Kim C
January 15, 2024
Chimney Hill Estate Inn located in historic Lambertville, New Jersey is the absolutely perfect place for a mother-daughter getaway, less than 2 hours’ drive from NYC. After a stressful work week, I knew a wellness weekend at Chimney Hill was exactly the respite that we both needed. This was our second visit and will certainly not be the last. We arrived Friday night and felt like it was a homecoming as soon as we heard the soft music, glimpsed the firelight in the Old Stone Room right off the entrance, and were greeted warmly by Sylvester, who co-owns the property with Marek. Both men are as hands-on as any hosts could be, and their passion for the place, and attention paid to every detail, ensures their guests always have the best experience. After checking in, we went out for a late dinner at Under the Moon, a recommended restaurant (just 9 minutes away), and returned to our cozy room with a mattress that makes you feel like you’re sleeping on clouds. Saturday morning we awoke to a delicious home-cooked breakfast, and along with a small group of other guests, embarked on a “meditation walk” (a mellow hike) led by Marek. It was approximately a mile each way and we found ourselves at the top of a look-out point over the water which was once used by George Washington in the days of the Revolution. We were able to appreciate nature, history, and most importantly each other’s company as we all turned off our cell phones during the walk and only used them to take some glorious photos at the top of the hill. Upon our return to Chimney Hill we were able to use the wonderful spa amenities including a sauna heated to perfection, and then, after a welcoming cold shower, a fabulous Cold Plunge. This was my first time doing hot-cold therapy and I really did not think I’d do it more than once. But it felt so good that we ended up doing three rounds of sauna and cold plunge, with a hot tub/jacuzzi finish. It was so invigorating and next time I am planning on doing four or more rounds. We were then served a healthy light lunch, fantastic soup and salad, before the afternoon’s adventure of a different sort of “therapy” - my daughter and I decided to visit the nearby Angelico winery, family-owned by Otto and Lily Angelico where we sampled one of their signature wines - a wonderful dry red called “The Miracle”. In addition to all the reasons to stay at Chimney Hill Estate, we can certainly say it is perfectly situated to visit the antiques stores and restaurants in town, and the lovely wineries. Marek and Sly are happy to share their personal recommendations with you for a well-rounded weekend that includes activities on the grounds and within a few minutes drive in either direction. We ended Saturday night in the Old Stone Room with relaxing warm herbal tea by the fire, blended with herbs chosen by Sly. Sunday morning after another fantastic breakfast at the Inn, we strolled around the town, and did a bit of shopping, before setting off home feeling rejuvenate