Livingston Manor Fly Fishing Club is a hidden gem nestled on the outskirts of Ulster County. But don't let the name fool you—it's much more than just a fly fishing club. It's a place where you can experience the essence of Huckleberry Finn, Robinson Crusoe, Rip Van Winkle, and Pippi Longstocking all at once. This outdoor oasis in Sullivan County offers a temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature, the Hudson Valley, and most importantly, themselves.
Fly Fishing and Beyond
Fly fishing may be the main attraction at Livingston Manor, but it's just the tip of the iceberg. The club offers an array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From snowshoeing through the forests to foraging walks and relaxing in the wood-burning sauna, there's something for everyone. And let's not forget about the campfire conversations with fellow escapees, where you can share stories and create lasting connections.
Livingston Manor Fly Fishing Club
From Idea to Reality
Livingston Manor Fly Fishing Club was not always the vision it is today. It all started when Tom Roberts, one of the club's co-owners, was introduced to fly fishing by a friend. He quickly fell in love with the sport and began frequenting the Hudson Valley to fish and escape from city life. Eventually, Roberts, along with his friend Mikael Larsson and then-girlfriend Anna Aberg, decided to search for a property of their own.
After an extensive search, they stumbled upon two homes with 300 feet of private riverfront. Despite the dilapidated state of the houses, they saw the potential and bought the land. With the help of local contractors and friends who were eager to be part of the project, they transformed the property into a canvas of natural beauty.
Livingston Manor Renovation
An Inclusive Retreat
The success of their first retreat, organized in collaboration with Escape Brooklyn, paved the way for the Livingston Manor Fly Fishing Club to expand its offerings. They now offer memberships and weekend packages to guests. Members receive exclusive benefits such as merchandise, a field guide, and invitations to two weekend experiences per year. Non-members can also participate in themed weekends like "Friendsgiving" and "Winter Weekends on the River." There are even builders' weekends where guests can stay for free in exchange for helping with renovations.
Retreat at Livingston Manor
Embrace Slow Living
In a world that moves at the speed of social media, Livingston Manor offers an opportunity to slow down and truly disconnect. Whether you're fly fishing on the Willowemoc River, exploring the forests, or relaxing in the wood-burning sauna, this destination encourages you to embrace slow living in the Hudson Valley. The retreats at Livingston Manor have become so popular that the owners plan to open the reservation calendar for private retreats in 2020.
Roberts and Aberg at Livingston Manor Fly Fishing Club
A Home Away from Home
To complement the rustic experience at the fly fishing club, Roberts and Aberg opened the Lady Pomona B&B nearby. Their backgrounds in marketing and hospitality inspired them to create a more curated overnight experience. The couple goes above and beyond to make their guests feel at home, offering artful breakfast baskets filled with local delicacies, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in the comfort of their rooms.
Livingston Manor Fly Fishing Club and the Lady Pomona B&B are just the beginning for Roberts, Aberg, and Larsson. They have plans to host intimate weddings, birthday retreats, and outdoor dinner parties in the future. Additionally, they aim to expand the number of lodging options to accommodate more guests.
Ready to experience the magic of Livingston Manor Fly Fishing Club? Follow @livingstonmanorflyfishingclub on Instagram to get a glimpse of what awaits you.
