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Bonfire at Mohonk Mountain House

Welcome to the Mohonk Mountain House Blog

Discover the Magic of Mohonk in December: Top 5 Reasons to Visit

The holiday season is a special time, and there’s no better place to experience its magic than at Mohonk Mountain House. From enchanting decorations to outdoor adventures, here are five compelling reasons to make Mohonk your December destination.

 

1. Stunning Holiday Displays       family decorating christmas tree

Our historic mountain retreat transforms into a winter wonderland in December. Stunning holiday decorations add an extra layer of enchantment to the grandeur of our Victorian castle. Wander through halls adorned with festive splendor, and don’t miss the Winter Lights Display, an outdoor spectacle of color and light. Starting on December 10, we also showcase the incredible creations of the Gingerbread Competition winners, bringing the joy of the holidays to life.

 

2. Victorian Holidays

Victorian Holidays, running from November 26, 2023 to January 1, 2024, is a time of cheer and celebration. Enjoy heartwarming activities such as live music, campfires, crafting, and more. Meet Santa Claus during select weekend brunches. Mister C will also make a special appearance at some of our Saturday afternoon tea and cookies events, where he’ll read timeless holiday stories.

 

3. Outdoor Winter Fun

Get ready to lace up your skates and take a spin around the ice skating rink at our open-air pavilion, available every day. And if you’re looking for thrills, snow tubing starts in mid-December. Feel the brisk winter air and experience the joy of the season in an outdoor setting like no other.

 

4. Snow Adventures

Explore the snowy trails with MICROspikes. Or try cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when the snow blankets our mountain and Mohonk becomes a winter playground for all who visit.

 

5. Cyber Sale Savings!

CYBER SALE - Couple in front of Mohonk Mountain House snow shoeing

‘Tis the season of giving—and for savings! Our Cyber Sale is our gift to you, offering discounts of up to 40% off for midweek stays and 25% off on select weekends. It’s the perfect opportunity to make your December visit both unforgettable and budget-friendly. Book by December 5:  BOOK NOW

 

December at Mohonk Mountain House is a time when holiday dreams come to life. Don’t just take our word for it, USA Today named us one of the top 10 Best Hotel for the Holidays in 2022. Help us maintain this recognition by voting here through November 29, 2023: Vote for Mohonk Mountain House as 2023’s Best Hotel for the Holidays (usatoday.com). Whether you’re touring our captivating gingerbread or Christmas tree displays, enjoying festive activities or exploring the great outdoors, you’ll have a December you’ll always remember — especially when you save with our Cyber Sale. Join us for a holiday season like no other, filled with warmth and wonder!

November 13, 2023

The Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit

Guests often ask us “When is the best time to visit?”

Since our resort is open year-round and has countless activities in any season, it may seem hard to pinpoint exactly when you should plan your mountain getaway. Don’t worry — we’re here to give you an insider’s view on how to make the most out of your Mohonk vacation.

Here at Mohonk, summer is high season, particularly from July through the end of August. For 150 years, guests have been escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and “summering” at Mohonk for our miles of hiking trails, lake swimming, boating, the famous Granary outdoor BBQ, and campfires with s’mores at night. It’s a classic summer vacation that continues to be incredibly popular for all ages—especially for multi-generational travel and family reunions. The old-world charm and endless outdoor activities are ideal for adventurers both young and old to explore. So yes, many guests feel summer is the traditional “best” time to visit. But for those in the know, there’s an even better time.

The secret sweet spot? The beginning of June!

Everyone thinks of summer as July and August, but beginning Memorial Day Weekend, we kick off our “secret summer”—it’s all the fun of summer on the mountaintop with lake swimming, weekend barbecues, kayaks, and more. But it still has all the sweet serenity of spring. “It’s everything that is great about summer at Mohonk, but without as many guests,” says Director of Recreation, Annie Pilek. “I always tell people that the first two weeks of June are the best time to come. The kids have yet to get out of school but the lake is warming up, the trails are stunning, and horseback and carriage rides are just beginning.”

