25 Truly Exceptional Airbnbs in Upstate New York

• Sleeps: 11
• Price: from $630/night
• Why We Recommend It: private 5 acre property, 4 bedrooms, relaxing scenery
• Hours Drive from NYC: 3 hours
• Best for: large families, nature scenery, numerous amenities

This palatial home is the definition of opulence, and spacious enough to accommodate a relatively large group (up to ten people). Equipped with four bedrooms and plenty of amenities, it features multiple relaxing outdoor spaces that allow you to connect with nature, alongside stunning mountain views in each room. A standout is probably the chef's kitchen with luxury Bosch appliances and heated cement floors. But that's only if you're not distracted by the 25-foot floor-to-ceiling windows. What's more, there's also a private playground and a backyard patio with a fire pit, barbecue, lounge chairs and an outdoor dining area. Needless to say, this house has everything to make you feel at home.

• Sleeps: 2
• Price: from $457/night
• Why We Recommend It: secluded 24 acres, hot tub, unique experience
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Best for: couples, secluded retreat, unique stay, nature enthusiasts

Nestled high among the trees, overlooking a small (and swimmable) pond lies this unique property that’s just the right size for two. Located just 15 minutes away from the town of Woodstock, you’ll be within easy driving distance of great restaurants, charming shops and beautiful hiking trails. It's an ideal place to unplug as you'll be off the grid (really—no WiFi or cell service). Be forewarned that the loft is accessible by ladder only, so pack strategically. Sound daunting? Once you see the record player and fireplace inside and the hot tub outside...you won't want to leave.

• Sleeps: 2
• Price: from $329/night
• Why We Recommend It: river views, cable bridge, fire pit, 20 private acres
• Hours Drive from NYC: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Best for: couples, secluded retreat, nature enthusiasts, unique stay

Go off the grid in this two-story treehouse that’s perched on two maple trees and sits 35 feet above the forest floor. Yep, it’s pretty much as magical as it sounds (it’s even next to a babbling brook). You’ll need to walk across the 60-foot cable bridge to get to your abode where you’ll find a comfortable queen-sized bed, a TV (but no Wi-Fi and limited phone signal), a sink and a small bathroom with a composting toilet. Guests can also enjoy a large deck with a fire pit table, an outdoor shower (with hot water) and a propane BBQ grill. Bonus: You’re just a short drive away from the Finger Lakes wine region.

• Sleeps: 14
• Price: from $2,359/night
• Why We Recommend It: beautiful European-inspired property, luxury amenities, mountain views
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Best for: large groups, special occasions, luxury-seekers, guests with pets

A trip to the South of France may not be possible right now but here’s the next best thing: A stay in this idyllic restored 1790s federal manor house in the Hudson Valley that oozes countryside luxury and a certain je ne sais quoi. This spectacular home boasts five bedrooms, three bathrooms, a library, a study, a living room and a beautiful country kitchen. Every room features a wood-burning fireplace and every window has unobstructed views of beautiful grounds—such as the 250-year-old maple tree in the yard or your very own swimming pond. Looking for an extra special trip? Daily cleaning service, a personal chef, a private yoga class and massages are available for an extra cost.

• Sleeps: 2
• Price: from $288/night
• Why We Recommend It: salt water hot tub, fire pit, about 10 minutes from Albany Amtrak Train Station
• Hours Drive from NYC: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Best for: couples, secluded retreats, glamping

This Airstream may be from 1984, but you’d never guess it from the modern, Scandi-inspired interior. Much-appreciated renovations include air conditioning in the summer and forced hot air for the colder months, heated bathroom floors and WiFi. Kick back and relax with the on-site fire pit and your very own luxury salt water hot tub...ah, I'm feeling more relaxed already. If you're lucky, June Farms' Pony Barn Bar & Restaurant will be open and serving its signature wood-fired pizza.

• Sleeps: 2
• Price: from $299/night
• Why We Recommend It: river views, nearby hiking trails, romantic getaway
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Best for: couples, nature enthusiasts, secluded retreats

If you’re looking for a room with a view, then you’d be hard pressed to find a more beautiful vista than the one offered by this studio cottage set right on the Hudson River. The cozy interior (the queen-sized bed is in its own little nook), serene panorama and convenient location (you’re walking distance to several hikes and less than a five-minute drive to a drive-in theater) have earned this property a 4.99-star rating. There’s also a grill for cooking up your own delicacies, a SmartTV and WiFi, and air conditioning in the summer.

