
Welcome to our Jersey Gypsy column, where our resident travel reporter, Valentina, roams the globe in pursuit of stories.
There’s something about a snow-covered cabin that feels like pure magic, and even as an adult, I still get giddy thinking about it.
The crackle of a fire, the scent of old pine hanging in the air, and the simple joy of wrapping yourself in a blanket with a doctored-up mug of cocoa — it’s the kind of experience that makes you want to pause on life for a little while.
For me, these winter escapes have always been about surrounding myself with friends and loved ones and seeking out those quiet, peaceful moments. This year, my friends and I opted to take our weekend trip to a cozy little cabin tucked away somewhere in Upstate New York.
We wanted something simple but memorable. Somewhere to catch up, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of winter, but without having to take on the exhausting activities of a ski resort. As we searched for the perfect spot, we came across several charming cabins, but the Mountain Peak Retreat easily won us over.
But before we dive into that experience, I want to take a moment to explore what made the other contenders memorable.
First Look at Upstate New York’s Cozy Cabins
Finding the perfect cabin for our winter escape wasn’t as easy as it sounded. New York has no shortage of options, each serving up something a little different — whether it’s a quiet spot by the lake, a high-end getaway, or a cozy cabin, we were overwhelmed with choices.
We didn’t want anything too extravagant, but we also weren’t looking to go roughing it at this time of year. After some back and forth, we narrowed it down to our top three contenders: Mountain Peak Retreat in Ellenville, O’Cottage on Keuka Lake, and a luxury Chalet in Ellicottville.
Our first contender was O’Cottage on Keuka Lake. It’s biggest draw? The beautiful lakeside views. Even in winter, there’s something soothing about being near the water. It offered up plenty of space for all of us and had a cozy, inviting nature. But ultimately, we decided that a lakeside cabin in the dead of winter might feel a little too quiet and isolated.
But it made it onto the “Summer” list of things to do, for sure.
Next, we looked at one of the many luxury chalets near Ellicottville. The one that had availability during our planned trip had a serious wow factor, it was also very originally called Chalet in Ellicottville. Unfortunately, we decided against it. But maybe next time!
That left us with the Mountain Peak Retreat.
Nestled in the woods near Minnewaska State Park, it checked all of our boxes: close enough for an easy drive, cozy but spacious enough for our group, and featuring a hot tub with a view of the surrounding forest. We were sold.
Visiting the Mountain Peak Retreat
From the moment we pulled up to the Mountain Peak Retreat, we knew we’d made the right choice.
Tucked away on 1.4 acres in Ellenville, this place felt more like a private mountain hideaway than just another rental. Surrounded by a mix of tall evergreens and hibernating hardwoods, it had a style that blended rustic charm with modernity — with large windows that promised plenty of natural light and views of the woods beyond.
Inside, the house was spacious without losing that cozy feeling we were after. The stone fireplace immediately caught our attention and gave the high-vaulted living room a warm, woodsy touch.
There was plenty of room for all of us to spread out if we wanted — though not so much as to leave anyone feeling disconnected. Upstairs the catwalk leads to a game room stocked with a well-worn pool table and a few board games — a perfect setup for a relaxing night in.
After unpacking and settling in, we did what any group of friends would do: gathered around the fireplace, kicked back with a few glasses of wine, and debated who would win the first round of pool. Spoiler alert: It wasn’t me. Not by a long shot.
My Perfect Winter Day at Mountain Peak Retreat
Waking up at Mountain Peak Retreat felt like stepping into a winter postcard. The soft light filtered through the trees, casting long shadows over the snow-covered yard. Coffee was brewed in the kitchen while we gathered around the dining table, lingering in our pajamas and chatting about the day ahead. No rush. No pressure.
Eventually, we stepped outside to enjoy the crisp mountain air. The backyard, complete with a gazebo and patio, was quiet and relaxing. The kind of spot that invites you to pause, breathe deep, and take it all in. A quick walk around the property gave me just enough fresh air before I returned inside, ready to warm up by the fire with my friends.
The rest of the day unfolded perfectly: rounds of pool in the game room, reading by the fire, and an impromptu card game that had us laughing for hours. By evening, we were gathered in the kitchen, cooking up a hearty dinner together and jamming out to a rather mixed-up playlist.
Later, we curled up by the fireplace, wrapped in throw blankets with hot cider in hand. Between the conversation, board games, and heat of the hearth, it was exactly the kind of escape we had hoped for — relaxed, cozy, and filled with moments that made us forget about the outside world.
How to Plan Your Own Winter Escape
If you’re thinking of planning your own getaway to Mountain Peak Retreat — or any other cozy cabin in Upstate New York and beyond — here are a few tips to help make it a smooth and memorable trip:
Booking
Since winter retreats are popular, it’s best to book early. Many cabins, including Mountain Peak Retreat, require at least a one-night minimum stay — though peak season may have longer requirements. I recommend staying for at least 3 days.
What to Bring
- Clothing: Pack plenty of warm layers, including thermal wear, cozy sweaters, and good winter boots. And if you plan on hitting the hot tub, don’t forget to pack a swimsuit.
- Food & Drinks: While Ellenville has grocery stores nearby, it’s a good idea to bring essentials for cooking, especially if you plan to stay in and enjoy the cabin’s kitchen. Don’t forget snacks and something to sip by the fire — hot cocoa, anyone?
- Entertainment: Even with a game room (and most cabins are not going to be as well-equipped as Mountain Peak is), it doesn’t hurt to bring a deck of cards or your favorite board games for nights around the fireplace.
Outdoor Activities
If you’re up for an adventure, Minnewaska State Park is nearby and offers gorgeous winter hiking trails. Just be sure to dress appropriately and check trail conditions before heading out. Now, don’t get me wrong, it’s nothing like hiking the Palo Duro Canyon, but it still is a great experience.
Reflecting on My Cozy Cabin Retreat
Our weekend at Mountain Peak Retreat was exactly what we needed. A chance to unwind, reconnect, and savor the quiet magic of winter. There’s something about a snowy cabin escape that forces you to slow down, whether it’s lingering over morning coffee or laughing with friends around a fire late into the night.
The only regrets I have are not thinking far enough ahead to pack a toboggan and not spending nearly enough time in that hot tub. I suppose that means we’ll have to plan for a repeat retreat — and I can’t wait.
Cozy Winter Cabins in New York – FAQs
What to Do in New York in the Winter Time?
New York is full of activities; whether it’s winter or summer, there’s no shortage of getaways here. If you want some relaxing time, the best thing to do is to visit one of the many cozy cabins throughout the state.
When’s the Best Time to Book a Cabin in Upstate New York for Winter?
Early! The earlier, the better, really. Winter weekends are popular, so aim to book at least a few months in advance, especially if you want to visit during the peak holiday season.
Do I Need a 4×4 Vehicle to Reach Mountain Peak Retreat?
Not necessarily, but if snow is expected, having a vehicle with all-wheel or four-wheel drive is a smart idea.
Are Hot Tubs Open in Winter?
Typically, yes. Just check with the host or property manager beforehand to confirm availability during your stay.