Solitude Escapes in the Northeast

Spruceton Inn

West Kill, NY

A defunct 1960s valley motel reborn as a bed-and-bar, where a low strip of simple, screen-free rooms opens onto eight acres of creekside meadow ringed by mountains. Days run up to Diamond Notch Falls and back to a fire pit in the grass, then into Room One for a whiskey by the fire.

The Kelby

Hebron, NH

A single-level lakeside hideaway near Newfound Lake where the Doyle family swapped city life for slow mornings, kitchenette rooms, and semi-private decks under the trees. A cheerful cafe out front and a shared beach a short walk away make it feel less like a stopover and more like borrowing a friend's cabin.

The Rex Hotel

Greentown, PA

Quality beds, a fire pit, and a private trailhead steps from the door. A welcome bag greets every arrival, and the mountains beyond take over from there.

Gale River House

Franconia, NH

A 1930s riverside layout where rooms open directly to mountain views, with the original cottage footprint preserved in the structure. Self check-in and keyless entry in a property that arrived at itself quietly.

Pines Motel on Lake Erie

Ripley, NY

1950 knotty pine bones and the Rock & Roll Suite in the 1822 farmhouse with a record player and vinyl collection. Restored by people who relocated specifically to bring it back.