Steele discovered the name while preparing a
"Sunday School" lesson for the high school kids at Church. It sounded
interesting, therefore some research was done. It was a common name
in Rome for several centuries. The name originated in Roman mythology, meaning:
the godof the forests, groves and fields. He also presides over boundaries. As fertility god, he is the protector
of herds and cattle and is associated with Faunus. He shows many similarities to the Greek god "Pan" (he was
a "buff" guy by some
accounts, and a little scary by others). The first fruits of the fields were
offered to him, as well as meat and wine--a ritual women were not allowed to
witness. His attributes are a pruning knife and a bough from a pine tree. While
certainly not exact, the name was fitting for the motel. It is pronounced
"Sil-VAN (as in mini-van) -us". This would be the English pronunciation.
In Rome, it would be "Sil-VAIN-us". The English twist sounded less likely
to be pronounced "silver-anus"... and for obvious reasons, we opted
for the English
pronunciation!
Kidding. Because allergies can be a
problem for some people, we have only two rooms designated for pets. One
has two double beds, and one has a queen size bed. We have all sorts of
rules regarding pests (ops, PETS). Most of the rules apply more to the caretakers...
meaning, if the animal is not cared for (meaning CLEAN), no deal. This means the animal
needs to be kept happy so no barking will occur that could tick-off a neighbor.
Also, the pet needs to feel confident so that NO biting would occur. No
over crowding of pets is allowed - meaning ONE pet per room. When pets are
outside, owners/caretakers should be on a leash unless they are responsible pets
that will not fight with other pets, or pester other guests. Likewise, the
rooms are not huge, so the pet should not be bigger than knee-high.
Caretakers should remember to bring food and water bowls (and food).
Finally, caretakers need to be sure their animals have toys so that the room is
not destroyed by bored pets. OH YEAH, you can't leave a pet all by
itself in the room with out a travel carrier... history proves animals get lonely and jumpy in strange
places and they rebel via loud barking and excessive destruction. However,
it is a nice way to refurbish the rooms on YOUR bill!
Due to a few weird stories we've heard about, a
"pet fee" of $20 will be requested. Why? Well, we now dry clean all
bedding after every visit. We do wave the fee in some cases - when we know
the pet, or if we feel confident that your pet is not the kind of pet that likes
to sleep on the BED. Ewe... lets not go there... people
traditionally do not enjoy sleeping in doggy beds.
SEEING EYE DOG? MEDICAL PURPOSE! We
welcome anyone that wishes to bring a travel companion that is needed for health
purposes. We LOVE these dogs. Because we only have two rooms
available for four-legged friends, we recommend making reservations well in
advance. Pets are actually welcome in other rooms, however there is a $150
fee attached. Why you ask? Well, some people are allergic to animals
and we would need do some extreme cleaning after a pet vacates a "non-pet" room. So, it's better to book in advance and get the rooms specifically
set aside for pets. Rarely have we had this problem as most people know
booking in advance is critical for pet-lovers. So, don't sweat it, and
book early!
While it is a nice little motel, Silvanus Lodge is
known best because we are perfectly - PERFECTLY - located! Guests come here to ski, to
visit the outdoor theater, and to enjoy the country spread. We have the normal
stuff like telephones (free long distance in the states), cable TV (some with VCRs and DVD players)
and a very lovely piece of land (about five acres). Most rooms have CD
players as well.
Sorry,
coffee makers are not in the rooms (usually an unhealthy idea anyway). But fresh coffee is available in
the lobby in the morning hours. Blow dryers and ironing boards are
available, but you'll need to call for them... (blow-dried hair and
ironed starched shirts ARE typically a no-no in the woods - ick!). The property has 9 rooms
on huge piece of land and has a nice outdoor pool open during the summer months.
Some guests have enjoyed reading a book on the lawn, grilling some
dinner or resting by the pool. Sometimes it is nice to bring a blanket
(from HOME) and drag it out on the lawn to look at the stars in the evening.
But MOSTLY people spend their time exploring the area. The property is an oasis of privacy reserved for just the few hanging out between activities.
No, the babe and the hairy guy are included with our amenities... sorry.
It is NOT a great location if you are on a rush trip
to visit a single performance for Tanglewood, only
to have to rush back to the
city the next morning. If you only plan to do ONE thing while you are
here, it is best to pay more money and be right next to the attraction.
However, people stay here because Silvanus Lodge is PERFECTLY LOCATED between the City
of Hudson and the City of Great Barrington. Both are about 15 to 20
minutes on either side. We are 2 minutes from Catamount Ski Area, and 5
minutes north of Taconic State Park. If you want to experience the whole
region.. and you have a few days to do so, this is about the best location you
could imagine.
