Summary List Placement
Although the novel coronavirus continues to spread across the US, some travelers are looking to escape to vacation rentals away from the crowded city.
According to experts, Airbnb is a great option for travelers since it offers the option to book a private home and removes interactions with other guests, which promotes social distancing.
New York’s Catskills are an ideal getaway in every season thanks to ample hiking and ski trails, but particularly in the fall and winter when cozying up in a cabin is especially appealing.
We found highly-rated and affordable cabins on Airbnb you can rent starting under $200 per night.
Due to the novel coronavirus, many New Yorkers are on the hunt for a cozy weekend away that’s not too far afield and doesn’t include big crowds, but is still filled with plenty of outdoor fun.
If escaping the city for a few nights and exploring wooded hiking trails, hitting the ski slopes, or enjoying scenic mountain views sounds like just the getaway you’re hoping for, consider curling up in a woodsy cabin, especially since Airbnb Catskills rentals are available for under $200 a night. More on that in a minute.
Staying at an Airbnb as opposed to a hotel may appeal as a better option for safe social distancing. Airbnb recently implemented new procedures and cleaning policies, including an Enhanced Clean program, which includes guidelines on personal protective equipment for hosts or cleaners, and only using disinfectants approved by regulatory authorities, as well as optional booking buffers.
If you’re wondering if staying at an Airbnb is safe at all, the answer, according to an infectious disease expert, is largely yes. However, without a vaccine, there is no guarantee as to safety. It’s imperative to follow guidelines and advice from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and practice safety measures including wearing a mask, washing your hands, and maintaining social distancing.
While many of these Airbnbs are currently open, and more isolated than other travel spots, you’ll still want to assess your own individual risk factors when deciding if it’s a safe option. And, with plans constantly in flux due to the pandemic, it’s also worth double checking any listings cancellation policies before booking.
All that being said, the Catskills are a great place to visit in any season. Summer and fall offer lower prices and plenty of outdoor fun and leaf-peeping, while ski season is always popular. The areas around Hunter, Windham, and Belleayre Mountains in New York are typically more affordable, and inventory during summer and fall is higher compared to peak winter ski season.
The trip to the Catskills is roughly two-and-a-half hours from New York City by car. If you don’t own one, our experts also say renting a car is safe (and here are the best options to do so). It feels a bit more remote than the Hudson Valley, but with just as much charm.
No matter how you plan to arrive, you’ll adore any of these cute cabins in the woods, selected based on the following criteria:
Airbnb listing is for the entire home, in line with expert recommendations for safer travel right now.
All are highly rated Airbnb listings in New York’s Catskills with a review score of 4.5 or higher.
Properties are all classic cabins or include cabin-like features from reclaimed wood interiors to cozy fireplaces. Bring on the log, pine, and oak.
Homes are affordable and priced under $200 per night.
Homes have availability in the coming weeks and months, as of the time of publishing, or are so special, they’re worth booking far in advance.
Keep reading for 12 Airbnb cabins in the Catskills under $200 per night, sorted by price from low to high.SEE ALSO: Unique Airbnb escapes in New York’s Hudson Valley, no car required
SEE ALSO: 14 cozy and affordable Airbnb cabins in Upstate New York you can book for next month
Barn studio in High Falls, $125
Book this barn studio starting at $125 per night
This woodsy retreat is a stylishly restored barn that couples will love cuddling up in for some time away from the bustle of city streets. The lawn features Adirondack chairs surrounding a firepit — the ultimate spot for making s’mores or warming up on chilly nights.
Close to scenic state parks and nature trails, you can also use this spot as a nice home base after a day of hiking.
This cabin still has availability at the very end of October and most of November and beyond is open.
Rating: 4.87
COVID-19 policies: While it doesn’t have specific new cleaning policies listed, many recent guests have marked it as “Sparkling clean.”
Little red schoolhouse in Arkville, $125
Book this little red schoolhouse starting at $125 per night
This charming schoolhouse from the mid-nineteenth century has a separate sleeping cabin and bathroom just big enough for two people to cozy up in. This is the ideal spot to get off the grid and reconnect with nature since it’s in a more remote location and there’s no Wi-Fi on the premises.
Not only is the property run by a Superhost, but it also boasts a cozy indoor fireplace and the tranquil sound of the nearby creek.
This home is only open through the end of November, but there is still has some availability in mid November.
Rating: 4.89
COVID-19 policies: This home participates in Airbnb’s Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Chic cabin in Hudson, $150
Book this chic carriage house cabin starting at $150 per night
Meticulously decorated, this Airbnb has serious star power. In fact, the property was featured on Netflix’s “Stay Here” home renovation show. The studio space sleeps two and is a cozy spot for a romantic weekend getaway.
The home is conveniently located just a half-block from the main street in town so shops, bars, and restaurants are within easy walking distance.
This home is mostly booked through the end of the year, with just a couple scattered days available.
Rating: 4.8
COVID-19 policies: Cleaning policies aren’t outlined in detail on the listing, but the host is a Superhost and the property has a 4.9 out of 5 rating for cleanliness.
Log cabin in Arkville, $150
Book this log cabin starting at $150 per night
This cabin is everything I hoped for when searching out a log home: classic mahogany exterior, rich wood walls, and knotted pine fixtures. There’s so much wood in fact, that a few white walls almost look misplaced. If you really want to hole up in winter, book now.
The extremely reasonable rate is available throughout the year, and the schedule is frequently open even in busy winter months. A Catskills rarity!
This home is currently booked for the next two months, but availability is wide open starting in January.
