Where?

Montauk, New
York, US.

Why now?

Although it’s remote location at the very tip of Long Island has
earned it the ominous moniker “The End”, Montauk is far from
sinister. With six sprawling state parks, more than 5,000 acres of
pristine beaches and some of the best seafood in the US, Montauk is
a must for lovers of the great outdoors.

Rise with the sun and head straight for one of Montauk’s
beaches, surfboard in tow. Ditch Plains has the best waves; spend
hours surfing (read: falling off the board) before drying off on
the white-sand beach framed by jagged cliffs. Spend afternoons
exploring the nearby hamlet, stopping by farmers markets and hiking
through Montauk Point State Park where you’ll find the Montauk
Point Light – the first lighthouse in New York state and the fourth
oldest active lighthouse in the US. Climb to the top of the
110ft-tall tower to watch the sunset over the Atlantic. It isn’t
hard to see why Montauk’s authentic, back-to-nature reputation is
chasing that of its luxury neighbour:
the Hamptons.

Don’t miss…

Exploring the old American way. Deep Hollow Ranch is the US’
oldest working ranch, offering historic horseback tours across
3,000 acres of New York countryside. Don’t forget your fringed
jacket.

Who to take with you

While distinctly less celeb-ridden than NYC or The Hamptons,
Montauk has inspired many great minds throughout history, including
the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Edward Albee,
singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright and Andy Warhol. Bring someone
creative and find out how the quirky hamlet inspires them.

When to go

Come in the
autumn (or should we say fall) when crowds have returned to the
Big Apple but the weather is still warm and sunny.

Where to stay

Gurney’s Montauk Resort &
Seawater Spa never fails to impress those looking for a hotel
with all the trimmings, but for those after a more intimate
alternative, stay at boutique hotel Breakers for pastel hues and
50s-style decor.

Most likely to bump into…

Named after the Native American Montaukett tribe that originally
lived, farmed and fished on the land, Montauk has kept its
reputation as a popular fishing destination. You’re sure to see
many a wader-clad fisherman heading for the shores.

Essentials to bring with you

This Acne Studios Raya mélange knitted
cardigan is perfect for draping around your shoulders on a
breezy Montauk evening.

How to get there

Fly into any New York airport, from which the transfer to
Montauk takes between three and four hours by car or train.