Give dad a Father’s Day fit for a cowboy at JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa in Sonora, Texas. Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.
Show that Yellowstone-obsessed Dad some love this Father’s Day and treat him to a weekend at the stunning, 13,000-acre JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa in Sonora Texas. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2022)
Families can celebrate their favorite cowboy with a gourmet brunch from JL Bar’s expert culinary team on Sunday, June 19, with two exclusive seatings at 11:30a.m. and 1:30p.m. (locals and day visitors can book, too). For $39.95 and $19.95 for children, guests and locals will be treated to a special menu of signatures dishes including Mesquite Grilled Tomahawk Ribeye Steaks, Smoked Pork Spareribs, and Beer Can Chicken.
For those lucky enough to stay for the weekend, there is an activity for every type of Cowboy Father. From a full equestrian program featuring horseback riding and a horse psychology experience to off-road ATV adventures, a putting/chipping Green, and clay and skeet shooting, families will be able to make so many memorable moments at JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa.
Treat mom to a relaxation experience with specials from Hiatus Spa + Retreat. Photo: Hiatus Spa + Retreat, used with permission.
Give your mom the relaxing Mother’s Day she has always dreamed of with Hiatus Spa + Retreat’s spa specials. This year, Hiatus will be offering a Mother’s Day Gift Bundle featuring Hiatus Everyday products plus two spa packages that will ensure mom gets a Spa-cial day including the Silence Is Golden and The Big Chill. (Hiatus Spa + Retreat,2022)
Silence is Golden
This wonderful deal includes the following: Pick any two essential services for $198. Wherever you are, you can ensure your mom gets a Spa-cial day. (2 hours, $198 | $240 value)
The Big Chill
Hiatus’ 90-minute Signature Massage followed by a super-charged plant peel in The 29 Again Facial will help you hit refresh on that inner glow. We second that emotion. (2.5 hours, $265 | $330 value)
Mother’s Day Gift Bundle
Buy any three Hiatus Everyday products and receive a free Hiatus Gift Cylinder ($10 Value). Available for purchase in-spa only from April 12 – May 15 and excludes any lip products. Use this bundle to get your mom something small, something special, something for her.
With eight locations across Texas, eight years on Inc. 5000’s fastest-growing companies, and an innovative spa subscription model, Hiatus Spa + Retreat is a fresh kind of full-service spa that has changed the wellness industry. Powered by products with environmentally-friendly ingredients and a high-touch experience, Hiatus’ personalized approach to wellness is driven by the view that regular relaxation should be an empowering part of a healthy, happy lifestyle.
Birds, Bees & Butterflies will take place at Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park & Resort over a two month period starting March 1, 2022. Photo: Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park & Resort, used with permission.
Learn about Texas birds, bees, butterflies, and the plant life that support them during a two month-long special event at Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park & Resort from March 1 through April 30, 2022. With 100 family-friendly activities, Birds, Bees & Butterflies will shine a light on education and conservation through hands-on activities and fascinating presentations. (Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park & Resort, 2022)
With 100% volunteer participation from local and regional experts, associations, and businesses, nearly all activities are free to overnight guests. The general public is welcome to pay a day-use park fee to access the nature park during these activities and enjoy other amenities like the nature trails and private lakefront.
Activities include six different themed nature walks, two synchronized group butterfly releases, numerous photo safaris, seed planting for pollinators, several nature crafts, watching an observational beehive, building, and flying butterfly kites (did you know the wind is a pollinator?), and an interactive bird beak buffet to demonstrate how different birds use their beaks.
Presentation topics include landscaping to promote pollinators, the relationship between deer management and bird habitat, monarch butterflies 101, the life of the hive, “hoo’s” in your neighborhood, rethink your landscape, what are native plants, intro to bees in Texas, and the Hives for Heroes a program empowering Veterans as they transition away from a life of service through beekeeping and honeybee conservation. In addition, the day-use park fee for veterans is a reduced fee.
Photo safaris promise to be popular activities as they combine the popular hobbies of nature photography and wildlife. The hive dive experience is restricted to beginner and intermediate beekeepers wearing a full beekeeper’s outfit. The opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional is invaluable as new-bees grow their skills. Several bee observation hives will be available for viewing to the public, along with Q&A with bee experts.
The Big Sit is a semi-competitive international group birding activity started in 1992 by a New Haven, CT, birding club. Participants observe and document birds from within a 50 ft. circle and report their findings through eBird, a free app. Three respected local birders will lead the Canyon of the Eagles team on Monday, April 18, from 7a.m. to 9a.m. and 4p.m. to 7p.m. People with and without birding experience are all welcome – this is an excellent introduction to the camaraderie and fun of birdwatching.