Reopening in early June, Mohonk’s Lakeview Summerhouse is an outdoor sanctuary enveloped by nature. Perched on the cliffs overlooking Lake Mohonk with a majestic view of Sky Top Tower, the summerhouse provides a truly unique setting for wellness. Since its grand opening last summer, the Lakeview Summerhouse is one of the most sought-after experiences on our mountaintop. Take advantage of less competition for reservations during our “secret summer” season and reserve a luxurious nature-inspired massage, mindfulness session, yoga class, or private meditation.

Apart from Mohonk’s extensive outdoor activities, our “secret summer” features theme programs such as Music on the Mountain, June 12-18, 2023. Begin your summer season on a high note with a weeklong music festival highlighting R&B, a cappella, broadway, reggae, classic rock, jazz, folk, and even Caribbean fusion. To top it all off, we will hold our first-ever sunset concert at Sky Top Tower overlooking the Shawangunk Cliffs and Lake Mohonk.

“Secret summer” is also the best time to celebrate Dad, by treating him to a weekend away with or without the family, during Father’s Day Weekend, June 16 – 18, 2023. The weekend will feature live music, outdoor BBQs at the Granary (Dad doesn’t even have to cook!), golf, and family-friendly activities on the lake, such as canoeing, paddleboarding, and swimming.

And of course, Mohonk’s famous Kids’ Club returns on June 17th, 2023! Based on a philosophy that “lets kids be kids,” this complimentary program is designed to include plenty of playtime while exploring Mohonk’s natural beauty. The sessions are divided into two age groups: Explorers (ages 4 – 6), and Adventurers (ages 7 – 12). Our program also offers a choice of morning, afternoon, and evening sessions for all ages, so that parents and children can be flexible in planning their day. Kids’ Club features indoor and outdoor activities such as scavenger hunts, crafts, rock scrambling, games, and so much more.

We hope to see you in June

Whether you’re into rock climbing, mountain biking, or rock scrambling through our iconic Labyrinth and Lemon Squeeze, these “early days of summer” are just as enchanting as the high season. You can cap off your perfect stay together with our inclusive meals and recreation or a cocktail on the Sunset Porch. Be sure to toast one of our best-kept secrets—the magic of a June visit.

Ready to book? Stay midweek and save up to 20% with the Hudson Valley Getaway special offer.

 

March 24, 2023

Voices from the Archives

Voices from the Archives

By Louisa Finn, fourth generation Smiley family member

 

Episode #8: A Wider View: The Smileys’ world travels Part II

As wonderful as the pictures were in my imagination after reading Daniel Smiley’s observations of travel almost 100 years ago, it was astonishing to discover that Albert, his elder half-brother and founder (with his wife Eliza) of Mohonk Mountain House, made an extraordinary European journey 50 years earlier, in 1876. He and his wife Eliza were both nearing 50 years old at the time, and the letters chronicling this journey are written by both of them. Keep in mind that this was only 7 years after Mohonk was founded, and it is likely that they were actively seeking ideas for their new venture.

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March 20, 2023

Voices from the Archives

Voices from the Archives

By Louisa Finn, fourth generation Smiley family member

 

Episode #7: A Wider View: The Smileys’ world travels – Part I

Daniel Smiley was only 25 years old when his elder half-brother Albert invited him to Mohonk as a manager in 1881.  Daniel was an avid traveler, both for pleasure and business. His longest and most ambitious trip was taken with his wife Effie and their traveling companion Borghild Fossum in 1928, when Daniel was 73 years old. This was truly the trip of a lifetime. They took an Around the World Cruise on the Dollar Steamship Line, leaving Los Angeles in late February 1928, and arriving in New York mid-May 1928. This 85-day cruise landed at fourteen points: San Francisco, Honolulu, Kobe, Shanghai, Hongkong, Manila, Singapore, Penang, Columbo, Suez, Alexandria, Naples, Genoa, and Marseilles, before returning home.

