Road Trip: The Reserve at Hot Springs

by Michael Satterfield -07/17/2022

Arkansas has become one of my go-to travel destinations since moving to Texas, we recently took the BMW M4 Competition for a spin on some of the best driving roads in the Wonder State and to tour the Museum of Automobiles. But while Arkansas is known for its natural beauty with more than 2,400 lakes, 300 miles of dedicated hiking trails, and 52 state parks, Arkansas has also been quietly developing a reputation for boutique luxury hotels and resorts, with The Reserve at Hot Springs leading the way.

For this trip, my wife and I drove up in the Buick Envision ST, one of our favorite compact SUVs, we liked it so much that we ended up asking for it back for another road trip to Kansas. The roads into Hot Springs are beautiful, so expect a scenic drive no matter how you go, but we always like to get off the highway, and we took the long way up AR-27, which windes its way through several small towns and lakeside villages.

Our destination is the former home of W.C.Brown, today known as The Reserve at Hot Springs, a property that blends modern amenities with timeless luxury. Built in the 1890s, the home was remodeled and expanded in 1919 in a Classical Revival style. Boasting 21 rooms, the mansion has long been one of the finest homes in Hot Springs and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. W.C. Brown made his fortune as the co-founder of the Bodcaw Lumber Company, which at one time operated the largest lumber mill in the world.

In 2020, Mark and Rhonda McMurry purchased the home and began renovations to create what would become The Reserve at Hot Springs. The McMurry's goal was to create a first-of-its-kind destination and venue that would offer a level of hospitality unrivaled in the state.

The first thing you notice when pulling into The Reserve at Hot Springs is the scale of the property, the house is impressive and the grounds are enveloped in large trees and gardens. Inside is a perfectly curated mix of period antiques and art, and modern amenities. The living room, parlors, and breakfast room are impeccably decorated and look as if they were taken directly from the pages of a high-end magazine.

Each room has a unique color scheme and features classic art, furniture, and décor. Perhaps my personal favorite room is the Arlington Suite with its guided wainscoting, functional fireplace, and beautiful four-post bed. The room also features a sitting area and the bathroom features a classic clawfoot tub in addition to a marble-lined rain shower. We have stayed at several properties in Arkansas over the years, and nothing compares to the level of detail and sophistication that has been achieved at the Reserve.

The Reserve has six suites in the main house, a luxury cottage, and an additional five rooms at Legacy House, a second restored historic home on the property. With rates starting at just over $200 a night during the week and $300 on the weekend. The Reserve also hosts Private Wine Dinners and features an award-winning restaurant that serves guests a gourmet breakfast each morning and afternoon refreshments in the afternoon.

When booking your reservation, guests can add on several amenities including Charcuterie Boards, Chocolate Strawberries, Fresh Floral, or Champagne on Arrival. Guests can also book a Sunset Boat Cruise aboard The Reserves private boat, Hot Springs Bicycle Tours, and several romantic packages to make your special occasion extra special.

For more information to to book your own trip visit thereserveathotsprings.com.