Willow House redefines luxury in one of the countr...

Willow House redefines luxury in one of the country s most remote and beautiful geographies. Turning off of FM170 into the gravel driveway, the compound emerges - the architecture echoing the sublime, unyielding nature of its desert setting. This is not to say, however, that the accommodations are as rugged as the land itself. Although the space feels found, as if it emerged from the desert naturally, it is also meticulously curated, infinitely inviting, and supremely comfortable. Willow House doesn t try to mold the desert into a typical luxury destination - its true genius lies not in perfectly appointed rooms (which it has) or over the top service (which it eschews in favor of a more subtle breed of hospitality), but in the way that the space implores you to explore the land that inspired it and leaves you eager to return.

Its location between the National and State parks makes it an ideal launching point for the adventures that bring people to the Big Bend area in the first place. While the surrounding area is light on restaurants and nightlife, the expertly appointed indoor and outdoor kitchens and thoughtful communal spaces invite you to remain on-site. Evenings at the Main House follow a certain intoxicating rhythm. Cook-sip-chat, snack-sip-chat, sit-sip-chat . . . until, before you know it, the fire dies down, the stars shine bright overhead, and a sudden awareness of the late hour encourages a few final moments of enjoyment and reflection before retreating to bed.

Willow House is a singular expression of its surrounding - exceptionally refined and somehow unadulterated. For those looking to explore Big Bend, you can do no better.