Rating: 4.95
COVID-19 policies: This home participates in Airbnb’s Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Tiny home in Mount Tremper, $160
Book this tiny home starting at $160 per night
A tiny house seems tailor-made for a Catskills getaway, and this sweet home feels especially idyllic. It’s situated mere steps from a pond, wild mountain stream, and waterfall.
Bring your pup to this pet-friendly Airbnb, and curl up by the antique wood stove, or under a blanket on one of the lounge chairs. There is a kitchenette and eco-friendly bathroom, but no running water.
Writes one review, “Loved this tiny cabin so much! The bedroom was my favorite part, with the skylight and beautiful wall of windows looking into the woods.”
This tiny home is available almost every day beginning in November.
Rating: 4.95
COVID-19 policies: No new policies are listed, but the host has a 4.8 out of 5 for cleanliness.
Woodside cabin in Lanesville, $175
Book this large woodsy retreat starting at $175 per night
Great for families and groups, this Airbnb cabin has three bedrooms and can easily host six guests. Located on 2.5 acres, the property features spectacular views of nearby Hunter Mountain.
It’s also an idyllic spot if you want a secluded stay since the closest neighbor is about a quarter-mile away. But you’re also only a 10-minute drive from plenty of restaurants and nightlife.
This home is available at the end of October and into early November.
Rating: 4.8
COVID-19 policies: No new policies are listed, but a recent review from October 2020 noted that it was “super clean.”
Renovated farm house in Ghent, $176
Book this renovated farm house starting at $176 per night
It’s no wonder this stunning 100-year-old farmhouse that’s been fully renovated has a perfect rating. The home feels plenty secluded thanks to the private acre of land it sits on, but is still within walking distance of fun cultural experiences like the exhibits found at Art OMI.
In addition to beautiful hardwood floors, two bedrooms, and expertly curated decor, the home also includes a fire pit and grill for enjoying the outdoors. For those who want to explore nearby towns, Hudson, Chatham, and Kinderhook are all within a 15-minute drive.
This home still has plenty of availability throughout November and December.
Rating: 5.0
COVID-19 policies: No specific policies are listed, but the host has a perfect 5.0 rating.
Mountain sky cottage in Big Indian, $180
Book this mountain sky cabin starting at $180 per night
Located on a compound of similar standalone cabins that can also be rented, this cozy spot has excellent views of the Catskill mountains. Sleeping up to two guests and decorated in calming neutrals, the space features a small sitting area with a couch, large windows, a mini-fridge, and a coffee machine. The bathroom is a relaxing sanctuary with custome tiling and an oversized walk-in shower.
But the private deck will likely be your favorite place to hang and enjoy the sweeping scenery. There is also a communal club house on the property with complimentary tea and coffee, a ping pong table, pool table, a campfire outside, and more.
This cabin has plenty of availability in November, December, and beyond.
Rating: 4.88
COVID-19 policies: This home participates in Airbnb’s Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Loblolly cabin in Germantown, $185
Book this Loblolly cabin starting at $185 per night
Nestled among towering pine trees on a one-acre property in the hamlet of Germantown, this small cabin still packs plenty of character and charm. A bright red door that pops against the white exterior with gray trim that matches Adirondack chairs on the patio sets the tone outside. Meanwhile, the interiors are made of reclaimed and boast vaulted ceiling, antique beams, and plenty of natural sunlight.
Ideal for a couple or a solo traveler, this space is small and includes only one pullout bed. However, guests have noted that the pullout is extremely comfortable, and there is a large deck under a canopy of pines with a cabana kitchen, complete with a refrigerator and grill for cooking.
This home still has plenty of days open throughout November and December.
Rating: 4.96
COVID-19 policies: No specific policies are outlined, but the host has a perfect 5.0 rating for cleanliness.
Woodsy cabin in Willow, $190
Book this cabin in the woods starting at $190 per night
This studio is no-frills lodging, perfect for the outdoor enthusiast who wants to disconnect in order to reconnect. The cabin has an environmentally-conscience bathroom with a walk-in shower, sink, composting toilet, and on-demand hot water.
However, it’s not totally roughing it — there’s also a private wood-fired steam sauna, perfect for a chilly evening.
This cabin is still available at the end of October and has plenty of availability in November and December.
Rating: 4.94
COVID-19 policies: This home participates in Airbnb’s Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Woodland cabin in Palenville, $190
Book this three-bedroom cabin starting at $190 per night
Unplug from the city in this three-bedroom home nestled within lush Catskills foliage. If you do manage to venture out, you’ll find hiking trails right outside your doorstep.
Guests considered stays highly memorable, writing, “The raving reviews are justified, this place is awesome. The location is breathtaking, very well situated for adventure day trips and relaxation. The house is spotlessly clean and generously equipped with everything you need. The local guide by the hosts was excellent. One of the best Airbnb experiences we’ve had.”
This home has some availability in November and December with more days opening up in January.
Rating: 4.98
COVID-19 policies: This Airbnb is listed by a Superhost and multiple recent guests have marked it as “Sparkling clean.”
Lakefront cabin in Rhinebeck, $195
Book this lakefront cabin starting at $195 per night
This cabin’s best feature is its lake views. The lone bedroom on the second floor has two twin beds, so while you can push them together if you’re a couple, this spot is especially ideal for single travelers. The first floor has an open plan and just out the door is a large deck complete with a barbecue and a table and chairs to enjoy the panoramic scenery.
This home has plenty of availability beginning in November and beyond.
Rating: 4.89
COVID-19 policies: This home participates in Airbnb’s Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
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