Eastwind Windham: Your Dream New York Getaway Awaits!
Eastwind Windham: Is This Rustic Retreat Really My Dream Getaway? (Spoiler: Maybe.)
Okay, so here's the deal. I just got back from Eastwind Windham, that supposed "dream getaway" nestled in the Catskills, and my brain is still buzzing. Let's be real, the internet's already flooded with glowing reviews ("Instagrammable! Romantic! Glamping-lite perfection!"), so I’m going to give you the real deal, warts and all. Because, let's face it, perfection is boring.
First off, the Accessibility stuff. Now, I don't need a wheelchair, but I'm always thinking about it (my mom uses one). The website doesn't scream inclusivity. This is a rustic place, folks. My armchair detective skills tell me it's probably not fully accessible everywhere. Elevator? Yes. Facilities for disabled guests? Listed, but without details. So call ahead, ask specific questions. Don't just take a generic "accessible" bullet point for gospel. And that car park [free of charge] thing? Good, because parking is the bane of my existence.
Internet? Oh lord, the internet. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! (and public areas, yay!), but also Internet [LAN] in all rooms. Is this 2003? I didn't even see a LAN port, but hey, options are good. The Wi-Fi was… serviceable. Let's leave it at that. Expecting lightning-fast streaming? Temper your expectations. You're here to disconnect (sort of).
Alright, now for the good stuff: Things to do, ways to relax, and…well, let's just say "indulge"
I'm talking Spa, people! And, oh, the pool with a view! One day, I swear, I spent a solid hour just floating in that pool, staring at the mountain vista. Pure, unadulterated bliss. They have a Sauna, a Steamroom, a massage. Did I get a massage? YES. A deep tissue one that practically rearranged my internal organs. Worth. Every. Penny. They also listed a Fitness center, but let's be honest, I skipped that. My workout was hauling myself from the pool to the bar. (More on that later.)
There were Body scrubs and Body wraps listed. Did I use them? Nope. I'm more of a "grab-a-book-and-hide-in-the-woodshed-esque-cabin" kind of relaxer. But the option was there, and that's the important thing.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: This is where Eastwind really shines, but be warned, it’s not cheap.
They had Restaurants, plural! A Bar that was well-stocked! Restaurants with International cuisine in restaurant. The Western cuisine in restaurant was available (duh!). The Asian cuisine in restaurant was pretty delicious. And the cocktails? Killer. Happy hour was definitely a highlight. I highly recommend the "Windham Mule." Trust me.
Coffee shop? YES! Coffee/tea in restaurant? Also yes! (That's my kind of redundancy!) Breakfast [buffet]? Yes, although it felt more like a beautifully curated spread than a true buffet. They also did Breakfast in room and Breakfast takeaway service, perfect for those hungover mornings when getting dressed feels like a Herculean task.
There was a Poolside bar, which, again, was a massive plus. Sitting by the pool, sipping a cocktail, and pretending I was in a movie? Priceless. The Snack bar was perfect for those mid-afternoon munchies.
Food delivery? Not that I saw. But, honestly, with the on-site options, who needs it? Room service [24-hour] too - but I didn't test how good it was, so can't tell, or say.
Cleanliness and safety? Okay, here’s where I felt a little… overwhelmed in a good way. The Anti-viral cleaning products, the Daily disinfection in common areas, the Room sanitization between stays, the Staff trained in safety protocol…. It's a lot, especially if you're like me – a bit of a germaphobe and a massive worrier. BUT… seeing all that effort definitely made me feel at ease. Cashless payment service was available, which is appreciated. Hand sanitizer… everywhere. Individually-wrapped food options. They have Hygiene certification. The only thing missing was a bubble around me. But hey, I felt pretty safe. It felt like they were taking it seriously.
Services and conveniences: This is where Eastwind tries to be fancy, but it comes off a bit… uneven.
Concierge: Helpful, but not always available. Daily housekeeping: excellent! Doorman: more like a friendly guy at the front desk. They do have Meeting/banquet facilities and Audio-visual equipment for special events, which I didn't use. Who goes to a place like this for work?! (Don’t answer that.)
They also had things like Dry cleaning, Laundry service, Ironing service, and Luggage storage. Okay, fine. But are you really going to worry about ironing on a weekend getaway? Cash withdrawal? Well, you can get a cash withdrawal, thank god! As for Facilities for disabled guests, this is where I'm starting to feel that lack of detail. I need more information to feel sure.
Available in all rooms: This is the nuts and bolts of the room and where Eastwind scores massively.