Another highlight of Birds, Bees & Butterflies, held on April 30, the final day of the two month-long special event, is the City-Nature Challenge. This is a Texas Parks and Wildlife program encouraging folks to get out and enjoy nature while documenting what they see through the use of the free iNaturalist app. This friendly competition pits regions in Texas against one another.
There will be two synchronized releases of butterflies into nature in honor of loved ones, hopes, dreams, and wishes on Monday, March 14 (reserve via email by March 3) and Saturday, April 16 (reserve via email by April 4). Both releases will be from 1p.m to 2p.m. with reservations available by email. Butterflies are $5 each. Participants are encouraged to linger and watch the butterflies find their way into nature.
Special thanks to Highland Lakes Master Gardeners, Marble Falls Master Naturalists, Capital Area Master Naturalists, Highland Lakes Chapter of the Native Plant Society, All Things Wild Rehabilitation, AgriLife for Burnet County, Texas Beekeepers Association, Hives for Heroes, Texas A&M Beekeeping Program, University of Texas, Texas Parks & Wildlife, McKane Apiary Service & Bee Removal, Woodlynns Farm, Luedecke Photography, and Fain’s Honey.
Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park & Resort is a 940-acre nature park located in the Texas Hill Country. It is home to 16 miles of groomed nature trails, three miles of private lakefront on Lake Buchanan, the Eagle Eye Observatory, and Overlook Restaurant. Located within the Edwards Plateau region, the park is the nesting ground for Golden-cheeked Warblers, Black-capped Vireo, and American Bald Eagle. To learn more about the programs and to book reservations for guestrooms, RV sites, and tent campsites, please visit Canyon of the Eagles online.
Hiatus Spa + Retreat is offering their Seasonal Retreat –Elixir throughout February. Photo: Hiatus Spa + Retreat, used with permission.
Nestle in and shift into the season’s change with a retreat to enliven the soul with Hiatus Spa + Retreat’s “Seasonal Retreat: Elixir,” an 80 minute service offered throughout February. (Hiatus Spa + Retreat, 2022)
With empowering aromas of Jasmine and Sandalwood, you will experience a sparkling raspberry and hibiscus foot soak, followed by a gentle coconut and sugar foot scrub to exfoliate and purify your skin. Next, a hydrating raspberry, rosewater masque is applied while your tips & toes are bundled in a restoring aloe vera, raspberry, and bentonite clay mask. The service concludes with a soothing, Hot Stone massage. You will walk out of this Retreat feeling restored and tranquil.
The “Elixir” monthly retreat is priced at $195 and is $139 for H-Circle members. For more information on the monthly retreat services and booking information, visit Hiatus Spa + Retreatonline.
With eight locations across Texas, eight years on Inc. 500’s fastest-growing companies, and an innovative spa subscription model, Hiatus Spa + Retreat is a fresh kind of full-service spa that has changed the wellness industry. Powered by products with green ingredients and a high-touch experience, Hiatus’s personalized approach to wellness is driven by the view that regular relaxation should be an empowering part of a healthy, happy lifestyle.
312 Pearl Pkwy. Building 4, Ste. 4112 San Antonio, TX 78215 (210) 202-3355
The Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is a modern retreat in downtown San Antonio. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.
This year for Valentine’s Day, couples are seeking romantic weekend getaways for a change of scenery that is still close to home. Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner reservation or planning a sweet staycation, these three Lone Star State destinations are offering the perfect getaways for couples. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, Thompson San Antonio, Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection, 2022)
JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa | SONORA, TX Located on 13,000 acres in the heart of Texas Hill Country, JL Bar Ranch is the ideal destination for couples seeking an off-grid getaway this Valentine’s Day. From relaxation at JL Bar’s spa to outdoor excursions on horseback or ATVs, couples can choose their own adventure while visiting the ranch. JL Bar also offers wine tastings with the property’s resident Sommelier, outdoor games, an infinity pool and hot tub with unrivaled sunset views, shooting instruction, romantic outdoor dining, and more. For added seclusion, each of JL Bar’s 32 luxury accommodations boasts a private patio. With Valentine’s Day on a Monday this year, guests can extend their romantic weekend and receive a fourth night freewhen booking a three-night stay.
Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk | SAN ANTONIO, TX Opened in February 2021, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is a modern retreat soaring 20 stories above San Antonio’s celebrated River Walk– capturing the contemporary spirit of this historic Texas city and this year, promises to be the ideal Valentine’s Day destination. Couples can enjoy a romantic date night at landmark restaurant Landrace, from James Beard Award finalist Steve McHugh, including a Valentine’s Day menu, rose table décor, and special entertainment. The enchanting rooftop lounge, The Moon’s Daughters,which floats high above the River Walk, is going all out with a “Love Stinks”-themed singles vibe Monday – Thursday leading up to Valentine’s Day. Events include pre-fixe menu, live entertainment and a Sexology Pop-Up on January 29, and February 5 and 12. On Superbowl Sunday, February 13, The Moon’s Daughters will be hosting a Thompson Tailgate, with grilled menu items and large format drinks. Guests can also book the Thompson San Antonio SpaSpatastic Room Package, which includes champagne, a $100 spa credit and a spa retail amenity item. Lastly, the hotel is offering a new Thompson Temptation Room Package, which includes a bottle of prosecco delivered to the room, a special amenity from San Antonio’s Sexology Institute, and a late 2p.m. check out on Sundays.
Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection | AUSTIN, TX With intimate spaces tucked throughout the historic property, Commodore Perry Estate offers the perfect retreat for a Valentine’s Day filled with vintage, one-of-a-kind charm and romantic moments. The resort has special offerings for the holiday, from private couples yoga classes and gourmet fireside s’mores on the Estate grounds, to a ‘crafting your own vintage Valentine’ experience, perfect for families, featuring snacks, beverages and a wide selection of art supplies. Couples can also arrange a romantic picnic on the lawn, featuring a cozy blanket made for lounging and a basket filled with chilled Champagne and a selection of gourmet bites. Feel the warm embrace of romance in the Mansion’s oval library. For the Valentine’s Day weekend, the luxury resort will have a lush Valentine’s floral installation in the sophisticated library that offers the ideal backdrop to snap some instant photos of your romantic moments together. Reserve your experience and savor floral-inspired cocktails paired with a selection of canapes and bite-sized sweet treats.
Spa packages from Hiatus Spa + Retreat make an excellent Valentine’s Day gift. Photo: Hiatus Spa + Retreat, used with permission.
With Valentine’s Day coming up next month, award-winning Texas day spa Hiatus Spa + Retreat has 2022 Valentine’s Day spa packages available to gift loved ones, or yourself, this year.(Hiatus Spa + Retreat, 2022)
Valentine’s Day Gift Card In-Spa Promo Buy a $250 gift card for $200.
Greatest Love of All Invest in yourself this year with The Tailor-Made Facial and The Signature Massage. Two hours to just do you. ($179, $220 value)
The Unforgettable The super-customized Yours Truly Massage is paired with The One & Only Mani-Pedi and The Sparkler Facial for a spa day that will leave you glowing, and forever ours. ($348.99, $420 value)
With eight locations across Texas, eight years on Inc. 500’s fastest-growing companies, and an innovative spa subscription model, Hiatus Spa + Retreat is a fresh kind of full-service spa that has changed the wellness industry. Powered by products with green ingredients and a high-touch experience, Hiatus’ personalized approach to wellness is driven by the view that regular relaxation should be an empowering part of a healthy, happy lifestyle.
Ring in 2022 with a New Year’s Eve concert in the Private FBO Hangar at JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa. Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.
What better way to ring in a brighter 2022 than a New Year’s Eve concert in the Private FBO Hangar at JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa? The 13,000 acre, luxury ranch and resort boasts its own airport that doubles as a concert venue, in addition to outdoor activities including horseback riding, cowboy cookouts, archery, and more. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2021)
On Friday, December 31, guests will dust off their boots, raise a glass, and celebrate the coming of 2022 with a night to remember. The concert will begin with an opening set by local favorite and requested returning performer William Beckmann. Afterwards, Texas native and country music star Wade Bowen will take the stage to wrap up 2021:
Doors/Bar Open: 6:30p.m.
Performance Times:
William Beckmann, 6:45p.m.
Wade Bowen, m.
Ticket Options:
General Admission Ticket: $75.00 per person
VIP Private Table (8 Tickets Included): $1,500
To help grant more music lovers the opportunity to attend (after all, JL bar is a boutique resort with 32 luxury rooms), JL Bar has partnered with surrounding hotels offering availability and will be providing shuttles to/from Sonora:
Quality Inn, Sonora Location – $105/night**
Shuttle Services to and from Sonora: $25.00 per couple
Shuttles depart Quality Inn at 4:15pm and 6:00pm
Holiday Inn Express, Junction Location – $115/night**
Shuttle Services to and from Junction: $50.00 per couple
Shuttles depart Holiday Inn Express at 4:00pm and 5:45pm.
**Mention the JL Bar Resort for quoted rate, limited rooms per location, first come basis.
JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa is a Texas Hill Country’s luxury resort located in Sonora, Texas. Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.
