Peaceful Retreat near Skiing and Snowboarding in the Catskills

Hunter Mountain has some of the most reliable snowfall of any ski resort in the eastern United States, because the Catskill Mountains resort makes its own. Sometimes called “The Snowmaking Capital of the World,” Hunter Mountain uses more than 1,000 snow machines to ensure that a thick layer of snow covers its trails throughout the season.

You can enjoy the Catskills’ untouched beauty back at the hotel, too. Many of the standard rooms and lofts have scenic views of the surrounding foothills, pine forests, and meandering mountain streams. Some lofts even have private balconies where you can stargaze or tie up a stolen weather balloon. Therapists at the onsite spa enhance your relaxing retreat with facials, slimming body wraps, and massage—all soothing treatments after a day on the slopes. One of this getaway’s options includes a 30-minute massage for two.

In the morning, head to the main dining room for a full country breakfast included in this getaway. For lunch and dinner, there are plenty of restaurants at the ski resort and in downtown Hunter, just a few miles away.

Hunter, New York: Small Town in Catskill Mountains with Year-Round Recreation

High up in southeastern New York’s Catskills, Hunter is surrounded by some of the tallest peaks in the state. But the natural beauty here goes beyond the rugged mountains as the town sits within the Catskill Forest Preserve, a vast forested region dotted with waterfalls, lakes, and meadows. A diversity of wildlife makes a home here, ranging from larger mammals such as bobcats and white-tailed deer to smaller muskrats. The varied terrain also attracts active types year-round. Most of the action centers on the Hunter Mountain resort, which has 55 skiing and snowboarding trails sprawled out over three mountains. During warmer seasons these peaks transform into a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking, and ziplining.

For a more laid-back alternative, head about 30 minutes east to the Thomas Cole National Historic Site, the former studio and home of the famous 19th-century American painter. Cole was a member of the Hudson River School, a group of artists that painted idyllic American landscapes as representations of the new Eden. The site showcases a selection of Cole’s artwork and is open for guided, walk-in tours from May through October (group tours are available by appointment in the off-season).

About 40 minutes south you’ll find the town of Woodstock, an active artist colony that hosted many Hudson River School painters and inspired the legendary Woodstock music festivals. Today the village is known for its many antique shops.

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