When I was a kid (many years ago!) my family often vacationed in the Poconos or Catskills. I'd like to go back but the place we used to go to no longer exists. Can anyone recommend a place either in the Catskills or Poconos with nice grounds, pool, etc? Renting a cabin would be my first choice. I don't want to sound snobby, but no Mount Airy lodges please!

There's this beautiful place in the Catskills called Mohonk House that is pretty upscale. I've never been there but my grandparents (who have very refined tastes) have and they loved it.

The Mohonk house is pretty spectacular from what I understand. I have never been there but have watched specials on this resort on the tv. It looks gorgeous and is definitely on my list of places to visit some day!

Thanks! I just read about Mohonk House and a place in the Poconos (Skytop?). They're on the list but at about $500/night that's pushing the budget. If there was something a little cheaper ...!

Enid:

Our family has been to Mohonk many times. It is one of the most beautiful spots in the Northeast. While the prices may seem high, keep in mind that they include three meals and afternoon tea daily, plus almost all activities.

Mohonk is absolutely beautiful - it is a 4 season resort originally owned by the Smiley family, a Quaker family. (I too am a Friend and the history of this one time retreat center is legend)The resort was to serve as respite and inspiration, there are a number of gardens, the food is on the "healthy" side and some may consider odd...I know once my Dad was at the Center for a long weekend and the fish of the day was "calamari" all delicious but not what one would usually suspect as catch of the day!
Mohonk is outside of New Paltz which has neat shops and galleries -
The hotel also offers specials and theme events--
intypical Quaker fashion you will find a welcoming for people of all ages, faiths, and creeds

Just returned from Skytop in the Poconos. Very pleased. Beautiful location, great food & lots to do. We took our 4 year old and he loved it. They have cabin-like buildings on the property. They have 2 pools (indoor & out), kids gameroom, bike rentals, walking trails (waterfalls) and a lake. Unfortunately, it is fairly expensive although meals are included and rooms are generous. They are also very accommodating to children. We saw a few other places in the Poconos but nothing I would feel comfortable recommending. Best of luck.

I can recommend Skytop from personal experience. It is definitely upscale -- a beautiful resort with every activity you can think of for children (including a day camp which our kids loved) and adults. The golf course is beautiful -- but hard The food is delicious and the staff very friendly and helpful. I believe they have cabins, but we stayed in the main lodge and loved it.

I love Mohonk! I have not stayed there, but have been there several times to hike (I love the trail that brings you over and under(!) boulders, until you reach the "Lemon Squeeze" and the ladder at the end.) I have had brunch there - it was nothing spectacular - but I love the hotel and the beautiful, rather remote setting.