A Barn at the Quarry – 154 Deike-Hunter Lane, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624. (830) 990-1697. Located in the scenic rolling hill country outside of Fredericksburg, this B&B operated by the Thompson family, exudes great rustic charm. The”barn” consists of three lovely suites, two downstairs and one upstairs. Suites may be rented separately, or you can rent the entire facility. There’s a great outdoor patio for an evening glass of wine, or morning cup of coffee. There’s a private hot tub and an outdoor Mexican chimanea for cooler weather. All rooms are equipped with microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, TV and VCR. Such amenities as lavender-scented linens and multiple downy pillows are standard in each suite. The Gold Country Suite, which is upstairs has a separate sitting room. The interior is done with rough cedar walls and antique tin ceilings. The suite sleeps four and features a brass bed and claw-footed tub. The North Country Suite, located downstairs, opening on the patio and is closest to the outdoor hot tub. The suite sleeps four, has a lounging couch and side chairs, plus an in-room Jacuzzi. The Hill Country Suite, as would be evident form its name, is bright and sunny. The suite, which sleeps four, features a lounging couch and comfortable side chairs, plus an in-room Jacuzzi. For reservations call (888) 991-6749. For rate and more information, please see website at: www.fredericksburg-tx-getaway.com.
A Place In Time Bed and Breakfast
A Place in Time – 614 South Washington St., Fredericksburg, Texas 78624. (830) 997-5110.
A 1914 Historical Landmark located in Fredericksburg, in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. The B&B is located in a lovingly refurbished 1914 Arts and Crafts-style home. From the moment you cross the wrap-around front porch and step into the inviting parlor area with its green marbled-accented oak fireplace, you know this is a special place in time. The beautifully maintained grounds include a large front yard sweeping upward to the house and its circular drive, grapevine-decked fences, herb and vegetable gardens, a peach orchard and a small chicken coop. Great for wandering or stopping to read a book.
As you approach the B&B you will note that the house to the left is identical in design. The homes have been known in town as the “Twin Houses” since they were built. Kurt Keidel bought a portion of out lots 48-49 in 1910 from Elizabeth Ochs for $1200.00. He put $200.00 down and arranged for terms that gave him four years to pay the remainder at eight percent interest. Kurt and his brother Felix, sons of Dr. Albert and Mathilde Eisfled Keidel, married sisters, Gretchen and Hattie Pfeiffer, from Selma, Alabama. In 1914, the two brothers hired an architect from San Antonio to design the identical houses “in the country” as they were at the time. The architect reversed the plan for Felix so the houses would be mirrored images of each other. The houses were built within the year. Kurt was a pharmacist and owned the Keidel Drug Store. Felix was a dentist.
A Place in Time is owned today by John and Mary Kaye Sawyer Morse. The B&B has four accommodations – the Blue Room, the Garey Room, the Garden Room and the Ruby Bell Suite with a separate sitting room. Full gourmet breakfast served in the downstairs dining room. And folks rave about the array of foods from Mary Kay’s kitchen , many of which come from the organic gardens on the grounds. (See some of Mary Kaye's recipes in our Recipe Archives Section under Breakfast and Brunch Dishes.) Computer, copier, data port, fax, wireless internet and secretarial services available on site. See website for rates and reservations. www.aplaceintimebandb.com
Austin Street Retreat
Austin Street Retreat– 408 West Austin Street, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624.
The Austin Street Retreat is composed of five deceivingly rustic-looking cabins on beautifully landscaped grounds. The cabins are lavishly appointed with modern luxuries, such as whirlpool tubs for two blended with elegant antique furnishings. The first two structures, a cabin and a barn were built in 1867 by John and Maria Walter. The cabin served as the family home for over a century. The barn temporarily served as the local jail when the original one was damaged by fire. These two structures became the first two cabins of the Austin Street Retreat – Maria’s Cabin and Kirstin’s Cabin, preserving the cultural heritage for many to share. The home was lovingly restored in 1976 and the additional structures were built in the architecture of the same period. Each cabin has central heat and air conditioning, microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, cable TV, telephone and a CD player, in addition to the whirlpool tub.
The cabins are joined by a series of courtyards, but each retains a great sense of privacy with secluded terraces.
Kristin’s Cabin is a spacious bedroom/sitting room, boasting a large wood-burning fireplace adjacent to the oversized bed. The old barn/temporary jail has been renovated to serve as the cabin’s bathroom, but the iron bars remain on windows!
