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RESORTS
Mohonk Mountain House
Out-of-the-way
Yankee
splendor
WRITTEN BY JOSH MAX
Mohonk is many things at once; an historic castle perched on the summit of a glorious
mountain, with luxurious, TV-less rooms, tall ceilings, acres of wood, and lounges with
stately libraries. But it’s also a retreat where silence gently shakes the horns, crowds and
work concerns out of your ears. Your days are packed full of activities if that’s your preference;
skating, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are all on the complimentary docket
for winter; for spring, boating on the crystal-clear lake, hiking along miles-long trails, tennis
and other recreation is available free with your room price. Or you can do nothing at all.
Lots of Room at the Inn
The 261-room house itself is an architectural
wonder; a turreted seven-story building
stretching nearly 1/8 of a mile, it’s surrounded
by more than 28,000 acres of state park land and
private preserves. The spacious rooms and halls
are hallowed and cavernous, yet Mohonk exudes
warmth. It really feels like someone’s house, albeit
someone whose last name is Gates. The price also
includes three fine meals a day.
Meals Fit for Royalty
Speaking of meals, please plan on exercising
the restraint of a monk unless you plan to leave
a few pounds larger than when you arrived. The
meals are American, meaning wholesome foods
prepared with seasonal, local ingredients, and
the spectacular natural setting is the final touch.
There are equally delicious “Sound Choice” items,
appealing to the tastes of health-conscious guests,
as well as vegetarian options, and Kosher meals
are also offered upon request. Dine in the spectacular
Main Dining Room, the intimate East and
West Dining Rooms, or in the comfort of your
own room. Come dressed: during dinner, jackets
are required for gentlemen age twelve and over,
and for ladies, dresses, skirts or evening slacks.
Also, Mohonk’s award-winning wine list (Wine
Spectator, 2004) offers a wide range of selections
to accompany your repast. The West Lounge is
open from 5-11 p.m. daily, serving cocktails and
light fare.
Tea, Sweets, Activity
For the overstimulated, easily bored 21stcentury
sort, there are a wealth of year-round
themed programs available, from Ballroom or
Swing Dancing, a Taste of Italy, Holistic living
46 VOLUME:3 ISSUE:1 2006 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM