A new wave of travel is popping up around the US, with one example now housed in the Poconos Mountains. Serenité is a new vacation home experience in Tannersville, Pennsylvania—about two hours and some change from Philadelphia.
The word “experience” comes in because the model of how to stay here is a bit unique— Serenité has 22 residences (with more to be added in the future) spanning one to five-bedroom houses. Guests can use the residences if they become members, and then use their points to book whatever house they desire—for example, you might want a couples getaway in the spring with a one-bedroom house, or a full family vacation in the fall with a five-bedroom pick. The bigger the house, the more points you use, and holiday weekends tend to be a bit more expensive on that front.
Each house features its own kitchen and full set-up of culinary amenities (a coffee machine, dishwasher etc.)—residents can even get Instacart orders delivered ahead of time to the brand’s concierge to be placed and ready to go when they arrive. Otherwise, venues feature multiple bathrooms, large ceilings, multiple decks (with some residences), fireplaces, and most lucratively, sweeping views of the Poconos Mountains. In the winter months, you’ll likely see the resort lit up to the 9s at night as well.
Cost-wise, the base membership starts at around $69,000 and can go up to $164,000 with $2,000-$4,000 in annual fees. There are different tiers as well based on what you’re looking for: As Serenite says, the “Base” is best for members who have flexible schedules and the ability to work remotely, the “Family” is suitable for members who are looking for multiple getaways a year, the “Family & Friends” works for extended groups who are looking for multiple getaways annually, and the “Home Alternative” is best for members looking for a mountain home alternative without the upkeep.
The brand also breaks it down into seasonal and tangible decimals—like, a ski weekend in January for four days and three nights would cost around 67,500 points. A spring-time midweek golf outing for 4 days and 3 nights? 25,000 points. Something like a long summer vacation for 5 days and 4 nights would instead be around 90,000 points, while a fall foliage getaway for 4 days and 3 nights would cost 57,500 points.
Essentially, the checking-in and out process is one similar to a hotel: You head to the concierge office less than a ten-minute drive from your residence (you pass it naturally on your drive-in), or you can use a mobile key on your phone to gain access to the residence.
Sounds like a timeshare? It is to some degree. But the owners of the brand, including CEO Todd Cannon, say the difference comes from their Country Club environment and surroundings. Members are also allowed to let family, friends, and colleagues stay in their residence even if the they are not on the property.
The residences are kept private situated atop 125 acres on the Northridge of Camelback Mountain. All members have access to an outdoor pool (heated throughout the colder seasons) with lap lanes and a hot tub area, complete with firepits and a swim deck social area. There’s also the Turkey Wilderness Trail, which offers a private hiking, biking or walking experience.
Turkey Wilderness was founded in 1893 and “reimagined” in 2022. As their site states, these remnants of the Wilkes-Barre and Eastern railroad can not only be explored as part of the trail system at Big Pocono State Park in Tannersville, but also within Serenité Private Members Club.
The Clubhouse is part of the estate’s future plans, with a date set for late June to open the doors of this multi-million dollar project. What this venue will hold is a spa (complete with a saltwater vitality pool, sauna and multiple contrast bathing circuits), a members’ lounge, rooftop bar, and a few social areas. Most of the amenities listed will come free for members, with add-ons like standalone massages and more from the spa menu as some extras to choose from.
There’s also plans to make the outside area of the pool and Clubhouse into another social space, dubbed “The Great Lawn.” Sized larger than a football field, with this area, members will enjoy everything from outdoor yoga to live music, to firepit socials and movie nights. The construction of it all comes with a luxury background, with Gary W. Greenip as Project Director of the brand. He brings with him experience from The Ritz-Carlton Club and Marriott Vacation Club.
Part of the appeal to members is also the concierge service, which is there 24/7. The real pull comes from being able to reach out to them ahead of time to curate your trip—complete with transportation (for up to 20 miles on the weekends), suggestions, reservations and sometimes even discounts.
The summer season brings some appeal with the concierge being able to set up white water rafting, sports car adventures, a trip to the indoor/outdoor waterpark, Turtle Beach and more. Otherwise, guests can set up different breakfast, lunch and dinner reservations through the service, or go explore different parts of the mountains for yourself.
For example, East Stroudsburg holds a charming destination within its town limits. Members can head to spots like the Raw Urban Winery for discounted wine flights and other goodies before bopping around. Or, families can opt to do different activities like axe throwing or an escape room at a discounted rate if they book through the concierge as well. Rides can be set up beforehand, and you just call about a half hour before you want to be picked up.
Other stand-outs include pony rides, train rides, apple picking, craft breweries, farmers markets and virtually, every seasonal activity you can think of. In total, members have access to over 100 ski trails, 20 golf courses, 10 waterfalls and multiple state parks. Serenité also regularly hosts member nights with food, drinks and live music.
Those interested in dipping their toe in the pond can also opt to try out the complete experience through a Trial Membership. The experience is new in its design, so, it’s an option there to see how you fit, or more so, how the brand fits for you and your family.
To learn more about Serenité Private Members Club, visit serenitemembersclub.com