Air conditioning? Check. Alarm Clock? Fine. Bathrobes? Yes! Essential after a spa day. Blackout curtains? YES! Crucial. Coffee/tea maker? Needed. Free bottled water? Thank you! Hairdryer? Check. In-room safe box? Yep, but I’ve never used one. Mini bar? Oh, yes! (And expensive!). Non-smoking? Thank goodness. Refrigerator? Nice. Shower? Yep. Wi-Fi [free]? We already talked about the Wi-Fi. Window that opens? Delightful.
Got kids? Well, there's some Family/child friendly stuff. There's also Babysitting service. I'm pretty sure my kids would've hated it here. This is more "adults-seeking-peace-and-quiet" territory. They have an actual Kids meal.
Getting around:
They offer Airport transfer, Taxi service, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Valet parking. All good things. But… driving around the area, you’ll quickly find yourself appreciating that this is very much a “get in your car and go” situation. Everything feels a little spread out.
But… Is it ALL sunshine and roses?
No. Okay, here's my one major gripe: The noise. The cabins are close together, and the walls aren't exactly soundproof. One night, I could practically hear the couple next door arguing (or maybe making up - who knows?). It wasn't a deal-breaker, but it did knock the "tranquility" factor down a notch.
What's the Bottom Line?
Eastwind Windham is a stylish, relaxing retreat. It's not perfect, but it has soul. It's a good place to escape, recharge, and maybe – just maybe – rediscover your inner chill. It’s better suited for couples and friend groups or solo travelers looking to get away from the city life. It's for someone who appreciates good food, craft cocktails, and mountain scenery, and who doesn't mind splurging a little.
And now, for the shameless plug…
STOP SCROLLING! BOOK NOW!
Headline: Escape to Eastwind Windham: Your Cozy Catskills Cabin Awaits! (And Did We Mention the Massage?)
Body: Dreaming of crisp mountain air, crackling fireplaces, and a serious dose of R&R? Look no further than Eastwind Windham! Nestled in the heart of the Catskills, our unique Scandi-chic cabins offer the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury.
Here's what you get:
- Unwind in Style: Luxurious cabins, soaking tubs, plush bathrobes, and… oh yeah… stunning mountain views. (Bring your camera!)
- Pamper Yourself: Indulge in a rejuvenating massage at our spa, take a dip in the pool with a view, or sweat it out in the sauna.
- Fuel Your Adventure: Delicious international cuisine, craft cocktails, and a breakfast spread that’ll make you forget about work (at least for a little while).
- Stay Connected (or Don't!): Free Wi-Fi (so you can Insta-brag)
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because we're about to dive headfirst into a gloriously messy, opinionated, and utterly human itinerary for Eastwind Windham, NY. Consider this less a meticulously planned trip and more a Choose-Your-Own-Adventure story written by someone who drinks entirely too much coffee… and maybe has a slight penchant for dramatic pronouncements.
EASTWIND WINDHAM: A Weekend of Questionable Life Choices (And Hopefully, Pretty Views)
Day 1: The Arrival & The "Is This Cabin Actually Haunted?" Phase
1:00 PM - Arrival at Eastwind Hotel: Ugh, the drive. Always the drive. Sat Nav, you lying piece of plastic, you promised me a scenic route and that my phone would have service. Instead, I spent an hour questioning my life choices while navigating the hairpin turns on the way up the mountain. Anyway. Finally, we're here. The check-in process was surprisingly pleasant (the friendly staff probably sensed the impending caffeine withdrawal), and then… the cabin. Oh, the cabin. Cabin vibes intensifies. This place is so Instagram-ready it feels like a prop for a rom-com. And speaking of props, I swear I saw a shadowy figure flitting past the window when I first arrived. Coincidence? Probably. But the lack of a decent coffee maker in the kitchenette? That's a crime against humanity.
2:00 PM - Unpacking (or, The Great Sock Disaster of 2024): Honestly, it's always a chaotic affair. I swear my suitcase mysteriously reproduces socks. How does this happen? Where do they come from? I swear I packed like, three pairs. Now, I'm staring at a mountain of mismatched fluff. I'm pretty sure I’m missing half of my clothes. Priorities… sigh Okay, clean socks acquired (finally). Now, where to start the adventure? I swear, I should become a professional suitcase packer, this is a whole mess.
