Located in the scenic Hill Country in Texas, your visit to Fredericksburg will hold your attention, not just for the town’s quaintness or the fine dining experience you would not expect in a small city. What it does bring the traveler is a level of sophistication and variety of accommodations. The one property that stood out to me was The Menagerie—offering a bold and vibrant take on boutique hospitality, delivering an elevated experience well worth the splurge.
La Forêt Bungalow – The Menagerie Photo Credit: Margarita Ibbott via DownshiftingPRO
What sets this property apart is its incredible variety of accommodations and distinctive, maximalist design. Just two blocks from Main Street (where excellent dining options are available), the estate features 11 uniquely styled spaces, including a 1910 Queen Anne Victorian mansion, a restored carriage house, a barn, and bungalows from the 1930s. Each room is a feast for the senses, with dramatic wallpapers, antique furnishings, and luxurious modern touches.
Location
The Mansion at The Menagerie Photo Credit: Margarita Ibbott via DownshiftingPRO
Just one hour from San Antonio, Fredericksburg is located in wine country and provides the perfect location for a romantic getaway or girl’s trip. A vibrant town is known for its German heritage, scenic beauty, and cultural charm. Explore the Pioneer Museum to uncover its rich history, or stroll along Main Street, filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and German bakeries. Wine enthusiasts can tour the area’s renowned vineyards, while foodies will love the hands-on cooking classes at Fischer & Wieser’s Culinary Adventure School. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area offers breathtaking hikes for outdoor lovers, and events like Oktoberfest add a lively cultural flair. Fredericksburg’s mix of history, wine, and adventure is perfect for a memorable escape.
Room Features
Serenity Suite in The Mansion at The Menagerie Photo Credit: Margarita Ibbott via DownshiftingPRO
This property isn’t for the faint of heart or those seeking typical hotel amenities. A two-night minimum stay is required, and there’s no concierge or on-site restaurant. Instead, you’ll find a carefully curated, self-sufficient experience, complete with kitchenettes stocked with curated snacks, coffee stations, and inviting outdoor spaces like the pool, spa, and cozy cabana with a fireplace.
Rapture Mansion – a large Victorian house with gingerbread details and antiques in every room. Capacity: 3 king beds / 1 pull-out sofa / 2 baths / 2,681 square feet / Sleeps up to 6 – a minimum of two nights; this is the largest and most luxurious option between $999/night – $1,199/night.
La Forêt Bungalow – a quaint bungalow with a rain head shower, clawfoot tub, a bistro table, kitchenette, and screened-in porch; you will love the privacy of this suite. 1 king bed / 1 bath / Studio + kitchenette / 400 square feet / Sleeps 2 – a minimum of two nights; this option is between $389/night – $434/night.
Carriage House Suite—Inspired by its Americana heritage, it is tucked away behind the 1910 Queen Anne Victorian mansion. Experience the perfect blend of privacy and accessibility while reveling in the carriage house’s classy, laid-back, country-style vibe. 1 king bed / 1 bath / 578 square feet / Sleeps 2 – a minimum of two nights; this option is between $241/night – $389/night.
Check rates online at Expedia or Hotels.com.
Amenities
The Pool at The Menagerie Photo Credit: Margarita Ibbott via DownshiftingPRO
At The Menagerie, every detail has been thoughtfully curated to create a relaxing and memorable stay. Each unit is designed for comfort, with fully equipped kitchenettes, TVs, mini-fridges, complimentary stocked mini-bars, Malin + Goetz Toiletries, and plush luxury linens. Start your morning with a Nespresso coffee, savor a welcome beverage, and recharge in style. The outdoor pool area, complete with comfy lounge chairs and striped umbrellas, is the perfect spot to unwind under the Texas sunshine.
That said, the amenities are somewhat limited for a luxury accommodation. While breakfast is available and delivered to your room in a charming basket, the timing is restricted to between 8:00 and 8:30 a.m. There is no on-site restaurant or fitness facility, but there is a serene pool area with a hot tub and outdoor fireplace (for cool fall nights). This area more than makes up for the lack of treadmills and weight machines.
Overall Recommendation
Piano Room in the Mansion at The Menagerie Photo Credit: Margarita Ibbott via DownshiftingPRO
The Menagerie’s bold design and thoughtful details deliver high-end charm and will appeal to the luxury traveler. It’s perfect for those seeking an indulgent escape with a touch of adventure, offering a stay that blends Fredericksburg’s historic character with contemporary luxury. If you want a property to house a large group, then this accommodation is for you. If you are looking for an intimate sejour in a Sunday House, this accommodation is for you. Access to a pool and kitchenette is ideal for those hot summer days deep in the heart of Texas. It’s worth the indulgence!
Disclosure: I was a guest of the Fredericksburg tourism office. All opinions are my own.
