There’s surely no dearth of charming accommodations in the Catskills, a picturesque mountain region around two-to-three hours north of New York City. Renowned for its forested rolling peaks, scenic waterfalls, and charming hamlets, the Catskills have become a hot destination for travelers seeking a relaxing weekend away from the bustle of the city.
Even amidst an increasingly competitive hospitality landscape, The Henson presents as a uniquely charming and inspiring retreat that’s worth the drive. Tucked away in the serene hamlet of Hensonville, it’s housed in a historic building dating back to 1918—now transformed into a 16-room inn that feels both homey and design-forward.
Each touch in the Henson’s picture-worthy living room space feels hand-picked, from its curvy boucle sofa to a wide selection of coffee table books to peruse in front of a blazing fireplace. A chess set sits ready to play on a table in a cozy corner, and a curated selection of snacks and drinks are available to grab at the honor bar in the next room. It’s the kind of interior design you might wish to emulate at home, with vintage touches that can serve as inspiration as you set off on antiquing journeys nearby.
The on-site fine-dining restaurant, Matilda, helmed by acclaimed chefs Jeremiah Stone and Fabián von Hauske Valtierra (of Bar Contra and Wildair), presents a menu inspired by the local landscape, featuring dishes like wood-grilled oysters with bone marrow, pillowy ricotta gnudi, and tender honeynut squash swimming in nutty brown butter. The restaurant’s cocktail selection is also inspired, with sips rivaling the hard-to-find flavor balance we’ve experienced at top bars in the city.
Rooms here are minimalistic but thoughtful, with cozy beds and warm textured elements. The bathrooms are a highlight, thanks to Grown Alchemist products and double sinks (and double shower heads!)—perfect for a romantic retreat that doesn’t compromise on convenience. After lounging in bed or in the living room, we love that you can spend time outdoors on-property, whether around the stone firepit in the backyard or from the open air rooftop.
For travelers seeking a getaway from the city, the Henson feels like an aspirational home away from home.
Top Takeaways
Location: Hensonville, New York, in the Catskill Mountains.
Star Rating: Four-star.
The Vibe: A harmonious blend of historic charm and modern elegance, offering a cozy yet upscale retreat with plenty of design inspiration.
Food + Drink: Matilda, the on-site restaurant, serves inventive dishes inspired by the region that tap into locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast is included for guests and is served every morning buffet-style, with coffee and local goodies like soft-boiled eggs, feta cheese, and sliced ham, as well as homemade sweet and savory baked goods. Guests can also enjoy drinks and snacks at their leisure at the honor bar adjacent to the living room.
Our Favorite Part of the Hotel: The Henson’s curated living room, with its cozy boucle sofa, blazing fireplace, and charming vintage touches, feels like stepping into a Pinterest-perfect retreat.
Amenities: Each room features a king-size bed with a Casper mattress, robes, Frette towels, a Frame TV, Marshall speakers, and Grown Alchemist bath products. The hotel offers a wellness room with an infrared sauna, a rooftop deck with mountain views, and a garden with a stone fire pit.
What’s Nearby: Windham and Hunter Mountains for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer, plus Kaaterskill Falls for hiking all year round.
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs?: You can’t visit the Catskills without taking the opportunity to shop vintage and antique. Nearby Tannersville is a great option for both, with must-hit spots like the Tannersville Antique & Artisan Center and SUNDRY.
Rooms: 16 ensuite guest rooms that range in size, including some with balconies and large garden suites.
Price: Rates start at around $275 per night.
Closest Airport: Albany International Airport (ALB)
