In 1881, the Hunter Mountain Prospect House opened its doors to hundreds of families, quickly becoming a favored summer vacation destination.
Over the years, the hotel changed hands and names until being acquired by an eccentric artist in the 1960s, who had grand plans of creating a wondrous woodsy resort that also emulated the spirit of the decade. A swimming “grotto” was installed, and quickly played host to wild weekend estate parties.
To welcome modish upstaters, the property underwent a massive renovation in 2016, once again becoming an idyllic Catskills getaway as Scribner’s Catskill Lodge.
The architecture highlights the existing, artful structure with elements of mid-century modern design. A Library boasts hundreds of books hand-picked by the hotel team, as well as a circular fireplace, multiple communal seating arrangements, and a billiards table. Sliding doors give away to the West Deck lined with Westport chairs and fire pits for s’mores.
The 38 guest rooms feature dark maple floors, working fireplaces, vintage woven rugs, and bespoke furnishings. While cozy and serene, the property team encourages a stay that embraces the outdoors with a plethora of programming opportunities to match.
Scribner’s resident gardener hosts potting and horticulture workshops in the Garden throughout spring, and guests can laze on the pool deck all summer long. In the fall, leaf peeping and foliage walks take place along the surrounding hiking trails; in the wintertime, visitors can attend vivacious après ski gatherings with live DJs and skates around the on-site rink. A wood-fired sauna is available year-round.
Prospect, the hotel’s restaurant and bar, stands as a watering hole for locals and guests alike. Inventive dishes prepared by the culinary team put the region’s diverse bounty on display. Patrons can opt for polished wood booths or a stool at the grand marble bar, all of which face floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of Hunter Mountain.
Top Takeaways:
Location: Hunter, New York
Star-Rating: Four-star
The Vibe: This property feels like your favorite uncle’s outdoorsy getaway: convivial spaces for board games by a fireplace, a central bar and restaurant, and cozy yet chic digs.
Our Favorite Thing about the hotel?: As a nod to the area’s former life as a hotspot for large families and friend groups, the programming is abundant all year long and also happens to be top-notch whether it be workshops in a garden in the summer or après ski sips in the winter.
Food + Drink: Prospect is the property’s bar and restaurant. A watering hole for guests and locals alike, the bar serves craft cocktails and local beers on tap, while the kitchen prepares a swath of regional plates.
Any Neighborhood Recs? For a romantic dinner just over the mountain, book a table at Deer Mountain Inn. Executive Chef Corwin Kave’s menu is based entirely on the offerings of the season, and all of the ingredients are sourced from local farms. Oftentimes, the restaurant team hosts pop-ups in collaboration with noteworthy New York City spots.
Amenities: Outdoor pool (seasonal); Wood-fired saunas; Restaurant & bar; Outdoor deck & furniture; Ice skating rink (seasonal); Board games/puzzles
Rooms: There are 38 guest rooms.
Pricing: Starting nightly rate at $196/night
Closest Airport: Greater Rochester International Airport
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