Scribner's Catskill Lodge

Scribner's Catskill Lodge, a Michelin Key Selected property, is widely acclaimed as a sophisticated luxury retreat that masterfully blends thoughtful design with the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains. It serves as a popular "base camp" for urban explorers seeking an elevated escape to the outdoors.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Scribner's Catskill Lodge is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing it as a "stunning hotel" and a "cult favorite" for those seeking a mix of design, nature, and relaxation. Michelin Guide guests give it an impressive 18.5 out of 20 for overall experience, reflecting a high level of satisfaction. It's seen as a boutique, bespoke destination that set a new standard for Catskill hotels upon its reinterpretation in 2016.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of Scribner's Catskill Lodge:

• Design & Ambiance: The lodge is celebrated for its thoughtful design, blending retro charm from its 1960s origins with a cozy, modern, and clean aesthetic. The public spaces are a major draw, particularly the spacious and warm library with its circular fireplace and billiards table, and the Apex Lounge, which offers a cozy fireplace and scenic views.
• Location & Views: The lodge boasts amazing, picturesque views of the Catskill Mountains, including Hunter Mountain slopes.
• Amenities: Scribner's offers a robust array of amenities that change seasonally. Highlights include a seasonal outdoor heated pool, a year-round barrel sauna with mountain views, a Glice (synthetic ice) rink in winter, and a variety of lawn games. Wellness activities like yoga are also offered.
• Programming: The hotel is noted for its thoughtful programming, including "meet-the-makers" series and regular DJ sets by the pool or during après-ski.

3. Room Quality

Scribner's offers two distinct accommodation experiences: the 38 guest rooms and suites in the main Lodge and the 11 luxury "Rounds" cabins.

• Lodge Rooms: These rooms feature dark maple floors, woven rugs, and custom-built furniture, creating a cozy yet contemporary feel. Many have high vaulted wood ceilings painted bright white and large windows or private balconies that offer mountain views. Some rooms also include fireplaces, particularly desirable during ski season. Bathrooms are equipped with terracotta tiles, rain showers, and locally sourced bath products.
• The Rounds: Introduced more recently, these individual, twelve-sided, wood-clad luxury cabins are designed for privacy and an immersive nature experience. They feature spacious circular living rooms, outdoor Japanese soaking tubs, outdoor seasonal showers, and an oculus (skylight) for stargazing. Suites in The Rounds can be quite expansive, offering a king bed, a circular sofa, a daybed, and a reading nook, along with a gas fireplace. The decor throughout emphasizes rustic quiet luxury with local art and vintage touches.

4. Dining Experience

The on-site restaurant, Prospect, is a significant highlight, offering a "locally-inspired" menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with stunning 270-degree views of the Catskill Mountains. The menu changes seasonally and incorporates ingredients from the lodge's own garden. Chef Alejandro Reyes Herrera, who previously worked at a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Barcelona, helms the kitchen, contributing to the "fantastic food" and "delicious" meals. Specific guest favorites have included the egg sandwich, French omelette, and honeynut squash carbonara. Dinner items like suckling pig have also been noted. Prospect also offers an après vibe with DJs on Saturdays. While generally praised, one older review mentioned a disappointing Prospect Burger and bitter pasta, though this appears to be an isolated criticism. Room service is also available.

5. Service & Staff

Guest feedback regarding service is largely positive, with many appreciating the "great and friendly" staff. The Michelin Guide awards a score of 18.5 out of 20 for services.

However, a recurring concern arises from employee reviews on platforms like Indeed.com, which paint a picture of significant internal management issues. Employee feedback describes the workplace as "inconsistent and unstable," "chaotic," and "unprofessional," with claims of unsupportive executive leadership. Some employees reported feeling overworked, under-supported, and emotionally/physically exhausted.

6. Location & Accessibility

Scribner's Catskill Lodge is ideally situated in Hunter, New York, approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Manhattan, making it an accessible escape for city dwellers. It's located just half a mile from Hunter Mountain, offering convenient access for skiing and other winter sports. The location is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Catskills, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, cycling, and visiting local breweries and charming towns like Tannersville.

The property is committed to accessibility, offering ADA accessible parking, ramps, lifts to various areas (guest rooms, restaurant, library, west deck), an ADA accessible pool lift, and ADA accessible public bathrooms. Two dedicated ADA accessible rooms are available, featuring wider door entries, accessible bathroom vanities, and roll-in rain showers with benches and grab rails.

7. Value & Pricing

While described as "a bit expensive," the cost is often considered justified given the unique and high-quality experience offered, as there are few comparable options in the immediate area. Room rates start around $243 per night. Michelin Guide guests have given the lodge an 18.5 out of 20 for value, suggesting that for many, the cost is well worth the comprehensive and luxurious stay.

8. Common Complaints

The most significant and recurring criticisms revolve around internal management practices and employee satisfaction, as detailed in the "Service & Staff" section. These concerns include inconsistent support from leadership, a chaotic work environment, and unprofessional HR.

Aside from these operational issues, specific guest complaints are few and generally minor. One older review mentioned dissatisfaction with the Prospect Burger and a bitter pasta dish. Another guest noted that the sauna didn't get as hot as they would have liked.

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18. scribnerslodge.com