According to Webster's dictionary, the definition of Hygge is a quality of coziness that makes a person feel content and comfortable. It's also often used as an adjective meaning "cozy or comfortable."
With cool November days upon us and the sun slipping below the horizon far too early, we could all use a healthy dose of hygge in our lives. So grab a blanket, light a candle and brew some tea while we give you a tour of all things cozy in Cortland County.
FEATHER YOUR NEST
The first step in creating hygge is finding just the thing to make you and your space feel cozy, relaxed, and warm. These are just a few of our favorite Cortland County hygge essentials.
It doesn't get much cozier than the perfect sweater. Stop by Homer Men & Boys to shop their selection of literally hundreds of high-end sweaters from handmade alpaca, classic Woolrich Marino, and Old Ranch, in every color, size, and pattern imaginable. While you're there, pick up some extra thick wool socks and never fret over cold toes again.
The motto of Just Chill Custom Gifting is "treat yo' self." With walls filled with heavenly-scented handcrafted soaps, luxe bath bombs, rich locations, and sassy wine glasses, you'll find everything you need for a relaxing soak. While you're there, be sure to sample some of the hand-blended loose-leaf teas, a hygge season essential.
For the finishing touch, stop by Willow Lane Farmhouse to shop their ever changing selection of indulgent throws and over-stuffed pillows, exactly what you need to create a relaxing nest for reading or movie watching on long, cold nights. Add a comforting glow with one of Willow Lane's hand-poured candles in decadent scents, from mulling spice to wintery spruce, for the finishing touch.
WANDERJAHR
While we often associate hygge with home, here in Cortland County, it's easy to find it in some of our coziest spaces. Wrap up in a scarf, grab a good friend or a good read and head out to some of our favorite places.
Watching the last of the leaves slowly flutter to the ground through massive windows, curled beside a crackling fire, is the very definition of cozy. Ski lodges are often overlooked in the early season, but they provide the perfect place to unwind and sink deeper into your over-stuffed chair. Both Trax Pub & Grill and Heuga's Alpine offer unparalleled views of the mountains, unique handcrafted cocktails, and delicious seasonal dishes. What better way to embrace the season than over an unhurried meal filled with good conversation?
If curling up with a hot coffee and a good book is more your style, make your way over to Prandium. Cortland's newest eatery embraces old-school coffee house vibes with mellow music, black-and-white photography, and a hissing espresso machine. The balcony provides the perfect spot to tuck away and tuck into one of their famous housemade waffles. While away a leisurely afternoon people- watching and sipping espresso.
SHARE
Hygge is best when shared. Set a table filled with candles and some of our Cortland County favorite comfort foods for a meal that's bound to bring contented sighs. Whether it's just you and someone special or a room full of those you hold near and dear, these ingredients will make it memorable.
Setting the table is nearly as important as who is around it, allowing you to create a welcoming atmosphere even before your guests arrive. Ash Decor offers a timeless selection of tablecloths, dishware, mugs, and serving plates; regardless if your style is cozy and casual or elevated and elegant, you'll find exactly what you're looking for to nurture your hygge style.
Any time of day is a good time for a mulled cider. Nothing soothes quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming, fragrant mug. Hollenbeck's Cider Mill offers fresh pressed cider daily, along with all the necessary mulling spices. While there, pick up some pancake mix for a pajama-themed brunch or some boiled cider for a roast pork dinner. Make it a casual affair with a charcuterie board filled with cheese, cured meats, and zesty pickles from Food & Ferments.
Want to elevate that mulled cider to a hot toddy? DragonFyre Distillory's Scorched Apple Brandy or Cortland Distilling Co.'s Single Barrel Bourbon makes for a perfect pairing.
Looking to host your hygge gathering in Cortland? Book a weekend at The Farmhouse, where you can gather around a classic farmhouse table for family-style meals. This cozy Airbnb comfortably sleeps four and offers quintessential homey vibes for a relaxing hygge weekend away.
Searching for more ways to bring some Cortland County cozy into your days? Request a FREE Visitors Guide to learn more about Cortland County’s fall activities and how you bring some hygge home.