The Texas Hill Country describes not only a region (the gently
rolling south-central portion of the state), but an entire attitude, the kind
that says, “Howdy, y’all. Come on down, kick back and enjoy life.” That’s
precisely the outlook you’ll find at the Horseshoe Bay Resort Marriott, where a
new hotel has raised the bar on relaxation in these parts.
Opened in 1973, Horseshoe Bay has long been recognized for its
trio of diverse, immaculately maintained Robert Trent Jones courses. But for
years, the on-site accommodations and amenities were merely serviceable,
preventing the resort from being a must-see destination.
Enter Marriott, with a 349-room hotel that debuted last May.
Cloaked in muted earth tones that blend seamlessly with its surroundings, the
seven-story structure affords panoramic views of Lake Lyndon B. Johnson and serves up a
whole enchilada of luxuries, including a spa and fitness center, foot and bike
paths, lush Oriental gardens, a marina and a private beach.
So serene are these surrounds, many visitors never leave the
premises. Oh, they might venture to nearby Marble Falls and its Blue Bonnet
Cafe, a monument to meringue that celebrates homemade-pie “happy hour” every
afternoon. But the Marriott caters to guests with dining options ranging from
casual to elegant. Highly recommended are the imaginative “Trans-Pecos” stylings
at the Lantana Grill, where the chicken-fried lobster tail is a conversation
piece.
Jones’ three courses—Slick Rock, Ram Rock and Applerock—are a
showcase of Hill Country golf. In fitting with the laid-back lifestyle, fairways
are framed by soothing oak, elm and mesquite trees, and crisscrossed by babbling
brooks. Wildflowers and native vegetation line playing corridors, providing
camouflage for herds of foraging deer.
