Drifting On By

Drifting On By: New York

Watch the boats go by and the light change on the water from this wonderful Hudson Valley home – it sits right down on the riverbank. Wide, uninterrupted views steal the show in the main living area, framed by vaulted ceilings and whitewashed panelling. Outside, the sunny top deck is the perfect place to eat outdoors or enjoy a fruit smoothie here (there's a blender and ice machine in the kitchen). The lower deck – practically grazing the water – has comfy loungers for watching the passing wildlife – you may even spot golden and bald eagles. Later on, relax in the jacuzzi tub or have a game of shuffleboard, then cook up a feast on the gas grill and gather for an evening around the riverside fire pit. If you don't want to cook, you're just a five-minute drive away from the restaurants of Saugerties, and you can reach the slopes in forty minutes, if you fancy a spot of skiing.

Home truths:
*The kitchen and living area are on the second floor, accessed via the stairs
*There's a blender, coffee grinder and ice machine here
*If you have allergies, it's worth noting the host brings his dog with him when he stays at the house
*There is a craft in the boathouse area, but it's off-limits to guests
*The shuffleboard table is in the garage
*There's free parking on the premises, with room for several cars
*The minimum age limit for renters is 24 years of age