Great getaways are what the Hudson Valley is known for and a spa experience added to the mix is like a vacation within a vacation. A challenging day hiking, nonstop antiquing, and museum hopping deserve a soothing treatment or even a restful meditation.
Travelers one hundred years ago would marvel at the range of services found at the valley’s now historic hotels. Those who made the trek up the mountain would be delighted to find 16 restorative treatment rooms, a solarium with stone fireplace, an outdoor heated mineral pool, and a comprehensive fitness center at Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz. There are more than forty treatments to relax and rejuvenate from the stresses of daily life. The Signature Elements of Nature treatments are inspired by the beautiful natural setting that surrounds the award-winning resort. Also historic is The Castle Hotel & Spa in Tarrytown. The mansion sits majestically on a high top overlooking the Hudson River amid sprawling acres of manicured gardens and grounds. With over 100 years of history, The Castle is a sumptuous escape to the enchanted era of America’s Gilded Age. The new THANN™ Sanctuary Spa offers a wide variety of luxurious treatments based on the art of natural therapy where all the senses are awakene..
With sweeping views of the Hudson River, The Garrison offers a luxury experience in an exclusive hotel. Surrounded by gorgeous scenery, unwind in one of The Salon's four treatment rooms with aromatherapy, body enzyme peels, and a variety of massage techniques. Across the river, the Bear Mountain Inn has been lovingly restored to its 1915 rustic elegance with three farm-to-table restaurants. Located in a beautiful state park, the inn is a sentimental favorite of many of the region’s residents. The park’s serenity is reflected in the relaxing massages, facials, scrubs, and beauty treatments available at The Spa which is open daily.Just as rejuvenating as mountain air, the Kaatskill Mountain Club & Spa at Hunter Mountain has unique treatments to help guests unwind from the day’s activities. Only natural products custom made from the local flora and fauna of the surrounding area are used at the spa. The four season resort has a full lineup of summer events as well as exhilarating skiing in winter.
For something slightly different, make an appointment at R&B MediSpa & Wellness Center in Bardonia. This day spa features Spabiotics, the use of fully-automated, push-button spa services and products that are used to enhance the experience. A full line of treatments are customized for each client in a relaxing atmosphere. Another way to renew the spirit is through daily meditation and yoga classes at Won Dharma Center in Claverack. The 426-acre property has over 7 miles of hiking trails with captivating views of the Catskill Mountains across the river. Indulge in their delicious and nutritious vegetarian meals after attending class and taking a brisk walk, or a winter foray cross country skiing.
Additional information can be obtained from the Hudson Valley Tourism web site at www.travelhudsonvalley.com. Hudson Valley Tourism, Inc. is the 10-county region designated by I LOVE NEW YORK to promote tourism for the area. Counties include Albany, Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rensselaer, Rockland, Ulster and Westchester. Regional information can be obtained from any of the county tourism offices, or by calling 845-615-3860.
RESOURCES
Bear Mountain Inn, Bear Mountain. 845-786-2731, www.visitbearmountain.com
Castle Hotel & Spa, Tarrytown. 914-631-1980, www.castlehotelandspa.com
The Garrison, Garrison. 845-424-3248, www.thegarrison.com
Kaatskill Mountain Club & Spa, Hunter. 518-263-5580, www.kaatskillmtnclub.com
Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz. 866-966-0348, www.mohonk.com
R&B MediSpa & Wellness Center, Bardonia. 845-501-7050, www.randbspa.com
Won Dharma Center, Claverack. 518-851-2581, www.wondharmacenter.org