High in the hills of the White River Valley, Chateau on the Lake Resort and Spa beckons with the promise of magnificent views. This resort near Branson, Missouri, delivers on the promise. As I wound up the road leading to the resort and then pulled into its parking lot, Table Rock Lake stretched out on either side for miles. My guess is that there is not a better vantage point of the lake, particularly from one of the resort’s balconies. This was my view. So stunning.
The Stunning View of Nature and Table Rock Lake at Chateau on the Lake
I came to this slice of Missouri for the Midwest Travel Journalists fall conference in Branson. Happily, the 3-day stay at Chateau on the Lake was part of the pre-trip. For those interested in nature and time away from the bustle of a tourist town but close enough to dip into its entertainment, shopping, and dining scene, this is a fine option. This part of the U.S. is a stunning mix of lakes and rivers, and I imagine that in October, the views will be a fall color kaleidoscope.
Table Rock Lake, of its more than 800 miles of shoreline, was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the 1950s. The Table Rock Dam was built to control flooding of the White River and provide hydroelectric power. Table Rock State Park is part of the scene here. Camping, fishing, boating, biking, and hiking are highlight offerings. During some downtime, I headed to a park trail along the lake’s shoreline. Here is where locals and tourists meet. One man I saw sporting a “Best Grandpa” T-shirt said he comes to the park every day to log in 4 miles. The trail leads to the park marina in one direction and to the Branson Belle showboat in the other.
About the Hotel and Amenities
Chateau on the Lake Resort and Spa mixes rustic with Americana. Stone is a prominent building feature of the atrium-style lobby and common areas central to the hotel. Ponds with koi fish, streams, a small waterfall, and foliage add visual interest. During the day, the atrium lets in light over the Atrium Cafe and gathering spots. At night, the hotel is basked in vintage-style lighting.
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Because the hotel is host to large conferences, there were at least two happening during my visit, there are plenty of spots for friends, family and conference goers to gather. There are also spots to tuck away from the fray. Because of the hotel’s size, it never felt loud or crowded. As I walked through the property from the 1st floor, where there is a movie theater, a kids club, the fitness room, and the indoor pool, I thought how much my 7-year-old grandson would enjoy staying here. There are even parrots and cockatiels to visit.
The movie theater shows mostly Pixar and Disney movies at specific times, but if you want to see one of the movies at another time, call the posted number, and the staff will set it up. During my stay, the indoor pool was undergoing maintenance. The outdoor pool and whirlpool were available. Like most spots in the hotel, the view from the pool offers stunning views of Table Rock Lake.
My Room at Chateau on the Lake
My room, with its stunning Table Rock Lake view, was a suite. I spent most of my time in the bedroom, which had a king-size bed, small desk, dresser, side chair, and bedside tables. This room had a view. The room also had the largest flatscreen TV.
The American classic furniture in the bedroom and living room is stylish and cozy, with an old-school feel. I liked the gold tone of the walls and the lighting options. Plus, the sun shining through the sliding glass doors leading to the balcony gave a sense of warmth. If I hadn’t been so busy, I can imagine how lovely it would have been to hang out on the porch enjoying a cup of coffee.
The coffee maker did come in handy. I used it to heat water for tea and make a cup of coffee to start my day. The bathroom is modern with a classic American approach. Gold-patterned wallpaper, a dark brown granite vanity top, a vintage-style sink, and a make-up mirror alongside the large, framed mirror reflect a classic American ambiance.
For those traveling with kids, the living room, with its armchair, sofa, TV, and small table, is perfect for creating space to play and hang out. The suite’s refrigerator is between the bedroom and living room along with a small counter and sink in a wet bar set up.
Food Options at Chateau on the Lake
During my stay, two restaurants operated. The Atrium Cafe and the Chateau Grille offer a mix of fine dining and casual fare. I grabbed a croissant and coffee at Peet’s Cafe, which serves pastries, ice cream, and other sweet treats. I noticed breakfast sandwiches on the menu here. Friends of mine did eat breakfast at the Atrium Cafe, but service was slow on that particular day. Peet’s Cafe was a speedy option.
The resort’s main bar, the Library Lounge was hopping one night and all partaking in libations seemed happy.
Other Amenities
Chateau on the Lake does have a marina where you can rent motorboats, paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes, but this is seasonal from May to October 1. Another option is to head to Table Rock State Park’s marina.
Unfortunately, due to timing, I missed out on Chateau on the Lake’s spa. Here, when available, you can enjoy a sauna, whirlpool, and spa treatments. You can also book ahead.
If You Go in September or October, Don’t Miss This
I was fortunate the Midwest Travel Journalists conference was timed perfectly so we could hit up the Harvest Festival and Pumpkins in the City at Silver Dollar City, the sister amusement park to Dollywood. Hundreds of pumpkins, crafts, music, rides, and the Marvel Cave are a winning combination of family fun. Silver Dollar City is just 6 miles from Chateau on the Lake.
Check out the hotel’s website for deals, or head to Hotels.com, Booking.com, or Expedia. Rooms range from two double queen rooms to presidential suites. Rates range between $240 and $636. Military, AARP, and AAA discounts are available. This is a dog-friendly establishment for a fee.
My stay at the Chateau on the Lake was hosted by the Branson CVB as part of the Midwest Travel Journalist’s Conference but my opinions are my own.
Post by Jamie Rhein
