June 23, 2015
Exploring the Hudson Valley: Putnam County
Matthew Wexler READ TIME: 3 MIN.
Theater buffs will recognize Putnam County as the setting for William Finn and Rachel Sheinkin's Tony Award-winning musical "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee," but those in the know recognize the region as a backdrop for rolling hills and meadows, year-round sports and charming enclaves to enjoy rest and relaxation.
Built in 1825, the Pig Hill Inn in Cold Spring-on-the-Hudson has perfected the art of indulgence. The nine-room inn features a unique collection of curated items and antiques -- most of which are for sale. Enjoy a homemade full breakfast each morning, best enjoyed on the garden terrace in the warmer months and the glass Victorian Conservatory during the winter months to appreciate a serene snowfall.
Though you may want to ensconce yourself with a good book and fresh air, once you complete a venture to the independently owned Merritt Bookstore for a new title, or plan an evening at the theater at Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival, where this season's repertory includes "A Midsummer Night's Dream," "Arabian Nights" and more. The Boscobel House and Gardens is equally as dramatic but for different reasons. The historical property was completed in 1823 and is now home to one of the nation's leading collections of furniture and decorative arts from the Federal period.
While there's much to see in Putnam County, there's also much to do. Creative energies thrive at Garrison Art Center, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year as a creative hub for the community as well as visiting artists and students. Three exhibition spaces showcase a range of works, including this summer's Emerging Artists Invitational (July 14-August 16). Explore the ever-changing calendar for such workshops as Impressionists Landscapes, Flowers & Turkish Marbling and Introduction to Watercolor.
A Taste of Tuscany
For a taste of Tuscany, a visit to Cathryn's Tuscan Grill delivers contemporary Italian food in a relaxed setting. Just follow the winding brick path in the garden and you'll discover this gem, which Zagat rated one of the top Italian restaurants in the United States. Menu highlights include saut�ed calamari with smoked tomato broth and arugula, pappardelle pasta with rabbit in grappa sauce with white truffle oil, hangar steak with espresso-Frangelico demiglaze, and swordfish with apricots and sliced fennel.
The award-winning wine list features more than 300 selections with many regional favorites. "Warwick Winery has some of the best wines in the Hudson Valley," says owner Cathryn Fadde. "I especially like their pinot gris, when available. They also make wonderful fruit liqueurs -- the Sour Cherry is like liquid cherry pie. Robibero Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon is another favorite that I keep on my list."
If traveling by car, be sure to keep an eye out for local farm stands and farmers' markets, where you can stock up on locally grown fruits and vegetables as well as farmstead cheeses, local honey and plenty of fruit preserves.
For more ideas on planning your Hudson Valley getaway, visit:
