Our brunch with donkeys (and frankly all the animals there on the farm) was such a delight! We had…read morethe best time, every small detail for our comfort was realized by Kaity. The brunch was absolutely delicious, we had everything from fresh hard boiled eggs, salad, quiche, pastries, fresh fruit and more. I'll definitely be going back, to see Ellie their gorgeous horse, and do some glamping in the cozy, comfy tent. Such a wonderful experience!!

My grandson (a toddler) and I had a wonderful visit to Hemlock Hill Farm today. Kaity and her son…read morewere warm and welcoming. We were introduced to all the horses and donkeys, the goats and the chickens. Kaity was wonderful with my grandson who became more comfortable with the animals and the barn over the visit. All the animals are so well cared for and it was a great experience all around. We hope to come back another time. It was a lovely way for my grandson to meet larger animals and start to be comfortable with them.

Storm King Adventure Tours was one of the highlights of our summer. It exceeded every expectation…read more The staff (Colin, the crew and our guest/former guide Cara!) were welcoming, knowledgeable, and genuinely excited to share the beauty of the Hudson Valley and the history of Bannerman Castle. Being out on the water gave us a completely different perspective of the surrounding landscape. The pace was relaxed, giving us time to laugh, talk, and enjoy the experience together. It ended up being one of those rare outings that genuinely brought our group closer. Everything was thoughtfully organized. The equipment was in excellent condition, the guides were professional and friendly, the gear guide and instructions were clear, and the entire experience felt effortless from start to finish. Some of us were first-timers, while others were seasoned paddlers, and the guides made everyone feel comfortable and confident from the start. Every person in our group had a wonderful time. By the end of the day, new passions had been sparked, and we were already planning to get back on the water. Whether you're visiting the Hudson Valley or have lived here your whole life, I can't recommend Storm King Adventure Tours enough. It's the kind of experience that reminds you to slow down, find peace, be present with yourself, appreciate where you are, and enjoy the people you're with. We all left smiling, with great photos, lasting memories, and plans to come back.

We had a fantastic day! We did the Bannerman's Island kayaking and walking tour and loved it. The…read morekayaking was a smooth, beautiful journey over to the island, the guides were friendly and knowledgeable, the walking tour was so interesting, the island has a fascinating story, and the journey back was equally enjoyable. We loved the whole experience and plan to try a different tour in the future when we have guests visiting. Highly recommend!

Let us just start by saying ... we didn't want to come home! We are not sure we would even call it…read morea "tour", but rather a TRULY AMAZING AND WONDERFUL VISIT to Tuscany Italy. As we both have Italian grandparents, Italy was a place we have longed to visit. Our grandparents traveled to America by different ships, entering through Ellis Island. Both families ended up changing their names, dropping the final consonant or changing the last name completely to hide their Italian heritage because they thought it would be easier to establish themselves and find jobs. Our families left Italy, their homes, and it's hard for us to comprehend this concept after seeing this beautiful country. But yes, we know ... to pursue a better life in the late 1800s ... to go to America, the land of opportunity. We wanted to return to their homeland and see what they left behind. Get a sense of our heritage. Learn more about our family's country and culture. Although we didn't visit the exact towns and villages where our grandparents once lived, we definitely got a feeling of their country. There were six of us who traveled under the guiding eyes of Russ and Elke. We were long-time good friends and some were family. But by the end of the week, we all became a new family. Every time we opened my eyes, we SAW more and more beauty -- the landscapes, the flowers, the grapevines, the olive trees, the castles, the wineries, the churches and their unbelievable stained glass windows, paintings, frescos, statues and tombs, the small roadside religious shrines, the piazzas and the many statues, the poppies, the sunflowers, the shopping in small boutiques, the cobblestone streets, the doors, the windows, the flower boxes, nonnos and nonnas carrying their groceries, the animals, and so much more of the grandeur of Tuscany, Italy. We TASTED and SAVORED every bite of the many, many delicious meals that were prepared and served to us ... the many varieties of white and red wines that were presented, the espresso and cappuccino, gelato and other desserts, meats and cheese, salads, vegetables, bread, and more. We can close our eyes and SMELL the lavender, the mustiness of the old parts of some of the wineries and wine cellars, the cheeses, meats, the wine, breads, salads, fresh vegetables and fruits, the wood burning at the villa that was used to heat the water, homemade cakes and desserts, gelato, leather, and the aroma of each meal ... and more! We TOUCHED the earth, the vines, the trees, ancient walls, flowers, pottery, the farm animals, alabaster and leather, and felt the coolness of the water in the pool at the villa. We HEARD the voices of the Italian people speak their romantic and beautiful language, the hustle and bustle of the crowds, the church bells, the laughter of children, the cars, the wonderful tour guides we had, trucks and busses zipping by, the birds chirping each morning, the barking of dog (Donna) at the villa, and more! One night at the villa, we were treated to a cooking class led by chefs Kalinka and Simonetta, at which each of us took part in making a four-course dinner for us and the other villa guests--crustina, homemade pasta with bolognaise sauce, ravioli stuffed with spinach and cheese, and strawberry tiramisu, served with several bottles of Chianti! Russ and Elke planned and prepared EVERY step of the way and shared their many years of experience with us. We didn't have to worry about ANYTHING ... flight tickets, car rental, road maps, travel, accommodations, meals, and reservations ... EVERYTHING was taken care of in advance. The villa, Le Cetinelle in Greve Chianti and owned Simonetta and Lucca, was more than charming and very accommodating - and it had a spectacular view! If necessary, they adjusted the schedule and added a couple of places (Florence being one) that were not on the original itinerary. They brought us only to places they had experienced before and it wasn't boring for them because they witnessed our enjoyment, which made it fun for them and in turn, fun for us. Although we traveled together, we also had free time to explore and shop on our own, relax by the pool, take a nap, or sit outside and read, write, sketch. And morning start time was somewhat flexible as well. We kept a journal of our trip - SO much to write about. We took over 2200 pictures, each one capturing a new moment. We could go on and on and on talking about our week in Tuscany. It is truly a vacation we will never, ever, ever forget. GRAZIE, GRAZIE, GRAZIE to Russ and Elke for providing us with such an unforgettable experience. They are two amazing people, who shared their love of Italy with us, who took great care and concern to make it extra special and unforgettable in every way, all so expertly planned and executed! This trip was FANTASTIC, filled with so many sites, sounds, smells, and tastes, which will stay with us for as long as we live!

