Quality Mom Pal Time: Overnight at Emerson Resort and Spa by Robin Gorman Newman

All moms need a little TLC and R&R, and this mom got some recently thanks to a mom pal overnight at the lovely Emerson Resort and Spa in Mt. Tremper, NY.

The Emerson, in the heart of New York’s Hudson Valley, offers spacious accommodations, an award-winning spa, three food establishments, enticing shops and even the worldest largest Kaleidostore.  It is close driving distance to Woodstock and Rhinebeck (fun towns to explore with good main streets to walk), as well as skiing and outdoor activities at Belleayre Mountain and Hunter Mountain….so if you want to venture into surrounding areas, there’s plenty to do.

Located just two hours from New York City and five international airports, the pet-friendly Emerson also features facilities for weddings, meetings and conferences. 

Our Room at The Inn

Emerson offers varying types of accommodations, including the Inn, where the spa, shops, cafe and The Phoenix restaurant are housed.  This is where we stayed, and it was not only comfortable but delighted us with a wonderfully exotic, luxurious  decor featuring two queen bed in our room, a cozy electric fireplace, and bathroom designed to pamper.  Loved the ambiance of the Inn, and had the opportunity to check out a friend’s room — they stayed in a King size bed loft room — and it was unlike anything I’d ever seen.

Lobby at The Inn

Artwork by Kelli Bickman

Known for its exotic décor (ornate imported wooden carvings) and long hallways adorned with artwork by local artisans, the Inn is complemented by an abundance of windows and natural light which frame the Catskill Mountains and the Esopus Creek. 

The Inn includes:

• 26 premium suites (620 – 1,000 sq. ft.) reserved for adults only
• Five duplex loft suites each with two full bathrooms
• Private, outdoor decks
• 32-inch flat screen televisions with DVD players
• In-room fireplaces
• Two-person air-jetted tubs
• Swiss showers
• Sealy Plush-Top mattresses
• Robes and slippers
• Complimentary high-speed wireless Internet
• Pet-friendly accommodations

Then, there is The Lodge.  Concealed among tall pines and shading maples, the Lodge is built in a traditional Adirondack-style and is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts offering a warm, cozy ambiance. Accommodations and amenities at The Lodge include:

• 27 warmly decorated rooms and suites, many with outdoor decks
• 26-inch flat screen televisions
• Jetted baths
• Robes and slippers
• Complimentary high-speed wireless Internet
• Pet-friendly accommodations

Spa Waiting Area

The Spa features a wide array of Eastern and Western treatment protocols, including Ayurvedic rituals, which utilize individualized therapeutic measures relating to physical, mental, social and spiritual harmony.  There are a variety of spa services and packages such as facials, massage therapies, pre-natal services, Reiki, gender-specific therapies and a nail, hair and makeup salon. I had a reflexology (foot) massage, and I had to stop myself from nodding off.  It was uber relaxing….one of the best I’ve had!

Amenities at the Spa include:

• Facilities featuring 10 treatment rooms. 
• Couples massage treatment room
• A 1,500 square-foot fitness center with free weights, Nautilus circuit, cardio equipment and fitness classes
• Relaxation room
• Yoga studio with instructor-lead classes – my friend took a class and enjoyed
• Outdoor Jacuzzi
• Well-appointed locker rooms
• Steam and sauna

Dining at the Emerson includes:

CATAMOUNT  RESTAURANT — Affectionately known by locals as “The Cat,” The Catamount Restaurant serves classic American fare in a warm family-friendly atmosphere.  the Kitty Cat menu includes kid favored foods such as the Grrrilled Cheese.  Live entertainment including music, dancing and an open mike night also make a meal at the Cat lively and fun.   (Note: We didn’t have the opportunity to dine here since it was closed the night we stayed due to a private party.  But there are other good dining options a not far driving distance from Emerson.)

THE PHOENIX  — Open for breakfast, with very reasonable prices, and well prepared food served in generous portions.  Really enjoyed the spinach omelet (pictured), and the smoked salmon platter. The Phoenix is also available for special events and private parties. It features a bar, an outdoor patio overlooking the Esopus Creek, and an open door to the beautiful Great Room.

Shopping at the Emerson:                                                           

COUNTRY STORE:   Housed in a 19^th century dairy barn, the Country Store sells unique, locally-inspired gifts.  Shoppers enjoy an array of products, including: world-class kaleidoscopes; fine country furnishings; gourmet foods such as honey, maple syrup and sauces; Emerson Antiques by Velsani; and seasonal clothing for men, women and children.  Located within the Country Store, the Country Store Café serves Starbucks coffee along with quick breakfast items, soups, salads, sandwiches and ice cream.  My friend and I LOVED the antique store, and did some retail therapy damage, so to speak.  We both adore Asian items and found some winners here.

KALEIDOSHOW:  The Emerson is home to the famous Kaleidoshow.  Standing at more than 60 feet and featuring three, 38-foot mirrors, the Emerson Kaleidoscope, built in an old barn silo, is a mesmerizing experience of sight and sound.  Since 1996, the Kaleidoshow has been entertaining visitors from the United States and abroad. Specially-designed visual and audio shows were created exclusively for the Emerson’s Kaleidoshow.  Shows are presented throughout the year, based on the season, including:  America – The House We Live In, Metamorphosis and a special show created just for the holidays.  The show lasts 10 minutes, and it’s a truly unique experience for all ages.

For more information, visit www.emersonresort.com and for reservations call (877) 688-2828.  Rates vary depending on the time of year, day of the week, and type of accommodations.  Be sure to book your spa services in advance, as they can fill up, and you don’t want to miss out. 

My friend and I look forward to returning one day for more rejuvenation!  As moms, it’s often hard to get away, but you owe it to yourself, and Emerson is a lovely choice for some quality time, whether you sneak off on your own or gather a friend or two and make it a visit to remember.  (The featured photos don’t fully do it justice.)

(Note: Thanks to Emerson for arranging our stay.)

Tags: emerson spa and resort, girls getaway, moms getaway, pampering, retreat