Getting Around: Beginning in the Adirondack Mountains, the Hudson River flows south, ending at the Atlantic Ocean in New York City. We're going to focus on the "Great Estates" region on the east side of the river, between Poughkeepsie in the south, and the town of Hudson to the north. It's about 100 miles north of New York City, easily accessible by a variety of routes, including I-87 or the Taconic Parkway.

When to go:

Avoid weekends if at all possible, especially from May through October. Even in summer, a midweek getaway will minimize traffic, ease restaurant reservations (essential), and save money on accommodations.

Sights & Activities:

Great estates: You could spend a week touring area mansions and gardens and not see it all. From President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's home in Hyde Park to Hudson River artist Frederick Church's Moorish mansion Olana in Hudson, 35 miles north, the scenery, history, art, and architecture of the Hudson River National Landmark District is extraordinary. More info...

Fabulous foods: With pick-your-own berries and apples, to haute cuisine at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, to Rhinebeck's many restaurants, hunger pangs will not be a problem. Farmer's markets and roadside produce stands offer the best selections in August and September; local wineries start harvesting in October. Restaurant options include the well-known Beekman Arms (best for brunch), Le Petit Bistro, a wonderful French restaurant; eclectic Cripple Creek, and elegant Belvedere Mansion.

Activities: Watch antique aeroplanes in action and take a ride yourself in an open cockpit bi-plane at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome, or experience the Hudson River and its lighthouses up close and personal with Hudson River Kayak Tours. For crafts, antiques, and the famous Dutchess County Fair, check the Fairgrounds calendar for major events. If antiquing is your passion, then visit Hudson, where five blocks of landmarked Federal-style buildings are home to sixty antiques shops. Be sure to visit West Point en route to or from the area; it's about 50 miles south of Rhinebeck on the west side of the river.

Rhinebeck/ Hyde Park B&Bs:

You'll love the wonderful country lodge atmosphere of Whistle Wood, imaginatively decorated with antique quilts, Navajo blankets, and primitive farm tools. Guests at are welcome to relax by the fireside, in the solarium, or on the deck, but can most often be found hanging out in Maggie's open kitchen, sampling breakfasts of buttermilk pancakes and bacon, set out on the 1904 cookstove; in the afternoon, homemade fruit pie and a chocolate chip coffee cake with ice tea or lemonade are equally tempting.

Just three blocks from Rhinebeck's shops, restaurants, and galleries, Veranda House is owned by Linda and Ward Stanley. Linda's breakfasts look as good as they taste, and are thoughtfully served until 10 on Saturdays, 11 on Sundays. Another convenient in-town choice is the Sleeping Beauty B&B, located on a quiet side street, just short walk from all of Rhinebeck's shops and restaurants. The B&B is comprised of two identical, attached houses; one is the B&B, the other is the home of its friendly owners.

Just across from the entrance to the Vanderbilt Mansion is Hyde Park's Journey Inn, owned by sisters Diane and Michele DiNapoli. Highlights include the convenient location, welcoming innkeepers, comfortable accommodations, and affordable rates.

The Olde Rhinebeck Inn, dating back to 1750, is set on a quiet country lane, close to an equally historic church. The three suites offer genuine Colonial atmosphere and appealingly eclectic décor. Jonna Paolella takes care that her guests have a relaxing and renewing experience.

The Belevedere Mansion is a stunning estate with beautiful views over the river to the mountains beyond. The entire first floor of the Mansion is occupied by the restaurant (plus a cozy bar) where delicious, creative food is served. The Adirondack-style lodge at the back of the property, encircled by an inviting veranda, has attractive, private, quiet rooms.

A renovated stone-and-clapboard 19th century carriage house, the Mansakenning Carriage House offers luxurious suites with every conceivable amenity. Outstanding breakfasts are served to each guest room; the location balances privacy with convenience.

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