Gracious Green Acres
Buttermilk Falls Inn AND Spa
220 North Rd // Milton, NY
(845) 795-1310 // buttermilkfallsinn.com
Distance from White Plains: 1 hour, 15 minutes
If you love the idea of a relaxing weekend in the country but are loath to schlep too far, this delightful mid-Hudson Valley Inn, set on 75 bucolic acres on the banks of the Hudson River, is a hidden gem. A serene retreat replete with winding streams, wooded trails, gorgeous gardens, an up-to-the-minute spa, and even its own farm and barnyard, it’s a perfect spot to de-stress and enjoy autumn. The charming historic clapboard Colonial, circa 1764, features a light-filled breakfast solarium and outdoor stone patio, both with breathtaking river views, and cozy parlor. Nineteen individually designed guest quarters—10 in the main house, the remainder in adjacent carriage houses and a cottage—offer a perfect blend of amenities both modern—gas fireplaces, flat-screen TVs, whirlpool soaking tubs, and high-speed Internet—and luxurious—plush linens, Oriental carpets, antique period furniture, etc.
No matter how cozy the accommodations, venture out and explore the lovely surroundings. Amble down to the river or the falls, hit the gym and fitness center or volley on the tennis court, indulge in a soothing Swedish massage, take a dip in the glass-enclosed indoor mineral pool, or hang out with the sheep, llamas, goats, and peacocks down at the property’s Millstone Farm. The greens and herbs in the kitchen gardens, the fruit on the trees in the orchard, the eggs laid by the Heirloom chickens, and the honey from the beehive will show up at breakfast at the main house or dinner at the Inn’s new on-site casual eatery, Henry’s Farm to Table. Off-site, stroll the Walkway Over the Hudson (walkway.org), the High Line-like park/pedestrian bridge in nearby Poughkeepsie; contemplate modern art at the acclaimed Dia:Beacon museum (845-440-0100, diacenter.org); and hike nearby Minnewaska State Park Preserve.
The Nitty-gritty: Rates at peak season range from $250 to $975 per night. Included are a gourmet country breakfast—luscious home-baked scones, an inventive oatmeal bar with toppings, and the choice of made-to-order cooked entrées—and afternoon tea.
—LY
