Mohonk Mountain House is celebrating its 150th anniversary.
It’s easy to get around New York City, but it can feel nearly impossible to escape. What if I told you there’s a retreat that feels like a timeless European castle only 100 miles outside of the city?
Mohonk Mountain House is a beautiful resort in the Hudson Valley that has a captivating history and tons of charm. Originally a 10-room inn opened by Albert Smiley in 1869, the resort has grown over the years but continued to be operated by the Smiley family. Set on Mohonk Lake, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Catskills, hike plenty of trails, or rejuvenate in a world-class spa.
This year marks the 150th anniversary of Mohonk Mountain House, and there are plenty of ways to celebrate. You can join a special anniversary weekend to meet members of the Smiley family and learn more about the history of the property. Snack on a scoop of Mohonk Mountain Crunch ice cream, a special edition flavor made in partnership with Jane’s Ice Cream. The coolest way to celebrate is by downloading the Hidden Histories augmented reality app on your phone that makes artwork come to life throughout the hotel.
Mohonk is truly a treasure, and once there you’ll find families that have visited every year to celebrate holidays, weddings, and simply to enjoy time together. To make your trip even easier, here’s a list of what to do to enhance your Mohonk experience.
Have a Memorable Meal
One of the best parts of Mohonk is that three daily meals are included for overnight guests at the resort. While guests can enjoy a solid buffet for each meal with options to please any palate, the standout experience is the four-course dinner at the Surrey, the resort’s new fine dining room. An upscale evening, this is the night to dress up, sip sommelier-suggested wine, and feast on seared sea scallops or braised duck ravioli.
Take a Sunrise Hike
Get up early one morning to take an easy hike up to the stone Sky Top Tower. The Sky Top Path will take you up the hill, past the cliffside gazebos and lookout areas until you reach the tower, which you can actually climb. Looking out from the top on a clear day, you can see multiple states while breathing in the crisp mountain air.
Hit the Spa
A quality spa always offers a signature treatment that incorporates a local element, and Mohonk’s is no different. The Shawangunk Grit Mineral Body Treatment is an 80-minute experience that begins with a soak in the tub followed by an exfoliation with “Shawangunk Grit,” fine quartz quarried from the resort’s very own cliffs, culminating in a relaxing massage. The spa also features a eucalyptus steam room, an indoor heated pool, verandas and a solarium, as well as a fitness center.
Feel Like Indiana Jones on the Rock Scramble
If you see kids and adults climbing and squeezing through an intricate series of rocks, you’re probably witnessing the rock scramble. Not suitable for someone with a fear of tight spaces, the rock scramble is a trail that takes you on top of, below, and through rock formations of all shapes and sizes. This adventure is perfect for someone who doesn’t mind getting a little dirty, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Feel the Lake Breeze on a Boat
Mohonk Lake’s calm waters are perfect for spending an afternoon row boating, paddle boating, canoeing, or kayaking—all of which are free for guests. If you have good balance, you can even venture out on a paddleboard to feel at one with the water. An insider tip: taking a boat out into the middle of the lake is one of the best ways to get a full picture (or selfie) of the castle.
Relax in Your Room With a Warm Fire
Many of the rooms at Mohonk come equipped with fully functioning wood-burning fireplaces. If you’re comfortable enough, you can build your own fire with everything provided in the room. Alternatively, if you prefer not to risk it, you can call the front desk for assistance.
See the Grounds on Horseback
If you’ve been itching to ride, a trip to Mohonk can make it happen. Join a trail ride to explore the area around the resort or hop on an old-fashioned carriage pulled by a mule. Kids can also enjoy pony rides as part of the Mohonk Kids’ Club. (Please note that equestrian activities are not included in the overnight stay and must be reserved in advance.)
Show Off Your Dance Moves
Throughout the year, live bands entertain guests in one of the many beautiful event spaces. Grab a drink from the bar, settle in, and enjoy the music. However, at Mohonk, the atmosphere feels familial, so don’t be surprised if you’re invited to join in on the dance floor.
Live Out Your Winter Olympics Fantasies
Mohonk Mountain House is worth visiting year-round. In the winter, come for the stunning views and stay for the sports. Here, you can partake in ice skating, curling, and cross-country skiing on over 30 miles of trails. Warm up by a fire on the Parlor Porch before heading back into the castle and tucking into bed. Who needs sweet dreams when your vacation is already a fairy tale?
