"A simple getaway. Naturally." This is the motto of Casa La Vista in Marathon, Texas.
This couldn't be more accurate! This weekend we had the privilege of being hosted by Wilma, and her property managers Tom and Klem. My husband and I were both turning 34 over the weekend, so we opted for a quiet weekend away. This was a perfect choice.
The house is only a few minutes from the center of Marathon, tucked behind the Marathon RV park.
Although it's close to town, the positioning of the home makes you feel like you're alone in the wilderness.
The evening we arrived, my toddler even commented about how bright the stars were!
Outdoor views at Casa La Vista in Marathon, TX
When we arrived, we felt right at home. Casa La Vista has cool West Texas styling, but is comfortable and cozy.
The unit has an open concept design; as you enter the front of the house - a big kitchen, living + dining room right are there. Bedrooms are off to the right, with a full bathroom in between.
Views looking toward the back and the front of Casa La Vista, respectively.
We found the unit to be well equipped. We did some light cooking in the morning for breakfast and had everything we needed in terms of utensils and pans. The bathroom was well stocked with fresh towels - in fact, we didn't even use half the supply left for us. Extra blankets were also provided, which I appreciate because I'm always cold!
But honestly, the highlight of Casa La Vista is written in its name - the vistas, or lookout points.
A beautiful view can be found from any window in this house.
Prior to our arrival, I had booked a day reservation in Big Bend Ranch State Park. We were so in love with this property, we actually decided to skip the hike and enjoy our one full day at Casa La Vista, instead.
The views at Casa La Vista are breathtaking in Marathon, TX (shown from the back yard and bathroom, L to R)
We were also extremely appreciative that our fur baby was allowed at this property. But as forewarned by Wilma, one must keep a close eye on their pet outdoors, as it's inhabited by various wildlife.
We spotted javelina and mule deer during our stay!
Our fur baby Quinn enjoying Casa La Vista and the javelina spotted in the yard!
I highly recommend staying in at Casa La Vista to enjoy the stunning views.
But if you need to get out, here are some other stops in/around town:
We shopped at the French Co. Grocer a few times for the basics - bottled water and some snacks. This cute little shop is located just a few minutes away. They also serve to-go foods and carry camping supplies for those en route to Big Bend. *Note you can visit Big Bend National Park and/or Big Bend Ranch State Park.
(We had planned to check out the Hoodoos Trail or Closed Canyon Trail in Big Bend Ranch State Park, as they were both just around a mile long each to complete, but decided to skip this. The drive was around 2 hours to get there from the rental.)
On the first night we stopped at the Brick Vault Brewery and Barbecue - this is one of our favorite stops in West Texas. Amazing Texas BBQ and small batch craft beer are housed under the same roof in this old renovated Gulf gas station. I will say that seating can be a commodity here on a cold evening - there are a few tables inside; so be prepared to either wait for a seat inside or bring a jacket and sit on the patio.
The Brick Vault Brewery and Barbecue : the ribs and the green chili mac + cheese were my favorites!
Once we decided to skip the hike, we wanted to see what The Gage Hotel had to offer.
We started the afternoon with a walk around the Gage Gardens.
Although many of the plants were dormant, I could envision the beauty one would witness in the spring/summer! The Gardens span 27-acres including a beautifully landscaped garden with lovely pond, fountains, rose garden and even a putting green.
Exploring Gage Gardens in Marathon, TX with my mini
The Gage Hotel also offers 2 dining options, both of which we tried.
The White Buffalo Bar has a small but delicious menu of snacks and drinks - their margaritas are the best.
You can either sit inside by the bar or on the covered patio.
We also visited the 12 Gage Restaurant for dinner, and due to eating way too many nachos and enjoying the margs in the afternoon, opted to share an entree; we had the beef tenderloin filet.
Prickly pear margarita at the White Buffalo Bar (L) and beef tenderloin + house Cabernet Sauvignon, "12 Gage Red" produced by Fall Creek Vineyards out of Tow, at the 12 Gage Restaurant (R).
Overall, if you're looking for a place to unwind, this is it.
Casa La Vista will make you feel like you're off the grid, yet you're only minutes from great food and drink options. For reservations, contact Wilma at 432.386.2222. You'll be glad you did!