Gurney’s Opens an Ice Rink

Gurney’s Inn has given guests and Montaukers another reason to stay active this winter. As of Nov. 1, the inn has an ice-skating rink on the flattop roof of its spa, which has one of the South Fork’s best views of the Atlantic.

The rink isn’t actually made of ice but a white polymer material that is used on rinks by the National Hockey League and large Broadway productions such as “Disney on Ice,” said Greer Brody, the inn’s senior publicist. It is oiled daily for smooth skating.

Although heating lamps have been installed, that doesn’t mean you can leave the mittens and mufflers at home — it can get awfully cold up there when a stiff wind is blowing off the ocean.

Montauk residents who have used the rink love it. “It’s a sweet setup,” said Jason Biondo, whose two young boys skated recently.

Tom Flight took his three children to the rink and said it was a lot of fun. “And it’s such a great setting,” he said.

The enclosed rink is surrounded by built-in seating and lighted at night. Little white lights twinkle from the surrounding trees. Bar drinks including hot toddies, mulled port, and hot chocolate can be ordered, and music is played. On weekends a D.J. adds to the party atmosphere.

The rink will be open Mondays through Thursdays from 3 to 7 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 9 p.m. On Sundays it will be open from noon to 5 p.m., and it can also be reserved for private parties with a two-hour minimum.

Avid skaters can bring their own skates or rent a pair on site for $4. Children under 12 must be accompanied by a chaperone. The cost is $15 for adults and $10 for children. Those with proof of Montauk residence will be charged half price. The rink is free to the inn’s guests.