Emerson Resort & Spa is just two hours from Manhattan and was designed with the splendor of the Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley in mind.

A hidden treasure just two hours from busy Manhattan, Emerson Resort & Spa is a relaxing getaway located among New York’s Catskill Mountains. Featuring open spaces, oversized windows that offer stunning nature views, and one’s choice of spacious accommodations in either the contemporary Inn or Adirondack-style Lodge, the resort is a true hidden gem. It is also home to the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope and provides access to a variety of fun outdoor activities, including skiing, tubing, hiking, and more.

Guests also enjoy an array of nature-inspired treatments at the award-winning Emerson Spa, which is situated on the Esopus Creek overlooking Mt. Tremper. Influenced by the earth’s elements and the tranquility of the Catskills, the spa provides a serene experience that combines its natural surroundings with the deep relaxation effects of stone therapy and custom-designed treatments to suit all guests.

We interviewed Christina Burns, Spa Director of Emerson Spa, who offered insider tips, recommended favorite spa treatments, and more.

Guests have their choice of staying in either the contemporary Inn or the Adirondack-style Lodge.

Why You’ll Love It: The positive feedback received from our guests speaks to our nurturing therapists and simplicity. Guests tend to compliment us on our ability to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere. The majority of our business is repeat clients, and many appreciate the intimacy our spa provides.

Emerson Spa is located on the Esopus Creek that overlooks Mt. Tremper for the ultimate relaxing getaway.

Key Features: Emerson Spa is situated on the Esopus Creek overlooking Mt. Tremper. The saltwater hot tub located on our streamside deck provides spectacular sights and sounds as you take in all that nature has to offer. The locker rooms are also well-appointed with walk-in showers, steam and sauna, along with toiletries and lighted mirrors for freshening up. The Quiet Room located on the east end of the Emerson Spa is the perfect place to relax by the fireplace enjoying a cup of tea or lemon-infused water.

Snacks Served: In addition to the ginger elixir, Emerson Spa provides custom-made teas, fresh apples, and granola bars.

Bonus: After every treatment, each guest is offered a ginger elixir handcrafted by ImmuneSchein—a locally-based company in the Hudson Valley region.

The spa’s saltwater hot tub is located on the stream-side deck and offers stunning views of Mt. Tremper and Esopus Creek.

Insider’s Tip: Make a day of it! We urge our guests to spend the entire day with us to enjoy full use of our spa amenities, property, and venues. Before or after your treatment, decompress with a steam or sauna, then spend some time in our saltwater hot tub on the streamside deck. No matter the season, a soak in the hot tub slips you into a deeper state of zen with beautiful views of Mt. Tremper and the rushing Esopus Creek.

For those looking to combine a workout with your treatment, we have a full-service fitness center and, for an additional fee, a comprehensive schedule of daily fitness classes. You may also want to take time for a little retail therapy with a visit to The Shops at Emerson, including a lunch break at Ralph’s Café. Turn your day spa experience into an overnight getaway with dinner at our signature restaurant Woodnotes Grille, then retire to a spacious guest room in the Inn or the Lodge.

Guests can relax before and after their treatments in the Quiet Room.

Unique Treatment: Our Emerson Signature Integrative Massage is a two-hour treatment described as “heaven on Earth.” Discuss your preferences and areas of concern with your therapist, and we’ll use a variety of specialized modalities to create a one-of-a-kind, personalized experience to meet your specific needs and preferences.

A couples treatment room includes a private tub.

Splurge Treatment: Our VIP Couples Soak & Massage is one of our most highly coveted experiences. This luxury treatment combines relaxation and romance with a 30-minute Himalayan Salt soak infused with seasonal aromatherapy, followed by a 60 or 90-minute couples massage. An artisanal cheese and fruit platter accompanied by champagne makes this treatment the perfect indulgence for guests and that special someone.

Emerson Spa also has a beauty salon that offers a variety of makeup, hair, and nail services.

Insider’s Favorite: We are particularly partial to our use of hot stone therapy. Whether incorporated into a facial or a massage, we truly enjoy the warmth of basalt stones, which help relieve tension in problem areas of the neck and back.

Featured Products: Each category of treatments has a unique and effective line of products used. Esthetic treatments are covered by Comfort Zone and Elemis skin care products, including the Elemis Biotec Skincare system. The Hair & Makeup Salon uses haircare products by Davines and cosmetics by Jane Iredale. You may also choose to add a CBD component to massage treatments. Our CBD offerings include topical analgesics by CBD Clinic and Pure Spectrum.

For more information, visit the website and follow them on Instagram: @emersonresort

[Images courtesy of Emerson Resort & Spa]