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A luxury hunting lodge

Merkel villa with kitchen

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A spacious living room with a fireplace, large windows, and a ceiling fan.
A spacious kitchen with wooden cabinets, a large island, and a built-in oven.
Property grounds
A spacious bedroom with a four-poster bed, a ceiling fan, and a painting on the wall.
A two-story house with a balcony, a chimney, and a snow-covered driveway.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

5 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 204500 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym

Explore the area

View in a map
Merkel, TX
  • Place, Dyess Air Force Base
    ‪50 min drive‬
  • Place, Hardin Simmons University
    ‪51 min drive‬
  • Place, Abilene Christian University
    ‪52 min drive‬
  • Airport, Abilene, TX (ABI-Abilene Regional)
    ‪61 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Merkel

In Merkel .At this Merkel villa, you'll be within 20 miles (32 km) of Abilene State Park and 25 miles (40 km) of Buffalo Gap Historic Village. Abilene Christian University and Big Country Race Way are also within 32 miles (52 km).
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What's nearby

  • Dyess Air Force Base - 50 min drive - 29.7 miles
  • Hardin Simmons University - 51 min drive - 33.4 miles
  • Mall of Abilene - 51 min drive - 33.9 miles
  • Abilene Christian University - 52 min drive - 36.2 miles
  • McMurry University - 57 min drive - 33.6 miles

Getting around

  • Abilene, TX (ABI-Abilene Regional) - 60 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Coronado's Camp Store and Grill - ‬24 min drive
  • ‪Texas Bar W - ‬23 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

A luxury hunting lodge

Colonial style brick home used as hunting lodge, bed & breakfast & venue for wedding, family reunions & corperate retreats. Lodge has 4500 square feet of living space as well as 5 covered patios & two uncovered patios, three car garage & more. Lodge is complete with all the luxuries such as two dining areas, large kitchen with double oven & island glass cooktop, central heat & air, 5 bedrooms & 4 bathrooms. Located in a beautiful remote area but only 15 miles south of Merkel Tx & Interstate 20. The lodge sits atop Buzzard Peak on 1327 acres of oaks & the deep canyons of the northwest part of the Edwards Plateau commonly refered to as the Texas Hill Country. Property has numerous White-tailed deer, wild Turkey & various other native wildlife & offers both deer hunting & African Safari style hunting of over 12 species of exotics from Africa, India, Asia & New Zealand. So reserve your spot to relax in luxury while experiencing some of the most beautiful scenery in Texas.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the villa: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Limited onsite parking (max 3 spaces)
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 5 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 3.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Office

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed
  • Note from host: Smoking is allowed on outdoor patios

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In the mountains

Things to do

  • Gym

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Unit size: 4,500 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 5:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

Hiking is allowed except during deer season. This is a hunting ranch & cameras are at feeders & trails so get directions before venturing out.
We keep our minimum price low for couples & etc. so if extra bedrooms & or beds are used then a $35/night per extra guest charge will be added.

Pets

  • No pets allowed
  • Note from host: One small-medium size dog

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Large stairway so children should be supervised

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking is allowed on outdoor patios

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector in each accommodation.

Property is also known as

Luxurious Hunting Lodge Merkel
Luxurious Hunting Merkel
Luxurious Hunting
Luxurious Hunting Lodge Villa
Luxurious Hunting Lodge Merkel
Luxurious Hunting Lodge Villa Merkel

Frequently asked questions

How close is A luxury hunting lodge to the airport?

This villa is 36.7 mi (60-min drive) away from the Abilene, TX (ABI-Abilene Regional) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does A luxury hunting lodge have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this villa.

Does A luxury hunting lodge offer free breakfast?

This villa does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at A luxury hunting lodge ?

No, there is no casino at this villa.

What time is check-in at A luxury hunting lodge ?

Check-in begins at 5:00 PM.

Is there free parking at A luxury hunting lodge ?

Free parking is not available at this villa.

Does A luxury hunting lodge have a pool?

This villa does not have a pool.

Does A luxury hunting lodge have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this villa.

How close is A luxury hunting lodge to downtown Merkel?

This villa is 10.2 mi away from Merkel.

A luxury hunting lodge Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 44 out of 48 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 48 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 48 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 48 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 48 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gwen J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family

Was a beautiful place to stay
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leslie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Second stay

Another great stay at Jerry’s place for our extended family! Looking forward to next time.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Heather K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hunting Lodge

This was a great location, beautiful views. The house was absolutely beautiful. It needs a few updates (paint, baseboards, water faucets) but it did not detract from our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
House was very clean, the location is quite remote and you definitely need a vehicle with some ground clearance or you won't make it up the driveway which is about .7 miles after you get through the gate. For what we needed the property worked well, if I was here on a pleasure trip, the property would be great.
Stayed 11 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Host went above and beyond to take care of us on our fifty three days

Host took us to see his exotic animals and brought us 2 shot guns and shells plus 2 cases of clay birds.We had a great time. Absolutely a beautiful place rather your hunting working or just want to get away from the fast lane
Stayed 49 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rhonda S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for family Christmas

This property worked perfectly for our family of 12 to spread out and celebrate Christmas. Large, well stocked kitchen and ample living room space. Even with 4 kiddos it was quiet. The property manager was helpful with all questions. Great experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved the location

The property was beautiful, loved the location, property owner was swift and courteous on anything that was needed or needed to be done. Home was roomy enough and plenty of room for all of us to stay. Had plenty of dishes and everything they offered. It needs a little up keep and bushes trimmed down. And I’m sure they will get that handled. Would definitely like to come back.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Donald H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick family vacation

My wife and our two children and their spouses and young children spent two nights. We loved the house. Lots of room for us. The location of the property was perfect for us. Remote enough so it’s away from town and quiet but close enough to Abilene to make a day trip. Very quiet and great for some morning and evening walks as well. We struggled a little to make meals because only 2 or the burners on the stove were working. Other than that it was a great stay and our family loved our time there.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Beautiful West TX Getaway

Well stocked, lovely home with plenty of room to gather with family/friends! The owner was attentive and quick to respond to all of my questions. The view was amazing!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sterling D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A great getaway for outdoor lovers.

