Hands-On History: Explore our Local Antique Shops

Antiquing has become a popular pastime in the historic Hudson Valley Catskills and many travelers enjoy the opportunity to discover tangible treasures from the past which speak to our region’s rich cultural history.

You never know what you'll find hidden among the shelves of a great country antique shop!  From vintage clothing, furniture and jewelry to pre-industrial farm implements, tin toys, old-fashioned technology and unusual curiosities, our local antiques and collectibles dealers have something for everyone.

So where to begin?  Our guests simply love these nearby antique shops and vintage dealers- they’re just minutes away and you’re sure to find a special treasure you’ll cherish for years to come.

Old Brick House Antiques 
5858 Route 209 Kerhonkson, NY 12446 (845) 626-5206
Interesting, fun, relaxing shopping experience with something for everyone to enjoy. Antiques, collectibles and home accents. Americana, art, country, ephemera, furniture, glass, primitive and textiles. Open daily, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. or later. Year-round, except Wednesday.

Rose Hill Antiques
5066 Route 209 Accord, NY 12404 (845) 626-7155
Buying and selling antiques and collectibles. 1500-square-feet of 19th and early 20th Century antiques and used furniture. Something for everyone.

The Vintage Barn
174 Lower Whitfield Road, Accord, NY 12404 (845) 706-5796
Antiques and collectibles, vintage housewares, ephemera, toys and more.  Open most weekends, noon - 5 p.m., or by appointment. Closed December - April.

Downtown Antiques 
23 Main Street Accord, NY 12404 (845) 706-1070
Primitives/rustic to decorative for home, cottage and garden. Cupboards, ironstone, lighting, art and more. Open Sunday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. and by appointment.

Want more to explore?  Head to the nearby town of New Paltz where you’ll find a half-dozen more exciting shops to check out, including The Antiques Barn, Medusa Antiques, Horsefeathers, and more!

Antiquing is a great way to spend the day while visiting the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa, where there’s always something new to discover just around the corner.

With a full-service health spa on site with Jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms as well as tennis, basketball and more- you'll feel a world away just 90 miles from NYC.  Give us a call today, and we'll help make the most of your stay.

Rocking the 'Gunks!

The brilliant white profile of The Shawangunk Ridge is widely recognized as one of the finest climbing centers in the US, considered by many to be the Yosemite of the East.

Known in climbing circles simply as “The Gunks”, this world-famous 12-mile long escarpment is home to more than 1200 ascent routes which entice climbers with colorful names like “Space Invaders”, “Twilight Zone”, and “Pumping Pygmies”.

Many of the classic routes first established by Fritz Weissner and Hans Kraus have become legendary in rock climbing circles; for some, negotiating epic 'Gunks ascents like High Exposure, Gargoyle, and Gelsa are practically a right of passage.

Flocking to the 'Gunks in record numbers to enjoy related activities like bouldering, mountain biking, and hang-gliding, climbers of every skill level are invited to experience the Shawangunk ridge for themselves.

Not only a haven for Climbers, the Shawangunk Ridge boasts thousands of acres of unspoiled natural beauty and scenic views for all; even a comfortable stroll through Minnewaska’s carriageways or a quick stop at one of many roadside overlooks can be a richly rewarding experience!

You won't believe just how affordable a hotel in the Gunks can be!  Located just minutes from the ridge, the Hudson Valley Resort and Spa offers climbers and their families resort accommodations at “rock bottom” prices.

With a European health spa, fitness center, game room, tennis & basketball courts on site, the Hudson Valley Resort truly has something for everyone. Give us a call today, and we'll help make the most of your stay.

3 Essential Keys for Annihilating Stress

The hectic day-to-day hustle of modern living can lead to setbacks in our personal health and well-being.  It’s no wonder: stress can wreak havoc on your body as well as your mind.

The key to a healthier, happier lifestyle is learning to control stress before stress controls you.  While there are many ways to deal with stress- here are three key solutions to help you annihilate it and enjoy a more peaceful way of life.

