Story and photos by Scott Kendall
Baron’s CreekSide, a Little Slice of Switzerland in Fredericksburg
Baron’s Creekside, on the eastern edge of Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country, offers a little slice of Switzerland. Founder Dr. Daniel Meyer, who is from Zug, Switzerland, was traveling across the United States on an epic road trip in 2006 when he stopped in Fredericksburg. He spent the night in what is now Baron’s Cabin, and fell in love with the area. So, of course, he bought 26 acres and decided to build his own Swiss Log Cabin Village. Daniel had sold his cereal company (he invented the cereal cup stacked on top of the yogurt) in 2001 and had set about traveling the world. His travels took hime to 120 countries, including his momentous trip to the USA and Fredericksburg.
Building a Swiss Village
The first thing Daniel did on the undeveloped pasture was to build a continuously flowing Alpine creek. He included a waterfall and moved thousands of rocks and boulders by hand for this foundational feature. Next, Daniel planted over 150 native trees and renovated four of the existing buildings. To move forward on his dream to build a Swiss style log cabin village, he shipped the historic windows, doors, and antiques from the 250 year old condemned farmhouse he owned back home in Switzerland. Over the years, he has continued to add to these structures, and currently has 18 romantic log cabins and houses clustered around the bubbly creek amongst the vineyard.
Romantic Swiss Cabins
Unlike a traditional hotel, the cabins at Baron’s Creekside are spaced throughout the 26 acre property, providing lots of privacy and scenic views. The Swiss log cabins are named after popular places in Switzerland – among them Geneva, Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lucerne, and Daniel’s hometown of Zug. It is amazing to think that the materials for the 11 log cabins came from Daniel’s large 250-year-old farmhouse in Switzerland. Guests get a genuine feel of what it would be like to stay in a Swiss cabin with authentic doors, windows, furniture and decor.
Nöimet isch s 5 i
Each cabin is unique, and all have well stocked kitchens or kitchenettes. These intimate cabins are for couples only – except fot the Grindelwald and the Kuessnacht, which allow children and pets. Comfortable king-sized beds, jacuzzi, wood-burning fireplaces, and private porches with rockers. And although they make you feel like you are in Old Europe, all cabins have AC and free wifi.
Other Lodgings at Barons Creekside
In addition to these Swiss log cabins, Baron’s Creekside also has some other great lodging options. Families with kids and/or pets are allowed in the Big Lodge, Hilltop Chalet, Mesquite Farmhouse, Barons Log Cabin, and The Barons Wagon. Here are the descriptions for three of the available lodgings. Check the Barons CreekSide website for a complete listing of lodging options. Note that booking direct through the website saves money that would be charged by 3rdparty vendors.
Swiss Cabin Zug
“Our masterpiece Zug rests at the secluded junction of two creeks. Meander over a wooden footbridge leading to a rock patio, private covered porch, and hand-forged front door. Step inside spectacular grandeur and craftsmanship featuring stunning vaulted ceilings, intricate wood floors, an exceptional rock fireplace, and a luxurious corner bedroom and spa-bath.” (sleeps 2)
The Barons Log Cabin
“The Log Cabin – very lovingly restored – was built circa 1870 and moved to Barons Creekside from Greensboro, Kentucky. Porch rockers invite you to enjoy the beautiful Texas Hill Country sunset and lush native gardens surrounding the cabin grounds. (sleeps 4)”
The Big Lodge
“Reserve our lodge for your family/ group event in Fredericksburg. The “Big Lodge” is the centerpiece of Barons CreekSide overlooking our new vineyard. This 2,500 sqf home was built in the 1970’s by one of our top custom homebuilders. Its brick exterior is surrounded by gorgeous landscaping and lush grounds. Soaring ceilings catch your eye as you enter the huge living room. The house features 3 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, a spacious, sunken living room with a wood-burning fireplace, and a generous, eat-in kitchen. 3 bedrooms and a sleeper sofa (sleeps 9)”
The Club at Barons Creekside
When Julie and I visited, we were greeted at The Club by Simon, Daniel’s nephew. Simon is also from Switzerland, but has been in Fredericksburg for the last five years. We had a delicious meal at The Club while listening to live music. It was a fun evening, relaxing in the shade under a fan, and enjoying a nice cool Swiss white wine. I had a delicious penne pasta with shrimp, and Julie enjoyed her wedge salad with grilled chicken. A local band played for the happy guests as they ate, drank, and chatted while listening to the live music.
Simon was the perfect host, and drove us through the property after dinner. We love seeing the Swiss log cabins up close. One of the cabins had Nöimet itch es 5 i sketched into the side, which translates to “It’s 5 o’clock somewhere.” One of my favorite log cabins was the family friendly Grindelwald, which reminded us of our wonderful visit to Grindelwald last year. The king-sized bed and a sleeper sofa in the living area, along with a separate full-sized bathroom, make this unit ideal for small families or two couples. Julie and I were excited to see two deer, including Hope, the resident “pet” deer. Having Simon drive us throughout the property was a great way to get a feel for the size and beauty of Barons Creekside.
Barons Creekside: Swiss Lodging, Winery, and Live Music at The Club
If you find yourself longing for time away in the Texas Hill Country, come pay Barons Creekside in Fredericksburg a visit. You’ll find your own little slice of Swiss heaven in this beautiful destination.
We were hosted by The Club for dinner, but all opinions are my own.