• Sleeps: 15
• Price: from $315/night
• Why We Recommend It: nearby hiking trails, farm animals on site, rural environment
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Best for: couples, large friend groups, special occasions, secluded retreats

Spend the night underneath the stars...minus the whole sleeping bag/tent/mosquitoes situation. This Geo Dome is located on a beautiful 12-acre farm in the Catskill mountains where you’ll have sheep, goats, alpacas and chickens for company. Outside you’ll find showers, a claw foot bathtub, a kitchen and grill, a sink and a large fire pit. There’s also a pond on-site (for animals, not people) and a lake across the street. One caveat—while you can technically fit up to 15 guests in the dome, know that there is only one bedroom (and one bathroom).

• Sleeps: 3
• Price: from $335/night
• Why We Recommend It: private, unique experience, rural environment
• Hours Drive from NYC: 3 hours 45 minutes
• Best for: nature enthusiasts, secluded and unique stay, couples’ retreat

Looking to get away from it all and truly immerse yourself in nature? Check out this secluded treehouse nestled in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. Especially recommended as a couples retreat, this warm and cozy house is a great way to connect with nature (but don’t worry, you’re only a ten-minute drive from town). When you arrive, a winding staircase will lead you up into the house where there’s a sleeping area and covered porch. The rest of the space (kitchen, deck, fire pit and full bath) are just a few steps away outside.

• Sleeps: 5
• Price: from $691/night
• Why We Recommend It: private swimming hole, waterfall, architectural design
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Best for: creatives, families, luxury-seekers, nature enthusiasts, guests with pets

Sure, the private waterfall, charming pond bridge, immaculate landscaping and on-site wildlife (including Oscar the bunny rabbit) are nice...but you may never even get the chance to explore the beautiful outdoors because the inside of this property is so special. The Pond House has been featured in the likes of House Beautiful, NY Magazine, Architectural Digest and Vogue, among many other prestigious publications. This is the former family estate of realist painter Reginald Marsh, known for its ball-shaped junipers, aforementioned pond and century-old cedars. Inside, guests will find majestic, vaulted ceilings; personally curated library; piano and wood-burning stove. With a roaring fireplace, heated bathroom floor, breathtaking views and ultra-chic design, walking into this three-bedroom house will make you feel like a million bucks.

• Sleeps: 15
• Price: from $656/night
• Why We Recommend It: sauna, pool, pizza oven, pet friendly
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Best for: large groups, special occasions, guests with pets, families

Looking for a luxury barn house located in the middle of Woodstock? I’ve found the perfect vacation home for you with more amenities than you could ever imagine. The Woodstock Barn House was named a Best Upstate New York Weekend Destination by House Beautiful. This renovated 19th-century post and beam dairy barn was built from hand-hewn hemlock. Here, you'll find a hot tub, pool, gym, sauna, private balcony, outdoor patio and much more—the ride to town is just two minutes. Take in the views of the surrounding mountains while lounging in the gorgeous backyard or spend time admiring the beautiful interior, including custom John Robshaw linens, a wood stove ready to make a piping cup of tea and stained glass from a St. Louis Church. Oh, and pets are welcome to join in the fun, too.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: from $363/night
• Why We Recommend It: yoga platform, rural environment, small-town vibes
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Best for: small families, couples, nature enthusiasts, wilderness retreats, unique stay

Those looking to “rough it” for a few days in the wilderness of the Catskills will appreciate this unique property. Two hours north of New York City, this cabin is for individuals who enjoy nature and everything it has to offer. You can spend time gazing at the stars from a hammock, using the DIY wood-fired hot tub or exploring the nearby stream. That said, if using a compost toilet and battery-operated camping shower is not your idea of a vacation, you might want to skip visiting this property.

• Sleeps: 8
• Price: from $948/night
• Why We Recommend It: hot tub, private sauna, waterfront views, baby grand piano
• Hours Drive from NYC:  2 hours
• Best for: unique stay, friend groups, couples, families, guests with pets

If you are looking for a unique stay, this dome home in New Paltz is the stuff that dreams are made of. Its beautiful dome construction features huge glass windows and an intricate interior wood design that will make you feel like you are staying in a luxury hotel. This home is located on 28 acres of private forest where guests are surrounded by wildlife and trees. After a few days staying here, you’re bound to feel relax and rejuvenated, thanks in no small part to its private sauna and hot tub. And you'd be remiss not to invite a friend who is a musician; the baby grand piano begs to be played.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: from $240/night
• Why We Recommend It: luxury amenities, off-the-grid, vintage charm, mountain views
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Best for: nature enthusiasts, small families, wildlife viewing, secluded retreats

