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!

A Springtime Wedding in the Hudson Valley? What could be more perfect!

Let this be our destiny . . .

to love, to live,

to begin each new day together,

to share our lives forever.

What could be more perfect than a springtime wedding in the Hudson Valley?

Whether you prefer an intimate outdoor ceremony, or an elegant Ballroom reception, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the natural choice for your special day.

No where else will you find the perfect balance of charm and comfort; an enchanting escape nestled among the beautiful Shawangunk Mountains, Hudson Valley Resort & Spa will impress even the most discerning guest.

The ultimate in elegance, the Grand Ballroom at the Hudson Valley Resort and Spa hearkens back to a grander age.  Toast to your union beneath magnificent crystal chandeliers while our gracious and attentive staff cater to your every need.

Framed by stunning Catskill views, our courtyard Gazebo is picture perfect. Nearly as breathtaking is the Garden Terrace, a luxurious tent designed to add that special something to your once-in-a-lifetime event.

Of course, friends and family are invited to stay the weekend in this luxurious Catskill resort and relax in modern, comfortable rooms or suites enhanced with marble bathrooms and majestic mountain views.

Opportunities for recreation and relaxation abound, including golf on our 18-hole championship golf course, a full service European Health Spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis and basketball courts, game room, and year-round miniature golf.

Unparallelled service, an excellent reputation for absolute attention to detail and breathtaking scenery.  Indoors or out, we can make your Hudson Valley wedding  an affair to remember.  

Want learn more about Weddings at the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa?  Give us a call at 845-626-8888 and our professional wedding coordinator will be happy to help plan your perfect day! 

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!

Polka Party! Musik-Fest Weekend with Adam Barthalt

That’s right, polka people, it’s time to polka party! We’re thrilled to announce that International Polka Hall of Fame Inductee Adam Barthalt will be appearing at  the International Musik-Fest Weekend right here at the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa!

Awarded high honors from the Austrian National tourist association and the Government of Slovenia for his immense contribution to cultural heritage, Adam has been bringing happiness to the hearts of Polka Lovers everywhere for more than 30 years!

This three day event promises to be a non-stop polka party, with some of the best polka musicians you’ll ever see!

Featured performers will include Jerry Intihar, Frank Moravick, Linda Hocevar, Bud Gramer, Fritz Scherz, and Lifetime Polka Music Award winner, Walter Groller!  What a lineup!

In addition to your room in this beautiful Catskill resort, guests who register for this weekend event package will be received by a two hour welcome party, enjoy six mouth-watering meals, a cocktail party, a pizza party and a Viennese hour, attend a polka mass, and then say farewell with a Bloody Mary and Screwdriver party!

And of course, there’s a European Health Spa, Fitness Gym, and a beautiful championship golf-course also available on site.  So polish up those dancing shoes and get ready to polka party!  Follow this link for more information!

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.