About Orenda
Our Mission: To awaken the power of the human spirit.
Our Vision: Lodging, facilities, and programs for those seeking to make an impact on the world through educational enrichment, relaxation, and spiritual renewal.
Welcome to Orenda: Your Perfect Catskill Mountains Retreat
Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Catskills, Orenda is more than just a getaway—it's a sanctuary of serenity, stunning views, and unforgettable memories. The name "Orenda" signifies "the human ability to become its greatest self," and this retreat was lovingly designed to inspire transformation and connection.
Created by Maria Assunta—Chief Yogini, Spiritual Leader, and Founder of several impact-driven organizations—Orenda reflects her vision of personal and collective growth. Maria believes the energy of Orenda is enriched by every soul that visits, making it an ever-evolving space of renewal and possibility.
Whether you're hosting your own retreat, a gathering for your impact organization or yoga studio, a family reunion, a friends' getaway, or a corporate retreat, Orenda provides the perfect setting to recharge and reconnect amidst nature's finest.
Set on 11 pristine acres, this exquisite 9-bedroom, 6.5-bathroom estate offers the ultimate blend of luxury, comfort, and nature in every season.
Winter Wonderland
Experience the magic of winter as you hit the slopes at Belleayre Ski Mountain, located just 1.5 miles away. Afterward, return to Orenda to unwind in the cozy living spaces, rejuvenate in the warm sauna, or soak under the stars in the bubbling hot tub.
Summer Bliss
Make the most of the sunny season with Orenda’s exceptional outdoor amenities. Swim in the heated private pool, craft meals in the outdoor kitchen (complete with a pizza oven), or explore 13 acres of picturesque land. It’s the perfect setting for entertaining, relaxing, and creating lifelong summer memories.
Year-Round Paradise
From vibrant fall foliage to blooming spring landscapes, Orenda is surrounded by natural beauty and endless opportunities for adventure. Hike stunning trails, savor local restaurants, and embrace the tranquility of your private mountain retreat no matter the season.
Orenda: Where Every Season Feels Like Home, and Every Visit Feeds the Soul.
History of the Area: Long before Middletown was Middletown, this area was occupied seasonally by Lenni Lenape (Delaware) Indians. The Lenni Lenape were named by the English the “Delaware” Indians as they lived on the shores of Delaware Bay and the river that emptied into it. They were an Algonquian speaking tribe (as opposed to Iroquoian), and their territory ran from the headwaters of the Delaware and Susquehanna Rivers south to the Potomac. The Oneidas and Tuscaroras occupied lands to the north and west; the Mohicans, Esopus and Wappingers to the south and east.
The Munsee band was among two subtribes of the Lenni Lenape and it is this group that is believed to have occupied a site along the East Branch of the Delaware River between Arkville and Margaretville. Sometime after 1715, historians believe they conveyed the territory to the newly arrived Tuscaroras.
About the Property: Orenda Retreat Center sits on what was originally an apple orchard. Owned by the Tortuga Family in the 1950’s, it was purchased by Phyllis and Mel Litoff in 1981 as their 2nd home. Mel and Phyllis owned and operated the Sweet Basil Jazz Club, in NYC, they expanded to host their family and friends including famous musicians. Both Phyllis and Mel went on to host the Belleayre Music Festival, which was an annual festival that played host to such artists as James Blunt, Rosanne Cash, Branford Marsalis, Frankie Valli, Obie Benson, Lyle Lovett, The Neville Brothers, Linda Eder, Ray Charles, and Wynton Marsalis many of which were hosted at their home. On 7 July 2002, at the age of 63 Phyllis lost her fight to brain cancer.
In the fall/winter 2017, Maria Assunta founder of Honor Yoga had sought out a retreat center that could serve as a retreat center and refuge for the Honor Yoga Family System, her fellow healers, friends and family. In an impromptu drive up to the Catskills she walked no further than the entrance to the front door and immediately felt the enormous healing, empowering, joyous and positive energies of the property.
Orenda has become a sanctuary for nonprofit retreats through organizations such as the Honor Yoga Foundation which provides full scholarships to those who would like to attend a healing retreat. Visit Honoryogafoundation.org for more information.