Mohonk Minimoon

Posted on September 12th, 2016

Ian and I have a full honeymoon booked for February, but we wanted to take a few days to ourselves right after the wedding, too.  Personally, I think minimoons are genius– it’s like practicing for your real honeymoon without burning through all your PTO!  And having something to which to look forward during the gruesome late winter months is vital.

Anyway!  As I shared last year, my family has been visiting Mohonk Mountain House in the Hudson Valley since 1994.  (Before they built a world-class spa.  I’m a Mohonk #hipster) It was exactly the kind of place we were looking for– relatively easy to get to (one direct flight to New York + 90 minute drive), all inclusive when you get there, gorgeous scenery, and a great mix of activities and relaxation opportunities.  As much as I love the idea of lounging on a beach endlessly, I’m actually not great at sitting still too long, so the balance is vital.

Obviously, it was a place that already had meaning for me, but I had never before gotten to share it with Ian, but I knew he would completely love it.  Ian was a camp counselor when he was younger, and with the various boating, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, running trails, tennis, etc. offerings, Mohonk is pretty much just like summer camp for the whole family.  The resort is housed in a Victorian castle on a lake built 150 years ago, so the setting is infectiously romantic.

That last picture is the view from our balcony, which was outfitted with two wooden rocking chairs.  Bliss.

The time spent together was the best part, whether we were eating or sitting in the sunshine or swimming or eating or canoeing or playing tennis.  Or eating.  On our second morning, we took a hike to the top of the mountain at 5am so we could be there when the sun rose.  It was such a special, peaceful moment, and it made me so excited for the other adventures to come.

Also, we saw our first ever bear during the first run we took as a married couple.  I haven’t heard back from my palm reader yet, but I’m pretty sure it’s a good omen.