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Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views!

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Outdoor dining - Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views! (Dripping Springs)
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TV, DVD player, books, video library - Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views! (Dripping Springs)
1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets - Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views! (Dripping Springs)
Property grounds - Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views! (Dripping Springs)
Nestled within the 61-acre Barkspin Oaks Ranch, The Cowhouse offers a secluded retreat in the heart of Texas Hill Country. Unwind on the expansive covered porch with eastward views, perfect for spectacular sunrises and stargazing at night. With a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities, this cozy guesthouse provides everything you need to relax.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 248 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Parking available

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views!

The Cowhouse is a charming hilltop guesthouse nestled within Barkspin Oaks Ranch, a 61-acre ranch in the picturesque Texas Hill Country. Located approximately 8 miles southwest of Dripping Springs, this cozy retreat offers breathtaking views that stretch for miles. It’s conveniently close to local wineries, distilleries, and wedding venues, including Alexander at Creek Rd, Camp Lucy, and Cricket Hill Ranch. Other scenic hill country towns like Wimberley and Blanco are within a 30-minute drive, while Fredericksburg is easily accessible within an hour.

The Cowhouse provides a secluded and private haven for relaxation, complete with a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities. The kitchen seamlessly opens to the living area, featuring recently updated stainless steel appliances. The living room boasts a large window with an eastward view, perfect for enjoying spectacular sunrises. For entertainment, there’s free Wi-Fi, a Smart TV that also receives local network channels and a DVD player stocked with assorted movies.

Step outside onto the expansive 12 x 30 ft covered porch, which also faces east. Here, you can savor the breathtaking views throughout the day. The porch is equipped with a gas grill and multiple seating areas, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor dining.

Inside, the bedroom offers a comfortable king-sized bed, a spacious closet, and blackout curtains for restful sleep. The bathroom features a combination tub/shower, toilet, and vanity. Additionally, the laundry room houses a large top-loading washing machine and a sizable dryer.

The Cowhouse has a heartwarming backstory: Built in 2008 by the owners, Andi and Jerry, it originally served as their weekend home. Back then, there was no fence to keep out the livestock, and the curious cows would often approach the house. Their grandson affectionately dubbed it the Cowhouse, as he and his sister loved watching the cows up close. The name stuck, capturing the essence of this rustic retreat.

Barkspin Oaks Ranch, part of a larger ranch settled by Andi’s grandparents nearly 100 years ago, remains rugged and teems with wildlife. Deer, rabbits, and a family of foxes call it home. Bird feeders attract a variety of avian visitors, and occasionally, a pair of hawks graces the skies. It’s a place where nature and tranquility converge, inviting guests to unwind and connect with the land.

The Cowhouse is over 200 feet away from the owners' home and both are on top of a hill inside a 4-acre fenced area. The main house is located where it does not impact the great views seen from the Cowhouse. Outdoor living areas for both homes are separated by trees and there is enough space between them to ensure privacy. The owners and guests will share the private road to the public road but the Cowhouse has a separate parking area. The Cowhouse is 0.3 miles from the public road.

Guests will be allowed to walk around the mowed areas of the fenced 4 acres at their own risk. Guests are not allowed outside of this fenced area except when entering or exiting in their vehicle.

No Smoking or Vaping.

Check-in is 4pm and Check-out is 10am.

No Pets are allowed.

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • TV
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Gas grill
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Porch/lanai

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Property does not allow children
  • Unit size: 513 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

Guests are not allowed outside of the 4-acre fenced area on the hilltop except when entering or exiting the property in their vehicle.
Fireworks are not allowed.
Discharging firearms is not allowed.

