Bedford Post Inn, An Eight Room Hideaway in Bedford, New York

Drive an hour from the city and you're in Westchester, more specifically, Old Post Road, a carefully manicured country-house-style suburb. The Bedford Post Inn fits perfectly: flagstone pathways, plenty of flowers, a restored 18th-century main house and a barn for yoga. The brain-child of actor Richard Gere, the Inn has a reputation for good food and hospitality—just the thing for a weekend or couple of days away from hectic Manhattan life (easy to reach via train from Grand Central as well to Bedford Hills station).

Gere apparently sees the Inn as a place, "where the minds of people who could change the world would meet" ... while I'm not convinced about this wonderful vision ever coming to being, the vibe is very much country-house chill out. There are just eight rooms, so you'll get to know your fellow guests. Most of the eight feature a working fireplace—cozy for winter weekends—take a loved one and snuggle up with a bottle from the Inn's fabulous cellar. Some rooms also have terraces overlooking the woods surrounding the property. In the bathroom, there's another nod to local nature, in the form of lovely wildflower amenities, specially made for Bedford Post by Greek Company, sponge. I was disappointed that country views are not accesible from rooms and the house itself is set quite close to the street.

The food is the real draw to the Inn. For casual chic country-style dining, try The Farmhouse for seasonal and often local produce cooked up by chef Brian Lewis into a contemporary American menu—either a la carte, or five course tasting. For breakfast or lunch, head to The Barn and enjoy their country diner style. They've also got a tempting Bakery open Monday to Friday until 4pm—perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. Post meal or snack, take a long walk or set off on a nearby hike. I value they offer Yoga classes Monday-Saturday in the large beamed Yoga Loft. All guests receive their first session complimentary, which I think is a nice touch and helps set the tone. At the opposite end of the scale, come over the weekend to indulge yourself with the wine and cheese cocktail hour from 4-5 pm. You might not end up changing the world, but you'll certainly ease that city stress. Overall, a comfortable easy getaway, but nothing you have to run to book.