A Serene Retreat at Wildflower Farms, an Auberge Resort

Wildflower Farms is tucked away in the stunning Hudson Valley, offering a tranquil retreat that feels like a true escape. I visited Wildflower Farms the weekend before Christmas with my husband to celebrate his birthday and enjoy some quiet time before the holiday rush. It snowed on our train ride up, and by the time we arrived, the property was blanketed in snow. It was like stepping into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered trees and glowing cabin lights creating a peaceful ambiance.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the beautiful, open lobby with a roaring fireplace that set the perfect tone for our stay. The space was warm and inviting, with cozy seating areas and a peaceful atmosphere that immediately made us feel at home.

Each room at Wildflower Farms is a standalone cabin or cottage, providing the ultimate in privacy and relaxation. Our cabin was a cozy retreat, featuring heated floors and a private patio where we could enjoy the peaceful surroundings…some rooms even had a fireplace! The accommodations are designed with natural materials, expansive windows and private outdoor spaces that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The moment we arrived, we were welcomed into this calm, luxurious environment, setting the tone for a relaxing stay. As it was my husband’s birthday, we were pleasantly surprised to find a bottle of wine and a delicious birthday cake waiting for us in our cabin — such a thoughtful touch that made the arrival even more special.

A highlight of our stay was the culinary program. The on-site restaurant, Clay, offers a farm-to-table dining experience with locally sourced ingredients, showcasing seasonal flavors in an elegant setting. The staff was incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. On our first night, we sat at the bar and had a great conversation with the head bartender, who was not only welcoming but also shared his excitement for the new 2025 cocktail menu. He even let us sample some of the new creations he was working on — an experience that added a fun, personal touch to our evening. The resort also offers cooking classes, foraging excursions and wine tastings. Don’t miss the chance to pick up fresh eggs at the farm in the morning for an authentic breakfast experience.

One of the most memorable moments was starting the day with a restorative vinyasa flow class. The beautiful yoga studio looks out over serene ponds with views of the Shawangunk Ridge in the distance. The setting makes it the perfect place to stretch, relax and kick off the day in a calm and peaceful way.

For even more relaxation, the Thistle Spa offers a range of treatments that incorporate local botanicals. In addition to the treatments, guests can enjoy the spa’s amenities — including the outdoor jacuzzi, indoor heated saltwater pool and sauna — even if they haven't booked a treatment. Just be sure to call ahead before heading over to the spa to ensure there's availability. In addition to yoga sessions and spa treatments, the resort also provides guided meditation and forest bathing to help guests reconnect with nature. For those who want to really embrace the outdoors, there are hiking trails, farm walks and plenty of opportunities to interact with the resident animals.

A thoughtful touch: the fleet of Mercedes SUVs available to transport guests to and from their cabins. This ensures that you don’t have to brave the cold or trudge through fresh snow in the winter to get to the spa, restaurant or cozy fire pit.

We’re already planning our next trip back in the warmer months to experience all the walking and hiking trails, as well as the variety of seasonal activities the resort offers. From foraging and farm events to springtime experiences (like meeting the new baby lambs at the farm!), there’s always something new and exciting to experience at Wildflower Farms. I am especially excited for the "Culinary Harvest" experience where you pick produce from the farm and cook with the resort’s chefs. And "Hike the Ridge", a guided trek with stunning views of the Shawangunk Ridge. Other highlights include a "Botanical Cocktail Class" using fresh herbs and "Pressed Flower Pottery" where you create pottery with real pressed flowers. With so many everchanging and unique activities, each visit to Wildflower Farms offers something new to discover.

• Best Time to Visit: Anytime! Each season offers something unique — spring for blooming wildflowers. Summer for outdoor adventures. Fall for harvest celebrations, and winter for cozy fireside moments and snow-covered landscapes.

• Seasonal Activities: Be sure to look ahead at the seasonal activities offered at Wildflower Farms so you can plan and pre-book the experiences. From foraging excursions to farm events, there’s always something happening to make your stay even more memorable.

• Who It’s For: Ideal for couples seeking romance, wellness enthusiasts and food lovers craving an immersive culinary experience.

• Transportation: A car is recommended for exploring nearby towns and scenic drives, but you can take Metro-North to Poughkeepsie and then use Uber/Lyft or a pre-booked car service to reach the resort.

Wildflower Farms is a perfect mix of luxury and relaxation, where you can unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you're indulging in delicious meals, enjoying a spa day or simply soaking in the views, this resort offers everything you need for a peaceful escape from city life. It’s luxury that doesn’t feel stuffy, and serenity that makes you feel right at home.

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