Every mom deserves some time off. Especially these days. I remember feeling extremely guilty to leave Max when he was little, but finally, I noticed that having time away is good for us. It’s like they say on planes – you can’t save anyone unless you put your mask on first.
So as a word of advice, I tell all moms out there reading this – TAKE THE VACATION. Even if it’s just a couple of hours to take a walk. Go. Don’t feel guilty. It will make you a better person and we all need that right now.
So now you’re all – “okay, so where do I go? What do I do?” I get it. It’s hard to think you can even getaway. Especially during a pandemic, but again my advice is: just go. Book the trip and ask questions later. You’ll figure it out.
Where should I go?
NYC is amazing. I love it. I’ve lived here for 11 years. But right now? Get out. Leave and change your scenery. Reconnect with nature. With yourself. Usually, I don’t want the city people out in my woods (I am a snobby hiker – I don’t want your garbage, blasting music, and unskilled shoes messing up my Walden time), but I know first hand how well nature heals and how much some self-care can really do wonders. I literally spent the entire winter on mountains skiing and haven’t felt more at ease. Just go.
Now – where do you go? North. You’re lucky to live in such a beautiful state, New York. And if you’re in PA, NJ, CT, MA – even Canada or California, yes, I know how lucky we are and yes, you can come to enjoy it, too. The Catskills are some of the most beautiful mountains in America and I can say that because I’ve been to a lot of them. It’s only about 2 to 2.5 hours away and it’s worth every minute of that drive.
It’s no secret that Ulster County is one of my favorite places. There are TONS of things to do and see, even with kids. You can read more about that here, but this trip – it’s for you. And here’s why you wanna go to.
Where to stay: Emerson Resport Spa
Well YES, since you asked, spas ARE OPEN. It’s not quite the same as it was pre-covid (yet!) but those massages still feel great even without the big plush robes and cucumber water. I do miss the hot tubs and sauna, but let’s just enjoy what we can right now. And you won’t even miss it – because they have these ENORMOUS jet spa tubs in the room. With a fireplace, and a balcony that overlooks a babbling creek. So, what hot tub?
Is it safe? Emerson is on point. In fact, they even have stickers on their doors that break open when you walk in to know it’s been fully sanitized. It’s the first time I’ve seen that all pandemic. They even have you check-in via your car online first before even walking in if you want to avoid as many people as possible.
What is there to do? Well after the spa, you need to go outside. You’re in the middle of nowhere. There is even no cell service here (wifi so yes, you can WhatsApp with the kids on emergency) but you can REALLY disconnect. They even have beautiful grounds to walk right on the property. Want something more challenging? They even have a curated booklet of local hikes to take and will recommend them based on your abilities. You really can’t go wrong on a hike in this area. It is that beautiful. If you don’t walk out and say, wow that’s a really f***** gorgeous waterfall, or tree, or flower, then you should probably do it again tomorrow. These woods will change you.
Now, after that hike, you’re gonna be hungry. Woodnotes on-site is perfect for us New Yorkers who want a little bit of city. The food is upstanding and delish and even slightly fancy. You’re not getting backwoods wings and fries here (you can down the road!). Bonus, most of it is locally sourced! Even the trout is from the creek right outside.
WAIT there’s more. Here’s all my personal local suggestions to see in the area while you’re there.
Katerskill Falls – it’s a bit more challenging of a hike, but it’s worth it! You can do it. If you park on the road, it’s an even easier way in and shorter.
Overlook Mountain and Firetower in Woodstock – This is a relatively easy hike up (access road) with a consistent incline that’s flat (no rock scrambling). The views are AMAZING. Be sure to go see the cliff views behind the ranger cabin. And check out the ruins on the way up.
Note – you’ll see signs for rattlesnakes here. While I’ve never personally seen one, they are spotted so just be cautious.
The Gunks and Minnewaska State Park – This is my ABSOLUTE favorite state park in NY. Maybe on the whole east coast. I love the Adirondacks, but Minnewaska is something out of this world. It’s about 60 mins away, but. the. views. Every step in these hikes are wow moments. Just get there early, especially on weekends because there is VERY limited parking (and it’s $10 to park unless you have the Empire Pass). Peterskill, Minnewaska Lake, Gertrudes Nose, Awosting Falls. Just – you’re welcome.
Also located in the Gunks is Mohonk Mountain House. There is a $15 per person hiking fee (online or $30 at the gate), but these private trails are less trafficked due to cost if you want more privacy, plus it’s home to the infamous Labyrinth and Lemon Squeeze if you dare. PS – this is Maximo’s favorite scramble.
While you’re here – check on Kerhonkson. There are some really fun places. Hot Shots is a dive bar but don’t let it fool you – their wings and fried chicken rival some I’ve had in the city. And New Orleans.
Kelder’s Farm is perfect for grabbing some locally made cheese, bread, honey and jam to eat while sitting outside on a picnic table overlooking the farmland. If you have the kids, even better! They have a petting zoo of farm animals and lots of kid-friendly activities.
A little secret? Across the street is a local gem – Helena’s perogies. Just trust me on this. They sell out and only make certain batches each day. Don’t be high maintenance – just say yes to whatever bag they have and enjoy. They come warm in a ziplock bag and I guarantee you’ll eat at least three while sitting in the car. I have yet to be able to resist. I come from Pittsburgh – the land of perogies and these are some of the best I’ve ever had. Oh, and it’s CASH ONLY.
Phoenicia Diner. (pronounced FO KNEE SHA – don’t upset the locals) It’s a classic must. Anytime I am in the area, I have to stop here. You’ve heard me talk about it before but their French toast and muddy water (cold brew with almond milk and maple syrup) are just delish. I also love their avocado toast (hey I AM a New Yorker!), which isn’t just guac slapped on a piece of toast. Just try it and thank me later.
Ok, I’ll stop for now because I can just keep going and going. But the beauty of Ulster County is to EXPLORE IT. So now that you have a few tips, just book the trip and go.
And if you discover anything else that’s life-changing out there (I bet you will!) please share it with me so I can try and find it the next time I go up. I love a good treasure hunt.
