A vacation bucket list is a list of things you’d like to do or places you’d like to go while on vacation. Right now, it’s a great time to start planning what you might want to do for fall or winter holidays! If your bucket list looks anything like this, you would be a very happy vacationer at the Sarah Bernard Vacation Rentals at Innsbrook Resort!
Comfort is Bliss
For many people, a big part of vacationing is comfort and coziness. You’re going on a getaway to have fun but also to give your body and mind a rest from the stress of daily life! These may be some of the bullet points on your perfect vacation bucket list:
- Privacy – If you are hoping to spend special time with your friends, family, or significant other, it’s really nice to have solitude and know that your vacation will remain uninterrupted by loud people in the hotel room next to yours. With a Sarah Bernard chalet, you can relax in the peace and quiet of a cozy woodlands home!
- Home amenities – Especially on longer vacations, it’s very nice to have access to kitchen appliances and separate bedrooms. Sarah Bernard chalets provide the getaway experience while you still enjoy all of the comforts you have at home.
- Complete connection – Worried about access to social media and being able to watch your favorite games? At many of our rental homes, you have Wifi access and cable TV, so the choice to disconnect or stay on the grid is totally up to you!
A Bucket List of Adventures
You can definitely stay inside all of your vacation, but for some people, the great outdoors and adventures in nature are a huge part of their vacation bucket lists! Innsbrook Resort has a lot of the activities you may be looking for on your next holiday.
- Kayaking and paddle-boating – Getting out on the water and enjoying the sunset with your family is fun for everyone! Our lakeside chalets all have watercraft available that you can rent for use.
- Golf – For many people, this sport is the epitome of recreation! Innsbrook has an 18-hole golf course and driving range for you to really live it up.
- Hiking – A lot of vacationers enjoy hiking for the gorgeous views and physical activity. Innsbrook has several hiking trails of varying difficulties for everyone!
- Horseback riding – Whether you’re a little kid or an adult, everyone enjoys riding horses! Our resort has a stable and several trails to ride on, with gentle, child-friendly horses.
- Athletic courts – Sports-loving vacationers that like basketball, tennis, and more look forward to playing on their holiday getaways. At Innsbrook, we’re equipped with these courts and even more fun outdoor games, like life-size chess.
- Amusement park – Roller coasters are exhilarating and exciting for many thrill seekers. Six Flags Over Mid America is only 45 minutes away from Innsbrook, so you can take your family or friends out for a day of excitement and come back to the comfort of your chalet!
- Wineries – A wine-lover’s dream vacation may include taking all the adults out for a relaxing night of wine tasting and enjoying the countryside. There are numerous wineries near Innsbrook, including the picturesque Cedar Wine Cellars – only a 10-minute drive from the Main Gate!
- Natural Novelties & Local Delights – Going to see attractions you’ve never seen before is a great way to spend your holiday time! Near Innsbrook is Meramec Caverns, the largest commercial cave in the state, Cuivre River State Park, and the historic town of Washington, MO!
The Sarah Bernard Vacation Rentals at Innsbrook Check Every Box on Your Vacation Bucket List!
You don’t need to spend a small fortune on plane tickets to have your dream vacation. Sarah Bernard Realty and Innsbrook Resort are dedicated to providing you with premium service and accommodations that are family and pet friendly. And remember we are open year-round!
Contact us today to begin planning your perfect vacation! 314-780-9070
Summer trips are often appreciated for the warm weather and days at the beach, but there’s something special about sitting by the fire on a chilly Autumn night with a cup of hot chocolate and a warm sweater. Now that the hot months are reaching a close, you may be thinking about cozy fall vacations in either October or November.
The Sarah Bernard Vacation Rentals at Innsbrook Resort are open year-round and you can book January through December!
The Great Outdoors is Greatest in the Fall
The months following the summer promise coolness in the air without the bite of the winter months, and sometimes gentle warmth without humidity or unpleasantness. If you’re vacationing in September, October, or November, consider all these options for taking the fun outside!
