This Hot Spot Is Reason Enough To Visit Montauk In The Winter

Come Memorial Day, everyone's favorite town out East feels like little Manhattan. You run into just about everyone you know, places are packed, and there's probably even paparazzi following a few celebs around. But during the off-season, as most insiders know, Montauk is practically heaven on earth. The vibes are chill, the beach is empty, and at Gurney's Montauk Hotel & Spa, seasonal coziness reigns supreme. Who knew the best winter weekend could be spent at the very spot we pop bottles in bikinis at all summer long?

Seriously, though. During a recent wellness getaway at Gurney's with It Girl workout brand P. Volve, I learned that there's no better time to experience the beachfront escape than in the midst of a chilly winter - sipping wine around a fire pit while listening to waves crash, going for morning runs on the quiet, gray beach, and, of course, indulging in a few hearty courses at the chic on-site eatery, Scarpetta Beach.

And if you really want to experience some seasonal magic, there's the pop-up igloo village - a twinkling array of themed, sit-in snow globes where you can enjoy specialty cocktails and warm bites (hello, fondue!) while gabbing away with your crew and supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation (a $25-per-person fee gets donated to the cause). Could there be a better reason to plan a visit?

Well, yeah - don't forget the Seawater Spa. Perfect for couples or girl gangs, the renowned wellness destination is a treat yo' self dream, from the sauna and steam room to the Roman bath and sprawling saltwater pool, not to mention all the treatments available on the menu. Totally a year-round treat.

So whether you're seeking a romantic weekend away for Valentine's Day or just want to milk the last months of winter, don't miss the chance to cozy up at Gurney's before things heat up - literally.

[Photos via @gurneysresorts]