Local Happenings
The Catskills invite you to slow down and find your own rhythm. Just two hours from New York City, this vast stretch of protected forest, rivers, and mountain villages has drawn artists, writers, and seekers for centuries. With legendary hiking, a thriving food scene, and storied towns in every direction, there's plenty to discover beyond the woods and creeks of Elka.
Restaurants, Cafés & Bakeries in the Catskills
From long farm-to-table dinners to slow morning coffee, the Catskills food scene reflects the quiet craft of the region. Guest favorites: Prospect at Scribner's for mountain views and seasonal menus, Deer Mountain Inn for a storybook dinner in the woods, and Tabla for inventive, ingredient-driven plates. Matilda at the Henson Hotel brings design-forward energy to Tannersville, while Pancho Villa and Phoenicia Diner are the go-tos for casual nights. For mornings, Fellow and Deja Brew pour the best coffee in the valley, and Shandaken Bake is a must for pastries.
Outdoor Activities & Scenic Adventures in the Catskills
The Catskill Forest Preserve spans hundreds of thousands of acres of waterfalls, swimming holes, and ridgeline views. Wander to Kaaterskill Falls or North-South Lake, tackle Indian Head and the Devil's Path from the trailhead in Elka Park, or ski Hunter, Windham, and Belleayre in winter.
Hidden Gems
The trailhead at the end of our street climbs toward the Devil's Path. Nearby creeks hide swimming holes for slow afternoons. Phoenicia is worth the drive for its bookstore and summer tubing on the Esopus, and the village of Hudson offers antique shops and wine bars for a walkable afternoon. Farmers markets in Woodstock and Windham are the best way to stock the cabin.
Towns + Culture