El Jefe’s is a two-story villa carefully designed and constructed to evoke the era of the 1860s. A winding staircase leads to a palatial bathroom with a small balcony overlooking the private terrace. Downstairs consists of the bedroom/sitting room.
Maria’s is a log and limestone cabin consisting of two bedrooms. The rustic log bedroom has a cedar bark queen-size bed. The limestone bedroom has a beautiful cherry wood sleigh bed. Both room are furnishing with custom linens and down comforters. The pecan-shaded terrace, with its New Orleans-style wrought iron furniture is the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine after a hectic day of shopping Fredericksburg’s busy Main Street.
Eli’s Cabin is nestled under the homestead’s original windmill and cypress cistern. The headboard of the cabin’s king-size bed once graced a boudoir in Thailand. The cabin has an unusual cast iron fireplace that was saved from the ruins of a once grand home in Philadelphia. The whirlpool tub is set in limestone, anchored by a hand railing fashioned from an elk antler.
Annie’s Cabin is the theatrical jewel in a building that once housed an antique shop. The interior space was designed by the design team at Fredericksburg’s Homestead Furnishings and features spectacular painted walls. The cabin has the feel of a sensuous movie set – and the residents can write their own script!
Steve and Rollie Devlin’s B& D Stony Ridge Ranch (named for Blackwell, Rollie's maiden name, and Devlin) is as close to the mythical idea of really “getting away from it all” as you’ll likely find in the Texas Hill Country. I’d call it just this side of Eden, in fact! Centrally located in the middle of absolutely nowhere, it’s the perfect place to kick back and get re-connected to your significant other, your girlfriends, or even yourself. But please don’t get the idea that this is a rustic or monastic place of few creature comforts where getting back to nature means being deprived of a bed and hot water. Quite the contrary! The ranch’s fabulous log home, an 825 square foot upscale cabin with an upstairs loft with queen bed and great view, downstairs bedroom with queen bed, fireplace, living room, small kitchen and large bathroom with a huge silo shower, and two guest cabins, which each sleep two, have been designed with comfort in mind. Cocoon-like, actually – the accommodations evoke those feelings of being tucked into a soft bed with down pillows and fluffy quilts at grandmother’s house. Each accommodation includes amenities such as robes, shampoo, hairdryers, gourmet coffee and real cream and other goodies and snacks made by the owners. Visit in the spring and enjoy your morning coffee on the patio, taking in the heady aroma of the blooming jasmine. Aromatherapy by nature - and what a way to start the day.
For those who must see civilization on a daily basis, Bandera, Medina, Hondo and Castroville – all scenic Hill Country towns with shopping and sights galore are within easy driving distance. And right down the road in Tarpley, Texas, is Mac & Ernie’s Roadside Eatery, one of Texas’ most unique upscale dining spots operated from a roadside hut that resembles a Taco stand! (Featured on TV Food Network in April of 2007!) But don’t eat too much on your forays into town. Rollie Devlin is a professional chef extraordinaire, who, in her former city life, owned a bustling catering business in Dallas. She offers a variety of meal options at the ranch if you really just want to forget you own a vehicle for the duration of your stay. There are picnic baskets, Gourmet Grazing Trays (grilled meats, vegetable, cheese, & bread trays with olives grown on the ranch and a bottle of wine) that can be enjoyed on the patio by the fireplace, or gourmet meals in the main house – all available by prior arrangement. All dining options come complete with an unparalleled view of the Texas Hill Country uncluttered by civilization.
Stony Ridge Ranch is located on a 150 acre property with a limestone-lined creek, originally part of a 3,000 acre ranch, and offers many memory-making activities, including rustic hiking and walking trails, tubing, river rafting and kayaking, great bird watching, horseback riding, spa treatments, biking, and cooking classes taught by Rollie (with prior arrangement). Feeling creative? Watercolor supplies are provided! The property is also a game ranch, with guided hunts available in season. Or just sit on the patio and watch the deer graze.
Stony Ridge offers four very special packages in addition to standard reservations. The Romance Package for two includes a guest cabin for two nights and one of Rollie’s Gourmet Grazing Trays with wine on Saturday while you watch the sunset on the deck overlooking 3,000 acres. Two full breakfasts. Chilled champagne and chocolates are also included. The Weekend Getaway includes two nights lodging in the new Guest House, two country breakfasts and special snacks. The Weekend Honeymoon Package (also great for anniversaries!) includes two nights accommodations, two full breakfasts, Gourmet Grazing Tray on Saturday, a relaxing one hour massage for two, champagne, chocolates, and fresh flowers in your cabin. New and not to be missed is the Girlfriends Getaway. Grab your girlfriend and head to the country for a weekend of relaxation and pampering. Package includes accommodations for two in the log house for two nights, two full breakfasts, Gourmet Grazing Tray with wine for two on Saturday, two one hour massages, and choice of a spa facial or pedicure. (Manicures and Champagne and chocolates can be added to the package for an addition charge.) Who would ever want to go home?