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February 13, 2023

Voices from the Archives

Voices from the Archives

By Louisa Finn, fourth generation Smiley family member

Episode #6: Sarah Smiley’s Journey South

The Sister of Mohonk’s Founder: A portrait in courage

As a child wandering the halls of Mohonk, I encountered the photo of Sarah Smiley in the hallway outside the Main Dining Room with a mixture of foreboding and amusement. The stark nature of her dress, and the serious, almost condemning look in her strong face made me wonder if I could be, or wanted to be, related to this person. It would be many years before I found that Sarah was a firebrand, controversial in her own family, and a fiercely independent woman, by any standards. Someone I’m exceedingly proud to call an ancestor!

Sarah Frances Smiley started out life steeped in the silent mysticism of the Quaker tradition– as had her older brothers Albert (Mohonk’s founder) and Alfred. But her spiritual path was to be quite different. She discovered that through rigorous study of the Bible, she was rewarded with an unparalleled sense of faith and salvation. Her study led her through Protestantism to the teachings of the Anglican Church, where she was destined to become a famous Evangelical preacher.

Albert and Alfred did not support her religious views; however, they provided her a monetary allowance for her needs, which enabled her to pursue her avocation. That Sarah’s spiritual journey burgeoned through reading and study led her to found a school of Anglican learning in 1889, The Home Society for the Study of Holy Scriptures. This was a kind of lending library along with coursework, which facilitated women’s ability to study the Bible for themselves (without male interpretation)–an unusual idea in that time! By the end of her life, Sarah amassed a library of over 6,000 volumes for this purpose.

Though Albert Smiley would not give money to Sarah’s religious project during his lifetime, he left a surprise gift in his will “to my sister Sarah, the sum of five thousand dollars to use as she may choose. May it be blest to the largest fulfillment of her hopes!” This she immediately left to her beloved library and school.

 

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July 5, 2022

Voices from the Archives

Voices from the Archives

By Louisa Finn, fourth generation Smiley family member

 

Episode #5: Testimonial Gateway

Quaker testimony is best understood as the public witness of an inward faith of both individual and community. It is the consequence of one’s relationship to God and the outworking of that relationship in one’s life.  – Eric Moon, Friends Journal

The magnificent Testimonial Gateway set at the foothills of the Shawangunk Ridge was for 50 years the entryway to Mohonk, at first by horse and carriage (a 2 ½ hour trip to the hotel) and later by car. Bestowed upon Albert and Eliza Smiley for their 50th wedding anniversary in 1907 by their devoted Mohonk guests, the gateway cost $20,000–$500,000 in today’s dollars– collected in contributions of as little as $10 by more than 1,200 people.  Since 1980, the gateway has also served as logo for Mohonk Consultations, a non-profit organization started by Keith Smiley, seeking solutions to local and global concerns through dialogue at Mohonk.

 

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December 23, 2021

Voices from the Archives

Voices from the Archives

By Louisa Finn, fourth generation Smiley family member

 

Episode #4: Passing the Baton

2021 will be forever etched in my mind, not only because of our country’s climb out of COVID, but because it is the year my mother, Patricia Smiley Guralnik, and her big brother, Lucius Gerow Smiley, died within one week of each other. Though 15 years separated them, they chose the same exit time in late January; mom in a sweet yellow room at my home at the foot of Mohonk Mountain, and Gerow aged 98 in his longtime apartment in Redlands, CA, the Smiley’s other home.

 

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August 4, 2021

Voices from the Archives

Voices from the Archives

By Louisa Finn, fourth generation Smiley family member

 

Episode #3: Eliza and Effie—Sisters in Grief and Love

In order to understand the special relationship between Eliza and Effie Smiley, you need to understand that their respective husbands, Albert K. (Mohonk’s founder) and Daniel, were half-brothers born almost 30 years apart to the same father, Daniel Smiley (the 1st) of Vassalboro, Maine. After the death of Daniel’s first wife Phoebe in 1853, he married Dorcas Hanson, who gave birth to their one and only child Daniel (my great grandfather, and literal “father” to the Mohonk Smiley family line).