The Gingerbread House is a beautifully well-kept 1950s chalet in the Catskills that promises visitors an enchanting experience in nature. The home itself is well-appointed with luxury amenities like high end linens and top-of-the-line mattresses, so it’s a good fit for folks who want to escape the city but aren’t too keen on roughing it. The rental also sits on four acres of lush, forested land; needless to say, nature enthusiasts will be able to enjoy a truly serene experience (complete with ample wildlife viewing) and families traveling with kids in tow will relish the outdoor space. Just keep in mind that cell phone service is unavailable at this off-the-grid property. That said, it does have WiFi.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: from $335/night
• Why We Recommend It: cozy, private, covered porch, hot tub, fire pit, modern interior, outdoor recreation
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Best for: couples’ retreat, small families, nature enthusiasts

This quaint little cottage is located on a gorgeous forested plot of land that’s brimming with natural beauty. The cozy and well-stocked interior of this two-bedroom, two-bath home is just the right size for a (small) family vacation or a couples’ retreat; it’s also tastefully furnished in a clean, modern style—a stark contrast to the rustic cabin-in-the-woods exterior. Best of all, guests will never be wanting for provisions—the property is in close proximity to Kerhonkson's farm-to-table restaurants, microbreweries, farmer’s markets and more—and there’s an abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation nearby, too.

• Sleeps: 8
• Price: from $823/night
• Why We Recommend It: ideal for large families, separate tree house, pool
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Best for: large groups, families, off-the-grid nature retreats

Situated up Mombaccus Mountain in an oak forest of the Catskills, this log house has just about everything you need for a small family vacation or getaway with a group of friends. The best part about this property is its treehouse that resembles a floating pirate ship which can be found 30 feet up in the trees. Need more convincing? There’s also a hot tub, pool, multiple decks, an outdoor shower, indoor gym and, of course, gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. Do be warned, though, that if it's seclusion you seek, seclusion you will get. Aside from the local convenience store and gas station, Tetta's, any major shopping is a 25- to 35-minute drive. But so is Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Stone Ridge, Woodstock and Phoenicia, where you can swim, hike, mountain bide and antique to your heart's contenet.

• Sleeps: 16+
• Price: from $1,341/night
• Why We Recommend It: family friendly, indoor movie theatre, in-ground pool
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Best for: large groups, families, weddings and special occasions

Got a family reunion or large friend get-together to plan this summer? Look no further than this fabulous estate that has an endless number of entertainment amenities to keep everyone entertained—all 16 (or more) of them. With a main house and guest house, there’s plenty of room for everyone to do their own activities or spend time together. Guests can use the private outdoor pool, spa hot tub, fire pit, two game rooms, fire pit and BBQ grill, or cozy up together for movie night in the 16-seat theater. It’s truly one of the best properties to disconnect for the daily grind and spend time with your loved ones.

• Sleeps: 8
• Price: from $1,072/night
• Why We Recommend It: private fitness center, sauna, 24/7 concierge
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Best for: large groups, families, secluded nature retreats, guests with pets

Escape from the city and head to this stunning secluded house perched on a hilltop overlooking the Catskill Mountains. Situated on the eight acres of land, you’ll find a sauna, private pool, hot tub, deck areas, fitness center and indoor wood burning stove. The best part? A 24/7 concierge is available upon request to help arrange deliveries, cleaning services and provide recommendations throughout your stay. That may seem superfluous until you take in the views from the decks and bedrooms; they're so beautiful you might never want to leave.

• Sleeps: 8
• Price: from $655/night
• Why We Recommend It: game room, inground pool, three living rooms, pets welcome
• Hours Drive from NYC: 4 hours 25 minutes
• Best for: large groups, families, secluded nature retreats, guests with pets

Cozy and modern vibes are what makes this property special. luxury A-frame house with beautiful interiors is located on two acres of secluded land the features an in-ground pool, fire pit, game room, patio, hammock and all of the smaller amenities you will need for a fun-filled stay, like a smart TV, sun loungers and a pack-and-play for little ones. The home decor is sure to make you feel like you are staying at a deluxe cabin with slanted wooden ceilings and rustic furniture.

• Sleeps: 6
• Price: from $398/night
• Why We Recommend It: mountain views, patio, fire pit
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Best for: families, medium-sized groups, guests who want a nature retreat with nearby amenities, guests with pets

Follow a quiet road deep into the woods and you’ll find this private, serene home on five acres. Enjoy your morning cup of coffee on the deck with beautiful panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains or spend time reading a book next to an indoor fireplace. This home sits on the end of a quiet road giving you all the privacy you need. Restaurants, shopping and activities are a 15-minute drive away in nearby Livingston Manor.

