Little Cat Lodge

Little Cat Lodge, a Michelin Key Selected property nestled in the Catskills & Hudson Valley, offers guests a charming alpine retreat with a blend of rustic elegance and modern comfort.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

Little Cat Lodge generally receives exceptional feedback from guests, with ratings often around 9.4 out of 10. Reviewers frequently describe the property as "absolutely gorgeous" with "beautiful views everywhere you look." The overall sentiment is highly positive, highlighting a serene and well-designed escape.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently praise the lodge's meticulously designed alpine retreat aesthetic, which thoughtfully blends the charm of the Berkshires with contemporary style. Key highlights include the on-site restaurant and bar, the wood-fired sauna, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a firepit for gathering. Free WiFi and complimentary continental breakfast are also appreciated amenities. The property's recent renovation in June 2023 is also a positive point.

3. Room Quality

The 11-14 rooms and suites at Little Cat Lodge are described as cozy and handsome, thoroughly updated with a throwback style influenced by classic European chalets and the ski culture of upstate New York. Rooms are outfitted with custom wood millwork, deep forest-green tiles, plaid textiles, and warm brass lighting. Guests can expect premium bedding, including Egyptian cotton sheets and memory foam beds, air conditioning, and bathrobes. Many rooms feature deep soaking tubs and rainfall showers. Some accommodations also include vintage stereo consoles, flannel robes, Sferra bedding, fireplaces, or private patios. The rooms are designed to feel both nostalgic and of-the-moment, elevating the "cabin-in-the-woods" experience.

4. Dining Experience

The on-site restaurant, Edwards Tavern, and bar are lauded for channeling alpine Europe with a Catskills twist, offering elevated comfort food in a cozy mountain tavern setting. Guests can find dishes like schnitzel and fondue alongside natural wines, crisp lagers, and housemade pickles. The restaurant offers dinner Thursday through Sunday and brunch on Saturday and Sunday. A complimentary continental breakfast is provided daily, and guests have noted it "exceeded expectations with a delicious spread including bagels, lox, yogurt, and fresh fruit." The culinary offerings are often highlighted as a significant draw, especially given the background of the owners who are award-winning restaurateurs.

5. Service & Staff

While there was one mention of a negative experience regarding employment, guest reviews generally indicate positive interactions with staff and service. The "staff & service" consistently receives high ratings, averaging around 9.4 out of 10. Guests have specifically mentioned "friendly staff" and "exceptional service." However, some guests have experienced challenges with a self-check-in process and a lack of in-person staff presence at certain times.

6. Location & Accessibility

Little Cat Lodge is situated in Copake Falls, at the base of Catamount Mountain, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. It's within a 15-minute walk of Catamount Ski Area and Catamount Aerial Adventure Park. The lodge is described as a "properly rural escape" but is also within driving distance of both Boston and New York City. Guests appreciate its proximity to skiing, hiking, and ziplining. The area also offers attractions like Hillsdale Town Hall, Berkshire Botanical Garden, and Hoffman's Pottery. The property has some accessibility considerations, with five steps to reach the entrance and no elevator.

7. Value & Pricing

Nightly rates for a stay at Little Cat Lodge for two adults can start from approximately $189, though prices are subject to change based on dates. The Michelin Guide indicates rates begin at $250 USD per night. While some guests have found it "far too expensive for what I got" for specific dates, the overall exceptional ratings for cleanliness, amenities, and service suggest many guests find the experience worth the cost.

8. Common Complaints

Recurring issues mentioned by some guests include very soft mattresses that bothered their backs, noisy heating units, and "paper-thin walls" leading to sound transfer between rooms. Some guests have also reported being misled by payment policies, expecting to pay at the hotel but having deposits and balances charged earlier, leading to bank issues. Additionally, the restaurant hours advertised online have sometimes been misleading, and the self-check-in process without an available person has been a point of frustration for guests, especially those with no cell service. Dim lighting, particularly in bathrooms, was also noted by one guest.

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