 

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May 11, 2021

Voices from the Archives

Voices from the Archives

By Louisa Finn, fourth generation Smiley family member

 

Episode #2: Garden Musings

In a private office on the ground floor of Mohonk Mountain House live grand old bookshelves lined with Daniel Smiley’s collection of garden books. Though I’ve not read them, the imposing presence of their sheer mass has often made me wonder if my own gardening obsession is a genetic inheritance. Gardeners have a particular kind of vision and determination, at times seeming to border on madness, when weather, critters, bugs, and soil conditions all conspire against the intended outcome. Among those who love to cultivate plants, these obstacles are never enough to dissuade from the sense of abundance, beauty, and joy that the garden can provide. I’ve observed, as well, a strong redemptive spirit in many fellow workers of the soil, not the least my Smiley ancestors!

 

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March 9, 2021

Voices from the Archives

Voices from the Archives

By Louisa Finn, fourth generation Smiley family member

 

Episode #1: “Love controls all things”

When I first read one of my Great-Grandmother Effie’s letters in the Mohonk Archive, over a year ago, I was struck by an overwhelming sense of the softness and power of the language she used to communicate with her family. It was as though my ear was hypnotized by the sound of her words, making evident what seemed to be missing or lost from much of the communication of our present time. Most prominent was the difference between the use of “thee” and “thy” to express “you” and “your.” A gentle respect and love, a deference, is implicit in these terms.

 

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February 17, 2021

Behind the Scenes of our 5th Annual Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition

Behind the Scenes of our 5th Annual Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition

One of the best things about the holidays at Mohonk is the Hudson Valley Gingerbread Competition. And in a typical year, we have hundreds of guests who visit for the day to see the amazing creations. But in this Covid world of 2020, we’ve adjusted by featuring a group of All-Star Gingerbread Competitors whose work has wowed us in past years. And their entries this year are just as amazing as ever!

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December 14, 2020

HERstory: The Women of Mohonk

HERstory: The Women of Mohonk

For the past 150 years, our historic resort has been owned and operated by the Smiley family. August 26, 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the implementation of the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, giving women the right to vote. In honor of this milestone, we celebrate the vital roles played by the women that helped shape Mohonk Mountain House into what it is today. Our blog series, HERstory, honors the contributions of  different female Smiley family members.

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August 25, 2020

“Have You Heard the Word Is LOVE?”

“Have You Heard the Word Is LOVE?”

By: Nina Smiley, Ph.D., Director of Mindfulness Programming, Mohonk Mountain House

The Beatles posed this question in the 1960s with their song “The Word”. The meaning of love has been parsed and pondered for thousands of years, and every year on February 14, the calendar calls it to our national attention. While Valentine’s Day brings a flurry of pageantry with hearts, flowers, chocolates, cards, and romance as top-of-mind for the day, it can also offer an opportunity to explore how love can nurture body, mind, and spirit in a gentle, non-judgmental way—mindfully!

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February 14, 2020

Plan Your Best Family Vacation

Plan Your Best Family Vacation

Having trouble planning your next family holiday? Everyone has their own view of what the ideal vacation is. Honestly, it can be a pain to get the family together to decide on where the next destination should be. There are so many factors to consider: International? Domestic? Adventurous? Chill? Disneyland? Rome?

Sometimes it feels like it would be easier to throw a dart at the map blindfolded. For parents, a lot depends on the ages of their children and what makes them happy. With Spring Break around the corner and summer following right behind, families need to start thinking about this now to save on the stress of last minute planning. Here are some tips for parents who want the perfect family getaway!

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February 7, 2020

Mixology: Chocolate Basil Affogato

Mixology: Chocolate Basil Affogato

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. For February’s Hot Chocolate Month, this month’s key ingredient is: chocolate. 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.

 

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February 3, 2020

HERstory: Effie Newell Smiley

HERstory: Effie Newell Smiley

For the past 150 years, our historic resort has been owned and operated by the Smiley family. 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the Nineteenth Amendment, giving women the constitutional right to vote. Throughout the year, we are celebrating the vital roles played by women that helped shape Mohonk Mountain House into what it is today. Our blog series, HERstory, honors the contributions of different female Smiley family members.