YES. We love to invest a little time
in our guests particular interests. After a few questions, we can help you
find all the things that would be of specific interest to you. It is
helpful to set an appointment and we'll even call on our FREE phones. You'll need
to be prepared to outline the objectives of your escape (for example, what kind
of escape did you want, NATURE, historic, cultural? Shopping? EATING?
Or maybe just de-stressing). We'll run through
a multitude of options in the area and see if we can work out a nice match of
activities. We'll even make dinner reservations for you, and check out
ticket availability. Sometimes we might even recommend you stay
somewhere else if we are too far from where you need to be... we've learned from good experience that people COME BACK
when they know what to expect. So, go ahead and call [518.325.3000], or
email.
You might check out the "things to do" page if you need some additional hints
about the local attractions!
$120/$125 - You can check
Online for discounts and
availability. WE ARE INEXPENSIVE BY COMPARISON, AND
HERE IS WHY: This is a personally owned business; where some cookie-cutter name brand
lodging businesses may charge up to $300 per night, WE DO NOT.
We don't have management contracts or corporate marketing fees. Therefore
we can charge less. Our rates are $120 for a room with a queen size
bed, and $125 for a room with two full size beds; and $175 for the small
apartment (aka LOVE shack, or family haven).
We have DEEP discounts during almost ALL
non-peak periods. Therefore, mid-week rates often go as low as $85 per
night. There are a few places that charge less... but we suggest you be a
bit careful as we really do strive to be the least expensive nice place to stay.
The policy is
STRICT because we are a tiny little motel!!! All bookings require an advance deposit due upon
check-in (credit card hold is good enough). If a
reservation cannot be kept, all is not lost. A quick call to the property
could provide for "re-sale" of the room. If such occurs, a re-booking fee
of $10 would be your only responsibility. Otherwise, the guest would be
responsible for the full reservation including tax. In some cases, repeat
guests would be charged, but would be able to re-book the room for another date
at no charge (non-peak time only). This is left to the discretion of the
owner. In 5 years,
there have been only a handful of problems (we are not quite perfect yet...);
but still check with us, in some cases last minute changes can be accommodated.
CALL and ASK! If you are looking on a map, we
are on Route 23 between the City of Hudson (New York) and the City of Great Barrington
(Mass).
Hillsdale is located immediately between the two. The motel is near the ONLY
stop light in Hillsdale... on Route 22 (intersection of 22 & 23) - about 100
yards north of that same stop light.
From BOSTON? If you are coming in off
I-90 FROM the east (like from Boston), you'll go SOUTH on Route 22 about 20
minutes or to the first stop light - THE stop light. At that point, you
will have JUST
past the motel on the left (or the east) side of the road.
From NYC? If you are on Route 22, just
go north to that famous stop light at the intersection of Route 22 & Route 23, go an
additional 100 yards and THERE you are... it's on the right. If you are
taking the Taconic Parkway, you'd get off at Route 23 (be careful with Mapquest
as it can get you lost here!) - or the Hillsdale /
Claverack Exit, and go toward Hillsdale - and that would be a RIGHT turn (or EAST)
from the Taconic Parkway if you were headed north. You'll go about 6 or 7 minutes to the FIRST stop
light... which is that same famous intersection of Routes 22 & 23. Turn LEFT or
NORTH on Route 22, and go 100 yards, and there it is again! On the RIGHT side of
the road (or east).
The actual address is 9350 State Route 22 for you
computer geeks with the talking maps. Though the property is not marked with
the "number" address, you can't miss the sign!
Are you planning to hike the whole of the
Appalachian Trail? Then read this:
PLANS: Plan to stop for a few
days and enjoy the Berkshires. If you'd like to work in a convenient
visit, here is what you need to do:
CONTACT the Lodge: It is critical
that you contact the property and make the arrangements. While we do
what needs to be done to make this a highlight of your hike, proper plans
are imperative.
Mid-Week: To get the MOST of your
break, plan to come in during the mid-week. Weekends are too busy to
get the special attention you may need.
Plan on renting a car: The
property can arrange to have a car delivered to the property. It isn't
cheap, but it is WORTH it. Most of the time the cost is about $60 per
day.
We'll pick you up: When you reach
that certain point on the trail, you'll be about 15 minutes from the Lodge.
You'd then call the property and we would come pick you up and bring you
back to the motel, no charge with a 3 night stay.
