You’ve probably seen the photos of the Catskills—those misty mornings and the kind of quiet that actually makes your ears ring. But finding a spot that isn't a crowded resort or a sketchy roadside motel is getting harder. That's basically where Blue Hill Lodge & Rental Properties comes in. It’s tucked away in Claryville, New York, and honestly, if you aren't looking for it, you might just drive right past the best trout fishing spot of your life.
Most people think of "lodges" as these massive, impersonal timber buildings with 200 rooms and a buffet. This isn't that. It’s a cluster of actual homes and a small seven-room lodge situated right on the Neversink River.
The Reality of Staying in Claryville
Claryville isn't exactly a bustling metropolis. It’s a hamlet. You’re looking at a two-hour drive from Manhattan, which is just far enough to keep the casual "city crowds" away but close enough that you don't need a flight. The core of the experience here is the Neversink River. It’s famous among fly-fishers, but even if you don't know a Woolly Bugger from a lure, just sitting by the water is the whole point.
The property is part of what they call the Claryville Center. It’s sort of a weird, wonderful hybrid of things. You have the lodge, sure, but there’s also the Russian Mule Brewing Company right on site. It’s not every day you can walk thirty feet from your bedroom and find a craft brewery and an art gallery.
Breaking Down the Lodging Options
You actually have a few different "vibes" to choose from here, which is something a lot of travelers overlook when they just book the first room they see online.
- The Main Lodge Rooms: There are seven of these. They’re comfortable, have the standard Wi-Fi and flat-screens, but they feel more like a guest house than a Marriott.
- The House @ 1463: This is the big one. It’s a three-bedroom house that was restored from the 1800s. It’s got that old-school charm but they’ve obviously fixed the plumbing and added a full kitchen. It’s great for groups or people who want to cook their own breakfast instead of going to the brewery.
- The Cabin @ 933: About a mile down the road, you’ll find this two-bedroom cabin. It’s on ten acres. If you want to actually feel like you’re hiding from the world, this is the one. It has a stone fireplace which, let’s be real, is the only way to spend a Saturday night in the Catskills.
- Grahamsville Properties: They also manage a couple of spots in nearby Grahamsville, including a luxury retreat at the end of a dead-end road. It’s very "witness protection program" but with better linens.
Why the Russian Mule Matters
It’s easy to dismiss a hotel restaurant, but the Russian Mule is basically the heart of the property. They brew their own beer on-site. Because there aren't a million restaurants in the middle of the woods, having a place that serves a legitimate burger and a flight of IPAs within walking distance of your bed is a massive win.
Honestly, the staff there are the ones who usually handle your check-in. One thing to keep in mind: there’s no formal "front desk" like you’d find at a Hilton. You usually head to the brewery or follow the instructions sent to your email. It’s casual.
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Fishing, Hiking, and Doing Absolutely Nothing
The Neversink is one of the most storied trout streams in the country. People take it seriously. If you're staying at Blue Hill Lodge & Rental Properties, you have direct access to the water for swimming or fishing.
If you prefer land, there are about 40 miles of trails nearby for hiking and mountain biking. You’re also pretty close to the Big Indian Wilderness and Slide Mountain, which is the highest peak in the Catskills. It’s a bit of a haul to the top, but the view makes you feel like you’ve actually accomplished something.
The "Not-So-Perfect" Details You Should Know
Look, I’m not going to tell you it’s a five-star white-glove experience. It’s a mountain lodge.
Some guests have mentioned that the check-in process can be a little confusing if you arrive when the brewery is slammed. There’s no elevator. If you’re in the lodge and your room is on the second floor, you might be walking up some outdoor metal stairs. If you’ve got bad knees or a ton of luggage, it’s worth asking for a ground-floor setup.
The Wi-Fi is generally good for the woods, but don’t expect to host a 4K livestream of your vacation. You’re in a valley surrounded by mountains. Sometimes nature wins.
Weddings and Events
They do a lot of weddings here. Like, a lot. It’s a "destination wedding" spot for people who want that barn/farm aesthetic without it feeling cheesy. They have an Art Center that doubles as a ceremony space and a big event center for receptions. If you’re planning a quiet weekend, it’s worth checking their calendar to make sure you aren't accidentally crashing a 50-person wedding party.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
- Book the Cabin for Privacy: If you want the "mountain man" experience, skip the lodge rooms and grab the Cabin @ 933. It’s only a mile away but feels like a different planet.
- Bring Your Gear: If you fish, bring your own kit. The Neversink is right there, and you’ll regret it if you just watch the water all weekend.
- Check Brewery Hours: The Russian Mule isn't open 24/7. If you’re arriving late on a weekday, check their schedule so you don't go hungry.
- Download Your Maps: Cell service in Claryville can be spotty. Download the offline Google Maps for the area before you leave the city.
- Pet Policy: They are dog-friendly, but only in specific rooms and for a fee (usually around $40). Call ahead to make sure you don't bring Fido to a "no-pets" room.
Staying at Blue Hill Lodge & Rental Properties is really about leaning into the Catskills pace. It’s a bit rustic, a lot quiet, and having a brewery on your doorstep is a perk that's hard to beat. Just remember to pack a sweater, even in the summer. The mountains get chilly when the sun goes down.
To get the best experience, call the property directly to ask about which specific rental matches your needs, especially if you have mobility concerns or are bringing a pet. This ensures you get a room that fits your specific situation rather than whatever the booking algorithm spits out.