If you’re dreaming of a romantic European getaway without the long flight, Elm Creek Manor in North Texas offers an enchanting escape. Nestled in the small, German-inspired town of Muenster, Texas, this bed and breakfast is a hidden gem, just an hour and a half from the DFW area. Renowned as one of the “Top Ten Culinary Inns in the World,” Elm Creek Manor is the only Farm to Table Inn in the country, owned and operated by Certified Master Chef Marcia and her husband, Brad.
Arrival and First Impressions
Upon arriving at Elm Creek Manor, we were warmly greeted by Brad, who provided us with the keys to our cottage and a schedule of events for our stay. The schedule detailed when our meals would be delivered, the timing of our scheduled massages, and the dinner plans for Saturday evening. We arrived just in time for the Social Hour, where we enjoyed free-flowing wine and rum punch while mingling with other guests. Following Social Hour, Brad escorted us to the Tuscan Villa, one of six uniquely themed cottages on the 16-acre resort.
The Tuscan Villa Experience
Our cottage, the Tuscan Villa, was a serene retreat, thoughtfully designed with authentic European art and furnishings. The luxurious Boll and Branch sheets, soft duvet, and Elm Creek Manor’s own farm-made soap added to the comfort of our stay. The bathroom featured a hot tub, and the cabin was equipped with robes, an ironing board, and a safe, ensuring all our needs were met.
Culinary Delights and VIP Treatment
As we settled into our room, a charcuterie tray was delivered, hinting at the culinary delights to come. We had opted for the Ultimate VIP Package, which included a charcuterie tray with wine, a bouquet of flowers, champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, European chocolates, a basket of snacks, a Couples Hunt for Treasured Romance, a three-course seated dinner on Saturday, a 70-minute in-room massage, and complimentary beverages in our cottage.
Exploring Muenster and Indulging in Spa Services
The next day began with a delicious breakfast delivered to our room, followed by a leisurely exploration of Muenster. This charming German town offers a taste of its heritage with local shops selling cheeses, sausages, kolaches, and other baked goods, as well as visits to nearby wineries such as 4R Ranch Vineyards and Winery, Blue Ostrich Winery, and Arche Winery Vineyard.
Upon our return, we enjoyed a Spa Lunch, brimming with natural flavors, and spent some time with the donkeys and goats that reside across from our cabin. Our afternoon was capped off with a relaxing in-room massage by Joseph, a skilled and professional therapist.
An Unforgettable Farm-to-Table Dining Experience
Saturday evening’s dinner at the manor was a highlight of our stay. The formal atmosphere reminded me of a captain’s dinner on a cruise, and we dressed accordingly. After Social Hour in the library, Marcia, the Master Chef, introduced herself and described the meal ahead. An attendant read aloud from a silver plate, sharing the philosophy behind Elm Creek Manor’s farm-to-table approach. The experience felt spiritual, as we were invited into Marcia and Brad’s world of culinary passion and creativity, where nothing is wasted and everything is crafted with love and respect for food.
A Memorable Farewell
The evening concluded with a tour of the other cottages on the property, each uniquely themed and thoughtfully decorated. While we loved our Tuscan Villa, the Chateau Alsace Cottage, inspired by French and German elements, was a particular favorite, evoking the charm of a Hansel and Gretel storybook.
On our final morning, we savored breakfast on our porch, reflecting on the peacefulness, exceptional food, and attentive service we had experienced throughout our stay. Elm Creek Manor provided the perfect setting for a relaxing weekend together—a true European escape in the heart of Texas.