- Hiking: Innsbrook has seven hiking trails that range in scenery and difficulty, so that people of all ages and experience can have a great time! Whether you like hiking for a workout, or for beautiful pictures, or to see wildlife, there’s something for you. If you want an educational and historical hiking experience, the Katy Trail in nearby Marthasville has strong roots in the history of Missouri and the Missouri River.
- Kayaking and Paddle-boating: A day on the lake in the Fall is just as exciting as one in the summer but without the excessive heat! When you rent on of our lakefront chalets, we provide watercraft such as paddle boats, kayaks, canoes, and life vests.
- Visit the nearby pumpkin patch: Few things say Autumn as much as pumpkins do. They’re festive, familiar, and have such a sweet and comforting scent! Consider going out to Pumpkins Galore, a working farm with over 100 acres of pumpkins and activities for all ages. They go Halloween crazy in October and are worth your time!
- Hayrides: What reminds you more of Fall than hayrides through the countryside? Here at Innsbrook you can book hayrides directly through the stables for a memorable, family-friendly experience!
- Wineries: If you’re looking to decompress with your friends or your significant other, there are multiple wineries near Innsbrook worth checking out. The flavorful taste of wine mixed with the crisp Autumn air is a perfect combination for a relaxing getaway! Cedar Lake Cellars is only about 10 minutes away from the Main Gate and offers a picturesque setting and an on-site restaurant. If you’re up for more of a drive, there are also wineries in the historic town Hermann and the beautiful town of Augusta!
- Get a holiday tree: It may be too early if you visit in September or October, but from Thanksgiving into December you can visit Christmas Traditions Tree Farm with your kids and pick out a tree!
Thinking of Staying Inside?
Some of us aren’t big on spending tons of time outside during fall vacations, and that’s totally fine! Innsbrook still offers countless indoor amenities to make your Fall getaway everything you dreamed of:
- Fitness center
- Country store
- Clubhouse
- Satellite TV and WiFi in many of our chalets
- Maximum comfort and privacy in our vacation homes
- Much, much more!
Book Your Dream Fall Vacation Today!
There’s no need to travel far away for your Autumn escape! Sarah Bernard Realty and Innsbrook Resort offer full-service, family and pet-friendly accommodations, planning, and concierge services. Contact us today to start preparing for unforgettable Fall vacations! 314-780-9070.
Spring vacations are many people’s perfect getaways for a reason. The Earth is lush and green, the sun is shining, and the flowers are in their fullest bloom! There are soft showers of rain and warm days with a comforting breeze.
Naturally, you may be thinking of planning spring vacations during this lovely season. Whether you are taking your kids on a family getaway, hoping for a romantic weekend with your significant other, or looking to relax with your best friends, Sarah Bernard Vacation Rentals at Innsbrook Resort have exactly what you’re looking for!
There Are Countless Activities Here at Innsbrook!
If you’re not looking to drive much or you’re at Innsbrook for a shorter stay, don’t fret! Many fun springtime activities are perfectly accessible here inside the resort. Below are only a few of the countless things to do.
- Sports: What better time to get outside and get competitive with your friends and family than spring? Here at Innsbrook, vacationers have access to a sand volleyball court as well as basketball and pickleball courts! Even better, you may golf as well. Innsbrook has an 18-hole golf course and driving range, plus a Golf Pro shop.
- Horseback Riding: We offer a fun stable and horses experience here at Innsbrook for the whole family, whether you grew up on a ranch or have scarcely seen a horse outside of pictures. Managed by Gallop Equestrian Center, our stables offer large indoor and outdoor riding arenas, plus over 20 miles of trails.
- Game Rentals: Maybe you’re not one for energetic sports but you still have a competitive spirit. Innsbrook has you covered! We have various game rentals, from life-size chess boards and Jenga to shuffleboard. All of these are outdoor sets, so you can still enjoy the beautiful spring breeze while showing off your skills.
