New York’s Catskill Mountains have long been a popular destination for New Yorkers seeking to escape the city. And with autumn’s red, orange, yellow crayola-hued leaves in full view, the Catskills are the perfect getaway. Sprinkled across several counties, find charming towns — each offering its own slice of autumn magic. From the buzzing vibe of Ulster County along the Hudson River where the artsy towns of Kingston, Woodstock, and New Paltz draw both nature buffs and celebrity seekers, to the lofty realms of Greene County, which boasts the high peaks of the Catskills, there’s a picturesque spot waiting.
And while the region’s hotel scene is certainly newsworthy, the best and most secluded way to relax in the Catskill Mountains is to rent a private home. Following are 21 Airbnbs to reserve for your leaf-peeping autumn getaway in the Catskills. Grab your camera and prepare to fall in love with autumn.
Ulster County
Bordered by the Hudson River to the east, much of Ulster County lies within the Catskills. The county is perhaps most famous for a town and event, the historic Woodstock Music Festival, which actually never happened here. The 1969 summer concert instead took place 1.5 hours away, in Bethel (Sullivan County).
Private Retreat, Woodstock
Just minutes from Woodstock, this four-bedroom retreat centers around a sprawling deck overlooking the heated saltwater pool and surrounding woods. Inside, vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and two wood-burning fireplaces create a warm, inviting space. A fire pit, garden, and basketball court offer even more room to spread out.
Added Bonus: The Pond House (Reginald Marsh’s former studio) and Carriage House, both located on the estate, are also available as airbnb rentals.
While There: Walk into the historic town of Woodstock (through the woods or on the road), enjoying the gorgeous foliage along the way. Also, check out the Woodstock Film Festival, which takes place every fall.
Lux Family-Friendly Retreat, Woodstock
Just five minutes from Woodstock, this three-bedroom retreat sits on three private acres with a zen pond, fire pit, and sprawling backyard. Inside, a dramatic 25-foot stone fireplace sets the scene, while a kids’ playroom and ping pong room keep younger guests entertained.
Luxury Retreat, Woodstock
Newly renovated, this modern three-bedroom, two-bathroom home offers ultimate relax. Laze by the pool, dine under the stars, soak in the tub, cozy by the fireplace, and take in the stunning mountain views.
While There: Hike the miles of nearby trails, then book dinner at The Red Onion, housed in a historic farmhouse offering locally sourced dishes and cocktails.
Stone House 1807, New Paltz
We are in love with this historic, 200-year-old, three-bedroom, one-bath cottage. Meticulously restored and flooded with light (and white furnishings), the cottage offers a comfortable and peaceful retreat. The bathroom comes with a rain shower and deep soaking tub; there is a wood stove and 70s/80s vinyl collection (with record player), and hiking trails are accessible directly from the house.
While There: Grab fresh produce from the neighboring organic farm. Bike the nearby paths; bikes are available upon request.
Also Consider: Architect Built Windowed Beauty, Mount Tremper
Designer Home, Bearsville
The gardens steal the show at this design-forward Woodstock home. Lush plantings and sculptures surround the pool, with a candlelit gazebo hidden at the back of the property. The interiors feature works by local artists, hand-loomed rugs, and a stone fireplace, and a sprawling screened porch looks out to the mountains.
While There: Spend an afternoon at Bearsville Center, home to a woodland park, historic music venues, restaurants, and locally made ice cream.
Cozy Catskills Cottage, Kerhonkson
Surrounded by trees with views of the High Point mountain range, this three-bedroom cottage has floor-to-ceiling windows that make the most of its scenic setting. The private saltwater pool is a summer highlight, and a pellet stove keeps things cozy in colder months. A fire pit, fenced-in yard, and two soaking tubs round out the property.
While there: Spend an autumn afternoon at Kelder’s Farm, where you can pick apples and pumpkins, wander the corn maze, and stock up on fresh cider donuts.
