With the recent events of COVID-19, you are likely longing to get away from home and go to a place where you can have some peace of mind, relaxation, good food, good company, and social distancing all at the same time! If you are in New York City, which is the most impacted city in the US, you probably want to stay away from getting on a plane. Here are the best places to stay including my thoughts on each location. I will update this list on a regular basis as I try or become aware of quality getaways. Since I moved to New York from Los Angeles, we have been doing our best to escape town and try these hotels, but still got more work to do! Which one of the hotels below is right for you?
Miraval Hotel in the Berkshires (Lenox, MA)
Driving distance from Manhattan: 3 hours
Looking to energize yourself away from city life? The Miraval Hotel is the place for you. It’s located in Lenox, a small town of only 5,025 in western Massachusetts. Its experience relies on being able to transform your mind, body, and soul during your stay, so get ready for a relaxing, spa-like experience. You may have been to Miraval in Arizona or Texas. This one is the newest addition after Texas!
All of Miraval’s packages include their luxurious accommodations as well as healthy meals, non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, and access to their amazing spa, and activities. You’ll also receive a nightly resort credit depending on your package which you can use towards spa services, private sessions, workout classes, and activities that have fees. One of the best parts? Even tipping is included, which means all you have to do is enjoy once you’re there.
This getaway is ideal IF… you are looking for a weekend away focused on reconnecting with your body or nature. You’ll have the opportunity to hike, climb, bike, or try a challenge course or water sports. You can also indulge in a massage, manicure, pedicure, or other body renewal ritual. Finally, culinary and nutrition activities are available via group or private sessions.
This destination is perfect for a weekend where you can sneak out of the city on a Friday afternoon and have a long weekend stretching into Monday. I am so excited that Miraval has come to the east coast!
Note: Miraval Berkshires is now accepting reservations!
Stagecoach Inn (Goshen, New York)
Driving distance from Manhattan: 1.5 hours
This hotel is one of my favorites if you are into design, décor, and that homey feel some of us look for, while on vacation. I have not stayed at too many inns, and I was so so impressed by this particular hotel. The Stagecoach Inn is located north of the city in the suburbs. The hotel was purchased in 2014 by Faith Ferguson and Ron Boire and then renovated. Every little detail is impressive. The inn has just five guest rooms, which means you’re truly part of the family once you stay on this property, but don’t worry, there is plenty of space to social distance.
You can enjoy two dining rooms, a living room, a bar, an outdoor porch, and an event space that can be used for celebrations and weddings. Another benefit of booking this as your getaway location? The hotel does not have a pool, but the Hudson River Valley offers a variety of activities. From shopping at Woodbury Commons Outlet to local museums & art galleries to the great outdoors, the Stagecoach Inn goes out of their way to list all of these options right here. I also suggest the spa at the Glenmere Mansion when you stay at the Stage Coach Inn, the Turkish bath and massage are our favorites!
This getaway is ideal IF…you love the idea of staying in a small, charming, family-run inn that has lots of character, good food, and attention to detail. Faith and Ron’s hotel stole my heart when they gave us freshly made brownies in a beautiful to-go box that was in the shape of the hotel!
Note: Stagecoach Inn is currently open for indoor and outdoor dinner reservations, and is also accepting future hotel reservations by phone at (845) 294-5526.
Sound View Greenport, NY
Driving distance from Manhattan: 2 hours
Less than 100 miles and about two hours from New York City, Sound View is the getaway if you are looking for peace of mind and quiet by the water. As you drive out east from New York City, Long Island splits to two: on the South Fork are the towns of East Hampton and Montauk; on the North Fork, farmland and wineries all the way to the ocean! At the tip of the North Fork is the town of Greenport, which has been around for centuries. You just don’t go to this fishing town to see or be seen. You go there to escape, reconnect, and to be with nature. This hotel has beautiful rooms right on the water, a bar on the beach, a pool, and a great restaurant. They also have one or two-bedroom suites that are ideal for families. The hotel houses a few restaurants, including The Halyard, Jack’s Shack, Halyard To-Go Family Style, and their new beach bar called Lowtide.
This getaway is ideal IF… you love the idea of getting away from it all and staying at a property right on the beach with good food and great service.
Note: Sound View and the Halyard Restaurant are both open.
Homestead Inn – Thomas Henkelmann (Greenwich, CT)
Driving distance from Manhattan: 1 hour
Not big on driving far? This is truly a quick getaway for someone just looking to hop out of New York City for the weekend. Individuals who live in Greenwich commute in and out of the city each and every day, so this is a good solution if you want a lowkey and relaxing vacation. You’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy!
The Homestead Inn – Thomas Henkelmann is part of Relais & Châteaux, a collection of gourmet restaurants, boutique hotels, resorts, and villas. Known as Greenwich’s luxury boutique hotel, it has an award-winning French restaurant and a dramatic European-inspired vibe.
This getaway is ideal IF…you’re looking for a charming weekend that is a mix of history and contemporary. While this is located in Greenwich, you’ll be treated to the European concept of a small hotel with a gourmet restaurant. This location is the perfect spot to spend anniversaries. It’s quiet and private with a built-in location to grab that special dinner.
Note: Homestead Inn – Thomas Henkelmann is accepting bookings.
Final thoughts
A luxurious and elegant vacation not too far from New York is just around the corner. Me, personally, I have enjoyed being at home, and being with my family, but I definitely look forward to some weekend getaways very soon. Happy planning!