FROM NYC TO SERENITY

Part of the joy of travel is the ability to suspend reality and adopt a life you could have experienced in an alternate universe—or you are one of the elite for whom this is your universe. The majestic landscapes of “the good life” are just the fringe benefits of hard work and prosperity.

Shelter Island, nestled between the North and South Forks of Long Island, is a nautical paradise only two hours from New York City. The journey from the mainland of Long Island to Shelter Island begins with a short ferry ride—between five and eight minutes—from either the North Fork (Greenport) or the South Fork (Sag Harbor). No ferry reservations are required. Whether arriving by car or as a walk-on passenger, the anticipation builds as you approach this coastal sanctuary. The ferry glides across the water, and suddenly, you’re transported to a place where time slows down and worries dissipate.

CLASSIC LUXURY
Of all the places on Shelter Island, Pridwin Hotel and Cottages is most highly recommended. First established in 1927 and recently renovated in 2022 as part of a partnership with Cape Resorts, it combines classic luxury with modern amenities and perks.

Upon entering the main lobby, the visitor is met with the nautical theme, highlighted by a large model ship next to a comfortable seating area with a full water view. Within reach of the especially friendly concierge desk is a game area with a ping-pong table and a retro video game console. A small gift shop offers souvenirs, necessary supplies, designer-quality sundresses, and T-shirts.

The accommodations range from guest rooms that follow the nautical theme throughout to most of which have views of Crescent Beach. The Pridwin provides all the comforts one expects from a luxury hotel, from the marble counters in the bath and oversized showers to the quality mattresses and soft linens. For more elbow room, the cottages are available in seven unique styles and boast gas fireplaces, private balconies, and kitchenettes. 

Terrace Restaurant at the Pridwin offers indoor and outdoor dining overlooking Cresent Beach. The menus are eclectic and classy, with a slight focus on the tastes of the sea. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served with charm and ambiance. Put the diet foods aside and indulge in the dessert menu, including dessert cocktails.

A short walk past the concierge is Pridwin Spa, offering a massage menu that includes couples, deep tissue, classic, customized, and prenatal; hydrating wrap; sea salt exfoliation; organic facials; and more. The tranquil setting, dry sauna and steam room, and tasty/refreshing snacks in the relaxation room add just the right ingredients to a weekend getaway of pure indulgence.  

GRAPE ESCAPES
In the spirit of the East End, visitors returning to the big city might stop at a few of the respected wineries along the way.  

Sparkling Pointe Winery Here wines are sustainably grown on three vineyard sites comprising forty acres within the North Fork of Long Island American Viticultural Area. A maritime climate tempered by two bodies of water, the Long Island Sound, and the Atlantic Ocean, provides long, warm summers with cooling breezes and moderate rainfall.  

Macari Vineyards The property has sweeping naturalistic gardens surrounding two modern farmhouse-inspired buildings with dedicated tasting rooms, outdoor decking, and patio spaces for celebrations. Each setting is ideal for corporate retreats, product launches, and wedding receptions.

Pindar Vineyards This vineyard has more than three hundred scenic acres. Twenty varieties of grapes produce some twenty-three varietals and proprietary blends. The vineyard produces 70,000 cases of wine a year, making it the largest on Long Island.  

If you are visiting Pridwin this fall, take advantage of a special visitor package: Fall Murder Mystery Weekend, which runs from October 25th through October 27th. Guests will participate in a maze of clues and riddles throughout the weekend.  

Lenz Winery This Classic Long Island winery that offers some world class Old Vine wines that consistently stack up with impressive scores in blind tastings against legendary California and European vineyards. Following a high touch philosophy to maintain some of the most mature vines in the area ensures quality grapes and quality wines. We love “Dinner in the Vines” timed with their annual fall harvest celebration. This event is a true collaboration of local chefs, partnering with local wine producers to wine and dine you with a 5-course wine dinner, all served in the middle of the Lenz vineyards.

Bedell Vineyards Once you taste these delectable wines you will agree why they’ve received many rave reviews. Beyond the quality, green farming techniques and sleek design, Bedell features the amazing outdoor patio overlooking the expansive vineyard. When the cooler temperatures arrive, look for tastings in front of the cozy fireplace. Wine club members have their privileges here when it comes to events and pricing so take advantage!  

For more information on Pridwin Hotel and Cottages, visit caperesorts/pridwin