- Hiking: There are seven hiking routes here at Innsbrook, each with varying skill level requirements and charms. Hoping to get some beautiful pictures of spring flowers blooming, or test your hiking abilities? There are trails to suit your preferences.
There are Tons of Nearby Attractions, Too!
If you’re here for a longer stay or you are just curious to explore the nearby area, there are many possibilities to make spring vacations exciting and adventurous.
- Farmer’s Market: Don’t the months of March, April and May make you think of healthy, ripe fruits and vegetables? Wright City Farmer’s Market opens in May and you can also visit Reckamp Farms, which has great produce and piglets! If you are hoping to pick some of your own fruit, consider Thierbach Orchards and Berry Farm, which is only about 30 minutes away from the resort.
- Wineries: Sometimes you just need to take a break from the stress of daily life with your friends or significant other. With the beautiful weather outside during Spring, consider wine-tasting at Cedar Lake Cellars only 10 minutes away from the Main Gate at Innsbrook. It includes a picturesque setting with live music and an on-site restaurant. Nearby town historic town Hermann also has wineries!
- Golf: If you play the 18-hole course at Innsbrook and still yearn for more golf, there are options nearby the resort, too! Consider Country Lake Golf Club in Warrenton, or Bear Creek Golf Club in Wentzville. If you want a family-friendly golf experience for your kids to enjoy, Top Golf in Chesterfield is only 45 minutes east of Innsbrook!
Reserve Your Chalet at Innsbrook!
When you’re looking for a memorable vacation on Spring Break without spending tons of money on plane tickets, the Sarah Bernard Vacation Rentals at Innsbrook are the way to go!
We have great midweek rates and encourage you to book online or contact us today to get started on your unforgettable Innsbrook Resort vacation. 314-780-9070.
It’s summer and it’s time to plan final summer vacations!
The sun is bright outside, the air is warm, and the natural world around you is lively and exciting. Looking for a place to relax and escape the stress of work and the monotonous routine of everyday life? Maybe your kids are out of school and you’re looking for a fun family vacation, maybe you’re in desperate need of a romantic getaway, or maybe you and your friends are just looking to get away for a weekend.
No matter the reason, the Innsbrook Resort and Sarah Bernard Vacation Rentals are the premier summer escapes of the Midwest! Not only are they beautiful and cost-efficient, but the area is packed with activities for vacationers to live it up to the fullest and feel true bliss.
The Premier Summer Escapes of the Midwest
When you think of the summer vacations, you probably think about swimming in a pool, or lying in a float along a lazy river, taking in the warmth and sunlight, or maybe lying on lounge furniture and sunbathing! The Innsbrook resort has both a pool (approximately 50 by 80 feet) and a lazy river.
If you’re looking for taking a dip out in nature, Innsbrook has you covered there too with over 100 pristine lakes available for your leisure. You can take advantage of swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, or paddle boating. (Most of our lakefront chalets have watercrafts available!)
Sports Galore & More
What about sports? When you’re on summer vacations, you might just be dying to grab your clubs or hit the courts. At Innsbrook, there is an 18-hole championship golf course and courts for basketball, sand volleyball, pickleball, and more!
For those who prefer equestrian endeavors, the resort also has a stable with horses suitable for both children and adults, plus 20 miles of trails. Saddle up for endless fun!
Amusement Parks, Historic Attractions, & Local Wineries Nearby
If you are staying for a longer spell, you might be interested in venturing out into the area outside the resort to enjoy the perfect getaway location attractions. Six Flags Over Mid-America is only a 45 minute drive away on the backroads and family friendly whether you’re hoping to go on steep drops in giant roller coasters or enjoy the merry-go-round with the little ones, and summer is the best time to get out there without worrying about shivering or getting caught up in the rain!
Historic attractions are also a possibility for vacationers who want to learn something new – just a scenic 45-minute drive away is the house and village of Daniel Boone! You can also go visit Meramec Caverns, the largest commercial cave in the state, and try your hand at ziplining.