• Sleeps: 8
• Price: from $442/night
• Why We Recommend It: outdoor sauna, theater room, lawn games
• Hours Drive from NYC: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Best for: large families, medium-sized groups, nature enthusiasts, secluded retreats

Find peace and quiet at this genuine log cabin tucked away up in the mountains and across from a creek. Guests can enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature while using the outdoor sauna, hot tub, ping pong table, fire pits, volleyball net and Adirondack chairs. Caffeine lovers will adore the lavish coffee bar while nature lovers can lay on the outdoor hammock listening to birds and other animals.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: from $160/night
• Why We Recommend It: rural setting, family-friendly amenities, unique experience
• Hours Drive from NYC: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Best for: families, couples, nature enthusiasts, unique stay

As it turns out, Ithaca has much more to offer than just an Ivy League education. This beautiful (and blessedly air-conditioned) apartment overlooks Buttermilk Falls and has tons of outdoor activities such as hiking to further enhance the immersive experience. But the real draw is the Finger Lakes Wine Trails, comprising Cayuga Lake, Keuka Lake, Seneca Lake and Lake Ontario. True wine lovers will want to stay at least a week and slowly trek across the state.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: from $1,142/night
• Why We Recommend It: amazing views, architectural design, modern interior, luxury amenities
• Hours Drive from NYC: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Best for: small families, couples, special occasions, luxury-seekers

Here, a recently renovated retreat that boasts sleek and modern decor, plus sweeping views of the Hudson River. (Don’t miss a sunset!) Notable features include an indoor fireplace, outdoor fire pit, private hot tubs, and all the technology you need to stay plugged in whilst enjoying a tranquil escape from the Big Apple, which is conveniently located only 70 miles away.

If you decide to book this rental, be sure to explore the up-and-coming culinary scene—it’s a foodie’s delight and I can personally attest to the deliciousness that is Hudson Taco if you want to know where to start. Other local attractions include the DIA Beacon Museum, Storm King Art Park and the Mohonk Preserve.

• Sleeps: 5
• Price: from $34/night
• Why We Recommend It: game room, scenic views, relaxing retreat, pet-friendly
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 29 minutes
• Best for: families, friend retreats, countryside stays, guest with pets

This sun-drenched converted barn house offers guests sprawling valley views, spacious living quarters and all the comforts of home. Curl up by the fireplace in the winter; take in the dappled morning light petering through the window sashes in spring and summer. The location of the property, which sits on a lovely meadow with walking trails, also serves up gorgeous views of forested vistas. The hosts promise that this area is a cyclist's paradise, and they will provide you with their favorite routes upon request. Best of all, you’re only a stone’s throw away from some of the coolest cultural hubs in the Hudson Valley, so if you ever tire of the pastoral bliss, you won’t be wanting for things to do, with Red Hook and Pine Plains within a 15-minute drive.

• Sleeps: 3
• Price: from $511/night
• Why We Recommend It: unique experience, natural beauty, luxury amenities, couples’ retreat
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Best for: couples, secluded retreats, nature enthusiasts, unique stay

Perched atop an exposed boulder, this one-of-a-kind property is nothing like the treehouse from your childhood. The glowing five-star reviews praise the elegance and luxury of the spacious interior, as well as its organic architectural design, which blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surroundings. Think stone façades, exposed pine wood beams, a reading nook, wood burning fire place and two balconies facing East and West. That being said, spectacular views are also a main draw of this rental. You’d be hard pressed to find a better place to take in the panorama of upstate New York’s beautiful forested land—and the secluded location (less than three hours away from the city) makes the Boulder Tree House an ideal place for anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful break from urban life.

• Sleeps: 4
• Price: from $272/night
• Why We Recommend It: cozy, couples’ retreat, close proximity to restaurants and boutiques
• Hours Drive from NYC: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Best for: small families, couples, weekend getaways

You’ll find this charming cabin tucked away in Saugerties, a lovely small town that’s located at the foothills of the Catskills and just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant town center of Woodstock, which boasts bakeries, restaurants, specialty food shops, boutiques and every other type of shop you might need. The rental itself has over 250 five-star reviews, many of which make special mention of the clean and well-appointed interior, private and beautiful property upon which it sits and, of course, a prime location that boasts seclusion without sacrificing easy access to all the creature comforts you need for a perfect vacation.