WINDHAM A Storied Destination

By Jen Schwartz

In the early 20th century, the Catskills began to become a popular tourist destination for urbanites looking to escape the summer heat. Accessible by car or train, people were attracted to the region’s fresh mountain air and cool water. Elite resorts like the Catskill Mountain House emerged premier destinations for travelers. Popular art and culture began to take notice of the Catskills, as well. Washington Irving penned the tale of Rip Van Winkle, forever weaving the region into American folklore and cementing its reputation as a landscape for dreams and an escape from everyday life. John Burroughs, the famed literary naturalist, drew attention to the region by writing memorably about its landscape and wildlife. The Hudson River School influenced the art world, with luminaries like Thomas Cole and Frederic Church immortalizing the picturesque landscapes of the Hudson Valley and Catskills on canvas. These cultural currents solidified the Catskills’ reputation as a sanctuary for escape, reverie, and profound communion with the natural world. In 2019 Lonely Planet selected the Catskills as a “must see” destination. Located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, Windham is the perfect place to relax and recharge and explore this stunning region in any season.

AUTUMN: As the leaves put on a thrilling color show, the crisp autumn air brings with it a new collection of experiences you won’t want to miss. Get your fill of apple picking, bountiful farmer’s markets and relax by a bonfire with a locally crafted beer or cider. Hiking & biking hit their peak during the fall, with comfortable temperatures and colorful vistas happening all at once. Windham’s annual Autumn Affair, a three-day event, epitomizes “sweater weather” as vendors, local artisans & musicians transform the village into a vibrant street fair. The Windham Path, a 1.5 easy walking loop, features a covered bridge and while it is beautiful anytime of the year, it is simply spectacular and iconic in the fall.

WINTER: Whether you’re in the mood to ski, snowboard, snowshoe or simply cozy up by a fireplace, Windham has something for everyone. The Windham Mountain Club offers downhill skiing/boarding and resort amenities. Windham Mountain is also home to the Adaptive Sports Foundation, which provides recreation opportunities to thousands of children and adults with both cognitive and physical disabilities. Off the slopes, treat yourself to a facial or massage at one of the local spas, recharge with apres-ski treats at a local restaurant and discover unique gifts for yourself, friends and family in our local stores.

SPRING: Melting snow and April showers mean waterfalls and creeks are at their most spectacular. The ties between the Catskills and fly fishing run deeper than just the abundance of protected creeks and rivers—they are historical, too. Among anglers, the Catskills is known as “the birthplace of American fly fishing.” The history and the continued conservation of the Catskills waterways has cemented these waters as a premier destination for fly fishing. But these beautiful creeks and rivers are just as appealing for taking a dip in a swimming hole or enjoying the beauty of a waterfall. As leaves are budding out on the hardwood trees, it’s the perfect time to catch breathtaking vistas on a hike. Cool mornings with warm afternoons make it fun to be outside for long stretches of time—the ideal time to plan a full day of biking, hiking, picnicking, fishing or golf.

SUMMER: Long days, clear skies, shady forests, mountain air and refreshing lakes are a welcome oasis from summer heat. Farmer’s markets are filled with fresh produce, flowers, crafts, food & music. The July 4th parade and fireworks in Windham is quintessential Americana—an annual tradition not to be missed—and the annual Gray Fox Blue Grass Music Festival in Oak Hill is a short & scenic drive from Windham. Summer in the Catskills never disappoints. Discover swimming holes, hike peaks, explore winding mountain roads, bike the paths and enjoy the journey.