For an activity that the adults may be especially fond of, try visiting the scenic Cedar Lake Cellars with wine-tasting, live music, and an onsite restaurant, only about 10 minutes away from the main gate!
For an option that is child friendly and pet-friendly, the Quarry Wine Garden is also a picturesque prospect.
Book Your Innsbrook Summer Vacations Now!
There are countless possibilities for all kinds of activities under the summer sun, so if you are looking for a getaway that’s both relaxing and exciting, something that is perfect for any age, Innsbrook Resort and Sarah Bernard Vacation Rentals are proof that a gorgeous escape from the stress of everyday life doesn’t have to be a plane ride or several hundreds of miles away – it can be just a couple hours from home!
We have great midweek rates and encourage you to book online or contact us today to get started on your unforgettable Innsbrook Resort vacation. 314-780-9070.
Let’s be honest: sometimes a girlfriend getaway or a longer vacation with your besties is the only way to escape the stress of everyday life and just relax! It is so important to take the time to leave your daily routine, to slow down and connect with your friends, and spice up life with a little fun and adventure!
There’s no better place in the Midwest than Innsbrook to schedule a girlfriend getaway to unwind with your gal pals. The Resort offers tons of exciting and relaxing activities both at Innsbrook and nearby to create lasting memories.
Horseback Riding
Lots of us ladies used to dream of riding horses when we were little or having a pet pony in our backyard. That’s why visiting the Innsbrook stables is a must! Whether you’re an experienced equestrian or it’s your first time around horses, the resort offers gentle, loving horses and large indoor and outdoor arenas, plus twenty miles of trails! There are also tons of workshops and events, so gather up your friends and unleash your inner cowgirl.
Golf & Sports
Do you and your pals enjoy friendly competition? Out on Innsbrook’s golf course, you’ll be surrounded by miles of rolling hills and lush treescapes, as well as open blue sky. The Innsbrook Resort Golf Course has received an impressive four-star ranking from Golf Digest. If you’re a beginner or if you want to brush up on your technique, turn to the Resort’s on-site golfing lessons.
If golf isn’t your game, how about some sand volleyball? Nothing says summer girlfriend getaway like an exciting match at sunset in the hazy warm sun rays of the evening. Innsbrook offers courts and game rental equipment for volleyball and more, in case you’re more of a basketball or tennis girl!
Shopping
Do your girlfriends and you want little souvenirs and fun items to remember your trip? The area has some great shopping opportunities! Besides the adorable Country Market in the resort, there are also some great malls nearby such as Chesterfield Outlet Mall or the St. Louis Premium Outlets. If you want a more unique shopping experience, how about the Wentzville Flea Market? It’s considered the best in the St. Louis area. Plus, bingo is held on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month, so your group of vacationers can really live it up!
Spa Experience
Or maybe you need a spa experience with face masks, nail and hair care, plus more. A girlfriend getaway at Innsbrook should include a visit to Spa Radiance in St. Louis or Hair World Salon and Spa (about 15-20 minutes away from the resort)!
Wineries
Spend an afternoon touring the different wineries and sampling their top brands. The beautiful Augusta wine country is about 45 minutes outside of the Innsbrook Resort. If that distance seems too far, Cedar Lake Cellars is about 10 minutes from the Main Gate. Besides tastings, the wineries often feature live music and onsite restaurants.
Hiking
One of the most appealing aspects of vacationing at Innsbrook is the feel of fresh air and nature, and this scenery doesn’t have to stop at your chalet! Hiking with your friends can be a great way to experience the natural world and bond together and feel connected to your surroundings. Innsbrook offers numerous trails of varying lengths for your leisure, whether you’d like to walk or bike, and there are also several trails in the area, such as the Katy Trail or those at Cuivre River State Park!
Reserve Your Chalet at Innsbrook Resort
Ready to book your girlfriend getaway? Contact Sarah Bernard today to rent a chalet for a one-of-a-kind experience. Each chalet brings its own individual flair, and you can rent chalets in close proximity, so there’s something for you if you’re a group of 3 or 20.
