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The mind begins to play tricks this time of year — and the early chill hasn’t helped. On one hand, it’s so cold that hibernation sounds delightful. On the other, cabin fever sounds frightful.
Get the best of both worlds by vacationing closer to home at these luxurious Long Island hotels.
Some are set in former Gold Coast mansions, some have spas and some has an oceanfront view that reminds us we live where others vacation. Let’s make the most of winter.
The Mansion at Glen Cove
Designed in 1910 by renowned architect Charles Adams Platt, this mansion turned hotel and event space once belonged to John Pratt, an attorney and executive with the Rockefeller family’s Standard Oil Company. Today, guests are treated to a Gatsby experience with modern amenities. Downstairs, the halls and rooms have Victorian rugs and chairs, cozy fireplaces and massive chandeliers. The bedrooms include an HD LCD TV, Shea butter infused Archive bath products and an iHome dock.
For more information, visit glencovemansion.com
Oheka Castle
More than a wedding space and tourist attraction, Oheka Castle in Huntington has 32 guest rooms and is an ideal spot for treating that special someone to the royal treatment. The mattresses are so comfortable guests often want to take them home — and Oheka lets them (for an additional fee, of course). When not sleeping like a king or queen, guests can meander down to the OHK Bar & Restaurant for a taste of Europe in America. The brick interior, white tablecloth-clad space exudes the grandeur one would expect from Oheka, and the food follows suit. The slow-braised short ribs are so tender there’s no need for a knife, and the mini lobster rolls taste like summer.
For more information, visit oheka.com
The Inn at Fox Hollow
This boutique Woodbury hotel tends to have people at hello. The staff is known for being amiable from the get-go, and the accommodations and amenities are modern and spotless. Think comfortable beds, sofas made for drinking coffee and reading, a fitness center and complimentary breakfast buffet. For other meals, Volpe Bar & Restaurant pairs old-world recipes with local ingredients. Vintage25 Bar & Lounge is ideal for guests looking for an evening on the town without leaving the hotel. There’s gastro-pub food for those looking for a late-night snack.
For more information, visit thefoxhollow.com
Garden City Hotel
This high-end hotel has been providing service with style for more than 145 years. It has played host to a who’s-who of world leaders, from John F. Kennedy to George H.W. Bush and Margaret Thatcher. But even folks without “U.S. President” or “Prime Minister” in their professional titles can find comfort in rooms with plush pillow-top mattresses, Italian furnishings and sparkling baths. Dining at the Red Salt Room feels like a whimsical culinary adventure. Chef David Burke’s menu includes creative twists on favorites like pretzel crusted crab cakes with orange tomato marmalade. There’s also a spa for those looking to rejuvenate.
For more information, visit gardencityhotel.com
Viana Hotel and Spa
This vibrant hotel is the perfect antidote for a gray winter day. The lobby has a coral coach and linens in the rooms provide subtle-but-appreciated accents. It’s worth venturing outside the room at this spot — there’s a spa that feels like a tranquil retreat. Zen-out while healing dull and dry skin by getting a facial, or loosen stiff muscles with a massage.
For more information, visit vianahotelandspa.com
Allegria Hotel
Every day can be a beach day on Long Island, even in the winter. Case in point: Allegria Hotel. Set on the boardwalk in Long Beach, guests can take in oceanfront views once again. Beach bums will want to make it a point to dine at Atlantica on the Ocean, which sits directly on the boardwalk (don’t worry, it’s enclosed — and heated). Ordering seafood feels right. The menu has plenty of it, including oysters, a New England clam chowder that warms the soul and tuna. The rooms’ clean lines and light neutrals — think whites, creams and beiges — instantly put people in a state of calm.
For more information, visit