Texas Hill Country’s luxury resort The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa is offering luxurious holiday and private party experiences, allowing guests to make the 13,000-acre, 32-room luxury resort their very own this festive season and as businesses begin planning 2022 travel and team-building initiatives. Ideal for family getaways or an elevated remote working experience, birthday events, bachelorette parties, corporate retreats, intimate wedding ceremonies and other special occasions, The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa offers customizable packages to accommodate all types of guests. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2021)
The sweeping Texas Hill Country resort is located deep in the heart of Sonora, Texas, and is one of the country’s leading working ranch experiences, naturally distanced destinations, and Texas’ only luxury ranch resort. The naturally distanced boutique resort is a study in rustic elegance, providing a customized, Texan experience that connects guests to nature with activities and programming including:
Indoor and outdoor site options for big parties
Dozens of outdoor-driven activities for guests, ranging from ATV adventures and a pro-designed putting green to hikes, swimming, outdoor yoga classes, horseback riding and horse psychology, wine tasting, guided shooting instruction and 3D archery, and cooking classes.
On-site salon & spa allows guests to unwind. Services include massages and spa treatments alongside a full nail/salon menu.
Archer’s Nest Villa, a seven-bedroom villa with a private swimming pool, outdoor kitchen, home theater, and more; it’s perfect for partial buyouts, bachelorette parties, family vacations, bride’s quarters, and more.
A private FBO airport hangar, allowing guests to charter a private plane and avoid large airports.
Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.
Hiatus Spa + Retreat has gift cards and Cyber Monday deals perfect for holiday shopping. Photo: Hiatus Spa + Retreat, used with permission.
Looking for holiday gift shopping ideas? Hiatus Spa + Retreat’s Bright + Early Gift Card sale is now live and their Cyber Monday sale is coming up. This is the perfect time to stock up on self-care gifts for your loved ones this holiday season. (Hiatus Spa + Retreat, 2021)
Bright + Early Gift Card Sale Dates: November 15 – December 5, 2021 Offer: Buy $125 in gift cards for $99
Cyber Monday Dates: November 28-29, 2021 Offer: 20% Off all products on eCommerce only + Free Shipping (excludes SkinCeuticals) Online Promo Code: CYBER20
With eight locations across Texas, eight years on Inc. 500’s fastest-growing companies, and an innovative spa subscription model, Hiatus Spa + Retreat is a fresh kind of full-service spa that has changed the wellness industry. Powered by products with green ingredients and a high-touch experience, Hiatus’ personalized approach to wellness is driven by the view that regular relaxation should be an empowering part of a healthy, happy lifestyle.
This Thanksgiving, give thanks to the great outdoors, Texas BBQ, and more at JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa. Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.
JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, the family owned and operated, 13,000-acre Texas Hill Country retreat in Sonora, invites families and loved ones to give thanks with outdoor experiences, world-class Texas BBQ and dining, and the chance to make long-lasting memories. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2021)
Programming and offers include:
Fanciful Feasts: On Thanksgiving (November 25), JL Bar Ranch’s talented Executive Chef Sergio Rico and the culinary team are hosting its annual Thanksgiving Feast, to include a Chef-attended carving station with sage brined, slow-roasted turkey with gravy, Mesquite Smoked Sirloin, and Honey Lavender Spiral Glazed Ham; a buffet featuring holiday classics like Cornbread Dressing, Pecan-crusted Sweet Potato Casserole, Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and a Balsamic Reduction; a Salad Bar; and Desserts including Pumpkin Cheesecake with Cinnamon Chantilly Cream, Bourbon Pecan Tart, Coconut Cream Tart, and more. The holiday meal will be available for three seatings (11a.m., 1p.m., and 4:30p.m.) with limited reservations. Price: $59.95 (guest rate); $79.95 (non-resort guest); half-off for kids 12 & under.
Take Care of Holiday Shopping Early: JL Bar Ranch’s General Store will host a Thanksgiving Day-only sale with 10% off most purchases in-store. Give the gift of JL Bar coolers, apparel, and more with this one day only
Outdoor Adventure: Embrace the crisp November weather with the resort’s robust outdoor activities, from hiking and horseback riding to ATV/UTV adventures and 3D archery. A complete list of activities is available online.
A Multi-Gen Villa Escape: The stunning Archer’s Nest Villa is an ultra-private retreat within the Ranch: this beautiful ranch home has 7 bedrooms & 6 bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, a swimming pool with a slide, an outdoor kitchen & BBQ pavilion, home theater and more (private chef & butler options are available).
SA Examiner 