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Every quest has a beginning.  From Lomi-Lomi (a gently soothing Polynesian massage), to Rassoul (a detoxifying Moroccan mud therapy), from age-defying oxygen facials, to the new breed of eco-spas which honor the environment and educate guests, Leading Spa Experiences offer the most luxurious ways to relax and recharge.  With the QUEST FOR SPA limited time offer, spa enthusiasts may enjoy a $100 spa credit (or equivalent in local currency) per reservation, per stay, with a two-night minimum stay at a participating Leading Spa Hotel.  Choose from 5 star luxury spa resorts in Africa, Antigua, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Croatia, Cyprus, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, and the United States - Arizona, Colorado, Florida, New York, and North Carolina.

 

 

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Nov 9–16, 2008
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Take a Photo Tour of The Mansion on Peachtree and 29 Spa by Lydia Mondavi, Atlanta, Georgia

 

 

Spa at Home with a recipe for our Pumpkin Papaya Facial or cook up healthy Spa Cuisine featuring pumpkin and pumpkin seeds

 


 


 

 

SPA INDEX MEDIA VISITS MOHONK MOUNTAIN HOUSE

Kevin McClain, CEO/Director of Spa Index Media, was a privileged guest of the Mohonk Mountain House for its  Labor Day weekend and Grand Opening of its beautiful new 'Spa at Mohonk Mountain House.'

Slowly and Quietly Please:  Mohonk.  The same, yet better.

'Labor Day is a dichotomy. For many,  its a weekend filled with reminders of the passage of the year, the dismal end of something grand -- summer vacation.  Summer is over, another school term is set to start, the next extended family weekend won't be until Thanksgiving. 

For others, however, it is one of the most anticipated travel weekends in the year, a celebration for the working man and woman.  It caps the end of a long and hot summer, but signals the arrival of Autumn and its glorious blanket of color -- warm golden days and cool blue evenings.

I think Spring is about new growth, but Autumn is about evolution -- the trees and foliage, the greenery we are so accustomed to seeing each day, suddenly make us stop and look again.  While we were busy with summer, nature quietly evolved into something.  The same trees, the same silhouettes, the same sturdy grace -- suddenly made better.

How appropriate then, that my journey from San Francisco to upstate New York for a weekend at Mohonk Mountain House came over Labor Day weekend -- in time for the grand opening of the Spa at Mohonk Mountain House. Mohonk Mountain House has created something marvelous on its mountaintop in New York, but did so in a way that makes it look and feel as if it has always been there. Mohonk Mountain House quietly evolved this summer -- you'll see the same canvas of trees and gardens, the same grand silhouette on the mountain, the same sturdy grace in the beams and timbers that have welcomed visitors for over 130 years -- they are simply, and suddenly, better.'

-- Kevin McClain, Spa Index Media, September 30, 2005

THE DESTINATION

As a distinguished favorite among Hudson Valley resorts, Mohonk Mountain House offers a world class hotel, fine dining, access to 85 miles of hiking trails, tennis, golf, indoor and lake swimming, boating, ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, children's programs, horseback riding, carriage rides, and more.  New in 2005, the Spa at Mohonk Mountain House completes the resort's offerings as an ultimate destination for individuals, families, couples, corporate groups, and now, the spa and wellness traveler.

"I began to enjoy my visit to Mohonk about 5 miles from its front doors.  Mohonk is 7 miles from the town of New Paltz, home of SUNY New Paltz. My many hours of travel by air and rental car immediately began to melt away as I drove the several miles up to the entry gates of the Mohonk Estate.   I was no longer just eager to 'get where I was going.'  I was finally 'enjoying the ride' as outside sounds softened and the scenery eased into calm and gentle woods.  At the entry gate to the Mohonk estate,  attendants cheerfully inquired how my drive had been so far, welcomed me to Mohonk, alerted the front desk that I would soon be arriving, and waved me ahead to another 2 miles of gentle winding road.  

The first sign past the gate would set the tone for the weekend -- 'Slowly and Quietly, Please.'   As I took in the beautiful scenery on the last leg of my drive, I slowed my rental car to a stop and waited patiently for a family of geese to slowly waddle across cross the road.   It seemed fitting that I turn off my cell phone -- I felt like I was intruding, and any sound from the phone would have ruined the moment."
 