For rates and availability at Stony Ridge Ranch call, or visit the website at:www.stonyridgeranch.com Tell them we sent you and you might just get one of Rollie’s divine Chocolate Brownies!
Biscuit Hill Bed and Breakfast
Biscuit Hill Bed and Breakfast – 717 Colleen Drive, Canyon Lake, Texas 78133. 1-888-998-9909.
The folks at Biscuit Hill B&B refer to their property as the “B&B with R&R” (rest and relaxation). Located on a scenic point with a commanding view of Canyon Lake. Great amenities and beautiful décor in the common areas and the elegant rooms. There are four guest rooms, one two-room suite, and a luxury cabin (Captain’s Bay Suite) across the creek from the B&B. Each room is decorated in a different theme. Two rooms offer lake views. All rooms have king-size beds, fireplaces, TV &VCR, refrigerator and outside seating accessible from the room. One mile to lake swimming access.
The folks at Biscuit Hill offer some great "Educational Vacations" also. But even these are fun and loaded with good things to eat and drink. There are Wine and Cheese Pairing Classes, Wine and Food Pairing Classes held at Dry Comal Creek Winery, and Cooking Classes, some hands-on. Biscuit Hill is a great site for weddings and other celebrations. See website for details, rates and reservation information. www.biscuithill.com
Chantilly Lace Country Inn
Chantilly Lace Country Inn – 625 Nugent Avenue, Johnson city, Texas 78636. (830) 868-2767.
This lovely Inn located in Johnson City at the crossroads of the Texas Hill Country is set on six tree-covered acres of beautifully landscaped gardens in the middle of the historic town. Herb gardens and perennial beds along winding paths offer the perfect place to enjoy tea or read a book. Three parlors and a pavilion form the common areas. There are three suites available, each with a different décor. All suites have king size beds, refrigerator, coffee maker and microwave. Two suites have whirlpool tubs. All rooms include 4 p.m. afternoon tea complete with tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam and sweet breads, as well as a gourmet breakfast. Romantic Weekend packages include two night’s lodging with afternoon tea and breakfast each day, six arranged long stem roses, complimentary bottle of Champagne with hors d’oeuvres on Friday night(served in your room) and a four-course candlelight dinner on Saturday night.
Dinner available at the on-site Country Inn Restaurant by reservation. Many area attractions, including the boyhood home of Lyndon Baines Johnson, the Johnson Settlement, art galleries, the Friendly Bar Bistro (a great wine bar), Texas Hills Vineyard (fabulous wines and great tasting room), the Old Lumberyard Complex of antiques, furnishings and collectibles, plus the Silver K Café with great foods and nifty little wine list. Fredericksburg with its world-renowned shopping, is a short 30-minute drive. See website for rates. www.chantillylacesoaps.com
The Comfort Common
The Comfort Common – 717 High Street, Comfort, Texas 78013. (830) 995-3030.
A bed and breakfast inn located in the historic Ingenhuett-Faust Hotel in the charming town of Comfort. The town was established in 1854 and is said to have the most original 19th century business district in Texas. The Inn has been featured in The Dallas Morning News, the Houston Chronicle, Southern Living, Travel and Leisure, and Texas Highways. Designed by noted architect Alfred Giles as an eight room hotel and built in 1880. The hotel was doubled in size by the addition of another wing in 1884. Wide verandas open onto a tree-shaded courtyard in the rear side of the inn, complete with a gazebo. The Inn has rooms and suites, each with private baths and decorated with antiques. There are also two cottages located in the rear of the courtyard, one dating from 1820, the other from 1840. There is a Victorian cottage located one block down High Street.
Antique/gift shop located on ground floor. Area activities include top-notch antiques and collectibles in shops in the historic business district, Comfort Cellars Winery Tasting Room and memorable dining with breakfast pastries and great coffee at High’s across from the Inn. For lunch and dinner don’t miss 814 Bistro next door offering gourmet American cuisine with superb service. Fredericksburg is 23 miles and San Antonio is 40 miles straight down IH 10. See website for rates and reservation information. www.comfortcommon.com.
