Solo Travellers
A Guide to New York’s Catskills, for Nature, Art, and Boutique Hotels
Just 120 miles north of Manhattan, the Catskills offer a dreamy escape where nature, history, and artistic soul collide. Rolling farmland, dome-shaped peaks, and postcard-worthy towns set the stage for a region rich in both history and creativity. Scenic hikes lead to hidden swimming holes, roadside farm stands spill over with local produce, and the coziest diners serve up hearty, seasonal fare. In winter, slopes at Windham and Hunter lure skiers in; whereas summer plans call for exploring streams and trails, inviting lazy afternoons and wildflower walks.
From Woodstock to Phoenicia, each town offers its own flavor, with colorful streets, farm-to-table restaurants, and a laid-back but cheerful vibe. Long a magnet for artists and free spirits—Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, and Mark Twain, to name a few—the region still buzzes with a creative pull (now, of course, just more contemporary). The dynamic blend of creative urban transplants and nature lovers has amped up the region’s ever-growing innovation. And today, chic lodges, hotels, and Airbnbs nestle into colorfully restored villages, while boutique shops and contemporary galleries showcase a vibrant presence of local talent. The Catskills’ charm is undeniable, with its mix of culture, adventure, and natural wonder. Read on for where to eat, stay, and play when you’re headed this way.
Jump to:
FAQ:
How do I get to the Catskills?
Though much of this corner of New York is unfortunately not directly accessible by major train lines, stops along the Metro-North and Amtrak lines lead to many close-by towns in the bordering region of the Hudson Valley. From there, it’s best to venture into the Catskills by car.
When is the best time to visit the Catskills?
The Catskills are a year-round destination, with spring offering blooming wildflowers and waterfalls, and fall boasting stunning foliage without the summer crowds. Summer is perfect for hiking, lakes, and festivals—though be mindful of more crowded trails and hotels. Winter brings skiing and snowboarding, but icy roads and cold temperatures require caution. For a quieter experience, visit in spring or fall for mild weather and fewer tourists.
Where to eat
The Catskills’ culinary revolution has unfolded over the past decade, marked by innovative pairings between local farmers and restaurateurs that result in vibrant and delicious dining. In Livingston Manor, this partnership is exemplified at Kaatskeller, where wood-fired pizzas feature locally sourced ingredients amidst a lively garden atmosphere. Milkweed offers sustainable vegan gelato, showcasing the region’s commitment to ethical dining practices and farm-to-table freshness. The Walk-In embodies this revolution with its casual, locally inspired dishes, celebrating the close-knit community of farmers and chefs. Meanwhile, The DeBruce in Livingston Manor blends James Beard acclaim with a menu that highlights the best of Catskills produce. Near Hunter Mountain, the iconic, old-school Phoenicia Diner is a staple from the early 80s that offers mouthwatering comfort food.
Hotels, too, carry the region’s tradition with hearty fare crafted from locally sourced ingredients: Tannersville’s Hotel Lilien reflects the region’s commitment to sustainable, delicious, and vibe-y dining experiences. In Callicoon, the Seminary Hill (and especially its Tasting Room) features a seasonal menu that showcases the bounty of the Delaware River Valley, inviting diners to savor flavors deeply rooted in the Catskills’ agricultural heritage.
Where to stay
The region’s reimagined historic hotels meet the creative spirit of artists, with purpose-driven design bringing each space to life alongside sweeping nature. Whether you want to be nestled in the lush green mountains or situated just outside one of the Catskills’ charming towns, you can truly bask within (and take advantage of) the ultimate upstate getaway in these local hotels—or, of course, you can also camp (say, along the Esopus Creek), or explore many of the fabulous Airbnbs in the area (below, a few for your inspiration).
In the up-and-coming town of Narrowsburg, Blue Fox Motel is a mom-and-pop-owned gem that combines rustic cabin charm with groovy tunes and swanky cocktails in a unique dining and bar area. For a romantic stay with gazebos and themed dinners, Kenoza Hall is a historic gabled Victorian in Sullivan County on the quieter grounds in the western Catskills. Nearby, the Chatwal Lodge and Chapin Estate sit not far from the Monticello Raceway, the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, and the site of the original Woodstock festival. (It’s a dream for family stays.) As for upscale cabins with thoughtful service and a top-tier Mexican restaurant, Camptown in Leeds is a destination in and of itself.
For design-forward hotel lovers, seek out Inness for a rich marriage of Scandinavian-chic and rustic Americana. The property is on a gentle hill up a quiet country road—located just outside of Accord. Or, in Tannersville, you mustn’t miss a stay at the colorful and rustic Hotel Lilien. With modern touches juxtaposed by Victorian charm, the inn-like property offers a cozy yet trendy cocktail bar and proximity to Hunter Mountain, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure. If you’re looking for a quintessential lodge stay, head to Scribner’s Catskill Lodge right across the highway from Hunter.
This article originally appeared in the July issue of AGENTatHOME magazine. Subscribe here to receive your free copy each month.