We have great midweek rates and encourage you to book online or contact us today to get started on your unforgettable Innsbrook Resort vacation. 314-780-9070.
Looking for a place to host a bachelor’s party? Or maybe you and some guy friends want a woodsy retreat from the stress of daily life? Innsbrook is the perfect place for a guys weekend, whether you’re looking for something active or more relaxing. Here are just a few of the amazing things you can do while splitting a six-pack with your best buds.
Golfing
Innsbrook is the place to go if you’re a big golfer—or if you just like the occasional relaxed game. There are two golf clubs nearby, the Country Lake Golf Club and the Bear Creek Golf Club, as well as the Innsbrook Public Golf Course. Innsbrook hosts golf leagues weekly and has the option for private or professional golf tournaments. The Innsbrook Resort Golf Course has been well-reviewed by many of the top sports magazines, including receiving an impressive four-star ranking from Golf Digest. Out on the golf course, you’ll be surrounded by miles of rolling hills and lush treescapes, as well as open blue sky. For beginners or those wanting to brush up on their technique, Innsbrook also offers on-site golfing lessons.
Left your golf bag at home? Just want to add to your club collection? Innsbrook also has a Pro Shop with everything you could possibly need to outfit your weekend. Also, if you’re looking for golf with a bit of a twist, there’s a Top Golf within driving distance, where you can enjoy a game and the comfort of reclining chairs, with a full-service menu and bar.
Fishing
With over 100 lakes and ponds, Innsbrook is also the ideal guys weekend for those who love to fish. Grab your cooler and some fishing rods and go spend a day out on the water. The lakes are well stocked, with many types of fish including bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, and green sunfish. Come out and catch your dinner, all while surrounded by serene waters and beautiful wooded lake views. When you’re all tuckered out from the sun, head back home and grill up your catch of the day. Also be sure to check out the Innsbrook Fishing Club for some insider scoops and resources.
If fishing isn’t quite your speed, but you still love being out on the water, there are plenty of other water activities in which to partake. You can kayak, paddleboard, or just lay out on one of the many beaches and catch some rays.
Play a Game or Go Hiking
Golf or fishing not your pastime of choice? You’re in luck, because Innsbrook also has plenty of basketball courts, tennis courts, and sand volleyball. Play a pick-up game or practice your tennis skills without leaving the resort.
There are also miles of hiking trails for those who are looking for a bit of outdoor exploration.
Reserve Your Guys Weekend Chalet at Innsbrook Resort
Ready to book your guys weekend? Contact Sarah Bernard today to rent a chalet for a one-of-a-kind experience. Each chalet brings its own individual flair and can be rented in groups, so there’s something for you if you’re a group of 3 or 20.
Do you and your partner need to get away together? Feeling overwhelmed or just want a couple of days to relax? Innsbrook Resort is your answer! This pristine resort nestled in the Missouri wilderness is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and renew your relationship. With over 7,500 acres of land, including over 100 lakes, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had. Here are the top five things you need to do on your couple’s retreat!
#1 Have a Concert Date
With Innsbrook Resort’s Summer Breeze concert series, you can head to the outdoor amphitheater and spread out on the grass. You can even bring your own cooler, so you can split a bottle of champagne while listening to the sweet sounds of local artists. Each concert starts at 7:30 and lasts for a couple of hours, so you’ll be able to watch the sun sink low and the stars come out.
#2 Spend Time on the Water at Innsbrook Resort
With over 100 lakes to choose from, you and your partner can slather on some sunscreen and go out to swim, kayak, or paddleboat. Share a blanket and spread out on the sand beaches with a nice book. If your idea of relaxation involves activity, you can take a spin in a kayak or try your hand at fishing and treat yourself to quality time on the clear blue water. Either way, you both can find your serenity next to the beauty of the water at Innsbrook Resort.