Exercise Regularly.  Studies show that regular exercise is a sure-fire stress killer. Just 30-60 minutes of exercise performed just three times a week will greatly reduce stress, release muscle tension, and help you feel awesome! Exercise produces endorphins in the brain which create a sense of well-being and happiness, so it’s the perfect option.

Eat for Wellness.  A healthy, balanced diet is another way to help annihilate stress.  Eating fatty, low quality meals is not conducive health and wellness; you are what you eat, so prepare well-balanced meals and you'll feel well balanced, too.  Avoid fast-foods and incorporate fresh, local ingredients whenever possible.

Visit the Spa.  With stress-related illness on the rise, it’s more important than ever to find time for ourselves.  A visit to a Hudson Valley spa can provide peace and relaxation while reducing stress to help you enjoy a healthier, happier life.

The Spa at Hudson Valley Resort offers a full menu of massage therapies to help manage stress as well as an array of amenities designed to help you relax and rejuvenate. Because our guests enjoy complimentary use of the Jacuzzi, sauna & steam rooms, glass enclosed fitness centers and more, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect place to incorporate these 3 keys for annihilating stress for healthier, happier lifestyle.

Upstate Escapes: Summer Events and Attractions

Summer is just around the corner, and travel to the Hudson Valley Catskills is really starting to heat up!  With endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, an exciting lineup of fairs and cultural festivals, and a thriving farm-to-table and craft beverage movement it’s no wonder the Hudson Valley is quickly becoming one of the top US summertime escapes! 

Outdoor Adventure

Immortalized by the masterpiece landscapes of Hudson River School painters, the epic untamed beauty of the Hudson Valley Catskills offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.

Winding through an unspoiled natural wilderness, the extensive hiking trails  and waterways of the Catskill State Park bring the traveler through serene forests, over cool, clear creeks and up to majestic views so beautiful they inspired an art movement.

 

The nearby Shawangunk Ridge is a hiking and climbing mecca, and you can experience its beauty at Minnewaska State Park Preserve.  Recognized by The Nature Conservancy as “One of the Last Great Places”, Minnewaska is famous for it’s stunning white cliffs, sapphire blue sky-lakes and unique ecosystem.  It definitely deserves to be on your summer "to do" list.

Canoeing, mountain biking, kayaking, fishing, golfing- the Hudson Valley has something to offer everyone.  Other popular summer-time activities in the region include skydiving, river tubing, hang-gliding, and more!  

Fairs and Festivals

Home to countless fairs, festivals, and cultural events throughout the summer, there’s always something exciting going on in the Hudson Valley.  

Visitors have been flocking to the Ulster County Fair for more than 125 years, and it’s no surprise. There’s nothing like a good, old-fashioned country fair to celebrate the summer!  Featuring rides, games, agricultural exhibits, local crafts and specialties, musical events and entertainment, the Ulster County fair is fun for all!

 

America's longest running continuous summer chamber music series has been pleasing audiences since 1916, and this year is heating up to be their most exciting season yet! Maverick Concerts invites you to celebrate 100 years of glorious music performed and heard in the historic 1916 concert hall which has echoed in the surrounding woods for visitors to enjoy.  

Growing in popularity each year, the Hudson Valley Rib Fest is the regions largest and most unique BBQ food festival for whole family!  Featuring live music, demonstrations, and of course- the best BBQ ribs in the North East, it’s a two day summer event which is sure to have you coming back for more.

Farm to Table

A recent shift in consumer awareness towards healthier and more sustainable food options has put the Hudson Valley in the spotlight as more and more people are learning what our local growers have known for years- the secret to great food is fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

From fruits & vegetables to honey and maple syrup, artisan breads to small-batch cheeses, the Hudson Valley is producing some of the finest culinary delights on the market today.

Many local farms are inviting people to experience the farm-to-table movement hands-on. Nearby Kelder’s Farm offers educational events, fun for kids, and pick-your-own fruits and veggies allowing visitors a greater appreciation of Hudson Valley produce.

Open rain or shine, the Ellenville Farmers' Market is a small, family friendly market featuring fresh locally grown produce and regional products from Hudson Valley growers.  Live music, monthly visits from Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Master Gardeners, kids activities, cooking classes and more are offered to visitors each week.

