Summer in New York is a dream, with beach days, waterfront dining, rooftop cocktails, free live music in our iconic parks, and oh so much more. But as fun as it is, the heatwaves, steamy commutes, and summer vacation crowds can make the sunniest season feel, well, a little less relaxing.
Enter summer in NYC’s much more relaxing segue: fall in NYC. Autumn in our favorite city is by far one of the most peaceful seasons. From brilliant foliage and crisp-but-cozy temperatures to back-to-school season clearing out some of the crowds at our favorite spots, the next few months are basically an open invitation to slow down, get outside, and enjoy the greatest city in the world—or even escape it for a little while.
And if you’re craving a fall getaway that’s equal parts scenic and seriously relaxing, we may have found your dream destination.
Source / Piaule Catskill
Just two hours from NYC, Piaule Catskill was recently named one of Architectural Digest’s best Catskills hotels of 2026, thanks in no small part to its immersive forest setting and destination-worthy spa. Think cozy cabins tucked among the trees, hot pools overlooking the woods, mineral baths, and plenty of opportunities to fully embrace that peaceful fall feeling.
Source / Piaule Catskill
Why Design Lovers and Celebs Are Obsessed with Piaule
Piaule is a masterclass in Scandinavian-meets-Japanese (Japandi) minimalism.
Built as a “landscape hotel,” the property consists of individual modular cabins elevated on stilts, designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding wilderness while minimizing ecological footprint.
Floor-to-ceiling glass walls serve as natural picture frames, bringing the vibrant fall foliage straight to your bed. It offers total seclusion and quiet luxury without feeling stuffy, making it a favorite retreat for artists, design enthusiasts, and city dwellers looking to unplug.
Source / Piaule Catskill
Unwinding in a Floating Cabin: Standout Features & The Destination Spa
The centerpiece of the Piaule experience is its subterranean wellness sanctuary, built directly into the hillside.
The World-Class Spa: A massive menu of treatments, ranging from signature deep-tissue massages and sound bath healings to herbal body wraps and custom facials.
Hydrotherapy & Panoramic Thermal Pools: Take a dip in temperature-regulated hot pools or enjoy a restorative mineral soak—all framed by giant glass windows that look directly out over the forested valley floor below. A cold plunge, steam room, and cedar sauna complete the circuit.
Seasonal Farm-to-Table Dining: The on-site communal restaurant sits atop the main lodge, serving clean, locally sourced Hudson Valley cuisine paired with natural wines and craft cocktails.
Immersive Woodland Cabins: Heated hardwood floors, ultra-cozy natural textiles, and zero clutter ensure your room feels like an elevated sanctuary nestled right in the canopy.
Source / Piaule Catskill
Booking Lead Time: Because the property only features 24 cabins, weekend stays—especially during autumn peak leaf-peeping season—book out months in advance. Secure your reservation as early as possible.
Atmosphere: Quiet, slow-paced, and adult-oriented. It is designed for resting, reading, soaking, and gentle trail walking rather than high-energy party weekends.
What to Pack: Slip-on shoes (for walking between your cabin and the spa), comfortable trail-walking gear, and cozy loungewear.
Source / Piaule Catskill
Escaping the City: How to Get to Piaule Catskill from NYC
Located in Catskill, New York, the retreat is easily accessible for a quick weekend trip or a midweek recharge.
By Car (Fastest): An easy 2-hour drive (approx. 115 miles) from Manhattan via the New York State Thruway (I-87 North) to Exit 21.
By Train & Rideshare: Take Amtrak from Pennsylvania Station to Hudson Station (about 2 hours with scenic views along the Hudson River). From Hudson Station, Piaule is just a 20-minute taxi or Uber ride across the river.