In the heart of the Catskill Mountains, a region steeped in history and natural beauty, a nostalgic trend is emerging. Modern hotels are drawing inspiration from the bungalow colonies that once dotted the landscape, reimagining these communal vacation spots for a new generation of travelers.
The Catskills, a physiographic province of the larger Appalachian Mountains, have long been a retreat for city dwellers seeking respite from urban life. Approximately 104 years ago, these mountains saw the rise of bungalow colonies, which reached their zenith between 60 and 84 years ago. These colonies, often referred to as part of the "Borscht Belt," provided a haven for Jewish families facing discrimination elsewhere.
Sims Foster, co-owner of Kenoza Hall and a Sullivan County native, explains the concept behind their new bungalow-inspired accommodations: "We situated them specifically so that they relate to each other, like a true bungalow colony." This approach echoes the communal spirit that defined the original colonies, where shared amenities and gathering spaces fostered a sense of community.
The bungalow colonies of yesteryear offered more than just accommodation. They provided a complete summer experience, with day camps for children, shared recreational facilities, and entertainment. The "casino" - not for gambling, but for social gatherings - was the heart of these communities, hosting games, parties, and performances by up-and-coming entertainers.
While most of the original colonies closed by the 1990s, their legacy lives on. Today, hotels like Kenoza Hall, Inness, and Piaule are incorporating bungalow-style accommodations into their offerings. These modern interpretations aim to recreate the community feel while providing contemporary amenities.
Kim Bucci, co-owner of Camptown hotel, which opened just a year ago, emphasizes the enduring appeal of communal vacations: "Post pandemic, there's an appreciation for the communal vacation. People can come back to this larger playground where they can be outside all day, with kids running around."
The Catskills' rich history extends beyond its bungalow colonies. The region was once home to many tanneries due to the abundance of hemlock trees and was a popular subject for Hudson River School painters in the 19th century. It's also part of New York City's watershed, providing water to millions, and has been designated as a National Heritage Area by the U.S. Congress.
As travelers seek meaningful connections and shared experiences, the bungalow concept continues to evolve. Modern properties are finding innovative ways to balance privacy with community, offering standalone accommodations alongside communal spaces and activities.
The revival of the bungalow colony spirit in the Catskills is more than just a trend; it's a testament to the enduring appeal of community-focused vacations. As Scott Rosmarin, owner of one of the few remaining original colonies, Rosmarins Cottages, puts it: "It's a great group of people that we have here now; they come here for the socialization."
In embracing this nostalgic concept, modern Catskills hotels are not just offering a place to stay - they're providing a chance to be part of a community, even if just for a short while. This blend of past and present ensures that the spirit of the Borscht Belt bungalow colonies lives on, adapting to meet the needs of today's travelers while honoring the region's rich cultural heritage.
"We have camp friends that we made as grown-ups. It's a very close-knit community."
As the Catskills continue to evolve, embracing both its natural beauty and cultural history, the bungalow revival stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of community-focused vacations. From the peaks of the Appalachians to the shores of its many lakes, the region offers a unique blend of nostalgia and modernity, inviting visitors to create their own summer memories in the spirit of the bungalow colonies of old.