Looking to quench your thirst?  The Hudson Valley is home to a thriving winemaking, brewing, distilling, and craft cider-making culture which is redefining the American drinks scene.  Explore the Shawangunk Wine Trail for tastings at 14 local wineries, or stop in any number of local craft beverage producers for demonstrations, tours and tastings. 

Whether you're visiting one of the regions many farmer’s markets, picking your own fruits and vegetables right from the vine, or taking time to savor the flavor of a craft beverage- visitors to the Hudson Valley are sure to the taste the difference.

Summer Escapes

Each summer, hundreds of thousands of visitors escape to the Hudson Valley for outdoor adventure, to experience the  fairs and cultural festivals and to enjoy the region’s agricultural bounty, and the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is at the center of it all!  Ideally nestled in the heart of the Shawangunk Mountains and surrounded by gorgeous Catskill views, the Hudson Valley Resort is within minutes of the best summer Hudson Valley attractions. 

Offering guests clean, comfortable accommodations with world-class mountain views, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa features a full service European Health Spa and so much more! Tennis and basketball courts, fitness and arcade centers, and a spacious conference center make the Hudson Valley Resort the ideal choice for your Hudson Valley Getaway, so call or click today, and we'll help make the most of your stay!

Summer Flowers Bloom in the Hudson Valley

The summer flowers are in full bloom here at the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa, and the gardens and grounds are alive with color!

A quick walk around our property revealed these gorgeous examples- take a look at the photos and see how many you can name!

There's never been a better time to visit the Hudson Valley than right now!  With Summer in full bloom, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is offering sizzling summer savings this weekend- just $79* per room (per night, July 27-29).  

Come explore the Hudson Valley, and enjoy our resort amenities!  We're just 90 miles from NYC and feature a full service European Health Spa, 18 Hole Championship Golf Course, fitness centers, tennis and basketball courts, Crystal Clear swimming pools, arcade center, and so much more!

Opportunities like this don't come along often, so call our reservations department at 845-626-8888 today! 

Spa and Fitness Center Membership For Health and Wellness

We all know that Physical fitness is an important factor in living a long and happy life, but keeping fit in the modern world can sometimes be a challenge.  For thousands living in the Hudson Valley, juggling our careers and our families leaves little time to think about our own fitness, and less time to actually do something about it.

The recent economic downturn has made it harder than ever to focus on our health and wellness.  With so many of us struggling from day to day just to make ends meet, it can be difficult to justify investing our time or money in fitness.    

The truth is, you can’t afford not to invest in your own well being – the US Center for Disease Control cites lack of physical exercise as the leading cause of chronic disease in America, and the high cost of healthcare can be as debilitating to a family as dealing with the illness itself.

Studies show that devoting just 30 minutes a day to regular fitness training can significantly improve your health and lower your risk of chronic disease. You owe it to yourself, and to your family, to find the time to work towards a healthier, happier life.

The Spa at Hudson Valley Resort is making it easier than ever for you to choose fitness.

With our new extended hours and Summer Spa Memberships available at exceptional prices, you’ll be amazed at just how simple and inexpensive keeping fit can be!

Our glass enclosed fitness center features Cybex weight training equipment, free weights, treadmills, recumbent & stationary bicycles, elliptical & step machines and more to help you tailor your workout and keep things fun!

Of course, Membership to the Spa at Hudson Valley Resort includes much more than just the use of our fitness center!  You’ll love relaxing after your workout in our beautiful, well appointed Spa!

Enjoy the Jacuzzi, Sauna and Steam Rooms, or take an invigorating swim in the pool- who knew choosing fitness could be so enjoyable?

Why not check it out?  With Day Passes also available at very reasonable rates, there’s no reason not to stop on by and find out why so many people in the Hudson Valley are choosing to invest in their health at the Spa at Hudson Valley Resort!   

History of the Shawangunk Berry Pickers

The Northern Shawangunk Ridge was once home to a lively seasonal community of Berry Pickers who made their living foraging the wild blueberries which thrive along the wind-swept heights of what is now Minnewaska State Park and Sam’s Point Preserve.

