Looking for a one-of-a-kind wedding venue with European flair in the Hudson Valley? If so, Rushmore Estate may be the one for you. Thanks to a recent transformation, the Spanish Colonial estate is a delightful destination for fairytale overnights and dreamy weddings in Orange County.
The History
The estate, which is located in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, draws its name from Charles E. Rushmore (a.k.a. the man for whom Mount Rushmore is named), who commissioned the property back in 1908 for his sick wife, Jeanette, as a peaceful sanctuary away from the chaos of New York City. Previously, the estate was named Carmore Estate (“car” stems from Mrs. Rushmore’s maiden name Carpenter while “more” comes from Rushmore).
The Experience
When it comes to spending the night in Highland Mills, the bed and breakfast houses four suites that are named after the four presidents on Mount Rushmore. Each suite is a blend between rustic charm and high-quality comfort. All rooms come with an en-suite bathroom, flat-screen TV, fireplace, and, most importantly, stunning views of the estate’s lush landscape. Rooms range from $375-$450 per night.
Situated on 50 acres of undeveloped forest, Rushmore Estate prides itself on centering its activities around the Hudson Valley’s all-seasons beauty. From kayaking and canoeing on the private lakefront beach to exploring the extensive hiking trails that feature stunning waterfalls and checking out the private berry-picking orchards in spring and summer as well as the apple orchards in the fall, this venue has it all.
For those who prefer a more laidback experience, relaxation awaits in the form of the estate’s 60-foot infinity pool, private yoga sessions, picnics by the lake, or cozy candlelit dinners in the gazebo.
Owner Dr. Seth Pulver emphasizes the importance of each guest’s comfort at Rushmore.
“As a locally-owned and -operated destination, we are personally invested in ensuring that every detail is cared for in a way that makes a visit special, unique, and momentous,” he notes.
Plus, did we mention all there is to do around the bed and breakfast? From visiting Brotherhood Winery and taking a shopping trip at Woodbury Common Premium Outlets to hiking the trails of Bear Mountain State Park and admiring the small-town allure of nearby places like Warwick and Sugar Loaf, Rushmore Estate is perfectly situated in an accessible area for guests to explore the wonders of the Hudson Valley.
The Weddings
Rushmore Estate’s historic 1911 Spanish Colonial ballroom coupled with its luxurious grounds make for a breathtaking wedding venue in the Hudson Valley. The ballroom opens up to large vaulted ceilings adorned with ornate plaster carvings that create a sense of grandeur. With oak floors, beautifully designed French doors that swing open to a stone patio, and an elaborate fireplace, the aura of this space bursts with elegance. Individuals also have the option to rent out the estate’s library for events.
The Future
Currently, Rushmore Estate has no plans for further expansion. Instead, its focus is on welcoming couples and guests to experience all that the grounds have to offer.
“Our goal is to present Rushmore Estate guests with as authentic an experience as possible, in the very halls, rooms, and settings that the Rushmore family envisioned and then enjoyed for decades,” Pulver says. “Expansion into a larger facility, with more guest rooms or event spaces, would not be true to the Rushmore legacy or the premier experience we provide.”
For more information check out the venue’s website, call 845.5006570, or email rushmoreestate@gmail.com.
Rushmore Estate
14 Castleton Dr, Highland Mills
