One of the highlights on the road less traveled is coming upon a hidden gem like Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort, affectionately called TAP. TAP was once owned by George Strait, so “write this down, take a little note, to remind you in case you didn’t know”- TAP is the place to go.
If you are near “San Antone” and not trying to get to “Amarillo by mornin,” slip off the I-10 Boerne exit and drive into the rugged limestone landscape with towering live oaks, streams and ponds.
Like the mystical Phoenix, TAP has risen from the ashes of a 2017 fire that destroyed the clubhouse and a 2022 fire that melted the spa and pool.
The resort has been restored to its glory, now with a new, bigger and better clubhouse.
The new lobby leads to the pro shop, meeting spaces and restaurant.
When we checked in, a horde of lively kids were screaming with delight and the registration gal explained, “It’s not usually this noisy but there was a kids’ cooking class and it was probably sugar rich. They’ll be crashing at dinner.”
La Cascada Table and Bar delivers an open view, from the golf course to the palatial doctor’s estate high on the distant hill. The cascading falls between the 9th and 18th greens is front and center.
Patrons may play the gallery role for these finishing holes while precocious ducks play in the water and kids celebrate their city escape with cartwheels on the lawn.
The bar area serves up specialty cocktails with sports screens inside, firepit outside and live music on the patio. The Singer/Songwriter series bring local and nationally known artists to perform during the fall season.
A glass display showcases burned bottles that survived the fire in the dining room where Adriana sweetly served our best meal in Texas.
No kidding, Chef Robert Carr has brought his 25-year experience from several prestigious resorts to the La Cascada Table.
Fried green tomatoes with shrimp and remoulade look too pretty to eat but you must, for savory satisfaction before a perfectly seared steak, a modern twist on carrots and a sweet creme Brulé ending.
Our food presentation looked so good that two golfers at the next table asked to take a picture for a daughter who is selecting a wedding venue. They were having beers after their round and were impressed with the resort, especially the golf course. Playing it for their first time they shared, “You use every club and shot in the bag; it is brutal, fun golf.”
The championship course was designed by Tripp Davis and Associates. We have had the pleasure of playing many Tripp designs across the country. He was an All-American player at University of Oklahoma and part of the National Championship Team of 1989. Boomer Sooner!
The Tapatio Springs course is a challenging run where fast play is standard. It’s a walk in the woods with a busy ground crew that clears underbrush from the live oaks for a manicured look.
The course climbs to its highest point on number 12 with splendid panoramic views of the valley. Greens are in great shape, fairways plush. Patrick Roper is the Director of Golf Operations and like the chef, brings experience from renowned resorts including Troon.
TAP is a getaway resort boasting two swimming pools, a spa, and several dining options along with the great golf. Rustic lodging is very spacious with balconies and appointed with ranch decor of leather and iron. As the temperatures sizzle this summer – so do their promoted rates.
If you love to travel and experience the hidden treasures of the road, “check yes or no” for “it’s a love without end, amen.” www.tapatiosprings.com
