Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Pine Hill, NY



Perfect for anyone looking to put a bit of distance between themselves and the city, Pine Hill tops the charts at 130 miles from Manhattan.  Rural, unspoiled and low key.  I can think of no better place to view the changing colors in the fall or play in the snow in winter.


<LODGING>


The Pine Hill Arms hasnt changed since i was a kid.  It's popular with skiers, given its proximity to Bellayre, and the town tavern is just downstairs. 


The Breezy Hill Inn is a charming B&B in the petite hamlet of Fleischmanns, down the hill from Pine Hill.  A gorgeously restored Victorian in a cute walking town, with a few shops and restaurants nearby.




The Copperhood Inn and Spa offers the perfect antidote to the winter blues.  You can enjoy massage therapies, hydrotherapy, as well as weight loss and detox programs.  Located on Route 28 in Shandaken, it's an easy ten minute ride away from Bellayre.




The Full Moon Resort is a hot spot for country weddings but simmers down in the fall and winter.   If you're a fan of big open spaces and delight at the chance to sleep in a yurt, this is the place for you.


{DINING}



 Peekamoose Restaruant and Tap Room, in Big Indian, serves traditional American fare and classy cocktails.  Spacious and elegant, with a price point that attracts mostly second homers and city slickers alike. 



The Pine Hill Arms is a towny bar with a juke box and very decent bar food.  Love it or leave it.


Mi Lupita is an adorable mexican cafe, tucked in the back of a mexican grocery store in Fleischmanns.  Family operated.  The food is made to order, in an open kitchen.  My personal favorite is the pumpkin blossom quesadillas.


The Flour Patch is a darling little breakfast spot, in nearby Margaretville, serving the usual morning eatables.




Arkville Bread and Breakfast.  As the title suggests, the bread is as mentionable as the breakfast.  Colossal omelets, crepes, bangers and mash.  Followed by delectable sandwiches for lunch. 



The Bun N' Cone has survived two devastating hurricanes, in my lifetime, and they just keep restoring it to its former simpleness!  A greasy spoon and ice cream shop in one, expect a lot of folks in camouflage during hunting season.

  

 The Cheese Barrel in Margaretville wears many hats.  First and foremost, an amazing selection of cheeses.  It's also a gourmet food source, coffee shop and bagelry.


~RECREATING~


Truly the main attraction, Belleayre Ski Mountain.  Not a lot of bells and whistles, just magical views and a kindred atmosphere.  Night skiing Friday evenings in the winter.  Hiking all summer and autumn long.





Pine Hill Lake is man made and man operated.  Great for kids.  We usually visit in fall, when dogs are allowed, to walk around the lake under a canopy of orange and red.  Hiking trails leading up to Belleayre can be found uphill from the parking lot.



A two hour train ride from Arkville to Roxbury, and back, aboard a vintage train.  You get sensational views, a history lesson, and a snack.  Operates May through October.  Delaware & Ulster Railroad




The Ashram Center, in nearby Margaretville, offers yoga, pilates and movement classes in a small, serene setting.  




 Hannah Mountain Resort and Country Club has a 19 hole public course, offering instruction and accommodations.  Stay for lunch in the club house or a drink at the bar.



[SHOPPING]



Golden Nest Antiques is situated on the main drag in Fleishmanns.  A treasure trove of jewelry, artwork, lighting and pottery.  Most days you can watch the owner re-purpose antique glass beads into amazing modern pieces.  Open April through November, and by appointment December through March.


Cloudspinners Antiques occupies a massive home in the village of Pine Hill.  They sell antique furniture as well as custom pieces.



A somewhat recent addition to the village, Pine Hill Books has a welcoming and soul warming energy.  Peruse their over 10,000 books, buy a tote bag or get some info on the now annual Steampunk Festival, which the store has been instrumental in organizing.



768 Main Street is a coffee shop boutique hybrid, in Margaretville.  Selling everything from kitchen contraptions to vintage clothing, you are likely to find something that inspires you here. 


Foothills Shoe Co, located in the prettiest painted lady in Margaretville, has a nice selection of rustic, outdoorsy, footwear. 





1 comment:

  1. Very beautiful landscape! Indeed, the USA is a very interesting country because of its geography and traditions. Especially with Autotours. I read it and looked with pleasure. Always wanted to go to the ocean, you pushed me to change.

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