An Ode to Stonehill’s, An Upstate Escape in Accord, New York

By Brooklyn Magazine Staff

The air is getting crisp, and you’re ready for steaming cups of cider and delights in pumpkin-flavored everything. Fall in New York is a glorious thing unto itself, and that means it’s time to escape Brooklyn for a little while.

Part of the thrill of upstate jaunts is the beauty of exploring new towns and hamlets in the Hudson Valley. With this in mind, here’s a new spot to put on your radar: Accord, New York. Located a touch under 100 miles from New York City in Ulster County, this hamlet is generating a lot of buzz.

And the buzziest—but most relaxing—escape in town? Look no further than Stonehill’s. Dubbed “Rancho Relaxo,” there’s quite a bit of R&R to sink your teeth into. From a nature spa and fire pits to a hiking trail and clever room touches (think, plush linens and comfy beds), think of this hotel as the place to be unwinding and exploring.

We recommend kicking off the trip by car, as you’ll end up exploring the area in and around Accord too (scroll on for more details). First up in this home away from home, is the room. Think of the room as your care-free sanctuary, and the touchpad for your stay.

Each of the spaces (and cottage rooms) are impeccably designed with a modern-meets-rustic flair, complete with organic linens, natural bath amenities, a smart TV, Tivoli audio speakers, a minibar stocked with goodies, and of course, WiFi.

You may be hankering to hit the trail ASAP to head right on over to the sustainable brewery, Arrowood Farms and head a little further down the trail to Westwind Orchard for apple picking, award winning house brewed hard cider, and wood fired pizza. Or get your sweat on in the outdoor sauna (plus a cold plunge), because there’s something for everyone. But there’s another joyful spot that is not to be missed, and that’s Stonehill’s farm. There’s a host of furry friends waiting to welcome you in the delightful likes of goats, sheep, chicken, ducks, guinea fowl, and roosters who are more than happy to make themselves known.

With laid-back vibes on lock, now let’s talk sips and bites. If you’re reserving a room, make sure your stay includes Friday night in order to experience the divine Catskill Cocktail Club and the finger licking good food trucks, like Korean barbecue. This club shakes and serves up a rotation of local seasonal ingredients that harness a damn good drink with lots of flavor and bite.

Think of this upstate hideaway as the ticket to an adventure-laden reset. Intrigued? Soak up every bit of serene-filled goodness and book your next escape to Stonehill’s.