This is the Bronx?

Defying a borough's image.

Bartow-Pell mansion is tucked away. Driving around Pelham Bay Park (New York’s largest park) you could miss the entrance to this quiet Shangri-la. There’s an unassuming gate overshadowed by the surrounding woods to indicate by gone era grace is just down the driveway. Once you park the car and silence the engine all you can hear are cicadas and the quiet chatter of blue haired tour bus goers.

The manse is masculine in its meticulous stone construction. The small gardens beyond the solarium pleasing but in no way ostentatious. The interior is classic center hall federal design and it contains the usual assortment of antiques, wide plank floors and paintings of fox hunts and portraits of forgettable notables.

The Observer likes to swing a club. The Observer likes history. The Observer likes a cooling swim. If you’re like The Observer he can suggest a fantastic way to spend a Sunday. Walk the mansion’s grounds. Cross the street and play 18 holes at the Split Rock Golf Course. Nip down to Pelham Bay Park’s Orchard Beach and cool off in Long Island Sound.

Good times.