Beginning in the early 1700’s, rugged men and women from the area would make the long, hard journey through untamed wilds to reach these precious fruits.  A road to the ridge wouldn’t be completed until 1850, and bears and mountain lions were common.

Makeshift tarpaper squatter shacks began to appear by 1862, and many pickers would return with their families each July and stay through the season.  A good picker could forage 35 quarts of blueberries every day, which would then be sold to the local general store and shipped to Catskill resorts and to the prosperous people of New York City.

It was the completion of Smiley Road in 1901 which really opened the door for the blueberry picking camps.  By 1920, many ramshackle shanties dotted the road which supported thriving communities for one month each year, but which were ghost-towns for the others.

The berry-picking communities were lively places inhabited by good, simple folk living close to the land.  After filling their baskets from sun up to sun down, the berry pickers would gather together and tell stories, play games, dance, drink and sing.  Some rowdy camps gained a reputation for being less “family friendly” than others.

The Berry Pickers were an industrious people who knew that blueberries bushes produce the most fruit the year following a wildfire.  When the season’s last berry had been picked, it was common for the Berry Pickers to set fire to the Shawangunk ridge.  The folks who started the blaze would often return to the local saloon and await the call for firefighters- the same berry pickers who started the fires were often the people paid to help put them out!

Following World War 2, the changing world economy meant the end of an era for the Shawangunk berry pickers.  The rise of commercial blueberry farming made blueberries an inexpensive and widely available commodity, and the reduced demand for blueberries harvested in the wild made it difficult for the Berry Pickers to return.

By the close of the 1950’s, the last of the Berry Pickers had packed up their belongings, and the shanty towns have remained silent ever since.

Many artifacts of this unique part of the American Heritage still remain, and several of the Berry Picker’s shanties still stand in testimony of this forgotten era.  A walk through Sam’s Point Preserve along Old Smiley Road reveals many examples; The Nature Conservancy now operates a nature preserve here which encompasses some of the most popular berry picking sites.

Each year, the nearby town of Ellenville celebrates this rich part of our history with the Shawangunk Mountain Wild Blueberry Festival featuring performances by local musicians, handcrafted gifts, cultural events, entertainment, and of course- blueberries!  

Ideally situated just minutes from Sam’s Point Preserve and the Shawangunk Mountain Blueberry Festival, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect place to stay when exploring the historic Shawangunk Ridge.  Adjacent to Minnewaska State park and surrounded by gorgeous Catskill Views, our beautiful par 71 championship golf course and full-service European health spa creates the perfect balance of Charm and Comfort.

Featuring indoor and outdoor swimming pools, an arcade center, tennis, basketball and so much more, you'll enjoy resort accommodations while exploring all the area has to offer!

Do you have a story to share about Blueberry picking in the Shawangunks?  Comment below, and tell us about it!

Dive into Sizzling Summer Savings with Spa and Pool Day Passes!

Today is the first day of summer, and man what a scorcher!  What better time for a swim in the Hudson Valley?  Day passes to our spa and fitness center include unlimited use of our beautiful crystal clear pool, and best of all- they’re only twelve bucks!

Stop on by the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa this summer, and find out why so many people in the Hudson Valley return time and time again!  A day pass to the Spa and Fitness Center includes full use of our Jacuzzi, Sauna and Steam Rooms, Cybex weight training equipment, free weights, recumbent and stationary bicycles, elliptical machines, step machines, and so much more!

Nothing refreshes on a hot summer day more than an invigorating swim in the pool, and we’ve got two of the most beautiful, well maintained swimming pools in the Hudson Valley- indoors or out, you’ll love diving into the crystal clear water and splashing the day away at the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa!  Not interested in the spa and fitness center, but still fancy a swim?  Pool Passes are available at special discounted rates, and children under 3 are free!

And while you’re here, you’ve got to check out our beautiful championship golf course!  Winding through the heart of the Shawangunk Mountains and surrounded by gorgeous Catskill views, this 18 hole, par 71 course is as challenging as it is beautiful!