Cook's Cottage and Suites
Cook’s Cottage and Suites – 703 West Austin Street, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624. 1-210-493-5101.
Patsy Swendson’s nationally acclaimed bed and breakfast guesthouse located in the heart of the Historic District of Fredericksburg, Texas. Within walking distance of fabulous shopping, wining and dining. The property has been cited as one of “The Top 25 Most Romantic Places in the U.S.A". by Travel & Leisure Magazine. Lovely, relaxing grounds and rooms with elegant décor and gorgeous baths. The property is situated one block north of Main Street in a quiet, neighborhood setting. See website for rates and reservation information. www.bed-inn-breakfast-tx.com.
A truly romantic, off-the-beaten-path bed and breakfast located in the quaint hill country village of Wimberley, Texas, known as a haven for artists, musicians, antiques and collectibles, plus many craftsmen. The inn is located on the crystal clear Cypress Creek, lined with giant cypress trees. The grounds are lovely, sloping down to the creek and the perfect place to relax or read a book. The location seems very remote, but is actually just two blocks from the downtown shopping district. The inn has 13 very unique rooms, including one suite with a fireplace, and 1,500 square feet of indoor public space, plus outdoor decks overlooking the creek. The rooms have distinctive touches, different in each room. Some rooms have Jacuzzi tubs, some offer claw foot tubs, or marble showers, some have stained glass windows, some have balconies. All are decorated in different color schemes. Austin is a short drive, many area wineries, Kiss the Cook gourmet shop, Wimberly Glassworks, featuring handblown glass works of art, Clifford’s Original Wine Bar, a relaxing spot to have a glass of wine and some wine-friendly finger foods and panini sandwiches on locally made sourdough bread. See website for room rates and reservations. www.creekhaveninn.com.
Crescent Quarters
Crescent Quarters – 170 South Main Street, Boerne, Texas 78006. (830) 249-8016.
This upstairs inn is situated in the heart of historic downtown Boerne, Texas. Walk to some of the best shipping and dining in the hill country. Eleven rooms and suites, each designed around a different theme. N’Awlins Suite, Hill Country Suite, Asian Room, Art Deco Room, Sportsman’s Room, Garden Room, Shabby Chic Room, Plantation Room, Blue Dog Room and the Fiesta Room. All rooms have access to the second floor balcony reminiscent of New Orleans’ French Quarter with its iron lace railing and gas lanterns, overlooking Boerne’s Main Street. The building was constructed from 100-year old bricks.
Local activities abound. Don’t miss the Kiss the Cook Gourmet Shop on Theissen Street and the many local art galleries. Sister Creek Winery and Comfort Cellars Winery are a short distance and both have tasting rooms and fine wines. San Antonio is a mere 20-minute drive. Close to Fiesta Texas, Sea World, the shops at La Cantera, the River Walk and historic Alamo. Many area restaurants for your dining pleasure, but be sure not to miss the Cypress Grille, owned by Chef/Proprietor Paul Thompson and offering the best in casual upscale dining and an excellent wine list, located on the first floor of the Crescent Quarters complex. See website for rates and reservation information. www.crescentquarters.com
Gruene Apple Bed and Breakfast
Gruene Apple Bed and Breakfast – 1235 Gruene Road, New Braunfels, Texas 78130-3003. (830) 643-1234.
Located on the Guadalupe River in the historic town of Gruene with shopping, dining and music at Gruene Hall. The inn is on lovely tree-shaded grounds, complete with a pool. Each of the 14 rooms has its own personality. The rooms and common areas are filled with items collected by innkeepers Linda and Lloyd Kleypas over their 43 years of marriage and travel. Some rooms have private balconies, others private porches. Some rooms have fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs. Gourmet breakfast, served at 9:00, included with each room. Deluxe breakfast feasts with a wide variety of specialty dishes are offered on weekends. See website for rates and reservation information. www.grueneapple.com
Gruene Homestead Inn
Gruene Homestead Inn – 832 Gruene Road, New Braunfels, Texas 78130. 1-800-238-5534.
The Gruene Homestead Inn is a collection of historic farm houses from the area that have been moved onto eight acres of an original German homestead and restored. Innkeepers Ed and Millie Miles and family have created the ambiance of a small early German community. The inn has a total of 21 individually designed and decorated rooms and suites in various buildings. The Inn is located within minutes of historic Gruene and New Braunfels, the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers and Schlitterban Waterpark.
