Famous for its original sister property in Malibu, The Ranch has long been known in wellness circles for its no-holds-barred approach: early rising, rigorous hikes, exceptionally clean culinary programming, and daily bodywork and massages are just some of the things you can look forward to during a “Ranch Experience.” But at the recently opened Hudson Valley property, elements of the hardcore Malibu experience have been eased for uptight New Yorkers (you can have caffeine, for one), and the result is a truly gorgeous—and transformative—wellness experience perfect for a couples getaway to help you reset, recharge, and reconnect both mentally and physically.
Less than an hour from NYC, a small group of 25 guests is immersed in either a three-night, four-day or four-night, five-day program featuring The Ranch’s signature schedule of mountain hikes, strength training classes, restorative yoga, deep tissue massage, and organic, plant-based meals. We love that it’s open to all fitness levels, and especially love the accommodations: set on a historic private lakefront estate in the Lower Hudson Valley, The Ranch team alongside AD100 interior designer Steven Gambrel took painstaking efforts to preserve and highlight the property’s extraordinary architectural features, while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere. The guest rooms feel residential yet impossibly chic, and the light-filled dining room—as well as all of the accommodations—are distraction-free (including no TVs), encouraging guests to unplug and connect with each other.
The 2,000 square foot former ballroom, reimagined as a gym, is fully stocked with the latest high-tech wellness equipment, and the 5,000 square foot solarium features a year-round heated pool, infrared sauna, and hot and cold contrast plunge pools (a wellness lover’s dream). The results-oriented program is offered year-round, and in winter, the trails and trees create a serene and scenic respite for a one-of-a-kind hiking or snowshoeing experience. For winter guests, the cooler weather brings a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, rejuvenate your body, and invigorate your spirit—whether that looks like “hiking through crowd-free trails and breathing in the crisp, fresh air,” or adding on some “indoor activities” including culinary workshops, pool-based fitness classes, fireside yoga, Pilates, breathwork, and manifestation sessions. With the option to add on a myriad of additional treatments like energy therapy, Reiki, acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and couples massages, you’ll leave The Ranch Hudson Valley refreshed, renewed, and practically levitating.
Trade snow-covered slopes for salt air with a New England coastal winter escape on the water at the recently opened Delamar in Mystic, CT, where the season feels quieter, slower, and effortlessly refined. Winter reveals the shoreline at its most peaceful—crisp mornings, dramatic seascapes, and cozy evenings spent beside the fireplace in the hotel’s lobby or at La Plage, the on-property restaurant, savoring a warm, thoughtfully prepared meal paired with a seasonal cocktail or handcrafted mocktail.
Many of the hotel’s guest rooms boast beautiful water views that feel like you’re on the inside of a houseboat, and the interiors have a cozy, library-esque vibe. Then, there’s Mystic itself—a perfect destination for winter travel with its sea views, fireside comfort, and the beauty of being by the water. If it’s too chilly to venture outdoors, however, head to the hotel’s Cure Spa for expert massages and Biologique Recherche facials. And for a little culture, hotel guests get complimentary access to the Mystic Seaport Museum and the Connecticut Art Trail, a partnership of 30 museums and historic sites that promote the state’s rich cultural heritage.