3:00 PM - The Essential First Hike - Windham High Peak Trail (Or, Am I Going to Die?) : This hike is rated as "Moderate." "Moderate," they said. That's a lie. It's more like "Slightly Grueling with the Potential for Existential Dread." The views, though? Absolutely worth the near-cardiac arrest. Seriously, the vista is breathtaking - rolling hills, a sea of autumn colors (if you're visiting in the fall), the whole shebang. I felt a real moment of peace, and then my knee popped. Ah, nature. Always humbling.
6:00 PM - Apres-Hike Indulgence (aka, Fueling the Body with Carbohydrates): This is the best part. After a hell of a hike. It. Is. Pizza. Time. We're heading to the charming place in The Hunter, "The Windham Fine Dining and Bar." It's the perfect post-hike reward. The crust is crispy, the toppings are divine. My friend and I, we laugh and talk about our day.
7:30 PM - Evening Wind-Down (aka, Trying to Stay Awake): Okay, you know how I mentioned the "haunted" vibe of the cabin? As the sun sets, the creaks and groans of the old wood start to get to me. A horror movie would start, but I'm tired. So, I'm settling in with a book with a glass of wine, which quickly turned into two. Maybe three. Whatever, it's vacation. I swear, I saw a twig snap outside the window. Nope. Not going to think about it. (Checks the locks on the door. Again.)
Day 2: Adventure, Epiphany, and the Quest for Good Coffee
8:00 AM - The Great Coffee Disaster Begins: Okay, let's be honest: I'm a coffee snob. I need my morning brew. Desperately. And that pathetic excuse for a coffee maker in the cabin? Useless. Decided to venture into town. This is where the real adventure begins because all the cafes were closed. I'm starting to feel the caffeine withdrawal headaches begin. So, I finally had to settle for a convenience store and the worst coffee I've ever tasted.
9:00 AM - Driving the Route (Or, My Very Own Melodrama): The Drive. The drive is what will make or break the journey. I'm driving around the Windham Mountain Area looking for places to eat and visit.
11:00 AM - The Cat's Meow (aka, The Secret to Happiness, Maybe?): I really wanted to see the world-famous cats of Windham. I'm not sure what they are famous for. But I'm going to check it out. It was a complete bust.
1:00 PM - Lunch Delirium (aka, What Even Is This Sandwich?): Hunger and frustration are a powerful combination. I found some place downtown - The place to have a lunch, they said. So, I was expecting something good, something divine! But the truth came in the form of a sad sandwich.
2:00 PM - The Zen Moment (Or, Embracing the Chaos): Okay, so maybe the weekend hasn't gone exactly as planned. The coffee situation is dire. I'm pretty sure my sock collection is multiplying in the suitcase. But this area? Windham has a certain magic. I think I'll just lean into the mess. I'm going to enjoy the rest of the trip!
4:00 PM - The Final Bite (aka, One Last Pizza Pilgrimage): The perfect trip. I. Need. More. Pizza.
6:00 PM - Departure (aka, Goodbye, But Not Really): It's time to pack up, say goodbye to the cabin (and potentially the ghost… I think he's getting used to me), and hit the road. Back to reality. But you know what? I'm going to miss this place. The beauty, the imperfections, the adventure. I'll be back. And next time? I'm bringing my own coffee maker. And maybe a sock shrinker.
Important Notes & Disclaimers:
- Pace Yourself: This itinerary is a suggestion. Overestimation is the name of the game. Take naps. Eat snacks. Don't be afraid to change your mind.
- Embrace the Unexpected: Things will go wrong. That's half the fun. Laugh about it.
- Be Kind to Yourself: You're on vacation. You're allowed to be a little messy and a little dramatic. It's part of your experience (and mine).
- Check all the times and opening date before going, it's a big deal.
Enjoy your trip to Eastwind Windham. And let me know if you see any ghosts. I'll need a report.
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Eastwind Windham: Your Dream New York Getaway? Uh... Let's See.
What *is* Eastwind Windham, anyway? Besides, like, a slightly pretentious name?
Okay, so Eastwind Windham (let's just say "Eastwind" from now on, my fingers get tired) is this... *thing* in the Catskills. Think "elevated glamping" meets "boutique hotel room" meets "Instagram bait." It's little cabins, some bigger "Luxe" cabins, and these cool "pod" things. The whole vibe is supposed to be rustic-chic. Like, "we're roughing it... tastefully." I'll be honest, the marketing *totally* got me. Sun-drenched photos of couples cuddling in Adirondack chairs by a fire pit... yeah, sign me UP. So, expectations? High. Reality? We'll get to that.
How do I even *get* to Eastwind? Do I need a helicopter? (Asking for a stressed friend...)