#3 Go see a Movie
Take yourselves on a date to the newest blockbuster! There are two movie theaters nearby, and each has their own unique flair. If you would like to see a new release, and maybe even play some good ole arcade games after your movie, head over to the Warrenton 8 Cinema. If what you’re looking for is a step into the past, head over to the old-fashioned Belle Starr Playhouse & Cinema. At the Belle Starr, you can see family films, live music, and even stop for a scoop or two in the ice cream parlor.
#4 Sip a Glass of Wine
Head on over to Augusta wineries, about 45 minutes outside of the Innsbrook Resort, for beautiful wine country. There are many wineries to choose from with tours and tastings, and make sure you walk around the charming and historic small town. You could easily spend a day here sampling wine, window shopping, and eating at one of the many great restaurants.
If you would like to enjoy some wine a little bit closer, there’s also the Cedar Lake Cellars, a lovely winery about ten minutes from the Main Gate. Go to a wine tasting and listen to some live music, and if you’re feeling hungry after a glass, head on over to the onsite restaurant.
#5 Pick Fresh Fruit
Take a short drive to Thierbach Orchards and Berry Farm if you’re in the mood for a fresh, sweet treat. Located about thirty minutes from the resort in Marthasville, MO, Thierbach is a beloved favorite of locals and tourists alike. Walk through the orchard holding hands, or sit at a table and feed each other freshly picked strawberries…or apples, peaches, or whatever is in season!
Reserve Your Chalet at Innsbrook Resort
No matter what you’re in the mood for, Innsbrook Resort has it! For more ideas, browse through some of the different experiences we recommend or take a look at some of the chalet vacation rentals that are available. Then, book online or contact us today. The Sarah Bernard Realty Team is here to make your Innsbrook Resort chalet getaway exceptional!
Are you ready to plan one or more Midwest romantic getaways? Imagine – you and your significant other, alone together at last. You’ve left job stress, traffic, and social media behind. Maybe you’re snuggled up on a cabin couch, telling stories and enjoying the romantic pop and crackle of the fireplace. Music plays in the background, and you sip your favorite drink – hot chocolate or a glass of wine.
Who wouldn’t want such luxury?
To make this dream a reality, you first have to plan your ideal experience. No matter where you’re headed, your time is precious. You don’t want to waste it. Even worse, you don’t want to get so turned off by planning that you never actually go.
To help you, today we’re sharing two E’s of successful planning.
#1 Efficiency
Many people end up spending more time planning their getaways than they do enjoying them. That’s because they get overwhelmed by options. There are at least a half a dozen “book your own trip” websites where you can do everything yourself. The problem is, you have to do everything yourself. From checking inventory to evaluating locations for security, you’re on your own. Which one is best? How long do you search for a better deal?
In order to have a better experience planning your romantic getaway, you’ll need to incorporate some Efficiency. This means you’ll need to find a more effective way to get information about all those different options, without spending hours and hours looking up each one individually.
That’s one reason why relying on Sarah Bernard Vacation Rentals is invaluable. With vacation chalets for rent in the Innsbrook resort community, you can find all the information you need with just one call, or even in one brochure. Download our Vacation Guide to see all the benefits this Midwest resort has to offer so you can spend more time enjoying your trip.
#2 Expertise
Going right along with efficiency, it’s essential that you get expert advice on what to do during your experience. Many of those “do it yourself” locations are just in it to book a room for you, and they don’t have any clue what might be right for your taste. Do you want a group excursion? Interested in a live outdoor concert? Want to know the best beaches and hiking trails? You need someone who knows the ins and outs of your destination, in order to bring you the best experience.
That’s Expertise, which is the other benefit of choosing Sarah Bernard. No more questions about whether or not you’ll enjoy your getaway. She will help guarantee your perfect Midwest romantic getaways go off without a hitch.
