Brian and I have loved upstate New York since the beginning of our relationship. We got engaged at our favorite spot, Warwick Winery. The Catskills became our getaway once we had Siena because it was close, had great food, and so many towns to explore. We would go during the summer or fall season, but this year we missed our trip. Before our busy summer begins we decided to go for it. Even if it meant chilly nights and quieter days, which was actually perfect.

The Blue Fox Motel- Drive up to this cozy spot in the woods and be ready to surprised at every turn. The hospitality that awaits you is truly something special. You are greeted as if they are genuinely excited to see you, because they really are! We stayed in one of the guest cabins, which were a perfect blend of camping and comfort. To be honest, straight up camping in a tent is a challenge for me. The guest cabins at the Blue Fox give you the feeling of the wilderness without feeling like your going to get eaten by wildlife at night. The accommodations are spacious and gives you a Wes Anderson sort of feel. The owners have been working tirelessly updating the property while keeping the Catskills cabin feel intact. The bathrooms, linens, and decor are all modern. While the cabins still boast rustic wooden framework all around.

Jorge Neves is one of the owners, and a former New York City restaurateur. We met him as we were wandering towards the hiking trails. He joy and passion for the property was infectious as he told us about the waterfalls, and offered us bikes for our time at the motel. Even more so intriguing was his stories about his Portuguese heritage and the influence it has had on his menus. We learned the story of how his head chef followed him from the city to the Catskills. At dinner his partner Meg, filled us in on how so many of the dishes on the menu were family recipes. For me, this only elevates the experience. You are somewhere far away from home, yet it doesn’t feel that way. The team at Blue Fox Motel are the true living example of hospitality. Making one feel welcomed into a space and part of the fabric.

We watched as Meg and Jorge greeted patrons with hugs, sat down at tables for conversation. We had only been on property for a couple of hours and felt the strong sense of community. Our waiter, Peter, had a heart of gold, quick wit, and a true talent for fly fishing.

The Blue Fox Motel is a true escape that encourages you to slow down. To explore and get to know what is around you in an intimate way. All while supplying delicious and thoughtful food choices on property.

We will be back for : Some time to lounge around the pool, more cod cakes, and to visit with a staff that now feels like our old friends.

The Tunsten Cup- The town of Narrowsburg is incredibly charming with handful of shops and restaurants to choose from. We visited The Tunsten Cup both mornings and wished we didn’t live so far away. The menu is full of great coffees, drinks, along with some amazing breakfast sandwiches. I made a beehive bagel disappear, complete with chive cream cheese, hot honey, and crispy bacon. Also, do not not pass up the baked goods in the case! The cherry breakfast pastry was delicious!

We will be back for : More Chai Lattes and to try the Truffle Shuffle Sandwich!

The Heron- We ducked into the Heron on a very rainy evening. This restaurant is cozy and has the best soundtrack ever! Of course, the food is equally impressive. Our order may not sound like our regular run down but that ended up being the best idea. The Chicken Liver mousse was delicious as was the veggie burger. Yes, I ordered a veggie burger and loved it! To make things even more interesting, I also ordered their Shirley Temple to drink.

Make sure to make a reservation. We saw many disappointed diners turned away because of the super busy Saturday night!

We will be back for : The Mushroom Pate and the Bone Marrow appetizer they were out of !

Other Experiences to Consider:
Catskills Provisions- We stop here every time we are in the area. Their fall honey is treated like gold in our house. As is their whiskey, which makes the best Bees Knees. Their food and drinks are delicious and there are plenty of areas to sit and relax.

Three Hammers Winery- Take a little drive to this winery and thank me later. Grab a glass and wander through the property. Take a walk along the trail, or maybe sit down for one of their flights with food.

Favorite Shops:

Catskills Curated - All of the best of the Catskills in one spot! Browse through home goods, specialty foods, wellness products, things for the garden, really anything you can think of that local purveyors have to offer!

Tess- An elcectic shop with beautiful clothes and accessories to browse through!