What else? Well, what else could we do?
We will make sure you make the most of your visit by giving you the lay of
the land. In fact, we'll even wash your dirty clothes for you. Again,
NO charge if you are an AP hiker and here for 3 nights.
We LOVE our nature enthusiasts. They get the
most out of the area and are the happiest guests we have. Therefore, brush
up on your organizing skills and let us know how we can help.
Are you a city dweller with no car? First,
you need to realize that for very little money you can have the best of both
worlds. Here is the plan:
RESERVE THE CAR: First, reserve a
car with Enterprise to "pick up" at the Harlem Valley-Wingdale stop on the
Metro-North Wassaic line! My recommendation is to call Enterprise
first to get the going rates - THEN call the branch office to see what they
offer (sometimes the prices are different!). The main number is
800-736-8222 (or try ONLINE). Then the Branch Office number is
973-709-2465; you can ask for Sarah as she is "the one" to talk to.
AND finally, after you get your best rate, mention the following code for
another possible 5% off - the code is: MNR24QC.
You might also check the Enterprise office for the "Pawling" stop - their
number is 845-855-1320. Sometimes they have some $25 rates!!!
GRAND CENTRAL: From Grand
Central or which ever stop is best for you, start your venture into the
county - just make sure the train is Metro-North going to Wassaic. This
will cost about $14 a ticket, or a little less if it is non-peak travel.
TO THE HARLEM VALLEY-WINGDALE STOP:
This stop is about 40 minutes from the Lodge. Once off the train
you'll call the Enterprise office and they will come pick you up. If
you have a cell phone, call about 20 minutes out... and they will be waiting
on you when you get there.
ROUTE 22 NORTH: The train stop is
on Route 22 - which is a road dotted with rolling hills and farms. You'll take this
wonderful road north through Millerton and up to Hillsdale. Hillsdale
only has ONE stop light. Just past that light and on the right side of the
road is the Lodge. You have to really work at it to get lost...
DEAL BREAKER: Enterprise in the
county is often closed on Sundays. Makes sure to check on "key drop"
policies... sometimes they do it, sometimes they don't. But if you are
really living large, just enjoy the country ONE more day... head for the
office from the woods.
MORNINGS: Slow starts are nice, but you miss so much.
We recommend - even if you are not an early riser - that you get up anyway!
There are a number of ways to get moving. The best is to go find some of
our cool spots for breakfast.
A favorite spot is "the Cottage" in Old Chatham.
Jim Leff of Chowhound.com
personally
recommended to the Silvanus Lodge "the Cottage" as an authentic local breakfast
spot... I think his favorite item on the menu was the English muffin bread. And just
in case you didn't know, there is NO BETTER food critic than Jim Leff.
"The Cottage" is a sweet little place and just what you would expect in a real
country setting. THEN off to the "Old
Chatham Sheepherding Company", a rather famous place that has about 1,000
sheep that are milked, creating an award winning SHEEP cheese business (say
that 3 times!?). If you get
there at 7 a.m. or 3 p.m., you can typically go right in to watch them milk the
sheep. It is great fun... and even more fun is to walk through the center
of the barn where the sheep hang out. On a quiet day, ALL the sheep will
watch you as you walk through... it is almost as if you feel naked as the stare
you down. They are SWEET animals. Then for more fun, venture into the next
barn over and see the baby lambs. NO TOUCHING... but still, very fun.
Unbelievable animals; they look like toys. Finish up the visit with a stop
by the "help yourself" refrigerator with the cheese products. They have a
handy slot in the wall where you deposit the $$$, and be careful because they
have "their eyes on ewe" (a little sheep humor
there...). Then proceed on the best country road off
Route
13 to see an Alpaca
Farm; it looks like a painting as it is perfectly maintained... and the
alpacas are great, but keep a friendly distance. While it is uncommon for
THESE alpacas, they do have a tendency to spit when they feel threatened...
and it can end up a very slimy experience (and just how cool is that!?!?). Then off to Chatham... many options
there... one of which is a small country bakery that looks as if you stepped
back into the 50's. And if later in the day, you can go to the
Blue Plate for
their wonderful meatloaf, and then go to the Crandell movie house for a $4
movie! Or even venture off to see the
Martin Van Buren home in
Kinderhook... a GREAT tour of one of the lesser known U.S. Presidents - the 8th
president in fact. If this sounds fun, Steele (that's me) will walk you
through the area maps and help you find your way.... it could easily end up an all day venture
on the long and winding roads of Columbia County.