Of course, guests at the resort enjoy our Spa and Fitness Center facilities at no charge, so there’s no better time to reserve your stay at the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa!  When guests are not swimming or relaxing at the spa, they can enjoy the tennis courts, basketball courts, arcade center and more!  

So check out the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa this summer, and find out why so many people return time and time again!  Whether you’re looking for an affordable Spa and fitness center that’s close to home, or you want to escape from the stifling heat of the city in the summer, you can dive into savings at the Hudson Valley Resort& Spa!

Just call 845-626-8888 Ext. 8045 for complete details on these, and other exciting opportunities for summer fun at The Spa at Hudson Valley Resort!

Hudson Valley Memorial Day Getaway Special

In honor of our brave Service Men and Women and the sacrifices they've made, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is offering special discounted rates this Memorial Day Weekend- an unbeatable rate to get away to the beautiful Hudson Valley Resort & Spa!

Nestled in the heart of the Shawangunk Mountains, the Resort is ideally situated for exploring the many important Hudson Valley historical sites which pay tribute to our Troops, and the leaders who inspired them.

The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, West Point, Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site, the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library & Museum, and many more attractions are all within easy driving distance.

What better way to enjoy this Memorial Day Weekend?

Stay in Style and SAVE this memorial day!  The luxuriously appointed lobby and common areas at the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa hearken back to a grander age: rich carpeting, Crystal Chandeliers, and graceful works of art will enhance your stay.

Of course, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa features a perfectly manicured par 71 championship golf course surrounded by beautiful Catskill Mountain views, a full-service European Health Spa with glass enclosed Fitness Center, tennis and basketball courts, an arcade center,  indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and much more!

For more information, or to reserve your room, call 845-626-8888 or email info@hudsonvalleyresort.com.


Be sure to mention this Memorial Day Manager's Special to receive your discounted room rate!

Offers like this don’t come along often, so call now!  Availability is limited, and for this great unbeatable rate this opportunity won’t last long!

*Based on availability.  Rates are for a standard room, per night, subject to taxes and resort fees.  This special rate does not apply to pre-existing reservations, and does not include meals.  Offer valid May 25th through May 28th 2012.

Celebrate National Chocolate Chip Day!

May 15th is National Chocolate Chip Day!

In the spirit of the holiday, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa would like to share our favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe!

Baking these Chocolate Chip Cookies couldn’t be easier, and the results couldn’t be more delicious!

So go ahead and treat yourself to this gooey-sweet chocolaty treat!  


Ingredients
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets or line with parchment paper.
2. Sift together the flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, cream together the melted butter, brown sugar and white sugar until well blended. Beat in the vanilla, egg, and egg yolk until light and creamy. Mix in the sifted ingredients until just blended. Stir in the chocolate chips by hand using a wooden spoon. Drop cookie dough 1/4 cup at a time onto the prepared cookie sheets. Cookies should be about 3 inches apart.
4. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the edges are lightly toasted. Cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.


The Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect place to host your Hudson Valley wedding or group event With 41,000 sq. ft of conference, meeting, and ball rooms, we can buffet up to 1200! Serving up everything from informal BBQ to elegant plated dinners, we can accommodate your needs.

Need to work off those cookies, or just want to recharge?  Stop on by our beautiful European Health Spa and Fitness Center or the 18 Hole Championship Golf Course and discover the balance here at Hudson Valley Resort & Spa!

Do you have a favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe to share?  Comment below, and tell us about it!

History of the Hudson Valley

Originally inhabited by the Algonquian speaking Mahican and Munsee Native American people, Europeans first discovered the Hudson Valley in the early 17th century, a time of tremendous social and political upheaval.

The Dutch established the first Hudson Valley colony at Fort Nassau in 1610 as a trading post exchanging European goods for Native treasures.  The region remained at the heart of the New Netherland colonies until November 1674, when the Treaty of Westminster ceded New Netherland to the English.

Through much of the 1750s, the Hudson Valley became the bulwark of the British defense against French invasion during the French and Indian War.

During the American Revolution, the Hudson Valley was one of the major regions of military contention.  Part of the early strategy of the British was to sever the colonies in two by dominating the Hudson River.

