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!
