Olde Rhinebeck Inn : relax and restore at this historic Hudson Valley inn

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We live in a busy world that where every minute of the day you seem to be bombarded with the demands of modern life. We recently stayed and inn in the heart of the Hudson Valley which is the perfect tonic for the hectic lives we lead.

The Olde Rhinebeck Inn located just outside the beautiful village of Rhinebeck NY in Dutchess County is the perfect escape. Rhinebeck is a thriving little village filled with shops, fine dining, an arts movie house, and is home to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. The building itself dates back to 1738 when the original structure (now the dining room) was built by Johann Michael Pultz a tenant farmer. As his family grew as did the family farm, the house expanded adding a room every 5 to 10 years. The family would occupy the house for 12 generations or close to 240 years.

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It is this special historic farmhouse that is situated on a quiet country lane that is now operated as an B & B by Jonna and Cindy. Jonna who grew up in Park Slope, Brooklyn and whose family turned their house into the city’s first B & B is a natural innkeeper. Cindy at grew up in the house itself and would go on to own a inn right in the village of Rhinebeck as well as manage other properties. Hospitality comes naturally to these innkeepers and it shows in the numerous ways they make their guests feel at home. The Inn’s website provides more detailed history and would encourage the reader to visit their site.

Upon reaching the inn , you feel instantly transported to another era. The house is beautifully maintained as is the garden that lines your path as you make your way to the front door. As soon as you step over the threshold the house embraces you in warmth and authenticity. The small entrance foyer leads to a charming main room with its original fireplace, mantle and wood surrounds still wearing its original blue paint. Wide board wood floors and low ceiling instantly remind you that you are in a special place. The room is tastefully decorated with comfy furniture, antiques, and repurposed items. The effect is instantly welcoming as if you were returning to a family homestead.

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The dining room (the original part of the house) is adorned with a long communal table repurposed from barn wood which is the setting for a healthy and delicious breakfast. Two Dutch doors lead to the outside as well as allow natural light to fill the room.

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The first floor also features two large room suites with their own bath. Our room was the Ryefield Suite, which features a large king size canopy bed, a separate sitting room (with a twin bed for an additional guest) and a modern bath with rainfall shower. The room was beautifully decorated and featured fresh cut flowers, and a plate of welcome treats of fresh fruit, candy and chocolate dipped strawberries. A really welcoming touch.

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The bed was very comfortable as were the pillows. The bed was covered in fine white cotton sheets and a soft comforter. On a steamy July day the inn we were thankful for the very effective air conditioners that were quiet and kept our room at the perfect sleeping temp. The rooms come with flat screen televisions, free netflix, wi-fi (if you must be connected) and comfy robes.

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There are two additional guest rooms on the second floor . Each room is unique and has its own charm and character. On the first floor there is also a coffee and tea station available to the guests at all times.

After a peaceful nights rest, we joined the other guests in the charming dining room for breakfast. We were in for a delightful morning. Fresh juice and coffee were served followed by a fresh fruit salad. An egg and cheese souffle was delightful with a side of sausage. The meal was finished with a beautiful Dutch pancake with stone fruit. A hearty and delicious way to start our day.

After breakfast we strolled the property of the inn. Outside is a stone patio with overhead string lights and a comfortable grouping of outdoor couches. A perfect spot to relax after you travels. The inn also provides a peaceful and relaxing setting with a wide lawns spreading down to a small pond.

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Along the pond are 4 wicker rockers facing the water creating the perfect location spot to read or to just take in the serenity.

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Our stay at the inn was brief. We returned to sit and talk with our wonderful hosts, Jonna and Cindy who shared stories of their passion for hospitality, local history, and or course provided us with suggestions on what to do in this special corner of the Hudson Valley. The inn is a perfect base for exploring the area including wineries, historic sites, the Culinary Institute, Walkway across the Hudson, or cultural events at The Fisher Center at Bard College.

The Inn was voted as a 2019 Top Ten Best Romantic Inn by iloveinns website.

Jonna and Cindy have provided an experience you cannot obtain in and air bnb or a hotel. In our brief stay we immersed ourselves in the authentic richness of the Olde Rhinebeck Inn and combined with the warmth and hospitality of our hosts, we left feeling rested and restored by our experience.