The solo travel market has unquestionably come a long way since the days of backpacking trips and hostel stays. Today’s solo travelers are a diverse and discerning group – which is evidenced by the increasing numbers of suppliers catering to the upper end of this market.
With a variety of packages, tours and activities now available, it’s easier than ever for travelers to combine quality time alone with luxurious amenities and services.
A Sizeable Travel Segment
The solo tour market has become a significant travel segment, according to multiple tour operators. Intrepid Travel noted that more than half of its customers are solo travelers – and Classic Journeys says about one-third of its travelers go it alone.
Classic Vacations also reported a significant uptick in demand for personalized, upscale FIT Europe itineraries – especially Florence, Italy, Lisbon, Portugal and multiple cities in Spain – the most popular regions for solo travelers.
Meanwhile, Macs Adventure delivers self-guided, upscale experiences. The company, which said 57% of its customers are solo female travelers, offers coastal hikes along Italy’s AmalfiCoast, immersive cultural treks along Japan’s Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes and bed-and-breakfast stays in the Scottish Highlands.
Other companies featuring solo travel options include Asilia Africa, which waives single supplements in select seasons, and United Kingdom-based Solos, which recently expanded into the U.S., offering everything from golf trips in Turkey to hiking excursions in Poland.
Cruising Solo
River and expedition cruising can be an especially attractive proposal for solo travelers. AmaWaterways publishes interviews with single travelers on its website, highlighting the appeal of solo cruising. Regent Seven Seas Cruises, meanwhile, offers reduced single supplements on some cruises. And Riviera Travel has rolled out 30 solo-dedicated departures for 2025 with no single supplement.
In the Galapagos Islands, Ecoventura is also an option well-suited for independent-minded explorers, with discounts available for solo travelers on select 2025 and 2026 departures. A member of Relais & Châteaux, Ecoventura operates luxury mega-yachts with extensive onboard amenities, daily excursions and educational briefings by certified naturalists.
Hotel Highlights
At Jade Mountain, St. Lucia, the “Singlemoon” package includes private airport transfers, customized dining plans, yoga, spa treatments and hands-on activities like chocolate-making and kayaking. And in Costa Rica, the adults-only Hotel Three Sixty offers a customizable “Solo Serenity” package with transfers, a welcome kit, spa treatments and other amenities.
Hotel Three Sixty offers a customizable “Solo Serenity” package. (Photo Credit: Hotel Three Sixty)
Considering the high percentage of solo female travelers, it’s no surprise that hoteliers are also aiming to attract that audience. London’s Hyatt Place City East, for example, is SHe Travel Club-certified for safety and comfort, while the Other House South Kensington others apartment-style privacy and community spaces that encourage connection for travelers of all genders.
Other hotels are luring solo travelers by offering tranquil environments. In Los Cabos, the Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa now offers a JOMO (Joy of Missing Out) experience that includes spa treatments and in room services. And in the U.S., Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, New York, and Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, Texas, are among the hotels offering a peaceful place for solo vacationers to connect with nature and wellness.
A Focus on Wellbeing
For some, traveling solo is a chance to focus on wellbeing — and there are a generous number of properties that offer deep dives into self-care.
Examples include Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Bali, where wellness treatments combine Balinese traditions with 21st-century wellness techniques. In South Asia, India’s SOUKYA offers integrative, bespoke wellness regimens grounded in multiple traditions and techniques.
European wellness-focused hotels include two Italian properties: Palace Merano in South Tyrol and L’Albereta Relais & Châteaux in Franciacorta. Both offer a variety of rejuvenation programs that foster wellness in a sumptuous environment.
In the Americas, the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, offers solo travelers innovative spa experiences with amenities like whole-body cryotherapy and electromagnetic and infrared therapies. Last but not least, Harbour Village Bonaire offers rejuvenating spa treatments in a picturesque Caribbean setting.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
Solo travel has become a dominant trend in recent years, particularly among women. Recent American Express research reveals that more than half of Generation Z women are contemplating solo international trips – adventures that enable them to experience new cultures, distinctive landscapes, and intriguing people while maintaining complete control over their schedules.
Over the past decade, women’s solo travel has evolved into one of the tourism industry’s most rapidly expanding phenomena. Increasing numbers of women, predominantly young adults but spanning all age groups, are opting to pack their belongings and embark on independent global exploration. Beyond the appeal of autonomy and personal growth, this trend has been fueled by increased access to affordable air travel, expanded availability of female-friendly lodging options, and heightened awareness regarding women’s safety concerns worldwide.
England presents an unbeatable formula
To address potential anxieties surrounding such journeys, Time Out magazine developed a specialized ranking of the world’s premier destinations for solo female travelers. Seasoned travel writers from around the globe evaluated locations based on safety standards, transportation accessibility, and comprehensive travel experiences – yielding the unexpected outcome that England claimed the top position.
