“Quietcationing” in the Catskills

“Quietcations” are taking over the travel scene in 2025, and we’re so here for them. Also known as “silent travel,” quietcationing is all about escaping the noise and retreating to a place that genuinely helps you unplug, slow down, and mentally rejuvenate. It seems fitting for this time of year, as snow-filled getaways are also having their moment—and we’re ready to break out our faux fur coats and boots and head to après hour.

Where are we bon voyaging to, might you ask? The Catskills, a dreamy southern New York destination that’ll help calm the running mind and fully embrace nature this winter (and beyond).

So pack your bags and head to the Catskills to discover what it means to be an "off-season" traveler. Sure, the slopes may be pretty packed on the weekends, but during the week, the Catskills can resemble off-season by allowing you to live like a local and explore the many pleasures of the area without the chaotic crowds and long wait times.

Where To Stay

The Wylder Windham

Expect to be welcomed by a roaring fire and DIY hot toddy station in the lobby upon arrival at The Wylder in Windham, New York. This boutique-y, classic Catskills resort offers the serene adventure/wellness escape of your dreams alongside the Batavia Kill River.

The epic scenery isn’t the only thing to get excited about. The activity programming at The Wylder offers many opportunities to savor much-needed peace and quiet. Enjoy a wood-fired sauna session overlooking a blanket of freshly fallen snow, cozy fire pits with s’mores roasting, snowshoeing, snowga, and a vintage Land Rover Defender shuttle ride to the nearby Windham mountain for skiing or boarding. You may also find The Wylder's "happenings," like morning yoga, cocktail making, and knitting workshops, incredibly meditative.

The best part of this particular escape is you really don't need to leave The Wylder to enjoy a quintessential Catskills getaway. The property features Babbler's Restaurant, Bar, & Bakery, where locals and travelers alike mingle and vibe over "the best dang" strawberry rhubarb pie and The Old Braciole (prosciutto pounded sirloin), which our waitress revealed is the most-ordered dish.

Scribner's

Scribner’s Lodge in Hunter, New York is the ideal backdrop for a quietcation. Whether you book a room at the main Lodge or one of the property’s 11 modern-luxe glamping "Rounds" (aka round cabins), you’ll experience an unforgettable outdoor vacay. The Rounds are particularly special, as each is equipped with an outdoor soaking tub situated on a private deck with unparalleled views. A feature we're really obsessed with is the oculus, which allows for endless sunshine to pour into your Round during the day and surreal stargazing at night.

As far as amenities are concerned, Scribner’s has it all. Kick back on an Adirondack chair while enjoying a maple old-fashioned and s’mores by a fire pit. Or, spend time sweating and cleansing your body in the barrel sauna, all while soaking up views of the Catskill Mountains. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more active, clip into your skates and head to The “Glice” Rink. It'll surely make for some great laughs and memories.

You won’t need to go very far to indulge in a creamy hot chocolate or delicious eats, either, as Prospect Restaurant and Bar is the place to be. After all, après-ski season is upon us—and you don't need to be conquering black diamonds or shredding powder to participate! Indulge in the Lodge's après ski favorites like a charcuterie spread, mushroom croquettes, and andouille dogs with Parmesan cheese, spiced fries, and pickled cabbage.

What To Do in the Area

Try Cryotherapy at Catskill Cryo

If a pampering wellness day is what you seek, look no further than Catskill's Main Street. Catskill Cryo, "a little wellness spa with big stuff going on," awaits with treatments like whole-body cryotherapy, cryo facials, infrared sauna sessions, and the cryo IV drip.

If it's your first time doing cryotherapy, it goes a little something like this. You'll strip down to minimal clothing and slip into a cozy robe, gloves, socks, and slippers—but don't get too used to the robe. The chamber awaits, where you'll take off your robe and experience incredibly cold vapor on your skin. (We did our session at a frigid -135F!) The cryo lasts for three minutes, and you'll feel a rush of accomplishment once you complete it. Not only that, but the physical health benefits are undeniable, from decreased inflammation to improved sleep.

You've got this!

Stretch and Strengthen at Body Be Well Pilates

Is it a goal of yours to stretch, strengthen, and sculpt your abs? Pilates is a stellar idea. Research shows that people who regularly do Pilates experience a decrease in body fat, a more defined waistline, and improved mobility.

If you've never trained on a reformer before, it may seem intimidating. This piece of equipment fires up the entire body and provides an excellent workout. Rest assured, you'll get used to it in no time.

Body Be Well is a boutique Pilates studio located in the heart of downtown Catskill. It's the perfect way to start any day—and they even host creative events like Pilates, Pizza, & Prosecco and Wellness Camps at cozy lodges in the Catskills.

When you're finished with Pilates, an absolute must is stopping for an organic cold-pressed juice at Cafe Joust, a hot spot that specializes in local produce and partnering with nearby farms.

Take a Moment for a Sweet Treat at Catskill Chocolate Co.

Let's be honest: Any time is the perfect time to sip a warm mug of hot cocoa, prepared with Catskill Chocolate Co.'s handmade chocolate and topped with a dollop of whipped cream and marshmallows. And don't forget a take-home box of decadent confections, like Salted Pistachio (white chocolate pistachio ganache with a dark chocolate shell), Blueberry Rose (white chocolate blueberry rose ganache enrobed twice and topped with petals), and Matcha Crème (matcha fondant enrobed in white chocolate, topped with lustered matcha)—just to entice your palate a bit.