Also conveniently located to the San Marcos outlet malls. Rooms are furnishing with private baths with choices of Jacuzzi tubs, antique soaking tubs or stand up showers. The property includes a swimming pool, top tub and scenic grounds landscaped with native plants. The Tavern in the Gruene is a live music venue housed in a renovated pole barn on the property. The tavern features a full bar, pool table, shuffleboard table, garden patio and horseshoe pit. Local and regional music acts featuring country, rockabilly and blues genres. And you don’t have to drive home! See website for specific room information, rates and reservation information. www.gruenehomesteadinn.com
Gruene Mansion Inn Bed and Breakfast
Gruene Mansion Inn Bed and Breakfast – 1275 Gruene road, New Braunfels, Texas 78130. (830) 629-2641.
Located on spacious, tree shaded grounds sloping down to the Guadalupe River, the Gruene Mansion Inn offers 31 lodging units. Located in the mansion itself, the old barns, corn cribs, carriage house and other buildings that have been converted into guest units, each has its own entrance, private bath and porch. All quarters have been lovingly refurbished in Victorian rustic elegance. Each until has its own distinctive décor. The Mansion itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is designated a Texas Historic Landmark. The inn has been featured in Country Lifestyle Magazine. The Mansion was the home of the founder of the Gruene community. Henry D. Gruene. It is adjacent to the nationally known Gruene Hall (one of the oldest continuously running dancehalls in the state). You can honky-tonk, float the Guadalupe River, shop in downtown Gruene for serious antiques, clothes, handmade furniture, pottery, and home furnishings or dine in one of five different restaurants. Gruene Market Days, a fabulous shopping venue, is the third weekend of each month. See website for rates and reservation information. www.gruenemansioninn.com
Hoffman Haus Bed and Breakfast
Hoffman Haus Bed and Breakfast – 608 East Creek Street, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624. 1-800-899-1672.
Located two blocks south of Fredericksburg’s shopper’s haven on Main Street, Hoffman Haus is just a short walk, yet it offers serenity and seclusion. The inn is an enclave of thoughtfully restored early-to-late-19th century buildings and separate guesthouses. The rooms include featherbeds and leather sofas and chairs. The 2-1/2 acre gardens provide an idyllic setting for relaxing or reading. Gourmet kitchen at Hoffman Haus, under the auspices of Chef/Proprietor Leslie Washburn, tempts with organic produce and gourmet cooking that caters to your dietary wishes. Hoffman Haus provides the ultimate in civilized luxury with a lovely dining room, reminiscent of a fine home’s formal dining room, and overlooking the Texas Garden.
The Wine Room, with its mirrored oak bar back, offers the perfect spot for a glass of wine or a game of chess or backgammon at the gaming table. Wine and appetizers are served in the Dining Room each Friday between 5 and 7 and on Saturday from 5 through the evening hours in case you would like a nightcap before retiring. Other spacious public areas offer conversation groupings. Hoffman Haus offers 12 rooms and suites, each decorated in a different theme and offering various amenities. Some have fireplaces. This is truly one of the finest lodging facilities in Fredericksburg. Leslie also offers gourmet, natural food cooking classes by previous arrangement. Perfect home base for your Fredericksburg getaway. Many great local restaurants and wine bars, plus short drives to area wineries. See website for room rates and reservation information. www.hoffmanhaus.com
Owner Travis “Sibby” Barrett is a true native Texas, having spent most of her life in Dallas, and a portion of her childhood growing up in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. After owning two successful businesses in Dallas, a speciality flower shop and a cake, flower and event planning company, Sibby then opened Café Georgia, also in Dallas, which has been an immensely successful restaurant. In 2001 she built her home in the Texas Hill Country, naming it Juniper Hills Farm. She began by offering weekend yoga and cooking retreats.
Sibby has expanded the farm to include four separate cabins, or “casitas” and two studios. The casitas include some really outstanding amenities like small fenced yards, indoor/outdoor rock showers, sitting areas, kitchenettes with architectural details like hand-painted Mexican sinks. The studios are both downstairs suites and include sitting areas and kitchenettes. All rooms have access to the sauna. Massages are available.
Ms. Barrett operates her wildly popular cooking school, Onion Creek Kitchens, at the farm. The school offers hands-on cooking classes, dinner-menu classes and tours of area farms, farmer’s markets, flower & lavender farms, goat cheese makers, etc. See “Favorite Texas Cooking Schools – Hill Country” for details.
Juniper Hills farm offers a quiet respite for simply enjoying life in the Hill Country’s Blanco River Valley, surrounded by Juniper Ashe and Oak covered hills, rock outcroppings, crisscrossing creeks and a big Texas sky where the stars feel so close you could reach out and touch them. Retreat weekends for small groups can be custom planned. See website for details, rates, and availability. www.juniperhillsfarm.com.
