4 Best Hotels in Phoenicia, The Catskills

As you pull into the gravel driveway and climb the steps of this plain but pretty 1850s Victorian, you will feel like you're visiting a favorite relative. Named for nearby hamlets like Chichester and Woodstock, the reasonably priced rooms are simply decorated and include some well-chosen antiques. Some, like the Wittenberg, are unusually large and can accommodate the whole family. The dining room is a showplace, with a long, elegant bar that was made in the 1920s. A lavish breakfast is included.

After opening several hip spots in Brooklyn, Jeff and Brooke Bailey decided to head to the Catskills to open an inn for creative types like them with uniquely curated decor that includes original artworks, hand-sewn quilts, poetry books, and a retro collection of vinyl. The result is the Glass Mountain Inn, where the couple resides on-site with their young children. They're friendly folks, happy to pick you up at the local bus station or arrange for some vegetarian food to be delivered to your room. You can play volleyball or croquet on the tree-shaded lawn, or borrow one of the bikes for a morning spin. Esopus Creek is just across Route 241. There are two rustic suites: a one-bedroom and a two-bedroom with an old-timey vibe and plenty of country charm. If you want more privacy, there's a two-bedroom cottage with a private deck and an upright piano.

If you're into Victoriana, you'll love this restored 1875 house and all its architectural flourishes and antique furnishings in the heart of Phoenicia. All four rooms are individually decorated and two share a bathroom. Our favorite is Ardrey's Suite, which has its own sitting room with handsome wingback chairs; Violet's Suite has its own 1930s-style kitchen. Enjoy an organic breakfast on the front porch, or take a stroll to Sweet Sue's or one of the other stellar places for morning meals.