THE RESORT STRUCTURE

Horse Drawn Carriage in front of Mohonk Mountain House"Mohonk Mountain House is a National Historic Landmark and once you step out of your car and look at the front of the property, you instantly know you are enveloped in history.  Located at the top of the 26,000 Shawangunk Mountain, this half mile long resort building above Lake Mohonk is stately and impressive.  Built 1869, this 261-room castle is not only one of America's oldest family-owned resorts, it certainly is the last of the great 19th century mountain resorts.  Far from being 'dated' however, I found the resort has grown and merged into its surroundings without overwhelming the natural beauty.  It has managed to remain an impressive resort, in an impressive structure, on even more impressive grounds, but hasn't taken a misstep by scarring its beautiful backdrop or historic construction.  To the contrary, it has merged its newest building -- the Spa at Mohonk Mountain House --  in the most ecologically responsible and beautifully constructed manner possible.  Mohonk is a willing environmental steward of its own mountain.

Rocking Chairs at Mohonk Mountain HouseOne architectural element I take simple pleasure in, is a porch or veranda.  This isn't the result of my having been brought up in homes with porches or verandas -- while my California Bay Area environs boast many Frank Lloyd Wright buildings, mid-century modern structures, and even stately Victorians, it isn't known for its porch properties.  No, this simple pleasure stems from the fact I am usually in high rise buildings, airplanes, lofts, and newer structures.  Beautiful, many of them, but when I have an opportunity to rock on a porch, I'm happy.    To my delight, my three days at Mohonk afforded me many moments of solitude on porches, verandas, gazebos, and in the spa solarium.   The porch which runs across the front of the resort's main structure offers numerous rocking chairs, and gives a clear view of the Catskills."

THE GUESTROOMS

Breakfast in a Tower Guest Room at Mohonk Mountain HouseFor over a century, Mohonk Mountain House has offered a unique haven of grace and timeless luxury. From elegant rooms in a Victorian Tower (pictured at left) to charming rooms overlooking spectacular vistas of mountains or lake, enjoy the warm welcome that has characterized this New Paltz resort for generations. The 19th-century character of this historic castle has been preserved throughout – with beautifully-carved woodwork, period furnishings, and cozy fireplaces. Customize your stay by choosing from a wealth of guestroom options, which include Traditional rooms, Victorian rooms, Junior Suites, and Tower rooms.

"My Victorian room faced the lake.  I'm tall (6'4') and furniture is an important feature for me.  Victorian decor -- wicker settees and delicate iron vanity chairs -- are almost always uncomfortable.  Although my Mohonk room was Victorian in design, it struck just the right balance between historical period pieces and functional comfort.   It was a 'sturdy' Victorian, equally comfortable for men and women.  My room was equipped with a small sink and wash vanity, a full size tub shower and water closet, king size bed, large working fireplace and a balcony with 4 rocking chairs overlooking the lake. At Mohonk, televisions are available in designated public rooms, however, not in each guest room.  Guests may request an in-room television, which will be delivered and hooked up in your room. After getting settled, I sat on the balcony and rocked while watching guests 'slowly and quietly' enjoy the property, rowing or peddling boats on the lake.

All room rates at Mohonk Mountain House are on the American Plan -- meaning, the rate is per room, per night, and includes three meals daily, including Afternoon Tea and Cookies.  Rates typically range from $246 daily for single occupancy, or $389 double occupancy. Nominal surcharges apply for additional adults or children over 12."

THE SPA AT MOHONK MOUNTAIN HOUSE

"I'd heard Mohonk described as a 'hodge podge' of buildings tumbling over 2,000 acres of property, more whimsical than grand.  I thought adding a 30,000 square foot wing could have either contributed to that description, or, created what appeared to be a 'neighboring resort.'  In fact, I found the entire estate deserves the term 'grand.'  While there were areas of whimsy,  Mohonk is more grand than whimsical, and far from a hodge podge.  And then, there is the new Spa wing.

How do you know you have created an architectural success in a treasured historic setting? When you are able to build a new 30,000 square foot, 3 level wing which guests would be hard pressed to distinguish from the historic buildings. 

"Mohonk may just be heaven on earth."   -- Kevin McClain, SpaIndex.com

The Spa at Mohonk Mountain House was designed by Saratoga Associates (designers of the skating pavilion) and will certainly set a standard for not simply its harmonious design and construction on a historic property, but as a template for a model spa, as well.   

Spa enthusiasts are essentially roaming in their own 30,000 square feet spa resort within another resort.   The owners and Architects took advantage of the unparalleled vistas and provided for 200 windows in the spa wing, and every creature comfort.  Lingering relaxation is key, here, with equal time given to both common areas and treatment areas.  I called my staff and said 'Mohonk may just be heaven on earth.' "

The Details  
  • The new spa wing is connected to the main building by an enclosed walkway.