Elke and Russ escorted us on a marvelous tour of Tuscany last May. I like to tell people I had 4 or…read more5 of the best meals in my life and the wines were awesome too. The villa we stayed in was first class. We hated to leave. Our intimate group of seven people made travelling easy. They were extremely professional and organized.... as well as upbeat and spirited, making it fun for everybody! I can't imagine a more perfect combination of things to make our trip unforgettable for years to come. Thanks guys, we look forward to a reunion some day!

Our room was clean and there were no bugs. This place is changing its name to Newburgh hotel and…read morespa which will manage expectations a little bit. I left this same review under its old name which was Hudson valley hotel and conference center. It's definitely sunset boulevard, past its prime. But you can still tell that it was beautiful in its day. The rooms are surrounded by fields and woods. We arrived at dusk, in the summer, and there were a lot of fire flies. My 5 1/2 year old ran after them. The sounds of crickets and maybe even frogs was loud all night. Our room faced the courtyard, which is definitely nicer than the rooms facing the parking. If you like David Lynch, you will definitely love this hotel.

I HAD to go back to this because it's such an amazing experience. I'm sure they do more than "Fall…read moreFoliage" trips but that's when I visited in the past. Despite my best efforts in the past to do Fall train rides, which turned out to be disappointing only because there was never any good colors on trees, this by far is the very best fall foliage experience I've ever had in my life. You get great views of the tree color transitions and just great photo opportunities. It does get cold on the water so bring a jacket. Experience is as excellent as last time with beverages and snacks for purchase. If you enjoy fall colors, great scenery and boats then you have to do this at least once.

A peaceful Hudson River cruise from Peekskill to Bear Mountain. Beautiful views and a truly…read morerelaxing experience! Such a wonderful way to spend the day. Very pleased with this cruise!

I truly enjoy stopping here on my way home or to the city. It's a great location and has amazing…read moreitems from all over NY state. The staff is kind and answers questions. The coffee is hot and pretty decent. The baked goods are hit or miss. Farm fresh eggs are stellar and great maple syrup as well as cheeses! This inside is cozy but tight.

The best! Pitch perfect farm shop on a main road. They sell drink, sandwiches, coffee and frozen…read morecooking meats, cheese, sweets, wine. Review: 5+

Love walking through the campgrounds of this park with the falling leaves "snowing" around us…read more Walking the isthmus surrounded by trees and the Hudson on both sides. Sandy, private beaches and a public walk by the water. Dogs allowed! I still like Teatown Lake Reservation more but this is still a great, unique walk with a stunning view of the mountains. 5 stars!!!

What a wonderful place to spend a day. Living in NY city for the last 24 years & never been to a…read morepicnic ! I am so glad I have traveled to queens just to join this fun filled experience. It was hosted by a Bangladeshi group who actually come every year for their annual picnic. And they keep coming back to the same place years after years . Which gives you all an idea how pretty, peaceful this place is. And I might add that it is very highly maintained, I appreciate all the hard work by the employees! I did got mad with people for being messy in the restrooms ! And also wish there are multiple restrooms around the area. Because I have seen people stand in line just to use it. There is enough space for it. I have also seen people were jet skewing & looked so much fun. Some of the ladies were saying there is an area where you can actually go to the water , I am looking forward to that next year ! If you live in queens , it's a place you definitely gotta visit . It took us only an hour by bus, so for a family gathering it's perfect. Kids were having so much fun.

Now Benchmark Hideaway Campground. we Just moved here from another campground, I have to say it…read morehas been nothing but wonderful. The new owner and staff have been accommodating and wonderful. The grounds are beautiful. I have watched chipmunks play and watched the deer walk around. The stream is peaceful. The sites are beautiful and I am so happy that I moved to such a peaceful place with my camping family. I love my site with the woods right behind me. There are places for my kids to explore. I couldn't be happier and I cannot wait for the beginning of the 2019 season to start.

This was our first try at camping (after many many years back w/ girl scouts in very spartan…read moreconditions). The campground was OK. It's all in a wooded area, has a nice pool, rather clean bathrooms and showers. The playground was barely holding together, but the little one didn't notice! It was quiet and managers were nice (maybe a bit too nice as they were driving across the playground 50 times/day and constantly greeting everyone). They let us checkin at 10am and leave past checkout. Although it wasn't anything special, everything went remarkably smoothly and we enjoyed the experience.