We might hear that the “perfect gift” does not exist. We think everyone wants some expensive gift, but in reality what people really want is to experience life and enjoy it!
Fall in Love with Our Spa Treatments!
With the celebration of our 150th anniversary, we are excited to announce two new spa treatments that will provide the relaxation and wellness of the Mohonk experience since our founding in 1869. The fall and winter seasons are the perfect time to refresh and renew at our award-winning spa.
The Golf Course Takes Shape
Beginnings
In 1880, Albert K. Smiley bought 118 acres of land from Cornelius Lucy out at Mountain Rest across the “public road,” as Mountain Rest Road was then called. On the land was an apple orchard and a dairy farm. Albert built that farm up to the point where it became Mohonk’s most important one, with about 40 head of cattle and fields of grain and vegetables. It was called Mountain Rest Dairy Farm, supplying most of the milk and cream used in the dining rooms.
Hidden Histories AR App
With the celebration of Mohonk’s 150th year, our guests are now able to immerse themselves in the history that created this one-of-a-kind castle. The mobile app, Hidden Histories, is an augmented reality (AR) experience that will engage guests in the history of our storied resort. Through this app specifically developed for Mohonk, guests will be sent on a journey to locate 12 pieces of artwork on the property that act as trigger points for the app. When viewing the artwork through the app, guests will see the walls of the Mountain House come to life and unlock Mohonk Stories of Smiley Family members, longtime staff, and loyal guests.
Mindful Choices
By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House
Life is rarely a straight path. As much as we’d like it to be a process of connecting the dots in a line, it’s too rich and unpredictable to fall into place so easily. But the times when things shift away from our plans maybe the most valuable experiences of all. Instead of fearing change, we can use mindfulness to help us embrace new possibilities.
Q&A with Mohonk’s Executive Chef Jim Palmeri
Our menus at Mohonk Mountain House come with a genuine passion for food. Chef Jim Palmeri’s vision for each dish comes alive through the careful preparation of each plate by a team that shares his passion. With several tables to tend to, Chef Palmeri takes on this challenge of providing the best experience for every guest that comes to the mountaintop. Not only is that accomplished daily, but the true achievement comes from using only the best, locally-sourced ingredients to create the finest dining experience for our guests.
Hudson Valley’s Best Ice Cream: Mohonk Mountain Crunch by Jane’s Ice Cream
We are proud to partner with Jane’s Ice Cream, a Hudson Valley-based, family-run creamery to create a signature ice cream flavor for our 150th anniversary, “Mohonk Mountain Crunch”! This flavor is made from only the finest natural and local ingredients, with no artificial flavors or colors. Mohonk Mountain Crunch features a rich vanilla base, chocolate-covered pretzels, dark chocolate fudge, and a salted caramel swirl.
Mindfulness and Love
By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House
Passionate love gets most of our attention, but there is also a love that the Greeks called agape—universal love, or loving kindness: a love that sees the connections in all of us. This is a higher love, which we can mindfully choose to tap into to work through stress, grief, relationship issues, and more. This love is lightness and energy, and it’s ongoing. It’s a perfect combination with mindfulness, which seeks to step back, breathe, and focus on the moment.
Mixology: My Big Fat Greek Spritzer Cocktail Recipe
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. They are given one key ingredient, or theme, which must be featured in their seasonal creations. This month’s key ingredient was “Otto’s Athens Vermouth” cocktails. A select group of lucky Mohonk employees get to taste, discuss, and vote on the winning “Cocktail of the Month,” which can be enjoyed by guests in the Carriage Lounge among a variety of hyper-local draft beers and New York spirits.
Five Activities at Mohonk You Can’t Get Anywhere Else
There’s a reason why Mohonk Mountain House is beloved by so many. Here on the mountaintop, we offer a variety of unique, seasonal activities to make sure your experience is one of a kind. Below are our top five recommendations that you won’t find on your typical vacation:
Mohonk’s Favorite Hudson Valley Partners
Stop by these amazing places to get the most out of your visit to the Hudson Valley!
For 150 years, Mohonk Mountain House has been a beacon of hospitality in the Hudson Valley, supporting local businesses of all kinds generation after generation. Over the past few years, the Hudson Valley has gained national recognition as a thriving and vibrant community of world-class artisans, farmers, distillers, and more – something we’ve known for decades.
The Lesser-Known Wonder Weeks at Mohonk
Guests often ask us “When is the best time to visit?”
