Gruene Apple B&B: Gruene Texas

Posted on August 4, 2013 by Nicki

The Breakfast was as delicious as the perfectly ripe Gruene Apple.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

It is not a historical inn but still charming and Gruene. A gourmet breakfast of more than you ever need to eat is presented by the Inn keepers, the family that build it.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

The kitchen is beautiful, and the room adjoining it looks over the back garden that leads to the river.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

The B&B has a nice balance of being serene but fun.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

Just steps from the town square, and on the Guadalupe river, makes it a perfect location.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

It is set up for adults only, allowing it to be quiet but still fun.

Gruene Apple B &B Photo by Nicki Hurd

The bottom floor has a movie theater and game room…

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

and also a sun room that faces the garden at the back over the river. The staff leave at 8:00pm and the first time we stayed here I went out to the car at night and did not take my room key (which also opens the front door) or mobile….luckily, there was someone playing in the game room that let me in. 😉

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

It has 14 rooms that are themed. Mimi’s Attic was available. We booked late and were happy to get one that had a balcony facing the river.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

Mimi’s is a bit festive for us…

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

but the Inn is well maintained and relaxing.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

It has a library.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

A pianola playing cues you that the complimentary wine is served in the lobby.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

We enjoyed our wine on the Lanai and look forward to the next time.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

7-2013

Gruene, Texas

Posted on August 3, 2013 by Nicki

Gruene is on the National Register of Historical Places just at the edge of New Braunfels. Founded in 1845 by a German immigrant called Ernst Gruene.

Gruene Mansion Inn Photo by Andrew Leggett

Ernst and his family built their home and many of the first buildings in Gruene . The Gruene Mansion was his son Henry’s house.

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

We decided to visit for July 4th. Generally we are reluctant to venture out for the busy holiday but Gruene was an excellent choice for us; a great location, only one hour down the interstate from Austin, although, we took a little longer on the country roads from San Marcos after floating down the San Marcos River on kayaks.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Andrew Leggett

The family used a variety of architectural styles, and their constructions included the Gristmill, formally a cotton gin before it burned down, now functioning as a favorite restaurant of many, including us, and the Gruene Hall, still standing and maintaining its purpose as the local dance hall.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Andrew Leggett

The family and Gruene flourished, then struggled, but no unhappy ghosts linger here. It has returned to being a vibrant place. It has a historical but relaxed and easy feel to it… touristy without being too busy.

Since I first found Gruene myself, I stop in any chance I get when traveling by. We always eat at the Gristmill and stop at Winery on the Gruene to pick up a couple of bottles to support the local business.

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

This time our first meal was at Gruene River Grill. It was very nice, not as busy as the Gristmill, a bit more expensive but not a problem for us, family friendly so not necessarily quieter…. and we ordered too much. Lovely space outside to recover in after.

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

This was our second time staying at the Gruene Apple B&B.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

From the pool area we were able to see the New Braunfels fireworks. It was nice to relax and watch while avoiding the crowds and traveling.

New Braunfels Fireworks from The Gruene Apple B&B

The Gruene Apple is right on the edge of the town square…steps away but quieter and it is only for couples. We booked late but were lucky, Mimi’s Attic (the rooms have themes) a room with a balcony that faces the Guadalupe River was available.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

After a nights sleep we had a delicious breakfast and ventured to Landa Park in New Braunfels.

Landa Park New Braunfels Photo by Nicki Hurd

Made our way around by bicycle and train. The conductor did not seem to mind that our car’s bottom was sinking and scraping the tracks.

Landa Park New Braunfels Photo by Andrew Leggett

Beautiful birds were posing throughout the park.

Landa Park New Braunfels Photo by Andrew Leggett

After returning to the Gruene Apple…

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

we were greeted by an equally enchanting creature..

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

7-4-2013

Possum Kingdom Lake: Graford, Texas

Posted on June 3, 2013 by Nicki

The Cliffs Resort on the Lake Front was a nice stop for us on or way to Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

The Cliffs Resort on Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Andrew Leggett

The drive from Austin on HWY 183 was pleasant. Mostly two lane highway filled with lengthy green grass and wildflowers with an occasional burnt tree standing among them making an interesting contrast. We wondered if they had been burned in controlled fires.

The Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

Our corner room at the inn was nice. It was lovely to eye the lake while perched on our balcony 200 feet about the water with a panoramic view. Well worth it to get a lake view room.

The Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

I was told the lake is 10 feet low this year, which is not surprising for Texas, a drought- ridden state. Bicycling during the day did not work out. It was sunny and in the 90°s during our visit. We tried the PK hike and bike trail but did not last long, and optioned to ride around the golf course in the evening. Another time of year perhaps.