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January 31, 2020

Mixology: American Pharaoh

Mixology: American Pharaoh

By: Anna Stone, Beverage Manager, Mohonk Mountain House

Celebrate the new year with this month’s winning cocktail!

Each month, Mohonk bartenders compete to create a specialty craft cocktail for the resort. 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.

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January 3, 2020

Mohonk Will Make Your Bill…DISAPPEAR!

Mohonk Will Make Your Bill…DISAPPEAR!

This Deal is No Illusion!

Mohonk Mountain House is adding an extra bit of magic to our brand new Magic and Mindbenders Weekend! For the first time ever, anyone booked for this event January 17th– 20th will automatically be entered into a drawing for the chance to have Mohonk take care of their bill. This drawing will take place on Sunday evening of January 19th and announced at the 9pm finale show!

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December 30, 2019

Mixology: Bough By the Fireside Cocktail Recipe

Mixology: Bough By the Fireside 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 “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.

 

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December 6, 2019

The Golf Course Takes Shape

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.

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October 10, 2019

Hidden Histories AR App

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.

 

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September 2, 2019

Mindful Choices

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.

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August 26, 2019

Q&A with Mohonk’s Executive Chef Jim Palmeri

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.

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August 9, 2019

Hudson Valley’s Best Ice Cream: Mohonk Mountain Crunch by Jane’s Ice Cream

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.

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July 31, 2019

Mindfulness and Love

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.

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July 19, 2019

Mixology: My Big Fat Greek Spritzer Cocktail Recipe

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.

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July 10, 2019

Mohonk’s Favorite Hudson Valley Partners

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.

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June 28, 2019

The Lesser-Known Wonder Weeks at Mohonk

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.

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June 19, 2019

Mixology: Strawberries from Krakow Cocktail Recipe

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.

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August 3, 2018

Mixology: Don’t Call It a Comeback Cocktail Recipe

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.

 

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July 3, 2018

5 Ways to Make This Summer Unforgettable

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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June 20, 2018

Don’t Despair When You Compare

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.

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May 28, 2018

Mixology: Spring into Summer Cocktail Recipe

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.

 

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May 5, 2018

7 Ways to Make Mom Feel Special This Mother’s Day

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!

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April 22, 2018

Our 4 Favorite Hikes with the Most Breathtaking Views

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.

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April 20, 2018

From the Archives: Lightning & Thunder

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)

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April 16, 2018

Mixology: Gin Slap Cocktail Recipe

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.

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April 16, 2018

Feeling Overwhelmed? These 5 Mindfulness Steps Can Help!

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!

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April 12, 2018

Centering Yourself with a Mindfulness Heart Meditation

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.

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March 26, 2018

Mohonk Artworks Restoration Project (Part 2)

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.

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March 23, 2018

Culinary: Local Ramp and Morel Risotto

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.

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March 20, 2018

Mixology: Sip It Like You Stole It Cocktail Recipe

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.

 

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March 9, 2018

Procrastination Pulling You Down? Let Mindfulness Pull You Up!

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.

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February 23, 2018

Top 5 Treatments for Winter Skin

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.

 

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February 16, 2018

Mixology: Last Call on Bourbon Street Cocktail Recipe

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.

 

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February 9, 2018

Mastering Mindfulness One Breath at a Time

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.

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February 8, 2018

Culinary: Super Bowl Party Appetizers

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!

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February 2, 2018

Mixology: Mohonk Glühwein Cocktail Recipe

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…)

January 9, 2018

Deck the Halls with Poinsettias

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…)

December 19, 2017

Mixology: Thai Gingerbread Iced Tea Cocktail Recipe

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.

 

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December 13, 2017

Mixology: Maple Spice Madras + Autumn Sparkler Cocktail Recipes

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!

 

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November 7, 2017

Celebrating the Smiley Family

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.

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November 3, 2017

Mixology: Cucumber Madness Cocktail Recipe

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.

 

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July 13, 2017

Mixology: Juniper Toddy

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…)

March 14, 2017

Simple Techniques to Manage the Stress of Everyday Life

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.

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March 5, 2017

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