• 1. Where to Stay
• 2. Where to Eat
• 3. What to Do
• 4. Insider’s Tip
• 5. An Oddball Day

The modern breakfast bar with a classic view.    (Photo: Courtesy of The Villa at Saugerties )

The Villa at Saugerties (from $135) is a contemporary take on the B&B: a Mediterranean farmhouse outside and pure Philippe Starck inside. Five rooms swathed in natural fabrics and cool earth tones have a rustic Zen feel. But it's not all sleek modernism — there are still cookies and hot cocoa by the fireplace at night.

B&B purists prefer the restored Victorian Smythe House (from $115). Rooms are outfitted with stained-glass lamps, oriental rugs, antique furnishings, and four-poster beds. The Culinary Institute of America–trained chefs-owners prepare standout breakfasts to your specifications. Try the eggs en cocotte (baked with cream, butter, and Parmesan) or request a packed picnic lunch.

The restored lighthouse now features bed and breakfast accommodations.   (Photo: Courtesy of Saugerties Lighthouse )

The secluded Saugerties Lighthouse (from $160) is accessible by a half-mile hike or by boat. The working lighthouse and conservancy has only two rooms available; book well in advance. Both rooms face the Hudson; view sunrise from the East Room and sunset from the West Room. From the tower, overlook the Catskills.

Published on October 11, 2006 as a web exclusive.