The Cliffs Resort on Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Andrew Leggett

Meals at Cliffs Chaparral Grille were nice and quiet, as we were nearly the only ones there. The food was good but not exceptional.

The Chaparral Grille at the Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

We ate at Selina’s on the peninsula. We were desperate for a/c after trying a ride. It felt good to be inside but the food was average Tex-Mex.

Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Nicki Hurd

The drive around the lake was pleasant.

Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Nicki Hurd

There was no shade around the lake to escape in after a swim so we took advantage of the pools at the Cliffs, which were nice.

The Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

To get some relief from the heat, it seems you would need to be out on a boat to make full use of the lake. The marina has a beach but we did not stay without shade to hover in.

The marina at the Cliffs Resort Photo by Nicki Hurd

We look forward to exploring the trails another time of year.

May 2013

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: Indiahoma, Medicine Park Oklahoma

Posted on May 28, 2013 by Nicki

Where the buffalo roam…

Bison, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Andrew Leggett

It was the hottest day of the year so far, but still a great visit. The American Bison (Bison bison) was near extinction before being rescued and brought here around the early 1900’s. It is North American’s largest land mammal.

Bison, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Andrew Leggett

The bulls can weigh 2,000lbs and the cows half of that. All descendants are from the small number brought here.

We were greeted by a mix of Longhorns and Bison as we entered the refuge, lazing about and enjoy the grass.

Bison, Wichita MountainsWildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The reserve caters for their munching several grass species. Seeing all of the mixed grasses was a treat coming from Austin Texas, where green grasses are not seen unless imported.

Longhorn Cattle, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The Texas Longhorn Cattle were brought to preserve the culture of its breed.

Longhorn Cattle, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

Gone from the area were the native American Elk (Cervus elaphus). They were brought back from the Rocky mountains and can be seen in the early morning or evening. The bull’s mating sounds can be heard in September. Elk are herbivores with teeth known as “whistlers” which are made of the only true North American ivory. We did not see or hear them during this visit, nor did we see the White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) that make the refuge their home.

We climbed Mt Scott…in our Kia Sedona to gander all around the mountains and down at Medicine Park just outside of the refuge, and where we chose to stay.

Mt Scott, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The prairie is sheltered by the two granite mountain ranges, the Wichita mountains, with a rich geological history. Our visit to Prairie Town was a huge success, as we were able to watch several Blacktail Prairie Dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) go about their business.

Prairie Dogs Wichita Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

On the rock outcroppings we spotted the eastern collared lizard (Crotaphytus collaris).

Eastern Collared Lizard, Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

May 2013

Scottsdale, Arizona

Posted on June 15, 2013 by Nicki

Art in the desert where Andy Warhol meets Frank Lloyd Wright.

Scottsdale is at the heart of the Sonoran Desert with golf courses, posh resorts, and a university nearby.

Scottsdale Mall Photo by Nicki Hurd

The downtown area has the historic Old Town, and on the edge is the Scottsdale Mall; which is not a shopping mall, but lovely green gardens, full of bubbling fountains, historical buildings, and sculptures; surrounded by a few eateries, a hotel, and the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Photo by Nicki Hurd

Sculptures were allocated at each vicinity.

Scottsdale Mall Photo by Nicki Hurd

It was a lovely day to walk around and take it all in.

Old Town Scottsday Arizona Photo by Nicki Hurd

Had a look around inside the vibrant Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, populated with art pieces and a Glass House..

Glass House by Therman Statom Photo by Nicki Hurd

The adobe color that is found on the earth here, is used throughout the city on fences, and roadways, in a way that makes it of the earth and all that is around it, which should have made Frank Lloyd Wright proud. He lived, worked, and is honored here. Known for his organic architecture, which is site-specific,with form and function as one.

Montelucia Resort Scottsdale, Arizona Photo by Nicki Hurd

I stayed at the Montelucia Resort & Spa on the first night, as it was where the conference I came to attend was held. A beautiful place for a conference.

Montelucia Resort & Spa Photo by Nicki Hurd

The following nights I stayed closer to Old Town at El Dorado Resort , vacation suites. It had plenty of room, and it was near enough to bicycle to most things I planned to see.

El Dorado Resort Photo by Nicki Hurd

While bicycling around downtown I found Tapas Papa Frita on the canal just in time for happy hour.

Arizona Canal Trail Photo by Nicki Hutd

The prices were so great…I had to take advantage and get a good sample of treats.

Tapas Papa Frita Photo by Nicki Hurd

Breakfast was gorgeous at Distrito at the Saguaro Hotel located on the Scottsdale Mall.

