The Catskills Mountains in New York were once home to some of the most famous vacation destinations in the country. Among them was the Nevele Grand Hotel, a sprawling resort that welcomed thousands of visitors over the decades. Built in 1901 in the town of Wawarsing, the property became a recognizable part of the region’s hospitality industry before eventually falling into disrepair. Today, the former resort is a shadow of its former self, with multiple fires adding to the destruction of the historic property.
A Once-Thriving Catskills Destination
The Nevele was part of the Catskills’ famous Borscht Belt, a collection of resorts that attracted vacationers from New York City and surrounding areas throughout much of the 20th century. The property featured extensive recreational amenities and even operated as a ski destination, making it a year-round attraction.
As the Catskills became less popular with vacationers, however, the resort struggled to maintain its place as a major destination. The property eventually closed in 2019, leaving behind a massive complex of buildings across 463 acres.
There was an opportunity to give the Nevele a second life. Around a decade ago, developers proposed transforming the property into a casino resort and spa. The ambitious proposal included plans for an ice arena, skiing, horseback riding, zip lines, golf, and other recreational attractions alongside casino gaming. Despite the scope of the proposal, the Nevele was ultimately not selected for a casino license. The property continued to deteriorate, and its future remained uncertain.
Two Fires Have Destroyed Major Parts of the Property
The abandoned resort suffered its first major fire in March 2024, when flames engulfed the property’s Winter Building. According to News 12, the entire structure became involved in the blaze, which started around 9:30 p.m. The cause was initially unknown, and officials said an investigation would follow.
Less than a year later, another major fire struck the property. On January 11, 2025, flames engulfed the Nevele’s main building, which once housed the hotel’s lobby, kitchen, dining room, and theater. Multiple fire departments from Ulster and Sullivan counties responded, spending hours containing the blaze and preventing it from spreading to other structures. The second fire caused extensive damage, with smoke still visible from the rubble days later.
