We're thrilled to have Sister Parish textiles all over Audrey Gelman's Six Bells Inn. Naturally, we wanted to know everything there is to know about this cozy, countryside getaway in the Hudson Valley. Audrey fills us in on her favorite room at the Inn, her go-to bar order, and secret details hidden throughout this amazing space.

What’s your favorite time of day at The Six Bells, and where should we be when it happens?

I love the country breakfast spread and sitting in one of the tavern nooks with coffee to begin my day. We have our own custom coffee blend for the Inn with a local roastery called Winchell Mountain Coffee and sell it in our shop.

Which room feels most like your personal retreat — and why?

If I’m solo for the night, Mant’s Crake is my favorite. I love the lace canopy bed and the trellis inspired wallpaper. If I’m with my family, The Innkeeper’s Suite is our favorite. My son loves sleeping in the built-in bed and the king bed feels like you’re being enveloped in fabric.

Stay in "Mildred's Plum" Queen Room—featuring Kinnicutt wallpaper and Brio fabric. Photography by Kate S Jordan for The Six Bells.

Do you have a favorite object or piece of decor in the hotel with a story behind it?

Some of my favorite pieces are the hand-painted wardrobes. Wally Whitehurst who is a local environmental artist painted each one with a totally unique design. The wardrobes are a place to hang clothes, but also can be used as a writing desk and store our mini bar and hotel snacks.

What’s your go-to order at the bar — and what snack or nibble must go with it?

I always order our New York 76 — our riff on a French 75 with crisp Hudson Valley cider instead of Champagne. Our bartender Ryan is a Rosendale local and perfected the recipe himself.

During your stay, visit Feathers Tavern—featuring our Georgina performance woven. Photography by Kate S Jordan for The Six Bells.

What time of day is best to enjoy that charming outdoor space — and how would you spend it?

I love an early dinner outside. My kids go down the stairs of the deck and play on the grass berm overlooking Rondout Creek. The creek glitters in the evening and there’s a bald eagle you can always spot in the trees. My favorite design aspect of the back deck are the Tyrolean benches with custom Sister Parish cushions.

Is there a secret detail or tucked-away corner guests often miss?

Yes — there are six painted bells painted on the walls of both family suites. It’s a tiny surprise that connects back to our name.

What’s the most quintessentially country touch at the hotel?

The carved wooden box beds. They’re a nod to early American and Tyrolean design and are both cozy and totally transporting.

During your stay, visit Feathers Tavern—featuring our Georgina performance woven. Photography by Kate S Jordan for The Six Bells.

Who on your team always makes guests smile — and what makes them special?

Davina has a gift for making everyone feel instantly at home. 

Is there a scent, sound, or view that instantly tells you you’re “home” at Six Bells?

We are always burning The Six Bells’ First Frost candle which has a woodsy scent and is a collaboration with the estate of Grandma Moses, the iconic American folk painter.

What’s for brunch, and what time should we roll downstairs?

We serve a country brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10-1pm with classics like buttermilk pancakes, cheddar eggs with creme fraiche, smoked Berkshire ham and crispy biscuits. For hotel guests there is a country breakfast spread each morning from 7 - 10am.

The details! We love all the upholstery in Feathers Tavern with our Georgina performance woven.

What’s your ideal way to spend a slow Saturday morning here?

All the stores in Rosendale are open on Saturdays so I love to browse books at Postmark Books, clothes at Clubhouse Vintage and see what movies are playing later that night at the Rosendale Theater.

Where do you send guests who want to explore like locals?

I always suggest a trip to Stone Ridge Orchards for cider and doughnuts, or a hike on the Rosendale Trestle that has incredible views of the area.

Is there a shop, pub, or trail nearby that’s a non-negotiable part of the weekend?

The new Montauk Catch Club has the best seafood in the Hudson Valley- you can dine there or take it to go and cook at home. There’s usually a line, but it’s a must visit.

What’s one small detail you hope every guest notices before they leave?

The Inn’s dollhouse is one of the most special things about it - and it’s definitely not something you see at a normal bed and breakfast. I definitely recommend taking a close look at all the mini rooms, wallpapers and lights after you’ve gotten to stay at the real thing.