It’s a simple answer, really.
Most travelers are keenly aware that when they look at travel destinations, there are “high season” periods and “off season” periods. High season is more expensive than other times of year but these time frames offer the best weather, the most activities, and ultimately the best “value” for the price. The off season typically features more competitive pricing because it’s a less desirable time to visit.
Top 4 Activities for Family Reunions
Lauren Donohue, our new Social Sales Manager, provides a handy list of tips for all those who like to hit the ground running.
Mixology: Strawberries from Krakow Cocktail Recipe
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. They are given one key ingredient, or theme, which must be featured in their seasonal creations. This month’s theme was “Buckwheat Whiskey” cocktails. A select group of lucky Mohonk employees get to taste, discuss, and vote on the winning “Cocktail of the Month,” which can be enjoyed by guests in the Carriage Lounge among a variety of hyper-local draft beers and New York spirits.
How to Grill the Perfect Backyard Burger
By: Jim Palmeri, Executive Chef, Mohonk Mountain House
Grilling is an essential summertime activity. This year, try your hand at making the Perfect Backyard Burger. Enjoy the 4th of July with these tips and tricks!
Mixology: Don’t Call It a Comeback Cocktail Recipe
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. They are given one key ingredient, or theme, which must be featured in their seasonal creations. This month’s theme was “Refreshing Beer Cocktails” A select group of lucky Mohonk employees get to taste, discuss, and vote on the winning “Cocktail of the Month,” which can be enjoyed by guests in the Carriage Lounge among a variety of hyper-local draft beers and New York spirits.
5 Ways to Make This Summer Unforgettable
Nestled in 40,000 acres of protected forest and overlooking a pristine glacial lake, Mohonk Mountain House offers countless activities and experiences for guests of all ages. Whether you want to try your hand at tomahawk throwing, paddleboarding across the lake, or relaxing in the tranquility of our award-winning spa, you can be as active or relaxed as you choose. Here are our top five ways to make this summer truly unforgettable!
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Don’t Despair When You Compare
By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House
Teddy Roosevelt—a Mountain House guest in 1892—said “Comparison is the thief of joy.” And he was speaking more than 100 years before the advent of social media. Today, through Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, we’re constantly exposed to the best aspects of our friends’ lives—fun, exciting, enviable. With this constant stream of curated posts, other people’s lives often seem more fun and interesting than our own. The belief that others are happier, more successful, or more loved than we are, can lead to insecurity, sadness, and self-doubt.
Mixology: Spring into Summer Cocktail Recipe
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. They are given one key ingredient, or theme, which must be featured in their seasonal creations. This month’s theme was “Refreshing Cocktails for Mom!” A select group of lucky Mohonk employees get to taste, discuss, and vote on the winning “Cocktail of the Month,” which can be enjoyed by guests in the Carriage Lounge among a variety of hyper-local draft beers and New York spirits.
Mohonk Gift Ideas for Mom This Mother’s Day
By: Candy Martin, Gift Shop Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Bring Mohonk home to you by shopping from our online store. Explore all of the best sellers from our signature teas to our fluffy spa robes that your loved ones would be delighted to receive. This month, we’ve selected our favorite Mohonk items for Mom!
Mindfulness in Nature
By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House
Here at Mohonk Mountain House, a Victorian castle resort surrounded by 40,000 acres of a spectacular natural setting, we’ve been encouraging guests to get outdoors for 149 years!
Then & Now: Boating on Lake Mohonk
By: Nell Boucher, Archivist, Mohonk Mountain House
Boats on Lake Mohonk have always been part of the Mountain House experience. In the early years, a popular event was the annual regatta, a rowboat race that began in 1890. The last regatta was held around 1940.
Culinary: Grilled Honey Lime Chicken Kebobs
By: Jim Palmeri, Executive Chef, Mohonk Mountain House
Did you know that there are more than 300 varieties of honey in the United States? Honey is not just a sweetener for teas and baking anymore! From salad dressings and roasted vegetables to grilling marinades – this versatile, natural ingredient can take your recipes to the next level.
7 Ways to Make Mom Feel Special This Mother’s Day
Visit during Mother’s Day Weekend this May 11-13, featuring activities, events, and adventures for every Mom!
Treat Mom to a weekend away, with or without the family, at our Victorian castle resort. Our Mother’s Day Weekend is full of experiences for every Mom—from active to crafty! We have live music, crafts, and other activities planned all weekend, and our Kids’ Club will also be in session!