Relax, helicopter is probably overkill (unless you *really* want to show off). Driving is the most common way. From NYC, it's roughly a 2.5-3 hour drive, which, depending on your tolerance for weekend traffic, can feel like a lifetime. My advice? Leave before the zombies awaken on Friday afternoon. Seriously. We hit gridlock on the way up. And I'm pretty sure the GPS lady started crying before we even hit the Hudson Valley. The upside? The scenery is gorgeous. Once you're actually *there*, it's… well, quiet. That's nice. Very, very nice.
What's the accommodation situation like? Are we talking "camping" camping? Because, NOPE.
Okay, good question. No, you're *not* talking "camping" camping. Thank GOODNESS. Although they *do* emphasize the "outdoorsy" feel. You've got your basic "Luxe" cabins (which are pretty sleek, actually - wood-paneled, comfy beds), your "Pod" things (which I'm told are cool, but I'm not a pod person), and the "Summit" glamping tents. We stayed in a Luxe cabin. We're not exactly outdoorsy types, though we *try*. The cabin was… well, it was fine. Clean. Modern. Small. The fireplace was a nice touch (until we realized we were out of firewood, and the check-in lady was... well, let's just say she wasn't exactly helpful when we called).
Okay, spill the tea on the cabin. Did you love it? Hate it? Pretend to love it for Instagram?
Alright, buckle up. Here's the unvarnished truth about the Luxe cabin experience. First of all, the aesthetics? Beautiful. Like, "Pinterest-worthy" beautiful. The wood paneling, the minimalist decor, the fluffy blankets... *chef's kiss*. I mean, for about five minutes after we arrived, I was in heaven. Then, the reality of "cabin living" set in.
The space is *tiny*. Like, you could probably touch all four walls simultaneously if you, say, did a really aggressive star jump. We had all our luggage in there, which made navigating the space a contact sport. Then there was the… *ahem*… *ahem*… "privacy issue". Let's just say that the frosted glass on the bathroom door didn't offer a *ton* of privacy. My partner and I, after a few awkward morning bathroom visits, developed a system of elaborate hand gestures and whispered warnings. Romantic, it wasn't. Humorous? Absolutely.
And don't even get me started on the aforementioned firewood fiasco. We called reception, waited on hold for what felt like an eternity, and eventually got a very bored-sounding person who informed us that "they were out" and "we could try walking to the market." Uh, *thanks*. Luckily, the next-door neighbors were slightly more hospitable and shared some of theirs. So, yeah, the cabin? Pretty. Practical? Debatable. Memorable? Absolutely.
What is there *to do* besides staring longingly at your partner across a cramped cabin? Are there any amenities, or are we truly "roughing it"?
Okay, so, here's where Eastwind gets a bit tricky. There's an attempt at "rustic charm" but also a desire to be "luxury." They have a communal fire pit (which is great… if you're lucky enough to snag a spot), a little "library" (read: a shelf with a few books), and what they call a "yoga deck" (which is, like, a wooden platform). They supposedly also have a sauna, but again, it was closed when we were there. It's a vibe, you see.
Activities-wise, it's mostly about enjoying the outdoors. Hiking trails are nearby; Windham Mountain for skiing is close by as well. But, honestly? You're kind of left to your own devices. Which, depending on your personality, can be a good or a bad thing. We spent a lot of time just… chilling. Reading. Drinking wine. Pretending we were super relaxed and naturally outdoorsy. I even attempted to start a fire (it did not go well).
Food and Drink: Are we talking "camp food" or something a little more elevated?
Okay, the food situation is a mixed bag. Eastwind has a small "Tavern." It's fine. Decently priced, good cocktails, and they often have live music which is quite nice. Beyond that, you *are* in the Catskills, and you're not exactly surrounded by Michelin-starred restaurants within walking distance.
We prepped as much as we could, getting snacks and some simple ingredients for breakfast and quick lunches.
If you're a foodie? Plan accordingly. There are some *amazing* farm-to-table places in the area, but you'll definitely need to do your research and book in advance.
One note: the free breakfast is a very minimalistic continental thing, featuring bagels and fruit and such. Don't bank on it being a huge feast.
So, overall, was Eastwind a "dream getaway"? Or a slightly overpriced Instagram trap?
Alright, the million-dollar question (well, maybe the several-hundred-dollar-per-night question). Honestly? It's complicated.
It was *beautiful*. Seriously, the setting, the atmosphere, the *vibe*… all genuinely lovely. We got some great photos. We escaped the city. We relaxed (eventually). And, despite the cramped quarters and the firewood drama,Best Hotels Blog
