The Emerson Inn & Spa reached a pinnacle in 2005; Condƒ© Nast Johansson’s named the Mt. Tremper, New York, resort the‚ Most Outstanding Inn in North America . A few months later, disaster struck; a fire destroyed the inn, though the unattached six-treatment-room spa was spared from the flames.
Rather than despair, the resort’s owners drew inspiration from the Silk Road to create a luxurious new inn across the way from the original site. Perched on the banks of the Esopus Creek, all twenty-five sumptuous suites, swathed in jewel-tone fabrics, enjoy gracious marble and tile bathrooms plus inspiring mountain and river views.
Seventeenth century Rajasthani palace doors mark the entrance to the new ten-treatment-room spa, which features Ayurvedic, Asian, and Western modalities on its extensive treatment menu. The adjacent Phoenix restaurant also offers Eastern-inspired flavors and Western favorites. There’s no sense of deprivation with spa-cuisine selections such as Acorn Squash with Indian Lentil and Vegetable Stew and Housemade Pappadum; between the creative dishes and the opulent dƒ©cor, diners feel like pampered guests of the Maharaja. The Spa Cafƒ© features lighter fare and fresh juices.
Guests with pets or kids stay at the twenty-seven-room, Adirondack-style lodge, a few hundred yards down the road. The Emerson truly capitalizes on its stunning riverfront setting in the warm months, with expansive decking, bank-side spa treatment cabanas, and outdoor function facilities. The reborn resort has soared back to its pinnacle; it’s the only New York spa outside of Manhattan to earn Mobil Travel Guide’s four-star rating. For more information call (877) 688-2828 or visit www.emersonresort.com
Bess Hochstein
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