  • Its three-level design features wood, local stone and cedar shingles to complement the Mountain House’s existing architectural character.

  • On the first floor is an indoor heated pool (30 feet x 60 feet), with lap lanes, swim classes and adults-only swim periods.

  • On the second floor is the extensive fitness center, featuring Precor cardio, strength, and free-weight equipment, and a motion room for classes, including aerobics, step, core, Ai Chi, Yoga, Meditation, Qi Gong and Pilates (some classes also offered on the garden roof).

  • On the third floor are the spa treatment rooms, sauna, solarium, and an outdoor heated mineral pool

    • Solarium with fireplace, reading rack and complimentary tea and fruit bar

    • A co-ed robe veranda

    • Motion room with classes, including Aerobics,

    • Beauty salon with manicure and pedicure stations, hair and makeup stations, and a special event (bridal and group) station

    • 16 spa treatment rooms

      • 4 wet treatment rooms, including a hydrotherapy room with color therapy, and a wet table with Vichy Wand

      • 2 couples rooms (including one couples' suite with a fireplace and private lounge room with beverage and snack service)

      • 3 skincare rooms

  • Product lines include Eminence Organics, a pure line from Hungary utilizing herbs and fruits for skin and body products; E'Spa, Ecru, Essence of Vali, and Brenda Christian.

  • 80 spa employees assure an excellent staff-to-guest ratio.

Outdoor Mineral Pool

 

Co-ed Robe Veranda

 

Fitness Center

 

Ladies' Locker Room

 

"It wasn't an 80 minute massage, it was a demonstration of the very definition of wellness, at the hands of an expert." -- Kevin McClain, SpaIndex.com

"I arrived at the top floor of the new spa wing filled out the requisite health history.  I was escorted to the men's locker room (there is a separate locker room for women), located down a set of stairs and decorated in hues of pale green and yellow to match the topography outside.  At the bottom of the stairs, before moving into the changing area, is the men's relaxation lounge with large leather wing back chairs and a flat screen television.  It has the feel and look of sophisticated parlor.  The changing area is first rate, gleaming with quality fixtures.  My electronically secured locker was pre-stocked with large plush towels, a robe, and soft slippers.  The locker rooms have sauna, rooms, steam showers, and large banks of sinks stocked with every necessary toiletry.   I had not yet had my first treatment, but was already in 'spa mode' simply from the inviting 'spa club' atmosphere. I'm told the women's locker and lounge area has twice the size and rather than the leather wing-backs and television -- a tea bar.

I was greeted by my massage therapist, Michael Ryan, a 14 year veteran of an older and smaller spa that was previously on the grounds. Michael pointed out each treatment room which has been named, rather than numbered.  Names include the Oak Room, Gecko room, Turtle Room, Grasshopper Room, and more.  'Treatment in Progress' signs are not used. Instead, a rock from the property is placed outside the room.  A rock placed to the right means the room is in use; a rock placed to the left means the room is open.

I had the signature 80 minute 'Mohonk Red Massage.'  This signature treatment included relaxation breathing techniques, warmed body and bath oil with a proprietary 'Mohonk Red' witch hazel on the skin and infused in towels cocooned my face and feet. A combination of acupressure, Swedish massage, Hawaiian Lomi-Lomi massage, and traditional Thai stretches were all used, concluding with a face spritz and a guided 'power nap.'

My editor warns me repeatedly not to use the term 'the best I've ever had' because one can never know what awaits at the next destination, but I choose to ignore that caveat and say the Mohonk Red Massage was the best I've had in a spa environment to date -- which covers seven years touring spa facilities.  It wasn't an 80 minute massage, it was a demonstration of the very definition of wellness, at the hands of an expert.   

After I woke up from the encouraged power nap (no rushing you out of the treatment room, here), I was able to choose between three additional relaxation areas.  There are men's, women's, and co-ed robe verandas taking advantage of hundreds of windows overlooking the spectacular outdoor vistas, and, each leading to the solarium with fireplace, lounging chairs, reading materials, and fruit and beverage service.    I could have happily spent my entire vacation in these relaxation areas. 

