The Other Rochester | Ulster County Real Estate
Posted by Amy Wallace on Friday, May 13th, 2016 at 6:05pm
Rochester's in Upstate NY right?
Way, way Upstate? Well...yes and no. There's the Rochester in Monroe County on Lake Ontario, and then there's the other Rochester, the Rochester in Ulster County. It's better known by the names of two of its hamlets, Accord and Kerhonkson. But it's not as well known as it deserves to be!
Kerhonkson and Accord, NY Real Estate
Rochester is a collection of hamlets, the 2 largest being Kerhonkson and Accord. The town itself was founded in 1703 and has grown to a population of over 7,500 people. It boasts some of the most gorgeous and challenging hiking and mountain biking trails in the country located in the beautiful Shawangunk mountains. The towns hamlets boast everything from independent bookshops to Michelin Star rated restaurants. The best way to experience all of it is to come for a day, or longer, and explore.
The area is so lovely we’ve never been able to figure out why it is not on the tip of everyone’s tongues? A few years ago the Jane Fonda/Catherine Keener movie “Peace, Love, and Misunderstanding” was filmed largely in Rochester (check out the trailers on YouTube for a taste of the scenery and feel of the town) and still no major buzz! Perhaps it’s because the people who own homes there keep it quiet to preserve its beauty. Minnewaska State Park Preserve is perhaps the best known attraction in Rochester, it deserves that noteriety because it is almost heartbreakingly gorgeous. Both Minnewaska and Shaupeneak Ridge Park have the traditional ‘walk in the park’ type trails that allow you to enjoy the setting and the outdoors without getting extreme.
The Hudson Valley is one of the most historic areas in the country, and Ulster County’s Rochester is steeped in colonial history. The area is known for having the most continuously inhabited old stone houses in New York. Now before you start thinking that living in a house from powdered-wig-times is definitely not up your alley, I suggest you visit the 1712 House. Most everything in this Inn was built from materials grown or quarried on the property. It’s a perfect example of life in that era, and an example of the type of historic homes that pop on (and quickly off) the market in Rochester. This truly stunning bed and breakfast is situated on 80 acres of mountains, streams, ponds and trails for you to explore during the day. At night, enjoy your guest room provided with modern amenities like full temperature control, wireless internet and smart televisions. You might be surprised how much you enjoy spending time in a structure that once housed your wigged forefathers!
To go along with the antique homes in the area there are antique stores! Yes! You could try Downtown Antiques in Accord or maybe The Barking Dog Antiques in High Falls (technically, High Falls is not in Rochester but it’s really, really close). If you’re into an antique/modern décor mix you should also check out Fred and Nectar in High Falls. If you are lucky enough to be in town on the special weekends when Field & Supply Modern Makers Craft Fair is taking place you will be in for a real treat. Then how about something to eat? One of the local standouts is the Rough Cut Brewing Company in Kerhonkson. This craft brew pub and restaurant offers locally sourced comfort foods: steaks, wings, burritos and burgers, and pairs all of them with amazing craft beers that are made onsite.
Photo via Fred's Instagram
Perhaps you are really up for adventure. How about enjoying the sceneary on horseback? The Pine Grove Family Dude Ranch in Kerhonkson has trail riding for any skill level and over 600 acres of some of the most beautiful countryside in the state. You can spend a day learning to ride, or a weekend enjoying everything this full family resort has to offer.
Photo via Pine Grove's Facebook
If you’ve been thinking of moving Upstate or getting a second home here you should check out all the all the well-known towns and communities to see what suits you best, but be sure not to overlook Ulster County’s Rochester just because you haven’t heard any buzz about it. It’s not to be passed over - take it from the local experts!
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