On the Town - Branson

 

Cabin, Condo, Castle

WHETHER YOUR TASTES LEAN TOWARD PASTORAL OR PLUSH, BRANSON HAS A PLACE FOR YOU TO LAY YOUR HEAD.

BY CAROLYN OLSON

The Wilderness Log Cabins
www.wilderness.silverdollarcity.com; 800-477-5164

FOR: Pioneers who long for the rustic days of old
STANDOUT FEATURE: Many cabins offer a covered front porch with rocking chairs, perfect for soaking in the surrounding wilderness.
AVERAGE CABIN PRICE: $65 (no bathroom) to $185 (kitchenette, Jacuzzi, shower)
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT: Guests at this campground-turned-log cabin village experience that lost-in-the-woods feeling, thanks to the efforts of local Ozarks craftsmen, who built each of the 39 cabins. Aside from the Pioneer Cabins (which have outdoor water spigots), it's not all roughing it: Lodgings come with plumbing, stoves, flat-screen TVs and air conditioning. The cabins-outfitted with log plank tables, benches and dressers, and log poster beds-are named for Old West icons like Billy the Kid.

The Village at Indian Point
www.villageatindianpont.com; 417-338-8800

FOR: Those who want to stay in a place that's more like home than a hotel
STANDOUT FEATURE: Since the condos are owned by families, they come complete with personal touches like quilts, DVDs and board games.
AVERAGE ROOM PRICE: $95 to $190
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT: Located on a secluded area on Indian Point overlooking Table Rock Lake, these gorgeous condos are set amid stone waterfalls and wildflowers. Most give off an outdoorsy vibe, with log siding, and fishing and hunting décor. The Village has a marina/dock with access to the lake for fishing and swimming (boat rentals are available at nearby Indian Point Marina), and other amenities include a heated pool, playground, basketball courts and nature trails.

Chateau on the Lake
www.chateauonthelake.com; 417-334-1161

FOR: Travelers who desire the utmost in personal attention and luxury
STANDOUT FEATURE: At the $6 million Spa Chateau, an outdoor Roman bath beneath a waterfall overlooking the lake sets the stage for a relaxing experience. And men aren't left out: A barber spa offers haircuts, shaves with hot towels and manicures.
AVERAGE ROOM PRICE: $119 to $179
WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT: This castle-like hotel overlooking the pristine Table Rock Lake is Branson's only AAA Four-Diamond resort. The lobby's 10-story garden atrium, filled with full-sized trees, fountains and waterfalls, is stunning, as is the view from the veranda. Guests can also access the resort's bustling marina, which offers boating, water skiing and fishing.