A small bridge with white railings and chains on either side, leading into a lush green park with trees and grass, under a partly cloudy sky with some fog or mist in the distance.

The Land

There is a particularly special mood to the Willowemoc Valley that is perhaps caused directly by its topography. The mountains shoulder in on the river itself and the river bends at angles that can prevent you from seeing much beyond the moment in front of you.  There is a sense of solitude and isolation that wonderfully creeps in. These physical qualities make it a place where you can at one instance be surrounded by the warmth of friendship and in the next find deep-rooted, self-indulgent, intimacy.

  • A river at sunset with sunlight reflecting on the water surface, surrounded by trees and rocks.

    Willowemoc River

    The DeBruce is located directly on the Willowemoc River, where guests have exclusive access to 1 ⁄ 2 mile of private river rights for fly-fishing. In warmer months, take a plunge in the swimming holes along the river.  A walk over our private bridge is the starting point for taking a walk or hike.

    Fly fishing lessons with a local guide are available by appointment, in season (April through early October). Contact us to arrange your lesson or river trip.

    Learn more about fly fishing at The DeBruce here.

  • Tree with a small round sign reading 'The DeBruce' attached to trunk surrounded by moss and lichen, in a forest with sunlight filtering through trees.

    Trails

    The DeBruce guest has access to close to 600 acres across two mountains of trails for hiking, mountain biking, birding, and exploring on our private 5+ mile trail system, designed by local wood artist and trail expert, Cima Bue, within Catskill Park. View our trail map here,  and don’t forget your hiking boots!

    Private guided hikes are available by appointment. Contact us for more information.

  • A serene landscape with a pond reflecting trees and a gazebo, surrounded by grass and distant hills under a cloudy sky

    Pond

    There are two ponds on property, one of which is perfect for a budding fly fisher to make their first cast. The Willowemoc lies just beyond the ponds and offers a place for contemplation and fly fishing. Keep a lookout for our resident ducks, geese and beavers that can be curious and playful with guests.

  • Empty outdoor swimming pool with several lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by trees and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

    Pool

    Our heated outdoor swimming pool overlooks the valley and provides relaxation with lounge chairs with lunch served in season. Accessible to in-house guests only.

  • Nighttime backyard scene with a lit campfire on the left side, surrounded by wooden Adirondack chairs, with a large multi-story house in the background. The house's interior lights are visible through the windows, and trees are on either side. The sky is dark blue.

    Bonfires

    Gather around the bonfire and enjoy the evening sharing s'mores with friends old and new. Available every evening of your stay.

  • Two people fly fishing in a shallow river surrounded by green trees and bushes on a sunny day.

    Fly Fishing

    When it comes to fly fishing in the Catskills, few locations can match the Willowemoc’s pristine waters and historic significance. Just a stone’s throw from the hotel, ½ mile private fly-fishing waters awaits our guests. Find out more here.

    In the case of the Willowemoc, we have a history and legacy to honor and protect. Just upstream from the Lodge, George LaBranche cast the first American dry fly where the Mongaup Creek joins the Willowemoc. For over 125 years, many have come to the valley to cast a line with great hope and patience.

  • A foggy landscape with trees, a small wooden gazebo, grassy field, and a body of water in the foreground.

    Gazebo

    Our tucked-away gazebo, a quiet spot with scenic views and refreshing fresh air, ideal for a breath of fresh air while reading a book.

The Land & Heritage

In the case of the Willowemoc, we have a history and legacy to honor and protect. Just upstream from the Lodge, George LaBranche cast the first American dry fly where the Mongaup Creek joins the Willowemoc. For over 125 years, many have come to the valley to cast a line with great hope and patience.

“The Willowemoc is one of the most charming streams.  Its variety of water is almost unlimited, and there is a really comfortable inn at Debruce where the guest is accorded that patient consideration of meals at almost any hour, served by hosts who can actually smile.”
— GENE CONNETT, EARLY 1900S (FROM LAND OF LITTLE RIVERS)

Plan Your Stay