Everybody told us about the inspiring nature around New Paltz and that it is a perfect destination for recreation and reflection.
So we asked ourselves: “Is it indeed the heaven of New York state?”

Yes, it is! If you want to relax and escape from the daily life, this is one of the best places to do this.
I am talking about the Mohonk Preserve.

Our goal for the day was to enjoy the Mohonk Preserve by hiking through wonderful nature scenaries.
By the way it was my first time hiking in a nature preserve; therefore, I did not know what to expect.

Our hiking trip started at the visitor center at Mohonk Reserve with a friendly recommendation where to go and what trail to take.
After a one hour comfortable and inspiring hike we experienced the aha moment:
The Mohonk Lake and the Victorian castle resort “Mohonk Mountain House” surrounded by the beauty of the Shawangunk Mountains.

The Mohonk Lake convinces with its great selection of activities such as boating, kayaking and swimming.
Boats can be rented at the boat dock for $13 per boat for 30 minutes. Unfortunately, without an overnight reservation,
swimming is only permitted when purchasing a meal or a spa treatment at the hotel.

However, the resort is a beautiful, old castle with a lot of history. When you enter the hotel you feel like going back in time – rustic but elegant.
The interior appears as it is from another century. Decide whether you like it or not.
I liked it, especially the sunset bar where we had a drink after a great hike. We enjoyed the wonderful mountain view.

You definitely should go there at least for a few hours to experience the Mohonk Preserve and the area around the hotel.
In case you do not feel like hiking, the taxi driver can bring you directly to the hotel in order to enjoy the setting in the countryside,
the lake as well as the amazing garden.

If you decide to stay overnight, take your credit card with you. One night in the spring/summer season costs
approximately $600 (without tax). In the winter season it is more cost-effective, round about $300.
There are many activities you can choose from such as croquet, putting green, indoor pool, tennis courts and and and ….

For more information I would like to refer to the following websites:

Mohonk Mountain House http://www.mohonk.com/

Mohonk Preserve http://www.mohonkpreserve.org/

You won’t regret experiencing the Mohonk Preserve and its surrounding.
Unforgettable moments are guaranteed! Enjoy 🙂