According to the publication’s editorial team, England delivers an exceptional blend of charming villages, vast green countryside, dynamic urban centers, and remarkably efficient public transit systems. London itself, despite its enormous scale, earned recognition as a location where travelers can maintain reasonable security levels while exercising standard metropolitan caution.
Additional destinations featured
Sweden – recognized for its superior transportation infrastructure and widespread English proficiency among residents.
Greece – celebrated for its accessible and secure island destinations and coastal areas.
Japan – acknowledged as among the world’s safest nations with exceptionally dependable transit systems.
Solo Travellers
Woman Travelling Solo In Train At Night Gets Unexpected Visit From 2 Cops. Here’s Why | Viral News
Last Updated:
It was when the solo traveller sat quietly on her seat around 11 PM that two women police officers walked into her coach and asked, “Seat 38 – Purvi?”
The police officers checked whether she was comfortable. (Photo Credits: LInkedin)
Indian Railways have indeed come a long way. There are faster trains, smoother booking options, and cleaner coaches, and adding to these facilities has emerged something even more meaningful – a growing sense of safety and support for passengers, especially women. Beyond big upgrades like Vande Bharat trains or digital ticketing, it is the human moments like these that truly leave a lasting impression.
One such moment was recently shared by Purvi Jain, a woman who was travelling alone on a late-night train from Mumbai to Surat. Her post wherein she recounted how two women police officers made her journey feel safer is now going viral among the Internet and rightly so.
When Police Officers Walked Into Coach
It was when the solo traveller sat quietly on her seat around 11 PM that two women police officers walked into her coach and asked, “Seat 38 – Purvi?” Confused, she said yes. What followed was a heartfelt act of care and a small but revolutionary step to ensure women’s safety. In her detailed post, the woman recalled, “They stopped, checked whether I was comfortable, and asked if I needed any help. Then they gave me a helpline number to call if I ever feel unsafe.”
Purvi who had never experienced this before, despite being a frequent traveller, was pleasantly surprised. An elderly couple sitting beside her also lauded the gesture, saying that it made them feel reassured, especially with their granddaughter also travelling solo at times.
Moving further, the woman also reflected on her experience of the journey, saying that it made her think about the country’s progress. “That small moment made me reflect on how much India’s railways — and the country overall — have improved. From Vande Bharat trains to seamless online ticket bookings (even Tatkal, thanks to a faster verification process), travel keeps getting smoother,” she noted.
India’s Real Progress
She also acknowledged that while India still has work to do to match developed nations, steps like these prove that real change is happening. “Moments like this — women officers ensuring solo female passengers feel secure, smooth digital ticketing, and many other small changes — show real progress is happening, even if it’s one step at a time.”
Internet Joins In Praise
top videos
Jr NTR Flaunts His Lean Look As He Arrives In Mumbai For ‘War 2’ Promotions I WATCH
Shilpa Shetty, Manushi Chhillar, Randeep Hooda, Mohit Suri Step Out In Comfy‑Chic Style
Amitabh Bachchan Keeps His Iconic Sunday Darshan Ritual Going As He Greets Fans Outside Jalsa
Prithviraj Sukumaran Lauds Anurag Kashyap, Vikramaditya Motwane For Raising The Bar In Cinema
Dave Franco & Wifey Alison Brie Talk About Their Chemistry In New Horror Film ‘Together’ | N18G
Soon after the woman shared the post, the internet quickly joined in to laud the move with some of them also sharing similar experiences to thank the officers for their service. One person wrote, “Something similar happened with my mom—they even helped her change trains.” Another commented, “We need to celebrate more stories like this. It gives hope.” “This is not a one-time thing—this is real, thoughtful progress,” someone else added.
Well, the post of proof that India is definitely moving in the right direction.
A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on what’s creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.
- Location :
Delhi, India, India
- First Published:
-
Brand Stories1 week agoBloom Hotels: A Modern Vision of Hospitality Redefining Travel
-
Brand Stories2 days agoCheQin.ai sets a new standard for hotel booking with its AI capabilities: empowering travellers to bargain, choose the best, and book with clarity.
-
Destinations & Things To Do1 week agoUntouched Destinations: Stunning Hidden Gems You Must Visit
-
AI in Travel1 week agoAI Travel Revolution: Must-Have Guide to the Best Experience
-
Brand Stories3 weeks agoVoice AI Startup ElevenLabs Plans to Add Hubs Around the World
-
Brand Stories2 weeks agoHow Elon Musk’s rogue Grok chatbot became a cautionary AI tale
-
Destinations & Things To Do2 days agoThis Hidden Beach in India Glows at Night-But Only in One Secret Season
-
Asia Travel Pulse3 weeks agoLooking For Adventure In Asia? Here Are 7 Epic Destinations You Need To Experience At Least Once – Zee News
-
AI in Travel3 weeks ago‘Will AI take my job?’ A trip to a Beijing fortune-telling bar to see what lies ahead | China
-
Brand Stories3 weeks agoChatGPT — the last of the great romantics
You must be logged in to post a comment Login