The village of Kiryas Joel, in Orange County north-west of New York City, is one of the most distinctive communities in the United States, founded in the 1970s by Satmar Hasidic Jews and still almost entirely Hasidic today. It is a densely built, fast-growing village where Yiddish is widely spoken, shops close for the Sabbath and the rhythm of life follows religious tradition. Visitors passing through should be respectful and dress modestly if stopping.
The surrounding countryside is far less dense. To the south and east lie the forests and lakes of Harriman State Park and the Hudson Highlands, and to the north the long ridge of Schunemunk Mountain, a wild and rugged hill with views over the Hudson valley. To the west, beyond the Wallkill valley, rise the white cliffs of the Shawangunk Ridge, famous among rock climbers, with the lakes of Minnewaska State Park on top.
The riding around here is varied. Route 17 and the Thruway are busy, especially near the outlet shopping centre at Central Valley, but the minor roads into the hills are much more rewarding, winding through forests and farmland with views of the ridges. Traffic can be heavy on weekends and holidays, and deer are a constant hazard.
Fuel, delis and diners are plentiful in Monroe and the surrounding towns, and you can pump your own fuel in New York. Kosher food is widely available in the village itself. Fill up here before heading west towards the Shawangunks, where the roads climb onto the ridge and the views open out over the valleys.