Review / Why Piaule hotel is New York’s most coveted wellness getaway: the sustainable, minimalist retreat offers gorgeous views of nature and a spa sure to relax even the most restless urban soul

Jun 27, 2023

Located in the Catskills, just 2 hours away from the Big Apple, Piaule originally started as a homeware brand specialising in Japanese cotton waffle weave towels

Now, it’s a sanctuary boasting yoga sessions, hiking trails, guided bird walks, massages and sound baths – loved by Frank Ocean – for deep relaxation far away from the bustle of city life

For someone living in one of the loudest, most fast-paced cities in the world – New York – silence and endless greenery are a luxury. That’s why the Catskills have become a sanctuary for travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life – especially since the region is only two hours north of New York.

Piaule’s location in the idyllic Catskills region makes it a coveted getaway for harried New York City residents.

Amid the array of boutique accommodation that has sprang up in recent years, there’s Piaule, a hotel that seamlessly blends sustainable design and wellness with a dash of fashionable escapism.

At Piaule, you can enjoy floor-to-ceiling views of the lush landscape right from your bed.

Picture this: a cabin nestled in the heart of nature with a luxurious sauna up the hill, and awe-inspiring views from your room that have the power to soothe even the most restless urban souls.

Piaule’s rustic, minimalist design reflects founders Nolan McHugh and Trevor Briggs’ commitment to sustainability.

During my stay, I learned that Nolan McHugh and Trevor Briggs, the masterminds behind the hotel, established Piaule in 2016 as a homeware label specialising in Japanese cotton waffle weave towels. However, in 2021, with their deep-rooted commitment to sustainable design, the duo secured 20 hectares (50 acres) of pristine land in the Catskills and embarked on a journey in the hospitality industry.

This marked the beginning of their mission to create an eco-friendly retreat that perfectly embodies their ethos: making nature the star of the show and crafting a space where you can simply soak in the stunning surrounding landscape without the need for additional frills.

Piaule’s spa has an indoor saltwater pool.

Every detail, from the furniture to their waffle linens and ceramic drinkware, reflects their dedication to craftsmanship and sustainability. You can even purchase some of these items, which almost tempted me to add a robe and some plates to my tab.