Much of this plan was thwarted by the construction of an enormous iron chain stretched across the river at west point which greatly impeded the progress of British Ships through the Hudson Valley.

The completion of the Erie Canal on October 26, 1825 opened the Hudson Valley and New York City to commerce with the Mid-West and the Great Lakes Region, which helped the Hudson Valley to become an important industrial center.

In the early 19th century the Hudson Valley gained a reputation as a region of untamed gothic beauty, as popularized by writers like Washington Irving and through the landscape masterpieces of the Hudson River School painters.

The birthplace of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the Hudson Valley is still home to his legacy, residence, and presidential library.

Today, the History of the Hudson Valley is still alive.  You can explore some of the region’s rich historical resources by following these links:

Senate House State Historic Site

The West Point Museum

The D&H Canal Historical Society and Museum

The FDR Presidential Library and Museum

Washington's Headquarters

Ulster County Historical Society

Formerly “The Granit”, the historic Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect destination for anyone exploring the rich history of the Hudson Valley.  Perfectly situated on more than 400 gorgeous acres with stunning mountain views, this beautifully renovated historic hotel offers guests an unparalleled Hudson Valley experience.    

Have a favorite place to learn about Hudson Valley History?  Comment below, and tell us about it!

Hudson Valley: Top 10 Travel Destination for 2012

For those of us familiar with the Hudson Valley, it comes as no surprise to see who landed on Lonely Planet's list of Top Ten US Travel Destinations for 2012:

2. Hudson River Valley, New York
"It should be a given that any visitor to New York City breaks for a day or two ‘upstate’ in the Hudson River Valley, a slice of rural Americana just north. It’s a real city break, with leafy drives, wineries and plenty of farm-to-table foodie options that draw even spoiled-for-choice Manhattanites away from the city."

Only the exotic US Virgin Islands, half a world away, was ranked higher.

We’re honored to see the Hudson Valley region receive this kind of recognition from the largest and most well respected international travel authority- we all know the Hudson Valley is like no other place in the world!

Hundreds of thousands of travelers flock to the Hudson Valley each year to experience the exciting cultural events, sample the exceptional regional cuisine, and witness the region's magnificent natural beauty.

With so many opportunites for exploration, recreation, and relaxation, the Hudson Valley is truly in the midst of a travel Renaissance: With an abundance of food, wine, and film festivals, a thriving art and music scene, diverse sporting options, and a progressive focus on natural health and wellness, the Hudson Valley has something for everyone.

The Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect landing spot to explore this rich and diverse American Destination.  Surrounded by more than 400 acres of beautiful Catskill views and nestled in the heart of the Shawangunk Mountains, we’re within arms reach of all of the major Hudson Valley Attractions.

While you’re here, enjoy a round of golf on our Championship 18-hole golf course or pamper yourself in our European Health Spa.  Whether you’re visiting the Hudson Valley to explore or to relax, we’ve got you covered.

What do you love about the Hudson Valley?  What makes it so special?  Comment below, and tell us about it!

The Comic’s Haven: It was an Honor.

The Old Catskills Resorts were once a haven for American Comedy; an honor which has forever made its mark on the region, if not the world.  Every year, tens of thousands of New Yorkers would flock to the Hudson Valley to relax in luxury, enjoy the outdoors, and be entertained by the pioneers of modern stand-up.

Milton Berle, George Burns, Sid Caesar, Don Rickles, Jackie Mason… the list goes on and on.  Perhaps the greatest legacy of The Kings of the Catskills is “the one-liner”.

While many of the old Catskill comics have passed on, the one liner still thrives today.  In honor of the Catskills heritage as a comedy haven, we’ve complied the best of the best of the one-liners of old.

I just got back from a pleasure trip. I took my mother-in-law to the airport.

I've been in love with the same woman for 49 years. If my wife ever finds out, she'll kill me!

The doctor gave a man six months to live. The man couldn't pay his bill, so the doctor gave him another six months.

You have the Midas touch. Everything you touch turns to a muffler. 

A doctor has a stethoscope up to a man's chest. The man asks, "Doc, how do I stand?" The doctor says, "That's what puzzles me!"

