Upstate New York’s Sophisticated But Playful Retreat, Habitas-on-Hudson
Minutes from Rhinebeck, this refurbished hotel provides the opportunity to connect or disconnect
While there is a summer-camp-for-grown-ups energy at Habitas-on-Hudson, it’s also a distinctly sophisticated countryside retreat. Opened in December 2022, it’s the newest HABITAS hotel and their first in the US (joining spots everywhere from Namibia to Mexico and Morocco). Located just outside of Rhinebeck (about two hours from NYC) on a large piece of land, the destination includes the main Manor House, two separate lodging buildings called the Lodge and the Stone House, a pond, tennis court, fire pit, plenty of outdoor seating and an abundance of greenery. Despite being just off a highway and a 10-minute drive to the center of Rhinebeck, it feels like a far away sanctuary.
The main building, the Manor House, was originally built in 1761 but was mostly destroyed in a fire in 1899. The foundation remained and in 1901 it was rebuilt in almost exactly the same way. It was later refurbished inside during the 1990s. Now, there are six guest rooms in the Manor House, while the Lodge and the Stone House provide 24 more rooms and suites.
The Manor House’s guest rooms—each named for a famous writer—are on the second floor (along with a tiny reading alcove and gloriously bright sitting room) while the ground level features a salon, restaurant, bar, private dining room and two game rooms. Altogether, the Manor House creates a blend of elegance and playfulness that feels just right for an upstate getaway.
After a big day of hiking, playing tennis or enjoying the yet-to-be-built hot tub, sauna and cold plunge, guests can nestle into a comfy chair and read, or order a cocktail from the lush, pub-style bar and settle into a nook where all kinds of games (from chess to Monopoly) are stacked up. There’s also a separate room housing a foosball table and other larger games.
After a cocktail or two, guests and locals alike gather in The Social, an airy and laidback restaurant space. While there are tables for two available, the eatery has a relaxed, family-style layout that encourages interaction. The kitchen serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the options are delightful. From chilaquiles in the morning to a super-tasty lamb kofta sandwich at lunch and classics including a bavette steak and duck ragu pappardelle at night, the dishes are diverse but lean into comfort food. After dinner, the accomplished and approachable staff are even on hand to build a bonfire, replete with all the makings for s’mores.
Further adding to the communal atmosphere, like the other HABITAS properties, there are daily workshops and classes from yoga to breath-work, sound baths, cocktail-making, cooking and beyond. They plan on having lots of outdoor activities during the warmer months too—like archery, hiking and biking. The overarching vibe at Habitas-on-Hudson is a blend of quiet comfort and playful activity that doesn’t clash. Rather it’s a convivial, balanced amalgam and guests can jump in or retreat, connect or disconnect, depending on their mood, mindset and intention.
Hero image courtesy of HABITAS
