Since having Mia, I haven’t really pushed myself physically, and it’s not just about getting back into shape—it’s this desire to find my strength again, to be able to move quickly and have agility. My body has changed in so many ways, and I’ve been craving something to reignite that sense of energy and vitality that I haven’t felt since having Lucy, if I’m being honest. Between the demands of motherhood, moving into a new home, and managing a growing business, I needed time to focus on myself—on my own wellness.
Wellness-focused properties have been sprouting up all over the Hudson Valley, many of which I’ve covered and shared before. But this past April, a new retreat truly piqued my interest—The Ranch Hudson Valley. If that name rings a bell, it’s probably because you’ve heard of its prestigious sister location, The Ranch Malibu, renowned for its spirit-forward wellness programs and transformative guest experiences.
Just an hour northwest of the city, The Ranch is where wellness meets architectural grandeur. It merges restorative retreats with the inspiring beauty of a storied Gilded Age estate, where historic charm and modern wellness blend seamlessly. Originally built as a luxurious summer retreat for J.P. Morgan Chase, the estate offers a glimpse into the past, now thoughtfully reimagined by Alex and Sue Glasscock to blend history with holistic rejuvenation. After a meticulous three-year restoration, they opened its doors in April, and by July, I’d booked our stay!
Honestly, I put it out of my mind at first, knowing our retreat wasn’t until late September. I figured we’d have time to “get in shape,” but with everything going on, the date snuck up on me. Just last week, Freddie and I found ourselves at Dick’s Sporting Goods, picking up hiking boots because the guest checklist required them. I couldn’t help but think, “What have I gotten myself into?” How was I supposed to take four days to focus on myself when I couldn’t even check things off my to-do list?
And that’s when it hit me: there’s never going to be a “right time.” The very fact that I was overwhelmed was a sign that I needed this retreat. I realized it was time to refill my cup so I could continue showing up for everyone who depends on me.
From what I’d read online, The Ranch Hudson Valley offers a fully immersive wellness experience, combining nature with a structured program designed to challenge and restore. Their offerings include everything from personalized fitness programs and daily hikes through scenic landscapes to restorative yoga, soothing massages, and detoxifying, farm-to-table meals. It’s all about sustainable, lasting rejuvenation—not just for the body, but for the mind and soul as well. Even as someone who’s more inclined toward “Aperol on the beach,” I was drawn to the idea of a reset in this idyllic setting.
What intrigued me most was the promise of holistic transformation—physical, mental, and spiritual. The Ranch isn’t about quick fixes but fostering lasting habits and meaningful change, with the added benefit of expert staff that includes nutritionists, wellness coaches, and therapists. The choice between a 4- or 5-day retreat was offered, and Freddie and I opted for the 4-day option to ease into the experience.
We arrived Monday at 1 PM and were asked to arrive in our hiking gear. Arriving at the property is an experience in itself, knowing this used to be someone’s home baffles me. We arrived to the most friendly and welcoming staff who were organizing bags and juggling paperwork to get all guests who were a part of our group settled in. There are 22 rooms and one guesthouse at the estate, so groups will be anywhere from 15 to 40 people. This group is your new family for the duration of your stay—you will eat together, hike together, exercise, and restore together. You can keep to yourself as much as you desire, but there’s something about having this group—this sense of community while you’re here—that makes the program unique and welcoming.
As evident from the photos, the history of this building is undeniable—the original molding, grand wrought iron staircase, and those stunning historic floors already set a breathtaking stage. But when Steven Gambrel, the interior designer for the newly restored Ranch Hudson Valley, stepped in, things reached a whole new level. Gambrel brought his signature approach of blending timeless elegance with modern flair to each room. The entryway and grand staircase immediately impress, while the grand room, now an exercise space, features a hearth fireplace, coffered ceilings, and massive windows that let in all that glorious natural light. The solarium-turned-dining room creates a perfect spot for farm-to-table meals, and the living room with its cozy fireplace and board games is the ultimate invitation to unwind and stay a while. Gambrel’s ability to mix the building’s historic bones with fresh, inviting decor makes this retreat a place where history and wellness harmonize beautifully!
And wellness we did! Each day began promptly at 5 AM, we were gently awoken with chimes that the group lead rings outside your room to wake you up. From a morning stretch to a hearty vegan breakfast that was actually as delicious as it was filling, both prepared us for our morning hike. Guests can choose between either two-hour or four-hour hikes that are guided.
Now this is where my curiosity lay—and perhaps it’s because I’m not an avid hiker, but my thought was, how does a large group of people—of different experience levels—hike together? Leave it to The Ranch to perfectly arrange a hiking excursion suited for all levels of hikers. Each guest receives a walkie-talkie at the beginning of their stay, and that was our main source of communication between us and the guides—not just for hikes, but also to keep us on time for daily activities so that we weren’t checking our phones or worrying about timing.
Before your hike, a guide goes out and sets up flags along the entire hike that indicate the direction from start to finish. No more than 50 feet go by without seeing a flag, so you can truly take your time and go at your own pace. Freddie and I fell in love with this experience. Nature and the woods feel a little intimidating. One thing I’m taking away from this trip is a desire to hike more often and a group member’s suggestion of downloading the AllTrails App, which shows and guides you through hiking trails in your area. Definitely using this when we get home!
Upon returning, the contrast therapy foot baths were a treat—Epsom salts, fresh herbs, and lavender oil provided much-needed relief. Lunch followed promptly with dishes ranging from tacos to Cobb salads, all incredibly flavorful despite being vegan and gluten-free. I’d read reviews mentioning sparse meals, but they couldn’t have been more wrong—I felt fully nourished after every meal. Plus, with the open kitchen policy, snacks were always available if needed.
After lunch followed a program mix of daily massages, restorative yoga, sound baths, and fitness classes. One surprising favorite of mine was the hot and cold plunges. I hadn’t expected to enjoy them, but they became a highlight of my stay. Without caffeine or coffee, the energy spike I felt from these plunges kept me going through the physical challenges of the retreat.
The four days we spent at The Ranch Hudson Valley were transformative. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. I left feeling restored, recharged, and ready to take on whatever life throws at me. This experience wasn’t just about getting in shape; it was about resetting and reconnecting with myself in a space that honors both history and wellness. It’s truly a place where luxury meets healing, and I can’t wait to return.
