Review Author

Megan Shelton

Contributing Editor & NYC Know-It-All Columnist

For decades, the grounds now home to Scribner’s Catskill Lodge have offered a blissful upstate retreat to modish city-goers and locals. The team behind this beloved hotel, Escape Hospitality, is taking their bespoke accommodations bridging luxury and nature one step further with the opening of The Rounds at Scribner’s. Inspired by European hut systems and the rugged beauty of the region, each of the 11 cabins designed by Post Company seamlessly integrates modern environs with the surrounding landscape. The twelve-sided structures feature vaulted pantheon ceilings and a central oculus, which extend ample natural light by day and are ideal for clear, stargazing nights.

Guests have the option of two layouts––Standard and Suite––accommodating up to four and five guests respectively. From wraparound porches to Japanese cedar soaking tubs, every detail has been carefully curated to provide guests with a serene and indulgent experience.

The interiors blend minimalism with funky touches of 1970s décor. Custom sunken couches emulating a conversation pit outfitted in rich purple velvet cushions face the gas stove fireplaces. Funky lamps and specially sourced vintage landline phones find their home atop the writing desk; the King-sized beds are adorned with luxurious Frette linens. Even the washrooms are elegant yet approachable, with subway-tiled walls and standing sinks made of Italian marble.

The communal heart of The Rounds is the Apex Lounge, a space designed for relaxation and connection. Filled with a combination of vintage and contemporary furniture, the lodge welcomes guests to unwind with a cocktail at the blue limestone bar or partake in yoga classes within the light-filled studio. Those in search of more adventure can consult The Rounds Concierge, who presents personalized recommendations ranging from nearby trails to explore or local distilleries to visit.

Guests of The Rounds also have access to Scribner’s array of amenities, including a sauna, seasonal pool, and outdoor garden. The on-property restaurant, Prospect, promises an array of dishes showcasing local delights.

Whether seeking solitude among the pines or craving connection with like-minded vacationers, discerning travelers should make this hidden gem of the Catskills their next escape.

Fast Facts

Location: Hunter, New York

Rating: Four-star

The vibe: An idyllic, design-centric escape among nature that feels more like a personal cabin among the Catskills than a hotel.

Our favorite thing about the hotel: The Rounds offers a more secluded Catskills retreat just a stone’s throw away from Scribner’s Catskill Lodge.

Food and Drink: The central community building, the Apex Lodge, serves delicious cocktails in the evenings at its opulent blue limestone bar. For more substantial plates, saunter over to Scribner’s to dine at Prospect, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Any neighborhood recs? Pop into Fellow Mountain Cafe for brunch one morning. From the same owners as Scribner’s, this local spot serves incredible artisanal coffee and baked goods made with locally sourced ingredients. We recommend the cinnamon rolls and focaccia.

What’s nearby? Scribner’s Catskill Lodge, Hunter Mountain, Fellow Mountain Cafe, Hunter’s main drag with shops and restaurants

Amenities: Each cabin offers wraparound porches; an outdoor Japanese cedar soaking tub and shower; as well as an indoor gas stove fireplace. Guests can also take advantage of Scribner’s amenities, such as the seasonal outdoor pool and Glice Rink; sauna; outdoor garden; and library.

Pricing: Rates start at $450.

Room count: 11 cabins

Closest Airport: Greater Rochester International Airport