There are many morning options... a nice walk
to Bash Bish Falls, or even High Falls... breakfast at Martins (apple-pear
pancakes!!!) or even the Hillsdale County Diner for the BEST priced country
breakfast. And there is also 'Mom's' that has a wonderful deck over a
creek... lots of choices.
NOON time: And the best part
of an early morning start, is the LONG lazy nap in the middle of the day before you venture off to any one of the
hundreds of evening performing arts in the area...
But for those eager to keep up the adventure, slow down
a bit... one can go nap on the banks of the
Taconic State Park Or Pit. This is a heavenly spot perfect for reading
a book, light snacking and SLEEPING. Right in the same area is access to
1,000's of miles of
hiking (TRULY), and even the
Harlem Valley Rail Trail... even
bike rentals are
immediately available.
Or maybe you are in the mood for some "cool small
town" adventures.
Hudson is 20 minutes away and affords one an opportunity to drift through
dozens of antique stores - and a growing number of other novelty shops.
Eating is also prime in Hudson. Our guests number one pick is "Earth Food"
(which does NOT taste healthy, yet is). A smart way to do it is to load up
a take-out order and drive over to
Olana for a picnic while perched up high over the Hudson River with a
fabulous view of the Catskill Mountains. Then to walk off a BIG lunch,
tour Olana... it makes for a "picture perfect" afternoon.
EVENINGS: Finishing out the
day can be tricky. So much happens in the evenings that good planning is
key to getting the most of a visit. Eating and the performing arts are the
big focus in the evening. However, both - eating AND the arts - could
individually consume an entire evening. Therefore... starting early is
important.
For example, suppose you have tickets to an 8 p.m.
performance at Tanglewood...
HOW do you get it all in? "Early bird gets the worm", also true in the
evening. The best way is to START early. One guest decided they
wanted to extend their evening as long as possible, made 5 p.m. reservations at
Local 111, and finishing
dinner at 6 p.m. (skipping desert), took a brisk walk to
High Falls
(also in the same area) to burn off some of the evening meal. This left
plenty of time to take the back country roads right into Tanglewood. After
an incredible performance, they took the main road back through Great Barrington
for two scoops of ice-cream at
SoCo (double WOW homemade
ice-cream). Knowing the next morning starts early, they came directly back
to the motel for bed. However they could not resist the temptation for a
midnight swim... thus making them very tired when they were up early the next
morning. This couple regularly naps about 2 hours in the afternoon before
the evening starts.
There are many tricks... also great things to plan
at sundown in Sunset Rock... a breathtaking view across the Hudson Valley with
the perfect view of the sunset. "Over planning" is a great idea... this
way you can slow things down if needed.
A really fun way to get your lay of the land is to
FLY around the region. You can fly around the
Berkshires or out to the Hudson River and the Catskills... It is FAR more
affordable than you might think... AND since you are at one of the more
reasonable lodging facilities, WHY not spoil yourself.
There are other options to take in the views...
like Sunset Rock in the Taconic State Park, which offers spectacular sunsets
over the Hudson Valley... you can often see 20 miles or MORE and even to the
Catskill mountain ranges. Or go to Olana and see the sunset UP CLOSE to
the Catskills with dreamy views of the Hudson River...
And there is MORE... just let Steele walk you
through a few options. An adventure is in the making.
Sorry,
coffee makers are not in the rooms (usually an unhealthy idea anyway). But fresh coffee is available in
the lobby in the morning hours. Blow dryers and ironing boards are
available, but you'll need to call for them... (blow-dried hair and
ironed starched shirts ARE typically a no-no in the woods - ick!). The property has 9 rooms
on huge piece of land and has a nice outdoor pool open during the summer months.
Some guests have enjoyed reading a book on the lawn, grilling some
dinner or resting by the pool. Sometimes it is nice to bring a blanket
(from HOME) and drag it out on the lawn to look at the stars in the evening.
But MOSTLY people spend their time exploring the area. The property is an oasis of privacy reserved for just the few hanging out between activities.
No, the babe and the hairy guy are included with our amenities... sorry.
to have to rush back to the
city the next morning. If you only plan to do ONE thing while you are
here, it is best to pay more money and be right next to the attraction.
However, people stay here because Silvanus Lodge is PERFECTLY LOCATED between the City
of Hudson and the City of Great Barrington. Both are about 15 to 20
minutes on either side. We are 2 minutes from Catamount Ski Area, and 5
minutes north of Taconic State Park. If you want to experience the whole
region.. and you have a few days to do so, this is about the best location you
could imagine. 