The following day, I returned to the spa for a Mohonk Red Manicure and Pedicure by Ivona, my nail technician.    The nail care stations afford a comfortable banquette style lounging bench, deliberately placed so that you can gaze out the bank of windows rather than antiseptic walls or other stations.    I again enjoyed the signature Mohonk Red Witch Hazel on my hands and feet, a 'Shawangunk Grit' exfoliating treatment, a paraffin dip to seal in moisture, and a bonus heated neck wrap.   Perfect.  After my  manicure and pedicure, I was invited to adjourn to the robe veranda for tea and a nap -- or as it's called 'a wrap and a nap.'  I needed little encouragement. 


I was also invited to use the spacious 60 by 30 heated indoor pool. I loved this swimming pool.  I'd happily pay an entrance fee just to use it.   Heated, with floor to ceiling windows, it allows more of the never-ending natural beauty to be a backdrop to swimming.  I swam my usual laps and when I ducked under the water, I realized music was playing through underwater speakers. 

 

While I feel I got a very good introduction to 'core services' at the spa (a good massage, manicure and pedicure is my core menu), I'm really eager to return for a complete wellness vacation that takes advantage of the extensive classes on the green roof, the fitness center, and the complete program available to guests of longer duration.  You can't experience the Smithsonian in one weekend, and so it goes for Mohonk. I need to return for a week or more, to enjoy the rest of the spa options available and I plan to do so in the winter months, to take advantage of yet a different view outside of hundreds of windows in this castle on the mountain."

TIP:

Appointment times are in demand, so whenever possible, contact the Spa Coordinator immediately after making your hotel reservation to make arrangements for spa services.

DON'T MISS:

Private Verandas for Spa Guests, a Solarium, Reading Materials, and heated outdoor Mineral Pool are available only to guests receiving spa treatments.  Take advantage of these amenities by allowing for several hours after your spa treatment.

LOCALS: Overnight guests have priority in booking appointments at the spa and for private instruction. Day guests are welcome to book appointments subject to availability.
THE SPA DIRECTOR

The Spa at Mohonk Mountain House is directed by Hollis Beckwith, who brings more than 25 years of industry experience to the property.  Hollis formerly served as Spa Director at the Spa at the Herrington (Geneva, Illinois), the Apuane Spa at the Four Seasons Resort in Punta Mita, Mexico, and the Pangkor Laut and Tanjong Jara Spas in Malaysia.   Hollis has a special interest in designing treatments based on indigenous materials, and has incorporated the natural beauty of the mountaintop into the Spa with signature treatments, artwork, and architectural elements.

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

"So expertly crafted is the building, geothermal system, and green roof, when inside the spa you simply don't hear anything except the quiet hush of the earth." -- Kevin McClain, SpaIndex.com

The Spa wing is environmentally friendly in its use of a geothermal heating and cooling system, as well as recycled and recyclable materials. Geothermal systems use the constant temperature of the earth to heat and cool with remarkable efficiency; this type of system is very quiet and produces no on-site emissions.

"As a staunch advocate of both Eco-Friendly Travel and Green Construction, I'd been following the $15 million renovation to build the environmentally responsible and model 'green spa' at Mohonk for a considerable period.   This is a topic near and dear to us (Spa Index Media donates the webspace and broadband to host the online efforts of SociallyResponsible.Org and its 'green vendors'), so I looked forward to my visit to the Spa at Mohonk Mountain House with great anticipation.  

The Spa wing's geothermal system is a silent tool in the background.  The system which powers an entire 30,000 square foot wing make less noise than an older washer and dryer. The facility is built on rock outcropping at the top of a mountain.  Extensive rock removal was necessary to install the foundations of the addition, however, during construction, these materials, more than 600 tons of quartz excavated from the site, were recycled into the building's stone walls, fireplaces, and retaining walls, whenever possible.

A 'green' sod roof was placed on one section of the building to create natural insulation, also allowing the building to blend with its surroundings.  The green roof has an 8-inch deep planting bed in which native plants are cultivated.  The green roof cuts summer cooling costs, filters the air, provides acoustical insulation, reduces rain run-off, and supplies green habitat for birds and butterflies.  The roof is also used for relaxation, mediation, and yoga.  So expertly crafted is the building, geothermal system, and green roof, when inside the spa wing you simply don't hear anything except the quiet hush of the earth."