Book Your Innsbrook Midwest Romantic Getaways Now
If you’re looking for unforgettable Midwest romantic getaways, no need to drive hours to southern Missouri for lakes, trails, and activities. Innsbrook Resort and Sarah Bernard Vacation Rentals offer full-service, family and pet-friendly accommodations, planning, and concierge services that will make you want to come back again and again! In just a short drive from St. Louis or Columbia, and a few hours from Kansas City and Illinois, you can be in paradise, enjoying a summer vacation like never before.
We have great midweek rates and encourage you to book online or contact us today to get started on your unforgettable Innsbrook Resort vacation. 314-780-9070
There’s never been more interest worldwide in purchasing a second home than there is nowadays. Many credit the advent of home rental sites such as AirBNB and VRBO with this trend but owning a second home has always been considered a wish list item for the upper middle class or wealthy. But, you can’t argue with the fact that as more and more people rent someone’s home instead of a hotel for a vacation, the concept suddenly seems within reach for all.
Nevertheless, buying, owning and managing a second home should be approached with clear thinking and a game plan. It’s easy to get caught up in the idea while on vacation. But take a step back and make sure you’ve thought out the pros and cons before taking this big step forward in your personal financial world.
Coming from someone who owns several vacation homes, here are my top tips for success as you venture forward with this idea.
- Consider locations that are easy to get to for your family. Believe it or not, most vacation home purchases are within a 2 to 3 hour drive of one’s primary home, yet we dream about the villa in Tuscany or the seaside escape that’s a “short” 3 hour plane trip away. By focusing on a location that’s close drive away, you’ll find that you and your family are able to use the home more often. And using it more often means leaving your clothes & condiments and toys at the home, thereby making a quick getaway easy on the preparation side.
- Pick a location you love. If you don’t love it, you won’t go there. Think about what you love to do when you escape — enjoy hiking, golf and bird watching or going to restaurants, musicals and museums? There’s no right or wrong answer but spend time reflecting on your perfect weekend before homing in on a destination.
- Consider the financials. Though many people plan to save until they can buy a second home with cash, this may not be the best financial move. Consult a mortgage advisor who has experience in second home purchases to determine the best plan of action. Plan for not only the cost of the home, but property taxes, resort or condo fees and assessments, repairs, a caretaker if needed and other typical costs related to home maintenance. If you plan to rent the property, you will likely need to get investment financing which may come at a higher rate of interest. And with rentals, your maintenance costs will be higher though they will be offset with rental income. Don’t forget insurance, especially umbrella coverage if you will be renting (to protect yourself and your investment), the cost of creating an LLC if your financial and legal advisors recommend this, and management fees if you hire a rental management company.
- Look for properties that are already furnished. Many owners of vacation properties would love to sell you a turn-key home–it makes their lives easier and yours. Don’t hesitate to negotiate for any of the furnishings with your offer.
- Research property management companies early. You can start talking to management companies early in the process. Some such companies may also know of properties for sale that fit your criteria. They are a great resource and will help make your transition to second home ownership easy.
- Trust your advisors. Pick realtors and financial professionals such as lenders and accountants who know the second home market and are experts at the community in which you hope to buy. Listen to them and take advantage of their expertise. They will be your guides through this navigation.
- Think like a renter. If you plan to rent your home after purchase, think about what will make your purchase desirable for a guest. They likely will enjoy your home for the same reasons you do but consider top quality views, modern furnishings and great amenities (either at the home or nearby) that will help to bring you a steady income stream.
- Don’t wait too long on a property that seems perfect. Even though I recommend a cautious approach with any major purchase, if you’ve been waiting for a home with just the view you want or just the location off the main road, jump on it if it becomes available. Too often I’ve seen vacation home buyers too cautious and then miss the perfect opportunity.
Enjoy, get away, treasure your time in your vacation home. Visit your special place regularly (and not just for maintenance). Don’t forget what you love about your chosen location and home and make plans to get away several times a year or even more often — why not weekly or at least monthly? Invite friends, cook, read, relax and exercise. This is what life is all about and there’s nothing that will make it easier and more relaxing than your own getaway.
