Every city dweller needs an escape from the noise and the traffic fumes sometimes. This is especially true if you're living in a city like New York, where the fast pace can be exhausting. Luckily it's easy to have a short break in the fresh country air if you stay at an Ulster county bed and breakfast.
Ulster county is perfectly located, since it's far enough from New York City to feel like a different world but close enough to make getting there a breeze. It's about 98 miles from downtown NYC to Kingston, which is where the county seat is located. The area lies in the Hudson Valley and the Catskills and there are lovely little hamlets as well as larger towns such as Rochester, Woodstock, Marlborough and New Paltz.
Its location in the Catskills means that the region is a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors, with several state parks and forests to explore. There is a vast network of hiking and biking trails and you can also explore on horseback. Rivers, lakes and reservoirs provide wonderful opportunities for fishing, swimming and kayaking while visitors who appreciate a good view should head into the hills. In winter, you can enjoy a variety of snow sports such as skiing too.
Back in the day, goods like ice, bricks and agricultural produce were shipped down the Hudson to supply the inhabitants of New York City. The Hudson River Maritime Museum in Kingston provides a fascinating insight into this era. Kingston is also home to the New York Trolley Museum. Other historical sights in the region include the Saugerties Lighthouse, the Mohonk Mountain House, the Empire State Railway Museum, the Catskill Mountain Railroad and a variety of heritage buildings.
If your interests lean toward the culinary, you'll find plenty to tantalize your taste buds. There are several farmer's markets where you can buy local produce, from fruits in season to handmade cheese. Alternatively, buy direct from the farm stands. Quench your thirst at one of the small breweries or wineries and if you don't want to do the cooking yourself, dine at any of the local restaurants. You'll also find quaint little stores in most towns and hamlets, selling anything from handmade jewelry to antique furniture.
Another idea for a great day or night out is to enjoy a live concert, of which there are plenty. In fact, the area also hosts some very popular festivals, including the Bellayre Music Festival. Whether you're into theater, music, fine art or food, you'll find an event or a festival to your liking.
There are different ways to get to the area. You can take one of the regular buses from New York City or travel by train to Poughkeepsie and then catch a bus from there to your destination. The best way to travel, however, is by car.
One of the great things about the county is that it's a year-round destination, so you can come for your anniversary, a birthday or to simply celebrate your love. One of the most romantic seasons here is fall, though, for the spectacular colors of the leaves. Remember though that you'll need to book your stay at least some weeks in advance if you want to be sure of the best accommodation options.
Ulster county is perfectly located, since it's far enough from New York City to feel like a different world but close enough to make getting there a breeze. It's about 98 miles from downtown NYC to Kingston, which is where the county seat is located. The area lies in the Hudson Valley and the Catskills and there are lovely little hamlets as well as larger towns such as Rochester, Woodstock, Marlborough and New Paltz.
Its location in the Catskills means that the region is a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors, with several state parks and forests to explore. There is a vast network of hiking and biking trails and you can also explore on horseback. Rivers, lakes and reservoirs provide wonderful opportunities for fishing, swimming and kayaking while visitors who appreciate a good view should head into the hills. In winter, you can enjoy a variety of snow sports such as skiing too.
Back in the day, goods like ice, bricks and agricultural produce were shipped down the Hudson to supply the inhabitants of New York City. The Hudson River Maritime Museum in Kingston provides a fascinating insight into this era. Kingston is also home to the New York Trolley Museum. Other historical sights in the region include the Saugerties Lighthouse, the Mohonk Mountain House, the Empire State Railway Museum, the Catskill Mountain Railroad and a variety of heritage buildings.
If your interests lean toward the culinary, you'll find plenty to tantalize your taste buds. There are several farmer's markets where you can buy local produce, from fruits in season to handmade cheese. Alternatively, buy direct from the farm stands. Quench your thirst at one of the small breweries or wineries and if you don't want to do the cooking yourself, dine at any of the local restaurants. You'll also find quaint little stores in most towns and hamlets, selling anything from handmade jewelry to antique furniture.
Another idea for a great day or night out is to enjoy a live concert, of which there are plenty. In fact, the area also hosts some very popular festivals, including the Bellayre Music Festival. Whether you're into theater, music, fine art or food, you'll find an event or a festival to your liking.
There are different ways to get to the area. You can take one of the regular buses from New York City or travel by train to Poughkeepsie and then catch a bus from there to your destination. The best way to travel, however, is by car.
One of the great things about the county is that it's a year-round destination, so you can come for your anniversary, a birthday or to simply celebrate your love. One of the most romantic seasons here is fall, though, for the spectacular colors of the leaves. Remember though that you'll need to book your stay at least some weeks in advance if you want to be sure of the best accommodation options.
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