Have you heard the word “koselig?” It’s a Norwegian word, a concept really, that means “coziness and comfort.” But it’s more than just a word to us; it’s a way of life, one we proudly invite you to share every winter.
Just two hours north of New York in the eastern Catskills and heart of the Mid-Hudson Valley, coziness comes home to Ulster County. If the arrival of winter puts a spring in your step, you’ll find an abundance of rejuvenating outdoor (and indoor) activities in our neck of the woods.
You’re always welcome to seek for yourself, but to truly appreciate our winter wonderland, we suggest the following four rejuvenating reprieves.
Find active arctic adventures.
Wintertime offers a wide array of thrills and chills for those who take delight in arctic adventures along challenging terrains. The Belleayre Mountain boasts some of the best skiing on the Eastern Seaboard, from challenging steeps to breezy bunny slopes. With 171 skiable acres, 50 trails, two parks and eight lifts, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for all skill levels.
Love to ice skate? Perfect your spiral at one of Ulster County’s indoor and outdoor ice skating attractions, including the Olympic-size rink at Kiwanis Ice Arena in Saugerties, or the truly epic outdoor skating experience in Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz.
Take a cozy stroll.
For a more leisurely adventure, trade your skis and skates for snowshoes. Feel the familiar crunch of soft snow beneath your feet with a snowshoeing jaunt across the Mohonk Preserve or Minnewaska State Park. You can rent snowshoes at Kenco in Kingston or Rock and Snow in New Paltz. Or grab your boots for a brisk hike along the Ashokan, Hurley, Hudson Valley or Wallkill Valley rail trails. If you’ve only hit these attractions in warm weather, you owe yourself a visit in the winter.
Spoil your inner foodie.
Ulster is a foodie’s paradise any time of year, but there’s something extra “koselig” about dining with us in the winter months. Partake in a hearty farm-to-table feast at one of the Hudson Valley’s finest restaurants, prepared by one of our acclaimed chefs. Wherever you roam you’ll find a table set for an elaborate bounty or simple rustic fare. Complement your meal with a craft beverage, including seasonal favorites such as hard ciders and dark ales. We’ll drink to that!
Enjoy the wonder of it all.
Sometimes the best activity of all is to do nothing at all. And if you’re going to do nothing, there’s no better place to do it than Ulster County. Get away to a warm and welcoming place to stay, grab your favorite book and something hot to sip, and snuggle up as the snow gently blankets the majestic Catskill Mountains. Surround yourself with friends and family, and you’ll be reminded that winter can be the warmest time of year.
You’ve learned the word “koselig.” Now experience it for yourself in Ulster County.
