Holiday Havens
Looking for something new this holiday season? Try one of these lovely destinations.
Holidays are a time to surround yourself with the people you love most. Traditionally, this means coming home to the places where we grew up, but an increasing number of families are starting new traditions with destination holidays, gathering in locales removed from any one family member’s home.
At first glance, this may appear to be a radical departure from the norm and, depending on the family, it may very well be. But if you stop and think about it, destination holidays make a lot of sense. First off, traveling is traveling, whether you’re going back to the old homestead or headed for another location. Second, destination holidays offer amenities and activities that aren’t typically available at Grandma’s house, providing family members of all ages with things to do. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, destination holidays eliminate a lot of the stress and workload that typically falls on the shoulders of the family member hosting the holiday shindig.
In Arkansas, there are plenty of picturesque locations to throw a destination holiday, a few of which are detailed in this article. These spots provide everything you could want for a joyful — and dare we say relaxing — family get-together.
BEAR CREEK LOG CABINS : Saint Joe
Peace and quiet are the order of the day at Bear Creek Log Cabins. Tucked into the countryside just north of Marshall (Searcy County), the cabins provide the kind of solitude that allows family members to unplug and unwind over the holidays.
In addition to the lovely scenery, Bear Creek Log Cabins offers the opportunity to be as active as you care to be. Hiking and mountain biking trails await nearby, as does fishing in Bear Creek. Or pick up the pace a bit with an ATV ride on private roads. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the fun as well as Mother Nature’s holiday finest.
Two of the resort’s other popular activities include watching the elk and other wildlife that make their home here. Native people inhabited the area generations ago, leaving behind ample arrow points just waiting to be discovered along the creek.
As for food, make the short drive to Jasper (Newton County) and take your pick from three historic and acclaimed restaurants. Try Low Gap Cafe for comfort food done well; the delicious burgers and other fare at Ozark Cafe, an Arkansas landmark; or a hearty steak dinner at the one-of-a-kind Cliffhouse Restaurant.
STATE PARK LODGES
For something truly unforgettable, check out the accommodations at one of Arkansas’s picturesque State Park Lodges. These beautiful structures put you at the center of everything the state park has to offer while providing all the comforts of a casually elegant hotel.
Lodges can be found at four of Arkansas’s most popular locations: Mount Magazine near Paris (Logan County), Petit Jean outside of Morrilton (Conway County), Queen Wilhelmina near Mena (Polk County) and DeGray Lake Resort State Park outside of Bismarck (Hot Spring County).
Each location features its own on-premises restaurant as well as all the natural beauty and outdoor activities you could want, from trails to wildlife watching. But don’t be afraid to venture out and explore the surrounding small towns in search of great local grub and attractions, too.
The only drawback of the lodges is they are so popular it can be difficult to get a room, especially during the holidays. But if that happens, don’t forget to inquire about alternate accommodations at Mount Magazine or Petit Jean where one of their cozy cabins provides the perfect setting for your family’s newest holiday tradition.
GASTON’S WHITE RIVER RESORT : Lakeview
Located a stone’s throw from Bull Shoals Lake, Gaston’s White River Resort in Lakeview (Baxter County) has been hosting families since 1958 and is still one of the finest lodge experiences in Arkansas.
Everything a family could want for celebrating the holidays is here, from spacious accommodations to an award-winning restaurant to plenty of outdoor adventures. Enroll in Gaston’s fly-fishing school to learn the art of tying flies and casting, then put your skills to the test on the White River under the watchful (and patient) supervision of one of Gaston’s experienced guides.
Nearby lies Bull Shoals-White River State Park, a tranquil setting perfect for a stroll along the shore or a hike on one of several woodland trails. The Visitors Center provides a fascinating look at local habitat and wildlife that is sure to interest youngsters and the young at heart. Explore nearby communities for shopping and local fare, including Anthonee’s Kitchen and Italian Restaurant, Beacon Point Restaurant and 178 Club.
Gaston’s offers family rates and a variety of cottages so you can enjoy as much family togetherness (or privacy) as you like. And topping it all off is Gaston’s restaurant, capable of serving up a feast worthy of your family holiday.