Meyer Bed and Breakfast
Meyer Bed and Breakfast – 845 High Street, Comfort, Texas 78013. 1-888-995-6100.
Meyer Bed and Breakfast is located on a beautiful 27-acre nature area with groves of pecan trees, fields of wildflowers, deer and other wildlife. Huge mature native cypress trees line the banks of the Cypress Creek waterfront, just upstream from the Guadalupe River. The original building dates to 1857 when it was a haven for travelers on the fabled Old Spanish Trail, what is now High Street, the main thoroughfare in historic Comfort, Texas. The Meyer complex consists of 10 buildings and 20 suites. There is an oversized swimming pool and a hot tub in a secluded corner overlooking the creek. All suites have recently undergone an extensive remodeling. All suites have fireplaces. Short walk or drive from Comfort’s Shopping and dining district and Comfort Cellars Winery. Twenty minute drive to Fredericksburg and 40 miles from San Antonio. See website for rates and reservation information. www.meyerbedandbreakfast.com
Rainbow Hearth is located on the shores of Lake Buchanan, the largest of the lakes in the Highland Lakes chain. The lake is vast and Rainbow Hearth is situated on a hillside, offering unparalleled views of the lake from every accommodation. The facility was built around ancient Native American ceremonial grounds, offering unexpected encounters that just might change the way you see yourself and the world around you.
Rainbow Hearth offers a variety of lodging packages which include the Texas Couples Retreat, Texas Personal Retreats, a 24-Hour Renewal Package, the “Stressed to the Max” Spa Special, and Texas Seminar Retreat Facilities. All packages include meals which are prepared on the premises from organic and natural foods, many of which are grown there. Rainbow Hearth collects its own rainwater, puts it through a series of three filters and ultra-violet light exposure and finally charges the water in one final step (like Smart® Water), creating a refreshing and delicious drinking water. Many guests describe the water as “the best water” they’ve ever tasted! The accommodations, which include a Tree House Yurt which accommodates up to five guests, all afford privacy and all have decks with seating from which to enjoy the views of the lake.
A variety of activities are available from fishing, boating, swimming, hiking on trails, plus massage therapy and bodywork massages by Mariah Wentworth, MsT. The grounds are a photographer’s paradise. All of the suites at Rainbow Hearth have King Size Sleep Number beds furnished with luxurious linens and comfortably furnished, non-smoking rooms. As a sanctuary retreat, televisions and clocks are not on the premises in order to support a relaxing and calming environment where guests can reconnect with themselves, loved ones, and nature. There is a well stocked library adjacent to the main dining area which also stocks some games and cards for guest use. The bathhouse is the site of the large hot tub with 5 different therapeutic jet stations. You can relax in the hot tub and take in a panoramic view of the lake. The bathhouse is complete with showers, soap and shampoo, towels and a bathroom. For those who wish to enjoy the hot tub in the buff, there is a lockable door and “Do Not Disturb” signs. Water quality is monitored and balanced regularly in the hot tub.
When you visit, don’t miss a trek to Medicine Rock at Rainbow Hearth’s Thunder Ridge. The area was used by indigenous Americans as a sacred ceremonial site. Many guests have experienced gaining life-changing insights while walking Medicine Rock. For more information and reservations visit Rainbow Hearth's delightful website at www.rainbowhearth.com
Rio Frio Lodging
Rio Frio Lodging – FM 1050, Rio Frio, Texas 78879. (830) 966-2320
The Rio Frio Lodging office is located 10 miles west of Utopia, Texas, or 4 miles east of Hwy. 83 and Garner State Park. Rio Frio Lodging has 11 properties which are private vacation homes and cabins located in the beautiful Frio and Sabinal River Canyons between Lost Maples State Nature area and Garner State Park. The cabins are located on large ranches, in the country, on a river, or on a creek. Each property is unique. Many are old and filled with antiques.
This is a truly unspoiled part of Texas with rugged canyons and cool, swift streams with towering pecan and cypress trees. Picnic, fish, swim or float or kayak down the rapids of the cool, crystal clear waters of the Frio and Sabinal rivers. Hike or bike. Birdwatchers paradise and one of the best places in Texas to see the Golden-cheeked Warbler, Black-capped Vireo and all three King-fishers! Birding/Nature Tours available. See sunset bat flights. Perfect get-away destinations for those seeking just to get away to serenity and clean air. See website for description of facilities, rates and reservation information. www.friolodging.com
Runnymede Country Inn Bed and Breakfast
Runnymede Country Inn Bed and Breakfast – 184 Fullbrook Lane, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624. 1-866-427-8374.