THE GROUNDS AND GARDENS

Lakeside Gazebo at Mohonk Mountain ResortAutumn Trail and Gazebo at Mohonk Mountain House"I would soon discover that Mohonk is a resort that prides itself on offering something so simple -- but surprisingly rare -- hundreds of quiet spots to sit and observe nature.  No jockeying for position or 'your turn in the gazebo', no sharing your moment of solitude if don't wish to do so:  Mohonk has 231 balconies and 125 outdoor gazebos (summerhouses). These Gazebos have some of the best views of the property and give you a chance to sit and observe Mohonk, the lake, or the mountains from many vantage points during your stay.  You can chase the sun around the property throughout the day, from any one of these charming rest spots.  One in particular, SkyTop Observation Tower, is the highest point in New York's Wallkill Valley. The 360 degree panorama gives a bird's eye view of six different states.

In the winter, enjoy 35 miles of cross country ski trails and snowshoeing.  In the warmer seasons, explore over 85 miles of hiking, walking and running trails, or the spectacular gardens.   Gardening has been an important component of Mohonk from its inception in 1869. Mohonk has an amazing 30,000 to 50,000 plants, all tended by hand. Founder Albert K. Smiley's original design has been lovingly and meticulous maintained so that present day guests may enjoy tens of thousands flowering annuals, perennials, and tropical plants."

Mohonk Summerhouse (2 story) over the GardensThe Mohonk Greenhouse is home to outstanding collections of orchids, begonias, and fuchsias. You will find beautiful gardens throughout the Mountain House grounds, including ornamental grasses, herb collections, peonies, rock gardens, container gardens, and a butterfly garden.  Throughout the year, guests enjoy regularly scheduled garden walks and lectures. Additionally, several self-guided, educational garden and nature trails exist; pertinent booklets are available in Mohonk's Gift Shop, and Greenhouse Garden Shop. Mohonk offers two theme programs especially for gardeners: Garden Dreams enhances the winter season. and Garden Holiday (from August 28 - September 2) celebrates the final peak of the gardens at summer's end. Enjoy workshops and lectures as you learn from garden experts (Alan Detrick on garden photography, Ellen Spector Platt on rose garden design, Lynn Torgerson on 'green roofs' and more).

ACTIVITIES

"What is there to do at Mohonk, you ask? Mohonk can keep you as active or as relaxed as you wish.   With the exception of certain fee-based activities (horseback riding, carriage rides, weekend golf, and spa services) all other recreation is complimentary to overnight guests.  

Each day, an activity schedule arrives under your door (much like a cruise ship itinerary) reflecting the options you may enjoy that day. From 7:00 a.m. to 10 p.m., daily, you will find opportunities to learn a new skill, tour the property, house, and kitchens with guides, visit the museum, or participate in special themed programs, including one in progress during my visit -- 'Artist Inspiration Weekend' -- where artists guide guests in creating art inspired by Mohonk and its surroundings.  Also on the 'menu' for each of the three days was an Evening Video in the public viewing room:  current animated release 'The Incredibles', perennial family favorite 'The Sound of Music' with Julie Andrews and classic favorite 'The Quiet Man' with John Wayne.

Mohonk Fireplace at the Pavilion, courtesy of Dave Lamb PhotographyIn addition to traditional activities and theme weekends -- there is the outdoor covered Ice Skating Pavilion, located at the top of Mohonk behind the main building.  In the winter, this rink must be a vision. At one end of the covered rink is a massive stone fireplace that you can imagine roaring while you sip hot chocolate and lace up your skates.  As a tall youth I never saw the value in falling over and over again with the hope that one day it would come naturally.  So, while I admire the grace of winter Olympians  executing the perfect salchow, I have always demurred when asked to go skating.  Still, this pavilion is so quintessentially 'Christmas' and 'Winter' that I could actually imagine tracing lazy figure 8's in the ice while listening to the soundtrack of 'It's a Charlie Brown Christmas.'   I may have to rethink my position.

Guests also have access to the beautiful lake as well as indoor pool for swimming, golf, boating, fishing, nature walks, and tennis.  I am on a continuing  mission to show that resorts offer other sporting activities besides a golf course. My hope is that tennis will reclaim a more participatory following in the US,  so I'm always on the lookout for worthy tennis venues in a spa resort setting. Mohonk already has a great variety of activities and also has a notable tennis program for its guests.  Mohonk's first tennis courts were built in 1883. Named as one of the 75 best Tennis resorts by Tennis Resorts Online, Mohonk has two red clay and five Har-Tru courts for its guests.   It loans racquets to its guests, and charges no court time.  Under the guidance of tennis pro Pernell ("Perk") Larsen, Mohonk offers a daily tennis clinic, an afternoon tennis mixer, as well as tennis camp and special events. I had the opportunity to play on the clay court surface with the imminently patient Perk Larsen, so I took it. Let's just say Perk was an excellent pro, and I was tired and humbled."

