The Heartwood Hotel and The Salt Line Restaurant Open at Vassar College

Vassar College has officially opened its highly anticipated 50-room boutique hotel, The Heartwood, along with its on-site farm-to-table restaurant, The Salt Line. After two years of construction, this new addition to the college’s campus at 165 College Ave. began accepting bookings on July 30.

A Collaborative Project

The Heartwood was developed in partnership with Olympia Hospitality, a Maine-based hotel development firm. Originally known as The Crossroads Inn, the project faced delays due to the pandemic. Vassar College selected Olympia in December 2022 for its proven expertise in managing higher education properties and its innovative hospitality approach.

Sustainable Design and Practices

As Vassar’s first net-zero-emission building, The Heartwood employs geothermal wells and solar panels for its energy needs. The hotel also supports sustainability through the Hotels for Trees program, which plants a tree for every guest who opts out of linen service. Since its opening, 59 trees have been planted in locations around the globe.

Dining Experience at The Salt Line

The Salt Line, the hotel’s farm-to-table restaurant, offers a seasonal dining experience crafted by Chef Zachary Lovenguth. With a focus on local ingredients, the menu features dishes like roasted baby beets and steelhead trout, with entrees priced between $18 and $42. The restaurant seats 86 and includes indoor and outdoor dining options, plus a private dining room. The bar, Night Owls, offers classic cocktails, local beers, and bar snacks.

Unique Design Elements

Designed by Frederick Fisher and Partners with interiors by Commune, The Heartwood combines modern amenities with historical elements. Art installations such as Mark Dion’s “Cabinet of Curiosities” and a mural by Julia Whitney Barnes highlight Vassar’s heritage.

Availability and Booking

The Heartwood and The Salt Line still have availability for the fall season. This blend of luxury, sustainability, and local charm offers a distinctive stay in the heart of Poughkeepsie, catering to both Vassar visitors and those exploring the Hudson Valley.