Runnymede Country Inn is located on ten acres just three miles from downtown Fredericksburg in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Innkeepers Steve and Cherry Frye have created a tranquil setting for their elegant English-style country inn. Four luxurious accommodations are located in the main inn, each with private bath equipped with a whirlpool tub. There are four private cottages, one of which overlooks waterfalls and a Koi-stocked pond. Each facility is decorated in a different décor. There is a large pool and soothing water garden, plus a gazebo. Runnymede country Inn has been featured in Country LifestylesMagazine and Texas Highways Magazine. The Inn also offers cooking classes taught by popular Houston cooking instructor Molly Fowler. See website for schedule of cooking classes, room rates and reservation information. www.runnymedecountryinn.com
Star of Texas B&B and Gift Shop
Star of Texas Bed & Breakfast and Gift Shop – 650 Morelock Lane, Brownwood, Texas 76801. (325) 646-4128, or Toll-free 1-800-850-2003.
The Star of Texas Bed and Breakfast is the perfect destination for an upper Texas Hill Country getaway. Owned by Don and Debbie Morelock and located in Brownwood, Texas, home to fabulous antique shops, gift shops, The Rage, a great day spa, and right in the center of the eight Way Out Wineries. (See “Our Favorite Texas Wineries – Central and North Regions for Barking Rocks Winery, Bluff Dale Winery, Red Caboose Winery, Brennan Vineyards in nearby Comanche, Rising Star Vineyards in Rising Star, Texas, Alamosa Wine Cellars, Texas Legato Winery and Pillar Bluff Winery.) Lake Brownwood State Park offers fishing, hiking, picnicking and bird watching. Brownwood is also home to the Turtle Restaurant, a great upscale dining experience, located in the Historic Uptown Brownwood District. Owned by Chef Garry Botbyl and his charming and really funny wife, The Turtle features what Garry calls "Casual Fine Dining". This talented and innovative chef studied at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY and has created a real hidden treasure in Brownwood. Don't miss when you're in the area. No beer or wine, but you can bring your own from your day's bounty at the wineries! No corkage fee is charged.
The B&B itself consists of the Tuscany Suite in the Main house, plus four separate cabins. The Oak Cottage is a secluded little hideaway. Alarge stone-floored front porch with comfortable oversized chairs beckons the weary shopper to sit a spell. A nearby outdoor hot tub provides the perfect way to end the evening. Each cabin has a coffeemaker and we luxuriated in an early morning cup on the porch Sunday morning, where we were joined by Tex and Star, the resident kitties, and by Biscuit, the Llama, who hummed for us as she stretched her neck over the fence to see who was there.
The Wildrose Retreat is the official Honeymoon Cottage with a large Jacuzzi tub for 2 and loft bedroom – designed for romance. The Willowbend is decorated in a romantic Country French style and has a Jacuzzi tub for 2 overlooking the lovely pond. The Cottonwood is an artistic cabin with an oversized shower for two and private outdoor hot tub. Each room has a comfortable queen bed.
Debbie prepares a fabulous hot country breakfast which is delivered to your room around the civilized hour of 9 am. On our recent visit breakfast consisted of Chocolate-Hazelnut French Toast with Fresh Strawberries, applewood-smoked bacon and a pitcher of Mimosas for two. (And breakfast is served with real flatware and cloth napkins with napkin rings at your own breakfast table!) Such pampering in the rustic elegance of a well-equipped cabin in the woods could become very easy to get used to! Each of the cabins is a virtual gallery of the talents of the owners. Pottery items crafted by Debbie provide lovely accents; ironwork by Don is both beautiful and functional. Hand-wrought oak leaves serve as towel holders in the bathroom. Hand-crafted iron beds with detailed oak leaves on the headboards are featured in the rooms.
All of the accommodations are scattered around the inn’s 22 acres of Certified Texas Wildscape, landscaping done with native wildlife in mind. A Nature Trail winds through the property with peaceful stopping spots, such as a rustic bench overlooking the meadow where you might see the pair of resident Red Tail Hawks, and art objects placed to evoke a sense of serenity. An old church pew adjacent to The Prayer Tree offers a spiritual lift and an insightful respite. The innkeeper’s object was to preserve an organically-gardened, natural habitat for native critters to be enjoyed by the two-legged creatures too.
