History of the Catskill Resorts

The Catskills have long been a center of American leisure and recreation; nothing exemplifies this rich heritage more than the history of the grand Catskill Resorts.

The Granit Hotel, circa 1940's

Initially drawn to the area by the scenic beauty and pastoral natural harmony of life in the Catskills, vacationers seeking refuge from the hectic hustle of daily life in New York City began flocking to area hotels in the early 20th century.

By the 1950’s The Catskills had become synonymous with the American leisure lifestyle.  Grand Hotels like The Concord, Grossingers, The Granit, and the Tamarack Lodge gave rise to a unique Catskill culture which drew in hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Serving up non-stop meals and endless entertainment, the Catskill Resorts were the training ground for world renowned comedians such as Woody Allen, Mel Brooks, Rodney Dangerfield, Jerry Lewis, The Three Stooges, and many others.  Other popular performers at the Catskill Resorts included Benny Goodman, Mel Torme, and Barbara Streisand.

The Concord, circa 1959

As American attitudes shifted through the 60’s and 70’s, the growing demand for outdoor recreation made the Catskills Resorts a popular destination for people eager to explore the area’s majestic landscape, hike along the regions extensive network of trails, and enjoy the beautifully manicured golf courses which several resorts had to offer. 

By the turn of the 21st century, the realities of a changing world economy forced many of the Catskill resorts to close their doors. Grossingers, The Concord, the Tamarack lodge, and most others have all disappeared.  

Incorporating new opportunities for recreation, health and wellness, the few resorts which remain today are going strong, and proudly continue to preserve the rich heritage of the grand Catskill Resort tradition.  

Formerly The Granit,
the Hudson Valley  Resort today

Formerly known as the Granit, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect destination for groups of all sizes.  Situated on 400 gorgeous acres with stunning mountain views, this beautifully renovated Catskill Resort offers guests an unparalleled Catskill experience.

For those seeking the perfect balance of charm and comfort, the Catskills are still King.

Have a memory of the Catskills to share?  Comment below, and tell us about it!

Catskill Mountains - Jewel of the American Landscape

The Catskill Mountains; jewel of the great American landscape- long the muse of poets, painters, musicians and writers alike, the enchanted Catskills remain as mysterious and evocative as ever.

The eyes of the world were turned towards the Catskills and the Hudson Valley in the mid- 19^th century by the masterpiece landscapes of the Hudson River School painters whose stunning romantic depictions of the region’s natural beauty forever changed the image of the New World. 

Depicting the Catskills as the ultimate embodiment of nature’s sublime beauty; the Hudson River School artists regarded these mountains as a sort of primeval eden.  Is it any wonder?

From the majestic cascade of Katterskill Falls to the dramatic eastern profile of the Escarpment, from the cool crags of Platte Clove to the legendary Willowemoc creek, the Catskills are truly “forever wild”.  

Home to bobcat, mink, fishers, coyote and black bear, the Catskills Mountains are a precious refuge for the preservation of countless species.

Protected by Article 14 of the State’s constitution, the Catskill Park consists of 700,000 acres of public land, and 287,500 acres of forest preserve which offer the visitor endless possibilities for outdoor adventure and exploration.

Opportunities for hunting, camping, fishing, and canoeing; challenging hiking trails, striking landscapes and scenic mountain roads, unique cultural events and quaint villages define the Catskill region today.

Situated on the south-eastern edge of the “blue line”, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect place to discover the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains for yourself.

Have a favorite feature of the Catskill region, or a memory to share?  Comment below, and tell us about it!

Springtime in the Hudson Valley

"Behold, my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun, and we shall soon see the result of their love!"

-Sitting Bull

The robins are busy building their nests and the tulips have pushed their way through the warming soil, blooming in defiance of winter’s chill.  

Everywhere delicate apple blossoms sweetly scent the brisk morning air.  

Bubbling brooks merrily meander through the ancient Catskill hemlock groves; secret, unseen and unspoiled by the multitudes of men.

Adorned with magnificent pink and white garlands of flowering mountain laurel, the quiet, shady trails of the fabled Shawangunks await, while jeweled hummingbirds flit about sipping sweet nectar like gentle fairies guarding their hallowed glades.

Quote the bard, "proud pied April, dressed in all his trim, Hath put a spirit of youth in every thing."

Planning a Springtime wedding? The Hudson Valley is the perfect place for your special day!

Come and relax your winter worries away in our full-service spa, or take in a round of golf on our 18 hole championship golf course.  Hudson Valley Resort and Spa has something for everyone.

Offering the ideal location for exploring the natural beauty of the Catskill and Shawangunk Mountains, The Hudson Valley Resort and Spa is the perfect springtime getaway. 

What do you love most about springtime in the Hudson Valley?
Comment below!