Pondering Soul

Pondering Soul: New York

Designed by a renowned architect, and tastefully furnished, this award-winning home is built for coming together for quality time spent as a group, while still allowing guests ample privacy. Enjoy blissful peace and serenity amidst the 45 private acres of rolling hills and large ponds that surround the property. Comprised of a large main house and a separate guest house, the modern space provides plenty of opportunities to relax and engage in some leisure time. With a home cinema, fitness room and games room nestled down in the basement, alongside many quiet nooks and reading corners dotted around the home for quiet contemplation – you may even end up leaving this place in somewhat of a meditative state. Ponder your next trip out in the surrounding countryside over a delicious home-cooked meal at the alfresco dining area which sits perched on the expansive decks with views out across the sprawling meadows and ponds and landscapes of the Hudson Valley, the Berkshires, and the Catskills. Nothing beats the sunset reflections here which invite a live display of wildlife including waterfowl, mallards and blue herons. In the summer, set off on leisurely walks either on the estate or further afield – you'll also be just an eight-minute drive away from the Aerial Adventure Park at Catamount Mountain Resort, which features mountain biking and the longest zip line in the United States. And in winter, head to the slopes at Catamount for a day of skiing or why not try your hand at tubing and sledging on the hills surrounding the house? With all-natural toiletries, fluffy towels and a log burner fire waiting for you when you come back – cosy evenings are absolutely guaranteed.

Home truths:
*You'll need a car when staying here due to its remote location
*There's free parking on the premises
*Cell service is good at the house but can be inconsistent in the countryside, so we recommend that you download local maps to your phone before your trip
*Enjoy the local nature with caution, the weather can change quickly and wild animals can be surprising
*Because temperatures in the mountains can fluctuate quickly, even in the height of summer, we recommend packing sweaters and light clothing, just in case – keeping warm clothing in vehicles is advised in case of potential snowfall
*The host provides a few bikes for guests to use, and more can be rented nearby