What could be better than a cup of steaming hot chocolate and something sweet to eat after a few hours in the cold? Try these great spots; some are even well-kept secrets only locals know.

After you’ve called it a day skiing or snowshoeing at Minnewaska or Mohonk Preserve, head into the picturesque farming community of Gardiner for something yummy to eat and hot to drink:

Cafe Mio

2356 Route 44/55, Gardiner, NY 12525
845-255-4949
www.miogardiner.com

Enjoy fresh local fare in the middle of a small agricultural town. The food is prepared with love and care, and the staff welcomes visitors as if they are part of the family. Open for breakfast and lunch five days a week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Monday and Tuesday.)

If you're enjoying cross-country skiing on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, or ice skating or sledding in New Paltz, you'll want to head to these places to warm up:

The Bakery

13a N. Front St., New Paltz, NY 12561
845-255-8840
www.ilovethebakery.com

The Bakery, with its rustic outdoor cafe and beautiful gardens, is the center of social life in New Paltz. It's a place to meet people, bump into old friends, or sit quietly and read the paper. Known since 1980 for great bagels, croissants, rolls, rugulah, danishes and butter cookies, The Bakery includes a coffee bar and full lunch menu.

P & G’s Restaurant

91 Main St., New Paltz, NY 12561
845-255-6161
www.pandgs.com

This venerable New Paltz institution is literally a cornerstone of Main Street. Serving the very best burgers in town, the stellar service, hearty food and kid-friendly atmosphere make it the perfect place to stop with the whole family after an afternoon outdoors.

Looking for a place after you’ve spent the day in Saugerties? Mosey into the village and try one of these spots:

Love Bites

69 Partition St., Saugerties, NY 12477
845-246-1795
www.lovebites.cafe

This cafe’s cuisine knows no boundaries. The cozy space is open for breakfast and lunch four days a week, dishing up favorites like carrot-coconut French toast, vegan pancakes and plenty of creative sandwiches. Open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Dutch

253 Main St., Saugerties, NY 12477
(845) 247-2337
www.dutchalehouse.com

Pub grub and icy brew define this village tavern. It's a great local haunt to grab a bite at after a day in the cold air.