The Catskills have seen an increase in high-end hotels, including the Chatwal Lodge, Wildflower Farms, and a wellness hub from Malibu called the Ranch. However, the prices at these new spots can be quite high, with a room at Wildflower Farms during the summer season costing around $1,200 per night. To find a more affordable option in the area, a new boutique motel named Leeway has opened, offering rooms for as little as $325 a night on a weekend in October.
Leeway is located on a 6-acre plot right on Esopus Creek, previously known as Kate’s Lazy Meadow, a 1950s motel rehab by Kate Pierson of the B-52s that opened in 2004. The property had been operating more like a boarding house for friends than a commercial establishment before it was put up for sale for $2.2 million. The buyers, Josh Reznick and Noah Nierenberg, decided to purchase the property as a new venture in real estate, despite the significant renovation work needed to bring the motel up to standard.
Reznick and Nierenberg embarked on a renovation project to update the property, giving it a more modern rustic style. They kept certain details from the previous ownership, such as wood paneling and unique room features. The property sits on Route 28 in Mount Tremper, NY, tucked behind a discreet sign and high hedgerow. The branding and overall aesthetic of the motel can be described as Brooklyn-gone-country, with hipster brands like Apotheke toiletries and Brooklinen bedding.
The motel is managed by Tena Hasanefendic, who also serves as a part-owner. Hasanefendic oversees the operations with a laid-back vibe, showing off amenities like hammocks, picnic tables, and a barbecue overlooking the creek. Reznick envisions the motel as a blend between a traditional motel and an Airbnb, catering to guests who are looking for an extended retreat from New York City. Many of the rooms are designed to function more like apartments, allowing guests to work remotely while enjoying the natural surroundings of the Catskills.
The motel aims to provide a unique experience for guests, with rooms that offer different layouts and features like kitchenettes and TV room-like dens. Room No. 9, for example, is a duplex with an open-plan layout, spiral staircase, and sleeping loft, offering a private retreat for guests. Hasanefendic’s presence and the overall ambiance of the motel contribute to a warm and welcoming atmosphere that appeals to those seeking a peaceful escape from city life. With its convenient location and comfortable amenities, Leeway offers an affordable option for visitors looking to experience the beauty of the Catskills without breaking the bank.