If you want to mull over the idea a bit more, Innsbrook Resort and Sarah Bernard Vacation Rentals is a conveniently located, gorgeous vacation rental community just waiting for you! Take a look at our inviting chalets and choose the one that’s right for you and your getaway, then book online or contact us today. The Sarah Bernard Realty Team is here to make your stay exceptional! 314-780-9070
by Emily Johnson
Winding through Innsbrook, Missouri, the small community that houses Innsbrook Resort, you can’t help but feel as if you are traveling to a different time. A simpler time. Where one-room schoolhouses are still ringing their bells and the land is not yet marred by concrete. The world is still pristine in all its natural beauty.
We turn into the gated resort and are greeted by a friendly security guard who asks us where we’re staying. We give him our chalet number and tell him we’re with Sarah Bernard. He gives us a warm smile and hands us a numbered postcard we’re to display at the front of our vehicle. And with that, the security gate lifts, and we roll forward into the wooded getaway that everybody keeps talking about.
Perhaps you’ve heard of Innsbrook Resort for their annual 4th of July fireworks and summertime parties or for the pure notoriety of being St. Louis’ elites’ premier destination for a vacation that’s close to home. Whether you’re a local or new to the Midwest, it’s impossible to not hear about this gated getaway in the woods.
And indeed, located just one hour from the bustling city, it does not disappoint in either its beauty or acclaim. The natural landscape and tranquil waters are breathtaking, but Innsbrook offers more for its vacationers, including an 18-hole golf course, horse stables, outdoor concert venue, clubhouse bar & grill, and more. The Resort hosts year-round events including those fireworks and even a community-wide photo contest.
Click here for a list of upcoming Innsbrook events!
One thing all of the buzz hadn’t prepared me for what just how large the Innsbrook Resort community actually is. We found our chalet, 1760 Turrach Dr, nestled in the woods, 15 minutes after we passed through Innsbrook’s gates.
We arrived with plenty of daylight, but the cover of the woods provided shade over the entire chalet. Too excited to wait, we jumped out of the vehicle as soon as we slid it into park. My Doberman, Della, was also long for the ride so I got her out, grabbed my bag and made toward the door.
As soon as we step inside, it becomes clear this is not your average cabin in the woods. An entire wall of glass extends the length and width of the chalet and a breathtaking view of what I learned later was Silvretta Lake is there to greet us. A white welcome package sits on the kitchen counter from Sarah and her team; there’s even a little gift for Della – including dog treats and a water bowl!
“Gosh, they’ve thought of everything!” I can’t help but think.
A sliding glass door opens, exposing an expansive deck that towers above the lake below. It’s nearly impossible not to envision your own peaceful morning sipping coffee on the deck or your own loved ones bounding down to the lake below.
The living room is washed in natural light, the soft blankets and fireplace inviting you to spend the night reading a book or playing one of the board games in the cabinet nearby. Every soft light and plush texture work together in harmony.
Around the corner from the kitchen and living room, at the foot of the stairs, is the first bedroom with warm lighting and plush sheets. Venturing up the stairs, another bedroom perfect for kids and adults alike with two sets of matching bunk beds and it’s own convenient bathroom.
Completing the second floor, and saving the best for last, is the 180-degree glass master bedroom suite that brings the outside indoors. Draw the curtains for privacy or keep them open for a star-gazing experience like you’ve never had!
Whether it’s aromatherapy or a giant comfy blanket, it’s safe to say you won’t be missing any luxury with Sarah Bernard. Take a tour of the exact chalet we stayed in here!
Beyond the beautifully styled rooms and thoughtful amenities, a stay at Sarah Bernard’s Chalets at Innsbrook Resort is peaceful. Wifi was there when we needed it, but our chalet was remote enough that it was easy to forget about the notifications and Instagram likes. Nature was calling!
Whether you come here for golf or smores, Innsbrook Resort truly offers it all. Are you ready to start planning your trip? Click here!