I wish my brother would learn a trade, so I would know what kind of work he's out of.

A car hit an elderly man. The paramedic says, "Are you comfortable?" The man says, "I make a living."

I was playing golf. I swung, missed the ball, and got a big chunk of dirt. I swung again, missed the ball, and got another big chunk of dirt. Just then, 2 ants climbed on the ball saying, "Let's get up here before we get killed!" 

Doctor: "You'll live to be 60!" Patient: "I AM 60!" Doctor: "See! What did I tell you?"

Patient: "I have a ringing in my ears." Doctor: "Don't answer!"

While the days of Catskill Comedy may be gone, the Hudson Valley is still a favorite destination for tens of thousands of visitors every year.  With endless opportunities for recreation, entertainment, relaxation, and outdoor activites, it’s no wonder.

Formerly "The Granit", The Hudson Valley Resort & Spa, is honored to have been a part of the great Catskill haven of comedy.  Conveniently located just 90 miles from New York City, we're always happy to host groups of any size.  With 41,000 sq. ft. of banquet and meeting space, grand ballrooms and theater, we’re tickled pink to have you.  Give us a look, and find out how affordable true customer service and comfort can be.

Top 20 Hudson Valley Mother's Day Quotes

With Mother’s Day quickly approaching, we decided to gather up the top 20 Quotes which best exemplify the personal crisis which every mother in the Hudson Valley finds herself facing sooner or later- speaking with the same clichés her own mother used! 

20) “If everyone else jumped off a cliff, would you?”

19) “It’s all fun and games until someone loses an eye.”

18) “Do you think I was born yesterday?”

17) “Why? Because I said so, that's why!”

16) “Money doesn't grow on trees!”

15) “Don’t put that in your mouth.”

14) “Did you put on clean underwear? What will people think if you’re in an accident?”
13) “Wash behind your ears—I can see carrots growing back there.”
12) “Finish your meal—there are children starving in (misc. impoverished country)
11) “Would you eat like that on a first date?”
10) “Would it hurt to call once in a while?”

9) “Are you proud of yourself?”

8) “I went through labor, and you can't even do this one little thing?”

7) “I’ll give you something to cry about”

6) “I’m the one who brought you here, don’t think I can’t take you out.”

5) “Slow down. You’ve got your whole life to be a grown up.”
4) “You call that a broken heart? You’ve got a lot of living to do.”
3) “If you keep making that face, it’s going to freeze that way.”
2) “Sticks and stone may break your bones, but names will never hurt you.”

And finally....
1) “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”

At Hudson Valley Resort & Spa, we respect the enormous personal sacrifices mothers make for their families, and understand the daily stress and fatigue they endure.      

This Mother’s Day, there’s no better way to show your mom that you care than by giving the gift of relaxation- and there’s no better way to relax than a trip to the Spa.  That's why we're offering deeply discounted room rates and 10% off spa treatments with our Mother's Day Weekend Spa Getaway. 

Do you have a favorite Mom Cliché, or have you coined a new one yourself?  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!

Body, Mind and Spirit: Hudson Valley Spas

The world is accelerating.

Every day seems a mad dash to the finish line; a constant struggle just to meet the demands of our careers and our families.  With so many things competing for our attention in these uncertain times, trying to balance our “life load” can be a challenge. 

Rates of stress related disorders are at an all time high; according to the American Medical Association, stress is a major factor in more than 75% of illnesses today.

It’s more important than ever to find time for ourselves.  Hudson Valley spas can provide peace, relaxation, and guidance to help you live a healthier, happier life. 

Slow your world down.

Millions of Americans have felt a difference in their lives by making time to visit a spa.  Offering precious refuge from a frenzied world, there’s no better place to disconnect, relax, and recharge your body, mind, and spirit.

Today’s spas offer experiences as unique as you are; whether you choose a Hot Stone Massage, Reiki session, or Shiatsu, a seaweed-algae mud treatment or a European facial, you can be sure that you’ll walk away refreshed.

So go ahead.  Make the time to take care of yourself.  Visit the spa at Hudson Valley Resort, and begin your journey toward healthier, happier living.  With all that you do, you deserve it.