Our 4 Favorite Hikes with the Most Breathtaking Views
By: Annie Pilek, Director of Recreation and Entertainment, Mohonk Mountain House
From carriage roads to rock scrambles, Mohonk Mountain House is known to have some of the best and most diverse hiking trails in New York. With so much variety to offer, here are our four favorite hikes all visitors should experience. Be sure to rest in the many summerhouses located throughout the trails to catch your breath and take in the views.
From the Archives: Lightning & Thunder
By: Nell Boucher, Archivist, Mohonk Mountain House
Over the past 150 years, the most consistent reason to visit Mohonk has been the opportunity to bear witness to nature’s awe-inspiring displays. Experiencing panoramic views from atop Mohonk Mountain, visitors can watch weather systems move over the valleys and distant mountains. Some of the most dramatic natural entertainment is supplied by storms clouds and –for the lucky viewer—lightning! (Photo above by: Rob Oleksy)
Mixology: Gin Slap Cocktail Recipe
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. They are given one key ingredient, or theme, which must be featured in their seasonal creations. This month’s theme was “spring is in the air”! A select group of lucky Mohonk employees get to taste, discuss, and vote on the winning “Cocktail of the Month,” which can be enjoyed by guests in the Carriage Lounge among a variety of hyper-local draft beers and New York spirits.
Feeling Overwhelmed? These 5 Mindfulness Steps Can Help!
By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House
If you’re feeling overwhelmed… Like you’re running harder and harder just to stay in place… That there’s so much to do, you don’t even know where to begin… That it’s a “good” day when you’re only feeling somewhat frantic and frazzled… it’s time to get a little mindful in order to find a little peace of mind!
Mohonk Gift Ideas for Spring
By: Candy Martin, Gift Shop Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Bring Mohonk home to you by shopping from our online store. Explore all of the best sellers from our signature teas to our fluffy spa robes that your loved ones would be delighted to receive. This month, we’ve selected our favorite Mohonk items for spring!
Centering Yourself with a Mindfulness Heart Meditation
By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House
Every day brings the possibility that we’ll encounter stress as we go about our lives. While we can do little to prevent these stresses, we can prepare ourselves to handle them in a centered, mindful way rather than become overwhelmed by them. One of the best ways to face the day calmly is to start each morning with a mindfulness heart meditation.
Mohonk Artworks Restoration Project (Part 2)
By: Nell Boucher, Archivist, Mohonk Mountain House
Most artworks at Mohonk Mountain House were selected by the founders Albert, Eliza, Daniel, and Effie during 1880-1910 when they were furnishing the Mountain House. Many frames are originals and were handmade on-site. For this second part of the Mohonk Artworks Restoration Project, we are focusing on the process of restoring the frame for “Mohonk Carriage Road” by Nelson Augustus Moore.
Culinary: Local Ramp and Morel Risotto
By: Jim Palmeri, Executive Chef, Mohonk Mountain House
Earthly delights are beginning to spring from the soil, and enthusiastic foodies are stalking one vegetable in particular: the ramp. Sometimes called wild leeks or spring onions, with a close resemblance to scallions, ramps have a stronger, garlicky flavor than their counterparts. Because they are hard to find and their season lasts only from late April to early May, ramps are akin to rock stars on tour. If you aren’t quick, you may miss a seat at the table and lose out on experiencing a sweetly pungent flavor that will make your taste buds sing.
The Fine Art of Being Mindfully Cranky
By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House
“Mindfully” Cranky?
What does that mean?
How does it work?
And isn’t it an oxymoron?
Mixology: Sip It Like You Stole It Cocktail Recipe
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. They are given one key ingredient, or theme, which must be featured in their seasonal creations. This month’s key ingredient was local New York State’s McKenzie Pot Still Whiskey! A select group of lucky Mohonk employees get to taste, discuss, and vote on the winning “Cocktail of the Month,” which can be enjoyed by guests in the Carriage Lounge beginning today among a variety of hyper-local draft beers and New York spirits.
Accidental Archives: 1915 Mohonk Bulletin Discovered
By: Nell Boucher, Archivist, Mohonk Mountain House
While doing some maintenance on a dryer in Mohonk’s laundry room, Maintenance technician James Callaizakis uncovered some interesting documents that had fallen between the cracks 103 years ago.
