The Cascades Guesthouse at the Center for Regenerative Ecology (formerly the Inn at Shaker Mill Falls) — Hotel in Town of New Lebanon

Stayed at the Inn with my girlfriend for two nights. Before arriving the pictures seemed quaint and Michael called back directly to take my credit card and book the room. I was asked by Michael and a lady on separate occasions what I was willing to spend, almost like they were judging my response on what to charge me. I will first say that this inn has a great location next to the brook/falls, and has some great historical value to it. It really has potential to be a great Inn. That being said, it comes up short. The inn keeper seems very short with you, almost like you’re inconveniencing her with your presence. To get to your room is almost like you’re making your way through someone’s cluttered house. The room itself had a dark/dank feeling to it. It has a stone wall which is neat, and the old timbers are exposed which is great, but the floor gives everywhere you walk, and was not very clean. We did have hot water, but the bathroom could have been cleaner. All that being said I was still willing to give it 3 stars at least for the scenic beauty and age of the building, but I realized a few days later I had been charged for 3 nights, not 2. I reached out to Michael on several occasions and was told each time that he would refund the money, but have still yet to see a refund. I had to start a dispute with my credit card company and they have credited me back the funds. Michael still had the opportunity to credit me back and to this day has still not.

For the reasons listed above, we personally will not be...

Solace from the City

If your longing for somewhere to escape the combined frenetic pace of the megalopolis that is NYC and the over stimulation of the ubiquitous cyberworld The Inn at Shaker Mill Falls is for you.

My weekend stay was an oasis of tranquility whether sleeping comfortably in my simply furnished room, reading by the fireplace in the living room or strolling around the grounds surrounded by grass, hills, trees and sky. My favorite time was having my morning coffee on the back terrace beside the babbling brook watching the little waterfall.

Michael, the owner and host, is very friendly and accommodating. Being a converted mill, the place has an historic rustic feel yet is overall warm and inviting. There are no tv’s but there is wi-fi if you need it. My bathroom was compact (almost closet size; it is a converted mill after all) but was clean and modern. I understand they will be updating bathrooms and the premium rooms very soon.

Even the 3 hour drive up the Taconic Parkway to get there was scenic. Breakfast at the Inn is ample and varies based on you culinary preferences and schedule. Very welcoming. Also, recommended for lunch or a snack are No. 6 Depot Street and Blueberry Hill Café. I understand the Farm to Table (they like to call it Soil to Soul) Stream-side Restaurant and Cafe at the Inn will be...

PERFECT YOGA RETREAT LOCATION!

The nature that surrounds Shaker Mill was music to my soul.

I gathered here for a weekend with 21 fellow yogi’s and we handed over our electronics for 72 hours - willingly ;) it was a digital detox yoga retreat.

This experience was beautifully supported by the great variety of ways to interact with Mother Earth available at Shaker Mill Falls.

The sound of moving water that emanated from the creek inspired waterfall behind the home offered a great sense of peace. It was an epic meditation location.

The dining hall opened us up to a sense of closeness and connection; it was also the perfect space for doing workshops and playing games.

As we gathered in the common area for yoga and chanting sessions the residents always treated us with great care and attention - it was a full on family vibe.

I was deeply inspired by the pond which was filled with wildlife resembling a band of wind and string instruments.

We also found the fire pit and hammock to be wonderful relaxation locations.

And it’s close to some unique activities. We went hiking, found a rope swing on a beautiful lake. . . And one day I went rouge and ended up at a race, speeding in a go kart around the kiddie track - my inner child was quite pleased!

Shaker Mill will always hold a place...