By Kyle R. Hayes
Hudson's Warren Street is the hub of cultural activity, with dozens of antique shops and restaurants. Photo by Daniel Case.
The north country is packed with small towns, each with their own unique personalities and histories. For those accustomed to the slower pace of the north country, a quick jaunt or weekend away to a major metropolitan city isn’t always the most relaxing experience. The Hudson-Catskill region, called “Upper Hudson River Valley,” combines some of the north country’s small-town charm, with many big-city amenities. Less than four hours from Watertown, take the easy trip down I-81 to the New York State Thruway to Albany and head south. Across the Hudson River from Catskill is Hudson, a city with small-town charm.
Friday, 11 a.m., Checking in
The Hudson-Catskill area has innumerable options for hotel stays. However, few give you the at-home feel of a quaint bed and breakfast on a quiet street. The Croff House is located on a cul-de-sac at 5 Willard Place. This historic home was converted into a bed and breakfast in 2008 but was originally built in 1875 by two of Hudson’s leading society figures, Herman Vedder Esselstyn and his wife, Margaret. Willard Place was one of America’s original gated communities, as it was announced on April 1, 1872 in the Hudson Register that Willard Place would be a private community to be inaugurated April 10 of the same year.
Croff House offers several options, and price points, for a short or extended stay. Each room has its own private bath and all the comforts of modern day, including iPod compatible radio and in-room DirecTV and AppleTV movie libraries.
The Croff House is located in one of Hudson’s most historic neighborhoods, so the scenery outside is just as nice as the appointments inside. The innkeepers even leave the next day’s weather forecast on your pillow while you are out and each room is supplied with a small scented jar candle for guests to take with them. Best of all, morning breakfast is homemade with no detail too small to forget. The Croff House Bed and Breakfast, 5 Willard Place, 1 (518) 828-1688, www.thecroffhouse.com.
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