Delaware County
Located on the far western edge of the Catskills, Delaware County was once a thriving dairy cow and cauliflower farming region. It fell upon hard times in the 1970s, but in recent years has been lovingly brought back to life by the artisans, chefs and designers making their homes here. Among the region’s most decadent airbnbs:
Log Home in Margaretville
This stylish and ultra-secluded three-bedroom, two bath log cabin is all about privacy. Located on seven tranquil acres, the A-frame cabin features cathedral ceilings, a wall of windows, wood-burning stove, and a contemporary interior focused on the view. Other ‘perks’ include an outdoor fire pit, hot tub, Peloton exercise bike, and electric vehicle level 2 charger. We especially love that pets (under 50 pounds) are welcome.
While There: Check out Faith American Brewing Company in Margaretville. The craft brewery was created by actor Kelsey Grammer (who grew up in Delaware County) and named the brewery, in part, for his daughter, Faith.
Also Consider: Table on Ten, South Kortright; Sugar Mountain, Margaretville; Mountain Thyme Cottage, Roxbury.
Greene County
Talk to in-the-know New Yorkers about the Catskills and Greene County inevitably comes up. Once home to the 19th-century landscape painter Thomas Cole (founder of the Hudson River School art movement), Catskill has long been a hub for artists and musicians.
Clum House, Catskill
This renovated three-bedroom, 1.5-bath house was once part of Camp Ontiora, a girls’ camp that operated from the 1920s to the 1960s. Clum House’s current owners (an architect and a designer) completely renovated the house, along with a camp lodge just a few doors away. Highlights include a wood-burning fireplace, hardwood floors, exposed beams, and lovely outdoor space. It is also pet friendly.
While There: Stop by Story’s Farm (farmstand) for local goodies, which is open until Thanksgiving.
Lakefront Catskills Escape, Hunter
Set on 15 private acres overlooking Hunter Mountain, this four-bedroom lakefront retreat has its own lake, tennis court, fire pit, and Swedish sauna. Vaulted ceilings and a stone fireplace add to the cozy Catskills feel. Hunter Mountain is just three minutes away, with Windham also nearby.
While There: Hike to nearby Kaaterskill Falls, New York’s tallest two-tiered waterfall, for one of the Catskills’ most spectacular autumn views.
Valley View Chalet, Lexington
This two-level Catskills cabin pairs sweeping mountain views with plenty of space for a group. Highlights include a hot tub, three fireplaces, two living areas, and a large kitchen. Hunter, Windham, and Belleayre mountains are all within easy reach, along with hiking, breweries, and dining.
While There: Sip a locally brewed pint at West Kill Brewing, a scenic mountain brewery tucked away on a former dairy farm in neighboring West Kill.
Also Consider: The Greenhouse, Tannersville; The Catskill Lodge, Catskill; Pinewood Lodge, Catskill
Featured image courtesy of the Airbnb Photographer Community. Travel Curator may earn a commission from product or booking links on this page.
Beyond The Catskills: Dutchess County
Cozy Mountainside Suite, Beacon
Set on a Hudson Valley farm, this one-bedroom suite sits above a working barn where Icelandic horses and miniature donkeys roam below. Hudson River views stretch from the wraparound deck, complete with a private hot tub for taking in the sunset. Indoors, a three-sided fireplace separates the bedroom and living area, and an upstairs wellness loft is stocked with yoga gear and red light therapy. Beacon is just minutes away.
While there: Spend an afternoon at Dia Beacon, the sprawling contemporary art museum housed in a former Nabisco box-printing factory along the Hudson River.
Scandinavian Design, Hyde Park
Nordic influences set this contemporary Hudson Valley home apart, just eight miles from Rhinebeck. The private guest room has its own entrance and bathroom, and a three-course Nordic breakfast is served each morning. The Vanderbilt Mansion is just a mile away.
While there: Tour the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site, a Gilded Age estate with grand interiors, formal gardens, and sweeping Hudson River views.
Feature image, courtesy of the Airbnb Photographer Community; Travel Curator may earn a commission from booking links on this page.
