Platinum Celebrations
Fall Getaways: An Out Of Borough Experience
By Mindy Kobrin
Mohonk Mountain House
Browne Trading Company
While anchored in town, drop in and say hello to Rod Browne Mitchell, my friend and owner of the famed Browne Trading Company at Merrill’s Wharf. He and his team promise to serve up the freshest fish, gourmet food, caviar and specialty items during your stay.
Mohonk Mountain House
Fall into Autumn by treating yourself to a weekend getaway before the hectic holiday season of costumes-galore, turkey eating and holiday gift buying are upon us. With our internal and external clocks ticking toward a heavy social calendar filled with holiday celebrations our thoughts and feelings yearn for a weekend getaway.
Among a multitude of destinations, here are three of my favorites and snack ideas to fuel you on your way. And don’t forget to bring home some great fall leaves, cranberries and pumpkins to spice up your tabletops. Whether it’s antiquing, gourmet dining, picnicking or luxuriating in a spa, remember it’s just a hop, skip, drive or flight away!
National Historic Landmark
The simplicity of the 138-year-old Mohonk Mountain House, a refurbished Quaker compound outside Manhattan in New Paltz, appeals to the nature-lover in all of us. The resort offers the perfect backdrop for hiking or other wholesome activities like canoeing, rock scrambles, tennis, spa, and horseback riding. The horse trails were my favorite. After a full day of fresh air there’s always time for birthday or anniversary celebrations by a warm and inviting fireplace.
Vermont Splendor
Mountain trails ablaze with color, offer you and your four-legged friends an invigorating escape. Before lacing up your boots or cruising with the top down, I always check out The Vermont Living Guide complete with lists of some of the best fall foliage drives, New England’s inns and pet-friendly lodging suggestions.
After a gorgeous day celebrating nature’s beauty in the heart of Southern Vermont, you can rejuvenate at the Windham Hill Inn. This idyllic spot is perched on 160 acres of verdant mountain hillside at the “end of a country road.” Towering maples, rock-wall bordered fields, abundant wildlife and spectacular views down the West River Valley help create the perfect escape.
Carry On, Captain
Pack your carry-on bag, catch a quick flight to Portland, Maine and navigate to one of my favorite spots. The 19th Century Colonial home, PineCrest Bed & Breakfast Inn guarantees a romantic escape. Inhale the colors, take in the pure air and nibble on gourmet foods. Perfectly situated, you will experience both town and country!
Browne Trading Company
Rod's passion for quality, and pleasure in sharing the knowledge of ingredients has led not only to long term relationships with many of the most talented chefs around the nation, but also to a commitment to promoting education and acknowledgment of culinary excellence. If your Autumn travel schedule is already booked and you’re craving his fresh fish, cast your line, online, and place an order. In just a few days, you will taste the best ocean delights in the comfort of your own home!
Roadtrip Snacks
To best enjoy your drive or picnic amongst the leaves, remember to pack a few simple, seasonal and savory snacks in a trendy picnic backback from The Wine Bag. With backpack in hand, prepare for your trip with some of my fuss free must-have yummies:
Apples from the local stand
Sliced figs and prosciutto
Parmigiano-reggiano wedges
Mixed olives
Skewers of fresh cranberries or frozen grapes
Rosemary ciabetta loaf
And for a touch of bubbly fun, remember to celebrate nature by popping open a bottle of champagne or sparkling cider. To take it up a notch, drop one of your fruity skewers into the bubbly.
Cheers to you and your travels.
I’d love to hear from you so remember to share your getaway tips, fun finds and foliage pictures with us. Check-in anytime.
