Tucked into the Piney Woods of East Texas, just outside Tyler, lies a place where time truly stands still and relaxation recharging happens. Imagine yourself getting away to a resort where you’re one of 6 guests and the nature filled surroundings allow you to forget about the hustle and bustle to get back to basics. A place where the amenities, service and attention to detail surpass that of many 5 star hotels in the country with every request and touch of personalization.
This Piney Woods paradise I’m referencing is one of Texas Monthly’s Best Hotels in Texas for 2016 and it’s called High Hill Farm. We had the honor of being invited to visit the vacation spot recently and I’ve already pinned down my next stay. High Hill Farm is the dream of Sharon and Jason Romano. He’s an acclaimed high-end homebuilder. She’s the consummate party planner. Together, they’ve created an intimate vacation retreat inspired by their many travels. The scenic vineyards of Napa Valley. The romantic hillsides of Tuscany. The white-washed cottages of Santorini, Greece. The vibrancy of New Orleans. The sophistication of Manhattan. The charm of Seaside, Florida. These are all blended together to bring you a captivating resort experience that can only be found in one place. High Hill Farm.
From the day we arrived I knew this place was special. I’d sought out the perfect Texas getaway for months after seeing High Hill Farm for the first time and I wasn’t disappointed. We stayed in the Great Southern Bungalow suite, one of three rooms on property now with 4 more to come by early 2017. Built on 75 acres, High Hill Farm has it all. There’s an amazing vineyard steps outside the main building, miles of scenic nature trails, a picturesque resort pool, fireplace and even a bocce court. After checking in to our room for the weekend, we wandered over to the Napoleon bar for a Happy Hour drink. The bar offers a variety of signature cocktails and specialty beers. You can also choose from the expansive wine list, which includes a growing selection of Texas wines. Jason, one of the resort owners, then took us on an off-road trip to see the massive new development he is working on next to the main property. We even saw several natural wonders like fresh water springs, massive forests and scenic pastures where sunset pictures were taken.
Another spectacular component of our stay was the dining. Executive Chef Erin Willis prepares a seasonal menu nightly which uses only the freshest ingredients sourced from local farms and food artisans. We had the pleasure of having dinner on our first night with dishes like meatballs served over a herb sauce and topped with a balsamic drizzle. A simple but delicious dish of Nana’s Pâté with gherkins, country mustard and house made toast was wonderful as well. Chef Willis even whipped up some divine oatmeal whoopee pies too! When you stay at High Hill Farm Each, your accommodations include continental breakfast delivered to your bungalow each morning. How cool is that? Many times during the year, the resort actually offers wine and harvest farm dinners celebrating local purveyors.
With the Holiday season approaching quickly, what better way to de-stress is there than to get away from it all and head to Piney Woods paradise at High Hill Farm.
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