Among the oldest mountain ranges in the world, the Catskills are home to iconic settlements such as Woodstock and our very own Phoenicia, recently named one of the top 10 coolest small towns in America! Once an immensely booming vacation resort region, the Catskill region fell relatively dormant in the latter half of the 20th century but is now undergoing a monumental rediscovery. Explore the many rich experiences the Hudson Valley has to offer, including some of our suggestions below.
Our region has an active music and art scene. Drive or take a local bus into Woodstock or Kingston, each 30 min from Menla, to treat yourself to live music on t...
Phoenicia is about exploring the great outdoors. The Catskill Forest Preserve is 300,000 acres of unspoiled woods, which the New York State constitution has dee...
Tubing on the Esopus is the most popular activity in town. The Esopus Creek follows Route 28 and winds through the bottom of town. There’s a quiet, calm s...
Tubers should head to Romer Mt. Park, off Route 28, at the foot of the mountain from Menla. The closest place to ski is Belleayre Mountain, the highest skiing p...
Horseback riding on Indian paths and old logging trails in the Forest Preserve is also a pleasant past time. The Saddle up Ranch, on Kinsey Street off Route 28,...
The fly fishing is good in Phoenicia! The Esopus Creek is noted for its rainbow trout in the spring and its native brown trout in the fall. There’s even a...
Our region also has numerous excellent antique shops to peruse. For a very local option, visit Country Gallery and Acorn Antique’s Craftsman’s Galle...
For being dropped out in the middle of the Catskill Park, there are some pretty amazing places to eat in our local area. If you’re on a day outing into th...
Seated on the world’s oldest known meteor crater, our 325 acres of tranquil mountain forests and streams are nestled deep in the heart of the Catskill mountains and feature a range of indoor and outdoor amenities ...
Enjoy healthy cuisine expertly prepared by our dedicated team of chefs, using produce from our organic vegetable garden and the best local plant-based offerings. ...
From the biggest conference hall in the Castkills to an intimate septagonal meditation space suspended above the valley, Menla offers fully equipped facilities to accommodate a wide range of programs and groups of every size ...
“I have been all over the world and this spa is by far my most favorite. The service, the facilities and the kindness is beyond my past experience. I recommend going to Menla and making the Spa your first stop every day.”
Janice L. Rous
“Usually you expect basic accommodations for a Retreat Center, but the deluxe room I stayed in was amazing. All the nature around is very special, and don´t forget to book a massage at the wonderful Spa!”
Wanda P.
“Having never gone to a spa or retreat, I heard this is the place to go. The mountains, the hiking trails, the wildlife, and the vastness of the place set up the parameters for a happy and interesting week. Every staff person I encountered could not have been more welcoming. One new employee said all the supervisors treat each other and other employees as well as they treat their guests. Vegetarian food is fresh and excellent. Wait ’till you see the modern yet traditional spa! The main house and guest rooms are lovely. I came to learn yoga from outstanding teachers and to relax and get some care taking. Mission accomplished.”
Karen D.