Don't miss the Star of Texas Gift Shop featuring handcrafted metal arts, pottery, cut stone, beaded crosses and many other items including cookbooks, some of which feature recipes from the Star of Texas kitchen. Select some special B&B soaps to take home so you can relive your stay by aromatherapy! T-Shirts and photo cards are available and there's a drink and snack area in the shop.
Sounds pretty enticing, huh? But wait, there’s more! The Star of Texas offers an array of special packages – one to suit every occasion, or no occasion at all – just to pamper yourself, such as with the You’re Special Package, or the Spa Package, which includes a private massage for two in your room with wine, fruit & cheese and chocolate! There’s a Texas Wine & Dine Package which includes a bottle of Texas wine and a dinner certificate to The Turtle Restaurant. The Sunset Lake Boat Tour is an hour long tour of Lake Brownwood on a party boat with snacks and drinks. If you choose to just curl up in your room for the evening, Star of Texas offers a Romantic Dinner Basket package, including wine. A really special package is the Wedding Vows Renewed option. Renew your wedding vows in the garden chapel. Package includes vow ceremony by a Chaplain, flowers, photos, cake and punch. See website for details and rates on all packages. If you need to get away from it all, then this is the place where you need to go! www.star-of-texas.com
Settlers Crossing Bed and Breakfast has been called “One of America’s Top 10 Bed & Breakfasts” by Travel & Leisure Magazine. The Inn has also been featured in Country Living Magazine, Family Fun, Country Home and Country Inns. The facility is located on 35 acres of beautiful, tree-shaded hill country grounds with rolling pastures, flower gardens and Settlers Creek meandering through the property, yet just minutes from downtown Fredericksburg. It resembles a 19th century community. It is actually a collection of seven historic cottages and log cabins that have been completely updated and furnished with 18th and 19th century country antiques.
All accommodations have fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs and wonderful outdoor seating areas. The total setting is completed by Brighty the donkey, a flock of sheep and native deer roaming free. One of the cabins, the Kusenberger Log Cabin was built on the site in 1850 and is the oldest house built by the settlers outside of town. The cabin has the original stone floors, a sitting room with large fireplace and a small loft above it and a Jacuzzi tub. A stone porch runs across the front of the cabin, complete with rocking chairs. The view of the hill country from the porch is priceless. Other cabins and cottages provide similar amenities, including coffee bars with refrigerator and microwave. Continental “plus” breakfast delivered to the door each morning. This is a very unique facility offering a serene and very private retreat just minutes from Fredericksburg’s famous Main Street shopping and dining. Several Hill Country Wineries within a short distance – Chisholm Trail Winery is just 13 miles west of town on Usener Road off 290 West. See website for rates and reservation information. Website offers a virtual tour of each cabin. www.settlerscrossing.com.
The Verandas Guest House
The Verandas Guest House – 108 East League Street, Burnet, Texas 78611. (512) 715-0190.
The Verandas, located near the square in downtown Brunet is the result of a meticulous two year restoration project by owner/innkeepers Mary and Wayne Brown. The original limestone structure was built in 1856 as a stagecoach stop when Burnet was just a small community. Later the building became the Calvert House Hotel and then the home of the Galloway family. The building has now come full circle, once again offering a very comfortable respite to travelers. The original hand-dug water well on the property was refurbished and today provides water for a meandering water garden and Koi pond. Wayne constructed a lovely Monet-style bridge over the water garden with the help of local craftsmen. It’s a favorite spot for photographs.
Grounds are lushly landscaped. The gardens were selected by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Texas Department of Transportation to be included in the “Heart of Texas Wildlife Trail” because of the unique water garden and the use of native Texas plants in he flower and herb gardens which attract many species of birds and butterflies. There is also a cozy outdoor corner fireplace with a wisteria-covered arbor. Three guest suites, each with private baths and decorated with antiques. Suites consist of a sitting room, bedroom and bath. All suites open to the inviting wrap around verandas. The Verandas is an excellent base for highland lakes area sight-seeing. Delightful Road Trip picnic baskets are available with 24 hours notice, and can be prepared to include wine. How very, very civilized for exploring the town of Burnet, nearby Inks Lake State Park, historic Buchanan Dam, Lake LBJ, Lake Buchanan, Fort Croghan, the Confederate Air Force Collection of Flying Vintage WW II planes, or taking the really great Vanishing Texas River Cruise on Lake Buchanan. See website for room rates and reservation information. www.highlandlakes.com/veranda .
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