Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Escape The City In An Ulster County Bed And Breakfast

By Jocelyn Davidson


Every city dweller needs an escape from the noise and the traffic fumes sometimes. This is especially true if you're living in a city like New York, where the fast pace can be exhausting. Luckily it's easy to have a short break in the fresh country air if you stay at an Ulster county bed and breakfast.

Ulster county lies just to the west of the Hudson River in the southeastern part of New York State. The county seat, Kingston, is just under a hundred miles from New York City. Other significant communities here include Rochester, New Paltz, Marlborough and Woodstock but you'll also find many charming little hamlets throughout the county.

Its location in the Catskills means that the region is a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors, with several state parks and forests to explore. There is a vast network of hiking and biking trails and you can also explore on horseback. Rivers, lakes and reservoirs provide wonderful opportunities for fishing, swimming and kayaking while visitors who appreciate a good view should head into the hills. In winter, you can enjoy a variety of snow sports such as skiing too.

Especially Kingston, at one time the state capital, used to play an important role in the economy of the state of New York. Goods were shipped from here to supply the people of New York City. If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the Hudson River Maritime Museum. Other museums in the region include the New York Trolley Museum and the Empire State Railway Museum. Also visit Mohonk Mountain House and the Saugerties Lighthouse and take a trip on the Catskill Mountain Railroad, which is a heritage railway that the kids will love.

A romantic break needs great food and you'll be spoiled for choice in the region. This is still a farming area and in addition to all the fruit and vegetable farms and dairies, there are some charming vineyards and small breweries. If you prefer a one-stop shopping experience, stock up on goodies at a farmer's market. Also browse the antique stores and specialty boutiques and enjoy a rustic meal at a local restaurant.

In 1969, people from all over America descended on Ulster county and specifically on the town of Woodstock for what was to become the most famous of all music festivals. Live music is still a great way to spend a night in the area and you'll also find plenty of festivals, such as the Bellayre Music Festival in summer. There are arts festivals, food festivals and theater festivals too and you simply need to check the local listings to see what's on.

The easiest way to get to Ulster is to drive here. Having your own transport will also make it easier to explore. However, if you prefer using public transport, travel in by bus. There are regular services from New York City. You can also take the train to the station at Poughkeepsie, from where you may then travel onward by bus.

When to visit really depends on what you want to do during your stay. However, one time of year not to miss is fall, when the trees don leaves in many beautiful colors and apples and pears are in season. Just remember to book your accommodation well in advance.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment