Picture this: a cabin nestled in the heart of nature with a luxurious sauna up the hill, and awe-inspiring views from your room that have the power to soothe even the most restless urban souls.
During my stay, I learned that Nolan McHugh and Trevor Briggs, the masterminds behind the hotel, established Piaule in 2016 as a homeware label specialising in Japanese cotton waffle weave towels. However, in 2021, with their deep-rooted commitment to sustainable design, the duo secured 20 hectares (50 acres) of pristine land in the Catskills and embarked on a journey in the hospitality industry.
Why The Berkeley in London should be on your luxury hotel bucket list
Why The Berkeley in London should be on your luxury hotel bucket list
Every detail, from the furniture to their waffle linens and ceramic drinkware, reflects their dedication to craftsmanship and sustainability. You can even purchase some of these items, which almost tempted me to add a robe and some plates to my tab.
While the property spans an expansive 20 hectares, only a small portion has been developed, ensuring a sense of spaciousness and tranquillity. The focal point of this development includes 24 carefully designed cabins perched on stilts.
McHugh and Briggs poured careful thought into designing an escape that caters to the desires of city residents seeking comfort and relaxation. Each room features lavish rain showers and what I consider one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever slept on, perfectly elevated to the level of the treetops facing an expansive glass wall that reveals uninterrupted views of the surrounding woods.
And if the breathtaking view isn’t enough to uplift your spirits, the spa at Piaule is sure to do the trick. Just a short stroll away from the cabin rows, the space embraces a natural aesthetic, exuding a delightful scent that lingers in the air. It features several yoga rooms equipped with mats and mirrors, a cedar sauna, a steam room, a generously sized saltwater pool and a cold plunge pool. While technically located indoors, the spa area features vast glass walls that invite the outside world in and allow warm sunlight to flood the building for a relaxing sunbathing session.
See yourself in The White Lotus? Take a holiday to idyllic Taormina, Sicily
See yourself in The White Lotus? Take a holiday to idyllic Taormina, Sicily
At Piaule, you can also enjoy bird walks guided by the Audubon Society, guided yoga sessions, tailored massages and sound baths – which Frank Ocean is apparently a big fan of – all to promote deep relaxation and a profound sense of harmony.
For those who crave outdoor adventures, trails invite you into the vast woodland. Whether you prefer a laid-back stroll or an invigorating hike, these trails promise to unveil hidden treasures and breathtaking sights that will forever imprint themselves in your memories.
After spending the afternoon treating ourselves to a rejuvenating journey – a circuit of wellness rituals – there was nothing better than returning to the cabin and embracing a slower pace, dedicating the evening to the art of doing nothing at all.
The next morning, we were treated to a breakfast spread that included a delightful array of coffee, fresh fruit, granola, creamy yogurt and local pastries. For lunch, the restaurant offers a selection of tasty dishes featuring flavours celebrating the region’s bounty – whether you’re in the mood for a light salad, a hearty sandwich or a flavourful soup.
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Inside Tommy Hilfiger’s fashionable US$46 million superyacht, Flag
But it’s during dinner when the culinary magic truly unfolds. Executive chef Ryan Tate curated a three-course prix fixe menu using seasonal locally grown produce and thoughtfully selected ingredients, for a deeper connection to the region that celebrates the best of the local food scene. Served from Thursday to Monday, this dining experience is a testament to the chef’s creativity and passion for showcasing the region’s culinary treasures.
Staying at Piaule is an extraordinary experience indeed. From the moment you step foot in this enchanting pastoral hotel, every aspect of your stay is curated to provide a sense of wonder and relaxation. Whether you find yourself cosied up in one of its stylish cabins, taking in the panoramic views of the postcard-worthy mountains, or indulging in culinary creations, each moment is a cherished escape from the whirl of daily life.