Deep in the heart of the Hudson Valley, just two hours north of New York City, lies a serene sanctuary where rustic charm meets refined luxury: Wildflower Farms. Honored as the No. 1 resort in New York State in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards, this eco-conscious retreat is redefining the luxury travel experience through a harmonious blend of sustainable practices, culinary innovation, and immersive nature.
Spanning 140 acres of meadows and woodlands beneath the Shawangunk Ridge, Wildflower Farms is part of the acclaimed Auberge Resorts Collection. It features 65 bespoke cabins and cottages, each intentionally designed to blend with the surrounding environment. From Ridge Suites with private hot tubs and panoramic views to cozy woodland cottages framed by wildflowers, every space is crafted for comfort, privacy, and immersion in nature.
Inspired Accommodations: Nature-Focused Luxury
Each standalone unit at Wildflower Farms showcases floor-to-ceiling windows, private decks, and interiors made with natural materials such as timber, stone, and organic fabrics. The Ridge Suites, perched at the property’s highest point, offer sweeping views of the Shawangunk Mountains and are ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape. Select accommodations include outdoor showers, allowing guests to truly connect with the landscape.
Culinary Excellence at Clay
At the heart of the resort is Clay, a farm-to-table restaurant that reflects the region’s agricultural abundance. Helmed by a team of culinary artisans, Clay crafts New American cuisine using organic produce and herbs grown on-site, alongside selections from trusted Hudson Valley purveyors.
Seasonally rotating dishes highlight local ingredients—think heirloom vegetables, pasture-raised meats, and fresh dairy—with menus evolving daily based on the farm’s harvest. Diners can expect a curated wine list, with an emphasis on biodynamic and New York State labels, providing the perfect pairing to each meal.
Wellness the Natural Way: Thistle Spa
Wellness at Wildflower Farms is grounded in the healing power of nature. The resort’s Thistle Spa features holistic treatments using local botanicals, many sourced from the property’s gardens. Guests can indulge in outdoor massages, herbal facials, and rejuvenating soaks—all designed to harmonize body and mind with the environment.
Beyond the spa, wellness enthusiasts will find sunrise yoga classes, guided hikes, and seasonal foraging workshops that elevate the mind-body connection. According to New York State Tourism, nature-based wellness has surged in popularity, and Wildflower Farms perfectly embodies this travel trend.
Immersive Experiences: From Foraging to Botanical Mixology
Wildflower Farms doesn’t just serve fresh food—it lets guests take part in harvesting and preparing it. The signature “Forage the Farm” experience invites guests to gather in-season vegetables alongside the farm’s director and later join the chef to create a personalized dish. This “soil-to-table” experience deepens the connection between food and place.
For those drawn to beverages, the botanical cocktail class teaches participants how to mix farm-fresh cocktails using herbs like lavender, lemon balm, and sage grown just steps from their cabins. This is more than a fun activity—it’s a take-home lesson in sustainable living.
Sustainability at Its Core
Environmental stewardship is central to Wildflower Farms’ mission. The resort was built using reclaimed and local materials, and operations are powered in part by renewable energy sources. The on-site farm employs organic growing techniques that reduce chemical inputs, promote soil health, and support regional biodiversity.
Guests are encouraged to participate in eco-conscious practices, such as composting, water conservation, and waste reduction. These initiatives not only preserve the Hudson Valley’s natural beauty but also educate travelers on sustainable living—a value increasingly sought by today’s conscious luxury consumer.
According to the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), integrating sustainability into hospitality design is a growing movement in the state’s green tourism economy, and Wildflower Farms sets the benchmark.
A Year-Round Hudson Valley Retreat
Located in Gardiner, Ulster County, Wildflower Farms is well-positioned for seasonal travel. Autumn offers stunning fall foliage along the Shawangunk Ridge, winter brings cozy evenings by the fireplace, and spring and summer provide vibrant wildflower blooms, hiking trails, and access to nearby Minnewaska State Park.
Travelers can reach the resort easily via car from New York City or by train to Poughkeepsie Station, with transfers available. Its location also makes it a convenient base for exploring the region’s wineries, art galleries, and farm markets.
Plan Your Visit
Wildflower Farms is more than a resort—it’s a transformative destination for those seeking serenity, sustainability, and elevated hospitality in the Hudson Valley. Whether you’re after a romantic weekend, a rejuvenating wellness escape, or a culinary journey rooted in the land, this award-winning property invites you to slow down, reconnect, and savor every moment.
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