byulaa yoo

Review of Mohonk Mountain House

What to know: Mohonk, a Victorian castle resort on...

What to know: Mohonk, a Victorian castle resort on the Shawangunk Ridge in Ulster County, has endless vistas around its lake. On a clear day, the myth goes that you can see four states from Skytop Tower, where the top of the preserve is aligned with the clouds.

How to Get There: The easiest way to get here is to take the train to Poughkeepsie, which is about 20 minutes from the New Paltz area (calling a local cab company to the hotel is ideal).

What to Do: The two-story historic home has 600 rocking chairs, so you can ease into your day by looking at the tranquil lake slowly filling with kayaks. Alternatively, wander through the lush French gardens bursting with summer blooms, including its rose garden. This year s summer floral exhibit, Under the Sea , uses aquatic motifs that you can soak in with a pair of capable legs and truly breathe the mountain air. Stay in the new Grove Lodge, the Mountain House s first new accommodations in more than 100 years.