The Catskills are located in New York State, just northwest of New York City, southwest of Albany, west of the Hudson River. Typically, "The Catskills" are known as any rural area that's west of the Hudson and a short drive from New York City (approximately 100 miles).

In stark contrast to the big city, the Catskills are famous for their natural and historical beauty, and they are notably a popular getaway for New Yorkers, as well as for visitors from across the coastline states in the Northeast United States (including many celebrities). From historical stone houses and villages, to famous landmarks, sparkling flyfishing streams, snowy mountain peaks, wine trails, festivals, and superior golf courses, the Catskills offer the perfect getaway any time of year.

If you're renting a cottage in the stunning Catskills region consider the type of vacation you want to have. Here are the four primary counties in the Catskills (additional counties are Otsego and Schoharie) - each with its own special charm.

Delaware County is the largest, westernmost county - the farthest county from New York City. It offers the perfect setting for both quiet and adventurous vacations. In addition to the lovely, peaceful setting, the mountains, valleys and streams in the area offer the best of skiing, horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, canoeing and more. The county is also enjoyed for its great shops, art studios and galleries, theatre, festivals, farmer's markets and more. Delaware restaurants feature local gourmet food that's an adventure in itself.

Ulster County is to the east, among the Shawangunk Mountains and glacial lakes, and in close proximity to Catskill Park. Its south end is considered the closest county to New York City. This county is known for its arts, music and history: the Maverick Concerts (oldest chamber music series in the U.S.), Byrdcliffe (longest standing arts colony in the U.S.), the Huguenot settlers, New Paltz's historical streets (the oldest in America) and the famous 18th-century stone structures of Kingston, which was the first capital of New York. It is also known for its world-class rock climbing among the Shawangunk Mountains, downhill skiing at Belleayre, hiking and recreational activities. Visitors can also enjoy touring the county's twelve wineries!

Greene County is smallest, northernmost county - between the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River. This county is best known for its popular ski areas (Hunter and Windham), as well as the famous Kaaterskill Falls, Catskill Game Farm and Thomas Cole's home (now a museum).

Sullivan County, the golf capital of the region, is the southernmost county. It's known in the Catskills for its many lakes and superior golfing. Indeed, if you're looking for a cottage by the lake, Sullivan is the place to go. With its many lakes, Sullivan offers fabulous outdoor recreation, as well as the world's best trout fishing. It's also known as the birthplace of America's Fly Fishing with three major fly fishing rivers - Beaverkill, Neversink and Willowemock - flowing through it. Fly fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum. This county's town of Bethel is also famous for hosting the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival. Bethel is now home to the Bethel Woods Performing Arts Centre.

Anywhere you choose to rent in the Catskills, you'll find a wide range of cottages available. You'll also find great activities, such as golf resorts, hiking, climbing, fly fishing, skiing, site-seeing, and more.

For Cottage Rental Information visit: http://www.cottagecountry.com/region/catskills/