Stipulated: the perfect travel time for a weekend getaway is four hours. More, and you waste your vacation. Less, and you’re still near home. Hence our series, The 4hr. , dedicated to revealing the best destinations that are far away, yet still close to home.
SLEEP
If you’re looking to stay within walking distance of town, The Copperfield Inn is your huckleberry. It’s “affordable luxury” without the mom-and-pop charm endemic to the area. But if you’re looking for the full Gore Mountain experience, there’s no better place than The Fern Lodge. Complete with lake views, mountain views, jacuzzis and cozy theaters, it’s Bear Grylls meets magnificence.
EAT
Leave the suit and tie behind. This getaway is all easy goin’. For breakfast, the local go-to is Café Sarah and for lunch, Chrissy’s. In the dinner department, you’re well advised to hit Basil and or the slightly out-of-the-way Black Mountain Lodge. For lifting the spirits, BarVino has a big wine list complete with small bites, while Beck’s Tavern, a German-Alpine-themed watering hole, will fulfill any hoppy desires. And if you’re wanting to pack in some picnic-style fixings for your rail or hiking adventures, Izzy’s Deli and Gourmet Shop will hunt.
DO
Leaf-peeping on foot is so 2016. The new way to feast upon foliage is by peddling along a decomissioned railway. Through Columbus Day weekend, Revolution Rail Co. is offering excursions north from the North Creek rail station on the line to Tahawus. You’ll be sitting upright — like on a paddle boat — and cycling through dense woods and over the Hudson River via abandoned railroads. The whole journey takes just under three hours total, with two- or four-seat vehicles going for $70 or $130, respectively.
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