landscape hotel in New York’s Catskill Mountains, it’s incredibly easy to do just that.
2. The Experience at Piaule Catskill
Some travelers, myself included, prefer their trips to be active and adventurous. I typically don’t “relax” on vacations, but after the chaos of the pandemic years, I recognized the need for a true, restful escape. Therefore, one weekend, I resolved to try something new: nothing.
Piaule Catskill’s Design and Amenities
At the sleek, minimalist landscape hotel Piaule Catskill, which opened in July 2021, doing nothing is easy—actually encouraged. With 24 stand-alone single and double cabins, each featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious rain-shower bathrooms, my experience was one of pure tranquility. Some cabins also come with decks and living rooms, tucked discreetly into the forest, allowing me to unwind and simply observe the nature surrounding me.
Aesthetics and Atmosphere
Like the cabins, the main house is characterized by Japanese and Scandinavian minimalism, emphasizing natural materials with simple white oak furnishings and bluestone floors. The hotel is located on the site of a former bluestone quarry, further enhancing its earthy ambiance. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to flood the space.
Wellness and Relaxation at the Spa
Upon checking in, I was welcomed by my massage therapist, Gauranga, in a stunning, minimalist room at the ground-level spa. The spa features a steam room, sauna, yoga room, and a treatment room—guests can opt for various treatments including Swedish and Thai massages or sound baths.
Dining and Culinary Experience
As I enjoyed my treatment, I could feel the tension from months of stress dissipating. Afterward, I soaked in the spa’s small pool, entirely to myself, absorbing the magnificent views of the Catskill range. At the time of my visit, Piaule offered dinner on Friday and Saturday. After settling in, I explored the nearby town of Catskill, only a ten-minute drive away, and enjoyed a delicious wood-fired pizza paired with a farmhouse ale from Subversive Brewing.
Morning Retreat
The next morning, I walked in the Kaaterskill Wild Forest to see the famed Kaaterskill Falls. Although the desire for activity lingered, I returned to my cabin for a peaceful afternoon of watching the clouds shift and listening to the nature surrounding me.
Soon after, dinner arrived, with guests able to dine indoors or outdoors on the large patio—both options offering breathtaking views of the Catskill range. I began my evening with a delightful glass of wine and took the time to appreciate the natural beauty all around.
Conclusion: A Restorative Experience
As night fell, I enjoyed a relaxing dinner, sharing delicious dishes with other guests while absorbing the beautiful atmosphere. The food was remarkable, featuring local ingredients that beautifully complemented the surroundings.
In summary, my experience at Piaule Catskill was a transformative retreat that allowed me to reconnect with nature and enjoy moments of tranquility. Before leaving the next day, I savored an early brunch, cherishing the final moments before my return home. As I glanced back at the majestic mountains, I aimed to capture that serene feeling in my memory, knowing it would last beyond my visit.