Ceviche de Atún at Distrito
Photo by Nicki Hurd

Started with Ceviche de Atún: yellowfin tuna, serrano-coconut sauce, lime sorbet, tomatillo, tostaditas and finished with Carne Asada adobo rubbed hanger steak, plantain gremolata, refried beans, red rice.

Carne Asada at Distrito Photo by Nicki Hurd

After meandering around the Mall and Old Town, I motored to the Desert Botanical Garden.

Desert Botanical Garden Phoenix, Arizona Photo by Nicki Hurd

Full of native plants and amusing sculptures.

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The last supper (Happy Hour) was at Geisha A Go Go for sushi. Behind the bar glaring out at us are portraits (posters) of Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, and Sid Vicious winking at us.

Geisha A Go Go
Photo By Nicki Hurd

The sushi was good, and the drinks delicious. I was spoiled by the prices for Tapas the night before and had to adjust to the tab…still but still only around $20.

Geisha A Go Go
Photo by Nicki Hurd

On my last evening there, the bathroom window was open at sunset and looked like a frame for the orange and blue colors the state is famous for in many paintings. It is easy to understand why so many painters come here to recreate it. It allows such a brilliant use of colors.

February, 2013

Montelucia Resort & Spa: Scottsdale, Arizona

Posted on June 15, 2013 by Nicki

A sanctuary nestled in a valley with views of the Camelback Mountain, a symbol of Phoenix with a summit elevation at 2704 feet.

Montelucia Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The conference days were long…and I could not wait to recline in the over-sized luxury chaise lounge on the patio and watch the cottontail bunnies hopping across the gorgeous landscape among the orange trees.

Montelucia Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Arizona Photo by Nicki Hurd

There really was nothing missing from this oasis if you like relaxing in a peaceful environment. It was almost too dark and quiet at night.

Montelucia Resort & Spa
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The bath tub is contoured to the shape of the body, allowing you to lean back while supported. I wondered if relatives have gone missing there. Found later soaking away.

Montelucia Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

It cost more than the accommodations that I select when it is not being expensed, but seemed reasonable for a spa.

Montelucia Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

Febuary, 2013

El Dorado Hotel: Scottsdale, Arizona

Posted on June 16, 2013 by Nicki

They have done a brilliant job recreating the pop culture of the 1960’s from when the hotel was built, with a modern flare.

El Dorado A Vacation Suites Hotel Scottdale, Arizona Photo by Nicki Hurd

El Dorado Hotel Scottdale, Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The location in Old Town is great.

El Dorado Hotel Scottsdale, Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

Reception was helpful and assisted me with my bags to the unit. Which was a one flight walk- up.

I cycled around on one of their cruisers on the first day.

Downtown Scottsdale Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

After setting off on the bicycle the seat tipped back and was stuck, but luckily I was near to Bicycle Haus, where I stopped for suggestions and Kale graciously secured the seat upright within minutes, saving my back, and I was back on my way exploring downtown.

Downtown Scottsdale Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

My impression was that many of the hotels in Scottsdale are more like motels, with some units that are waiting to be refurbished.

El Dorado Hotel Scottsdale Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The view from my room was festive.

El Dorado Hotel Scottsdale Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

They were clearly once apartments with a kitchen, dinning area, full living space, and a bedroom. There was plenty of room. It reminded me of a Chelsea Apartment that I had when I lived in New York City. I booked it because I saw a great rate online. Once Scottsdale taxes were added it was a higher rate. Wifi is included.

El Dorado Hotel Scottsdale Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

There was work being done on the other units while I was there but it wasn’t noisy or intrusive.

El Dorado Hotel Scottsdale, Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

Unit 203 wasn’t fully refurbished. The thermostat was not adjustable and it got a bit stuffy. With the windows opened I could hear the music from the main area and it is only one flight up, leaving the windows accessible. I wasn’t comfortable leaving them unlocked over night.

El Dorado Hotel Scottsdale, Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

Housekeeping came while I was in the next morning, gave me great recommendations on where to eat, and did a brilliant job scrubbing the place.

El Dorado Hotel Scottsdale, Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

There were plenty of seats in the common area around the pool.

I’d enjoy staying here again but I would ask for one of the units that was fully refurbished….and I would play croquet.

February , 2013

Desert Botanical Garden: Phoenix, Arizona

Posted on June 17, 2013 by Nicki

Exhibits throughout add much needed humor to the hot desert.

Desert Botanical Garden Phoenix, Arizona
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The locals were commenting on how cold it had been this year. It was February and by midday….I did not want to leave the gardens, but I was looking to get out of the sun.