
Condé Nast Traveler: Discovering a Different Kind of Wellness at a Reading Retreat in the Catskills

Our Victorian Castle Resort is the Perfect Destination for Book Lovers
Recently featured in Condé Nast Traveler as a chosen location for reading retreats like those planned by Forest and Fawn, Mohonk Mountain House is a historic Catskills resort where literature comes alive. With cozy fireplaces, enchanting gardens, and timeless traditions, it’s the perfect destination for book lovers seeking a unique escape.
Curl Up with a Book by the Fire
Whether you’re diving into a new novel or revisiting a favorite, there’s no better place to read than beside one of Mohonk’s many crackling fireplaces. For those who prefer the outdoors, evening campfires create a magical setting for sharing stories under the stars.

Stroll Through Our Storybook Garden
Mohonk’s flower garden feels like something out of a fairytale. Guests can wander the winding paths, pause on quiet benches, and soak in the beauty of seasonal blooms, all while finding inspiration between the pages of their favorite book. Enjoy hands-on workshops, guided tours, and a garden party when attending our Garden Holiday in late August.
Savor Afternoon Tea
Our daily afternoon tea offers the perfect pause in a book-filled day. Enjoy fine teas and light refreshments in an elegant setting that recalls the leisurely traditions found in beloved literary classics.

Gather with Fellow Readers
From sunlit parlors to lakeside lawns, our scenic mountain resort offers countless spaces to bring book lovers together. Whether it’s a book club gathering, a writer’s circle, or simply friends sharing favorite passages, Mohonk provides the ideal backdrop for meaningful literary connections.
A Setting Steeped in History
Every corner of Mohonk Mountain House feels like a chapter from a grand novel. With its Victorian architecture, sweeping lake views, and warm hospitality, our Catskills resort blends history and comfort into a retreat that nourishes the imagination.

Explore Local Bookish Treasures
For guests wanting to venture beyond the cozy comforts of our resort and discover bookshops filled with character, these literary gems in nearby towns offer charming additions to any literary retreat:
- Barner Books (New Paltz, 7 Miles Away)
- A beloved used-and-new bookstore with an expansive collection of poetry, classics, regional history, and journals. Its timeless charm and vintage treasures make it a favorite among Mohonk visitors.
- Inquiring Minds Bookstore (New Paltz, 7 Miles Away)
- This independent shop pairs a thoughtful book selection with coffee and community.
- Rough Draft Bar & Books (Kingston, 20 Miles Away)
- A literary hideaway that combines curated new titles with craft coffee, beer, and occasional live events, perfect for book lovers seeking a relaxed urban vibe.
- The Golden Notebook (Woodstock, 30 Miles Away)
- A Woodstock institution since 1978, offering reams of literary discoveries and a children’s “Little Golden Notebook” that feels almost magical.
Plan Your Own Bookish Escape
For writers and book lovers searching for a truly unique retreat, Mohonk Mountain House offers more than just a getaway; it offers a story waiting to be written. Start planning your next gathering or personal escape, and let Mohonk be the setting for your literary adventure.