Smart Stay by

The DeBruce

by Anne Roderique-Jones
Photo: Courtesy of the property/Lawrence Braun Digital
by Anne Roderique-Jones
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Photo: Courtesy of the property/Lawrence Braun Digital
by Anne Roderique-Jones
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Photo: Courtesy of the property/Lawrence Braun Digital
by Anne Roderique-Jones
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Photo: Courtesy of the property/Lawrence Braun Digital
by Anne Roderique-Jones
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Dating back to the late 1800s, The DeBruce is considered the only remaining property from the Catskills' Gilded Ages. Over the past 100-plus years, the hotel has changed names a handful of times, though it has remained The DeBruce for the past 30. Situated on the Willowemoc River — where guests can access miles of hiking trails and land reserved for fly fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and birding — the property is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise: and, surprisingly, one for a foodie, too.

What You Need to Know 

The Look of The DeBruce

It's All in the Details

Pull up to The DeBruce, and it feels as if you're staying at a monied friend's country home. There's a myriad of rooms to cozy up with a book or a board game (provided), and each is especially charming in the winter when the fire is roaring. The sun-drenched central lounge (aptly called The Great Room) is rustic-chic, and guests gather here to sip wine, read magazines, and mingle. There are just 12 rooms and suites; however, what they lack in size, they make up for in luxury touches like the Malin & Goetz bath products and SFERRA bedding. Some have clawfoot tubs, while others offer postcard-worthy valley and river views.  

And, while the property's on-site restaurant is high-end, the basement is the party down below — complete with a full-service bar and game room. A fun perk: The personal lockers where guests can store their hiking and fishing gear. 

The Vibe at The DeBruce

The vibe here is very Catskills-chic. You'll find lots of stylish couples, many coming from New York City, which is just two hours away (yet feels like a million). The aesthetic resembles that of a tony magazine spread, sans any pretension. Dogs are also welcome, and you'll often find them in common areas. 

Who Will Love The DeBruce

Adults looking for a relaxing getaway complete with delicious food and a slew of outdoor activities will love it here. 

Who Might Not Love The DeBruce

Families — as well as anyone looking for budget-friendly accommodations — should stay elsewhere. 

Best Amenity at The DeBruce

Don't miss the multi-course breakfast and dinner tasting menus, which are absolutely incredible. Executive chef Eric Leveille's creations rival anything you'll find in nearby NYC, with creative (and delicious) takes on seasonal and local ingredients. We don't want to ruin the surprise, but this is easily the highlight of a stay. 

Money Matters

What's Included at The DeBruce 

In a nutshell, a lot. Your room rate includes a multi-course (around 10 or so) dinner menu and a far-above-average breakfast (trout-avo toast, savory congee, berry pancakes, and so on). Wifi is complimentary, as well. Amenities, such as an on-site seasonal swimming pool, bonfires (also seasonal), games, five miles of private hiking and biking trails, and private river access, also abound. 

Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About at The DeBruce

Standard taxes and a 20% administrative charge should be expected here. Alcoholic drinks are an extra cost, as are fly fishing lessons and guided hikes.

How to Get a Deal at The DeBruce

The best way to get a deal at The DeBruce is to check the hotel's offers page. Here, you'll find packages that include special Sunday wine dinners and fly-fishing outings. 

Getting There

In the Neighborhood of The DeBruce

The DeBruce is a short ride from Livingston Manor's Main Street, where you'll find wood-fired pizza, oat milk gelato, a high-end wine shop, and a slew of cute locally owned businesses. 

Nearest Airport to The DeBruce

The nearest airport to Livingston Manor is Newburgh (SWF) Airport which is 47 miles away. Other nearby airports include Albany (ALB) (78.7 miles), White Plains (HPN) (82.1 miles), Newark (EWR) (90.7 miles), and Allentown/Bethlehem/Easton (ABE) (92.4 miles).

The Bottom Line

A haven for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts alike, The DeBruce makes for a fun and filling weekend getaway. 

It's All in the Details