The beauty of living in Bergen County is that when we finally get the in-laws to agree to watch our little cherubs for a night or a weekend, we have only to hop in our cars and cross a river to get to NYC, one of the best places for a weekend getaway and the envy of all our friends who don’t live where we do. But what if we want a getaway that’s not quite so, uh, urban? We forget that just a few miles in the opposite direction gets us to Rockland County. Home of some seriously gorgeous scenery, challenging (or not so challenging hiking), a thriving arts scene and now, it seems, an upscale, quirky, well-thought-out retreat for those of us who just need to pee alone for a weekend. Want a Quick Getaway Close to Bergen County? Sloatsburg, NY is the place to go.
Yes, we said Sloatsburg.
Give those kiddos one last kiss good-bye and hop in the car. In less than an hour you will be at Harriman State Park, home to 31 lakes and reservoirs, 200 miles of hiking trails and beautiful, scenic overviews and vistas. Download the All Trails app to find a hike that suits your fitness level and interest in exertion. Or, hop on your bike (Don’t forget your helmet! They’re mandatory and you’ll be fined for not having one) for a ride along Seven Lakes Drive with, yup, you guessed it, seven lakes and plenty of places to stop, rest and take in the view. The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference website is also a great resource as you plan the active portion of your trip.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head into Sloatsburg and settle in at Seven Lakes Station taproom, beer garden and market for lunch. With a rotating selection of craft beers on tap and by the bottle and a menu that includes sandwiches, soups and delicious snacks, you won’t have any trouble passing a few hours. And you’ll deserve it after the workout you just had.
Time for a nap? The remarkable Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club is your next destination. Developed by Michael Bruno of 1st Dibs fame, the property has four guesthouses with a total of 17 bedrooms and 16 baths. Rent a room in one of the fully updated and renovated guesthouses and receive exclusive use of the house and its public areas for the duration of your stay. The property also includes a market serving breakfast and lunch buffet-style and two restaurants serving seasonal, organic food sourced locally. For those still in need of their fitness fix, there’s a huge fitness center, a 75 ft. pool, access to daily classes, guided hikes and, seasonally, kayaking or biking lessons/tours. Book dinner on the property and settle in with a good book or just a cozy blanket. No judgement!
Day 2 of your getaway, grab coffee and a light breakfast at The Village Blend and then head out for a day of pick-your-own-adventure. Within 20 miles in any direction, you will find shopping, historic houses, art installations, working farms and more. Torne Valley Vineyards isn’t too far away either. Just sayin’.
Then, when it’s time to head home (insert sad face emoji here) stop in Suffern for one last adults-only meal at Mia’s Kitchen. One last healthy meal prepared by someone who isn’t you before you head home to feast on the crusts of grilled cheese and leftover chicken nuggets. But never fear! Sloatsburg is so close, you can probably do this all again soon.