DINING

Signature Cocktails at Mohonk Mountain House

Venison and Roasted Beets at Mohonk Mountain House

Crunch Cake at Mohonk Mountain House

Meals in the Mohonk Mountain House Dining Room feature modern American cuisine emphasizing the use of ingredients indigenous to America. Wholesome foods prepared with seasonal, local ingredients are the hallmark of dining at Mohonk, and the spectacular natural setting is the final touch to this wonderful dining experience. Alternative 'Sound Choice' items (lower in cholesterol, fat, salt and calories) appealing to the tastes of health-conscious guests, as well as vegetarian options, are on every menu. Kosher meals are also offered upon request.

"Breakfast and lunch are casual but bountiful buffets. Breakfast offerings include the expected scrambled eggs, breakfast meats and potatoes, hot specialty items, breads and muffins, fresh fruit, and assorted cereals and grains. At lunch, soup is served, followed by buffet salads, hot entrées, fish, carved meats, and dessert.

Dinner is a table-served four-course meal in the beautiful main dining room. The room is quite large, but made warm and intimate with its immaculate hardwood wood floors and ceilings, period piece fixtures and quiet grace. A dress code helps set the tone -- jackets and ties are required.   The dining hall faces the Catskills and the view is made enjoyable by floor to ceiling windows.  As the sun went down, the dining room cast a glow out into the darkening sky, and I was still able to see for miles.  Again, much like a cruise menu, I was invited to choose from a variety of appetizers and salads, to begin my four course meal.  I ordered Asiago Risotto Fritters with Figs and Grapes, and Mushroom and Goat Cheese Strudel on a Spinach Coulis.  I very much enjoyed the texture, flavor, and light touch with both of these choices. 

Knowing Mohonk has a devoted guest list, with guests returning year after year for nostalgic vacations, I was curious whether the chef at a resort on an American plan catered to returning guests accustomed to signature favorites, or, took chances with creativity and food trends. I think the answer is 'both.'  My appetizers were superb,  while one of my entrees during my stay  -- Duet of Grilled and Seared Chicken Breasts over Black Bean Compote -- was good, but not spectacular. Other meals during my stay, however, included an excellent lobster tail at the spa's opening reception. Additional representative menu choices included Peppered Black Angus NY Strip Steak with Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Pan-Seared Arctic Char, and Traditional Mohonk Fried Chicken with Whipped Creamer Potatoes.

Spa guests will be pleased to know the chefs have expanded, and will continue to expand, the menu to include even more 'Sound Choice' menu options.

Included in the daily rate is a charming ritual of Afternoon Tea, commencing precisely at 4:00 p.m.  Guests descend to the Lake Lounge on the ground floor and obviously look forward to this ritual -- the turn out was very good.  I actually came to enjoy the simple act of drinking tea each day on the porch, while quietly observing families gathering together -- apparently for the first time in the day -- talking about what they'd done that day, what they'd seen, or what they had planned for the next day.

Mohonk has many dining options for its guests who choose not to dress for dinner in the main dining room. Options include The Granary, featuring casual outdoor dining overlooking Lake Mohonk, with a daily barbecue for lunch and a special evening lobster bake cookout three nights a week during the summer season; and, the Picnic Lodge, offering stacked sandwiches and wood-burning oven-fired gourmet pizza. Special occasion banquets are also a specialty, as is an opulent Sunday Brunch. 

Mohonk's new 'West Lounge' is open from 5 to 11 p.m., serving award-winning wine selections, cordials, and alcohol-based cocktails, which may also be enjoyed in guest rooms."
 

GETTING THERE

Mohonk Mountain House is a convenient 90-minute trip from Manhattan. The resort is located six miles west of the New York State Thruway near New Paltz, New York and is easily accessible by auto, train, bus, or air.  The concierge will happily assist you with arrangements, including transfers.  Detailed directions and information are on Mohonk's website.

WITH THANKS
Assistance in compiling this information, as well as portions of information, text, and photographs were obtained from or provided by:

Mohonk Mountain House - Host
TIG / Thayer Interactive - Marketing
Saratoga Associates - Architects
Ryan Biggs Associates - Construction
Dave Lamb Photography - Skating Rink Fireplace photograph
Jim Smith Photography
G. Steve Jordan Photography
PHOTO GALLERY
.

Exterior

An aerial view of the beautiful setting for Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz, New York, USA

 


 

 



 

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