Culinary: Butternut and Kabocha Squash Gratin
By: Jim Palmeri, Executive Chef, Mohonk Mountain House
Say YES to Winter Squash! It’s easy to overlook the less flashy winter squash hiding in the vegetable displays of your local market. Even if you do notice the pale pink butternut squash and the green kabocha squash, you may wonder if it’s worth the effort to break through the hard skin to cook whatever’s inside.
Procrastination Pulling You Down? Let Mindfulness Pull You Up!
By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House
With only 24 hours in a day, it can be difficult to get everything done. “I’m on-the-run, I’ll do it tomorrow…” “I need more time to think it over…” “I’ll wait and see how the situation shapes up…” Although there can be skillful reasons to put things off, there’s also procrastination – when a delay in taking action leads to discomfort.
Top 5 Treatments for Winter Skin
By: Jamie Ford, Spa Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Winter wreaks havoc on our skin. Drinking plenty of water, even in the winter, is also essential for healthy, hydrated skin! To help rejuvenate, rehydrate, and refresh your skin this season, indulge in these treatments at the Spa. From our Moss Hydrating Body Mask, to our Ginger Rejuvenator treatment, these top five picks are designed to undo damage from the cold, dry elements and restore your skin to good health.
Mixology: Last Call on Bourbon Street Cocktail Recipe
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. They are given one key ingredient, or theme, which must be featured in their seasonal creations. This month’s theme was Mardi Gras! A select group of lucky Mohonk employees get to taste, discuss, and vote on the winning “Cocktail of the Month,” which can be enjoyed by guests in the Carriage Lounge beginning today among a variety of hyper-local draft beers and New York spirits.
Mastering Mindfulness One Breath at a Time
By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House
Bring Mindfulness Into Your Daily Routine
The benefits of mindfulness are many. It boosts the immune system, heightens focus, and can reduce anger, insomnia, and depression – yet finding the time to meditate can feel daunting. Instead of trying to find 20 minutes each day (along with a tranquil setting!), you can make mindfulness “manageable” by bringing it into your daily routine. Even three minutes of meditation at a time can strengthen the neural paths associated with clarity, insight, and calm, and once the habit becomes ingrained, so do the benefits.
Culinary: Super Bowl Party Appetizers
By: Steve Anson, Executive Sous Chef, Mohonk Mountain House
We all know the real winner of the Super Bowl is delicious food. This year, try making these appetizers that will win at the party! It’s the perfect time to try a new instant classic or choose a healthy twist on an old favorite.
We have two mouth-watering dishes to make watching the big game, the Puppy Bowl, or the commercials, even more fun: Herbed Roasted Chicken Wings and Spicy Avocado Fries with Cilantro Cream. Share your photos using #mohonkmountainhouse. Enjoy!
Mohonk Artworks Restoration Project (Part 1)
You may have noticed someone working meticulously in the hallways of Mohonk Mountain House, listening and whispering to the walls as she restored artworks throughout the property.
Mixology: Mohonk Glühwein Cocktail Recipe
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. They are given one key ingredient, or theme, which must be featured in their seasonal creations. This month’s theme called for “hot” drinks! A select group of lucky Mohonk employees get to taste, discuss, and vote on the winning “Cocktail of the Month,” which can be enjoyed by guests in the Carriage Lounge beginning today among a variety of hyper-local draft beers and New York spirits. (more…)
Deck the Halls with Poinsettias
By: Scott Woods, Greenhouse Specialist, Mohonk Mountain House
Poinsettias, also known as Euphorbia pulcherrima, are a classic of the holiday season. We planted a total of 500 on July 3rd, and now they’ve grown up and moved out of our greenhouse! This year, we’re excited to have five varieties on display throughout the entire Mountain House – Prestige Red, Polar Bear, Green Envy, Jester Red, and Luv U Pink. When you visit us this winter, be sure to stop by our greenhouse to take some home with you! (more…)
Mohonk Gift Ideas for the Holidays
By: Candy Martin, Gift Shop Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Bring Mohonk home to you by shopping from our online store. Explore all of the best sellers from our signature teas to our fluffy spa robes that your loved ones would be delighted to receive. This month, we’ve selected our top five picks from our Gift Shop to help you find the perfect gift. (more…)
Mixology: Thai Gingerbread Iced Tea Cocktail Recipe
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. They are given one key ingredient, or theme, which must be featured in their seasonal creations. December’s key ingredient was gingerbread! A select group of lucky Mohonk employees get to taste, discuss, and vote on the winning “Cocktail of the Month,” which can be enjoyed by guests in the Carriage Lounge among a variety of hyper-local draft beers and New York spirits.
