Gurney’s Montauk

By Stacey Zable

A stay at Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa in Montauk, N.Y. is a relaxing one any time of year. Spread across 20 acres with a 2,000-foot private beach, the 146-room property is its own luxury getaway located literally at the end of Long Island. A four-season resort, Gurney’s may be the perfect drive-to getaway this holiday season for New Yorkers seeking a change of view. The resort and the town itself are quieter during its off-peak season, enabling guests to unplug.

The highlight of Gurney’s Montauk’s seasonal offerings is its Igloo pop-ups available Oct. 15, 2020 through March 31, 2021, on the property’s East Deck. The heated igloos overlook the ocean and boast custom décor, music, specialty cocktails, and menu items based on a theme. This year’s igloo themes include “Haunted Igloos of Hither Hills” available through November. This spooky theme focuses on a couple that checked into Gurney’s over one hundred years ago but never checked out. “The Big Chill ‘80s Igloos,” available December through March, take guests back to the famed era. Guests are encouraged to wear their scrunchies, leg warmers, and neon puffer jackets to get in the ‘80s vibe.

The igloos can be reserved for up to four people (they normally hold eight) for two-hour increments. Reservations are staggered to allow for a disinfection process between each reservation in which the igloos are disinfected with M.I.S.T Fogger & Disinfecting Solution. There is a $25 per adult charitable donation fee that supports East Hampton Meals on Wheels, The Retreat, Project Most, and Concerned Citizens of Montauk.

DINING UNDER THE STARS
A few of the igloos will also be dedicated to Scarpetta on the Beach dining. A meal at the famed Italian restaurant, whether in the igloo or in reduced capacity indoors available at press time, is an event. Menu choices include the seared scallop appetizer and handmade melt-in-your-mouth pasta dishes like the short rib & bone marrow agnolotti. End your meal with the hazelnut or caramel gelato on their own or paired with the Valrhona chocolate cake. Breakfast is currently being offered at Scarpetta and excites with its own selection of delicious choices, including an abundant fresh fruit platter, omelets, and a crab cake eggs benedict that will keep you so full you might skip lunch.

For a casual take on a meal that rewards with a water view, Gurney’s Fire Pit outdoor lounge overlooking the Atlantic Ocean offers cocktails and a light bite and seasonal favorite menu. The hotel is also offering in-room dining choices where guests can enjoy their meals on their private outdoor patio or in-room table and chairs (both available in the majority of rooms). Guest room types include standard, deluxe, and superior one- or two-bedroom Ocean View Rooms and Suites, Oceanfront Rooms and Suites and one, two, three, and deluxe bedroom cottages. There are no elevators on the property, with most rooms and beach access via stairs.

Guests who book one of Gurney’s cottages or private residences can enjoy a Gurney’s Thanksgiving dinner prepared by a chef and served in the private accommodations. The menu will feature a whole roasted turkey carved tableside with stuffing and other seasonal favorites such as cranberries, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie. The hotel will also be offering the service for Christmas dinners. 

WELLNESS COMES FIRST
On-property activities beyond dining include long walks on the wide, white-sand beach. Guests can start their days with daily complimentary wellness classes on the beach (unless there is inclement weather) such as yoga, Pilates, beach bootcamp, and stretching classes. The town of Montauk is just a little over two miles away. (See sidebar.)

Looking ahead to spring 2021, Gurney’s Seawater Spa, currently being completely renovated, is slated to reopen. Its healing treatments and ocean-fed seawater pool, which the resort says is the only pool of its kind in North America. 

For more information on Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, Visit: gurneysresortslcom/montauk

EXPLORING MONTAUK
During the off-season in Montauk, the typical summer crowds are gone, but the town’s infrastructure and natural beauty remain to be explored. The Atlantic Ocean and the wide, white-sand beach that goes on for miles welcomes all those who visit. Stores and many restaurants are open for business.

Another way to take in the beach year-round is as part of a private or group guided horseback beach ride available from Deep Hollow Ranch, said to be the oldest cattle ranch in the U.S. 
Info: deephollowranch.com.

A must-see local attraction is the Montauk Lighthouse National Historic Landmark, located at the furthest tip of Long Island and the oldest lighthouse in New York State, dating back to 1796. The iconic attraction’s museum, located in the 1860 Keepers’ house, will be open through Thanksgiving weekend. The museum displays historical documents, photographs, and an exhibit of whaling industry artifacts from the 19th century. The museum’s gift shop for holiday presents and the grounds will remain open on a limited schedule, weather permitting through Christmas. Unfortunately, according to a spokesman at the lighthouse, the lighthouse will not be holding its annual festive lighting due to COVID-19 this holiday season. The 110-foot, 6 inch-Lighthouse Tower also remains closed. Info: montauklighthouse.com.