Staying at the game ranch was wonderful. It is the perfect place to get away from everything and still feel like you never left home. The lodge was almost as beautiful as the hill country overlook that could be seen from its numerous balconies. Star lovers will enjoy the breathtaking views of the night sky and limited light pollution. Outdoor lovers will be amazed by the types of terrain and animals that surround the house. Jerry was super attentive and made sure our stay was the best West Texas could give. I can't wait to come visit again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Walter S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

West TX

Great views, if you love being in the country, under the stars with mother nature, good choice. House in beautiful shape.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janice R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beyond Wonderful

Our group of 10, a mixture of adults, teenagers and children felt it could not have been more of a hit. The home is beautiful, every detail was taken care of, and we can't wait to come back. As we were leaving, Ben, a 7 year old asked if we could please stay 2 more weeks. He summed it up for all of us!! Thank you Jerry for providing sure an amazing adventure.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ramsey E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Beautiful ranch whose ranch house sits on a plateau with beautiful views.

The property is well stocked, clean and very spacious. Every person in our group has asked to return for next years trip which breaks a very long tradition of seeking out new places in Texas. Jerry did a great job of communicating and was very accommodating. This is a hidden gem in Texas that is a must visit.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to get away with your family

Family Christmas from young to old in our family loved this place. The owners were helpful and communicated with us any time we had questions. Would highly recommend if you want to take family away to spend time together.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lyndal G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Christmas with the family

Great house! Awesome view and we enjoyed our stay. Would recommend to anyone with a large group.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leslie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great reunion spot

Our family of five met grandparents and an uncle here for an early Thanksgiving & hunting trip. The house was perfect for our needs. Spotless, all beds were very comfortable, plenty of room, kitchen well stocked plus the awesome views from the property. No steps on entry level & walk-in shower made it easy for the grandparents. Hope we’re lucky enough to return as it is a great place!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

steven w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Windmill House

Big nice house in the middle of nowhere.....great.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alison T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family gathering adventure in west Texas

We had to come to west Texas for a funeral. We had 12 family members coming from all over the US and we wanted a place with plenty of room with comfortable beds and space to relax and eat. This place was definitely an adventure loved by all the family. It is at the top of a hill but we had no trouble getting up there with 4wheel drive. Jerry, our host, drove us in when we arrived to make sure we found it. There is a gate with a code. There are lots of animals, and there are cows up around the house at times. They didn’t come near us but there are cow patties. The house is very nice, all the basics are provided. One of the coolest experiences was all the windmills around the property, and the view is so great from up there. Windmills can be seen all over. Master suite is downstairs and all the remaining rooms are upstairs. Lots of space to relax indoors and out. Merkel has a good little grocery and couple places to eat. Abilene is not such a bad drive and a great place to visit. Jerry was very responsive and helpful. It was exactly what we all needed and so much better than a bunch of hotel rooms. Great stay! Thanks, Jerry!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandra S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great View

We enjoyed our weekend at this beautiful house. Hope to get their some day. Jerry was great to work with.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tyler Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

College Reunion

Went perfectly
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Catherine L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best VRBO ever

This was truly the most beautiful VRBO that we’ve ever rented. The house was out in the country on a safari ranch (we aren’t hunters) but it was off season so we just had peace and quiet. Jerry Wayne and his wife were so welcoming and even followed up with us to see how we had done in the dog show (reason for our visit). I can’t recommend this place enough.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Alana S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Beautiful property - remote location

The house is beautiful and immaculately clean. Clean, clean, clean. Very well furnished from comfortable beds to well stocked kitchen. Separate heat/air in the top floor bedrooms is a huge plus. Perfect space for group gatherings. Plenty of beds and bathrooms. Great for family reunion or group retreat. Good internet service despite remote location. The view is amazing! The property is huge. There are some walking trails. But, there are some things I must point out. This house is a solid 45 minutes from Abilene. Definitely a remote location and getting there is not easy with several turns on back country roads. The driveway is long and very steep. Could be treacherous in bad weather. Property manager does try to keep the road graded, but I would hate to be here after a rain storm or in icy conditions. Was happy to have 4WD even in dry weather. Only one bedroom is downstairs. Just keep that in mind if you have older folks in your group who hav issues climbing stairs. There are some repairs needed and manager was in the process of staging several of those when we checked out.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shelley T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Property

Views were amazing. Beautiful home. Enjoyed a 50th wedding celebration with family.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wintress O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Remote and Gorgeous

If you are looking for a place with some space and the ability to get away from people and "city life" this is it! Gorgeous house, LOTS of room. Jerry was so very nice and spent quite a bit of time with the kids telling them about the animals and the ranch. He was a super responsive host, and the place was exactly as described.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

William B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spectacular Accomodations

The Windmill Game Ranch is an exceptional place to spend a weekend. The house is incredibly beautiful with more than enough space and comfort for a large group. The only thing more impressive than the house is the incredible views of the ranch from the balconies. Jerry was an incredible host and we enjoyed getting to know him. We will definitely be planning more trips to the area just to stay there!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021