Mixology: Maple Spice Madras + Autumn Sparkler Cocktail Recipes
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. They are given one key ingredient, or theme, which must be featured in their seasonal creations. November’s theme was fall foliage! A select group of lucky Mohonk employees get to taste, discuss, and vote on the winning “Cocktail of the Month,” which can be enjoyed by guests in the Carriage Lounge among a variety of hyper-local draft beers and New York spirits. This month we selected two winners because both were so good!
Celebrating the Smiley Family
We are beyond thrilled to congratulate the entire Smiley Family, who received the honor of “Legendary Family: Historic Hoteliers of the Year” award from the Historic Hotels of America® and Historic Hotels Worldwide® annual Awards of Excellence. Family members Nina Smiley and Eric Gullickson accepted the award on behalf of the family during a special ceremony at The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia on Thursday, September 28.
Mixology: Cucumber Madness Cocktail Recipe
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. They are given one key ingredient, which must be featured in their seasonal creations. July’s key ingredient was cucumber – the perfect ingredient to cool off on a hot summer day in July. A select group of lucky Mohonk employees get to taste, discuss, and vote on the winning “Cocktail of the Month,” which can be enjoyed by guests in the Carriage Lounge among a variety of hyper-local draft beers and New York spirits.
Our Favorite DIY Lawn Games to Play This Summer
By: Annie Pilek, Director of Recreation and Entertainment, Mohonk Mountain House
Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy classic backyard lawn games with friends and family. Whether you’re throwing a neighborhood barbecue, hosting an outdoor wedding, or organizing a weekend play date, these classic lawn games (with a twist!) are sure to be a hit! (more…)
Highlights from Artist’s Inspiration Week
Earlier this month, we partnered with Wired Gallery to host our annual Artist’s Inspiration event, bringing together local and nationally renowned artists to paint, teach, and inspire guests during a five-day plein air (outdoor painting) extravaganza. (more…)
How to Make The Perfect Home Brew: Advice from Yard Owl Craft Brewery
Last weekend, Mohonk Mountain House hosted Brewmasters Weekend, a three-day event dedicated to the art and craft of beer and the people who brew it. Featured brew masters were Kristop Brown and James Walsh, owners of Yard Owl Craft Brewery, located approximately 10 miles from the Mountain House in Gardiner, NY. (more…)
Celebrating Earth Day in Pictures and Poetry
In celebration of Earth Week and Mohonk’s century-long commitment to environmental stewardship, we shared some of our favorite nature-inspired quotes and classic Mohonk landscapes on social media this week. (more…)
Intro to Forest Bathing: Where Mindfulness Meets Nature
By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House
Letting thoughts go and being immersed in nature helps calm, center, and heal both body and mind, and recent research suggests that this is true scientifically. Forest bathing invites you to refresh and renew, to see both outer and inner worlds with new eyes.
Mixology: Spring Training Cocktail
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Celebrate Spring with our featured cocktail of the month, Spring Training. This delicious and refreshing cocktail features fresh basil leaves and tart grapefruit juice. It’s the perfect cocktail to welcome warmer weather. (more…)
Mohonk’s Favorite DIY Facial Toner
By: Diane West, Spa Retail Supervisor, Mohonk Mountain House
Say goodbye to tired, dry skin and revitalize your daily skincare routine with this super simple chamomile facial toner. Our team of estheticians has been using this product at the Spa at Mohonk Mountain House since we opened in 2005. Follow these easy steps to recreate the Mohonk spa experience at home. (more…)
Mixology: Juniper Toddy
By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House
Learn how to craft one of our most-requested cocktails – the Juniper Toddy!
Even as Spring approaches, we still can’t seem to shake the cold temperatures at night. Warm up with a Juniper Toddy, a guest favorite from our Carriage Lounge that features a delicious rosemary-infused syrup. Be prepared for an impromptu party by making the syrup ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for a month or longer. (more…)
Simple Techniques to Manage the Stress of Everyday Life
By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House
Stress can be experienced in any part of your life—at work or even at home with loved ones. The feeling of stress is familiar—shallow breathing, tensed body, pounding heart. But mindfulness meditation is a powerful stress-fighting technique that we can apply to handling stress no matter where it occurs.