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Cashless transactions are available
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

About the area

Located in Dripping Springs, this cottage is in a rural area. Pedernales Falls State Park and Jacob's Well Natural Area reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Jump Wild and Hill Country Lavender Farm. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching. Visit our Dripping Springs travel guide
View more Cottages in Dripping Springs
Map
Dripping Springs, TX

What's nearby

  • There not much of interest in this photo, but for some reason I just like it! #Sunset #Nikon #D3400
    Pedernales Falls State Park
    21 min drive - 23.2 km
  • Field of Dreams
    11 min drive - 5.7 km
  • Onion Creek Kitchens at Juniper Hills Farm
    14 min drive - 9.0 km
  • XLR8 Ranch
    16 min drive - 10.9 km
  • Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery
    25 min drive - 28.0 km

Getting around

  • Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
    55 min drive

Restaurants

  • Whataburger
    23 min drive
  • McDonald's
    22 min drive
  • Starbucks
    22 min drive
  • Taco Bell
    22 min drive
  • Mazama Coffee Co.
    22 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views! located?

Situated in a rural location, this cottage is within 6 miles (10 km) of Field of Dreams, Onion Creek Kitchens at Juniper Hills Farm and XLR8 Ranch. Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead Museum and Twisted X Brewing Company are also within 12 miles (20 km).

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Cozy hilltop guesthouse at Barkspin Oaks Ranch. Beautiful views! Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 38 out of 38 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 38 reviews

10

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Deborah B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was a quiet and tranquil place to stay. The place was immaculate with everything you could need for a relaxing stay. The host, Andi, lives on the property and was there to welcome us and share details. We enjoyed the outdoor patio and local wildlife! We will rent again!
The deer come to feed about 6:30 every evening.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lynn S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our second visit to the Cowhouse. Very comfortable, extremely well equipped and beautiful views from the porch. Our hosts were gracious and we will return!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful property; fantastic views. Quiet, lots of deer; host was fantastic. Will definitely stay again. Highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Place

I have to say this was probably our most enjoyable stay. The house was lovely and so was the view that goes along with it. Will definitely be back.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paula M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful view

Without a doubt, the Cowhouse was the cleaniest, best stocked, and most organized we've ever stayed and we've stayed at numerous VRBO properties over the years. I would highly recommend this to anyone.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

George T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spring break getaway

Perfect for the 2 of us. Quiet, easy check in and very helpful host. Spent the days hiking/birding the state parks and the evenings relaxing at the cow house.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Angel S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

The cow house was beautiful and cozy andi and jerry really thought of everything you could need. Peaceful stay and felt like a home away from home
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
A perfect weekend at a perfectly wonderful home. Views are spectacular. Our host was so gracious and provided many extras like snacks and cold drinks. The home was spotless and the bed so comfortable. One of the nicest places we have stayed through VRBO.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Wanda A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely!

We had a very relaxing time at Cowhouse. It has a serene and spectacular view. The house is lovely, very clean, and has everything that you can possibly need.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brent S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic!!

Beautiful property!! The house is very clean and with perfect views in the morning and evening!! Definitely will be coming back!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joey P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Simply Perfect!

The CowHouse was a beautiful and comfortable guesthouse with all you would ever need plus spectacular views and stunning sunrises!  The deer, foxes, and birds were the topping!! So grateful to the owners for sharing their space with us!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bill & Pam R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spectacular Views and Exceptional Hospitality

This has been one of the nicest VRBOs we’ve ever stayed in. The beautiful hilltop location offers spectacular views of the Texas Hill Country, making it a truly special place. Andi, was the most gracious hostess we’ve ever had—welcoming us upon arrival with a warm greeting and a brief tour. She has meticulously thought of everything her guests might need, from snacks and quick foods to drinks and other thoughtful touches. We truly enjoyed our stay and appreciate all the care that has gone into making this such a wonderful retreat.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

our favorite place to stay…

is here at the cowhouse! this is our second stay. we chose to be here for the eclipse and it was spectacular. we needed nothing during our stay, because andi thinks of everything. she’s the best host. the stars were beautiful, the Olive Company is always fun and delicious and there were deer and birds galore. thank you again for a memorable stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Breathtaking view

Waking in the morning to open the curtains to watch the beautiful color of the sun raising was the ultimate experience!! Enjoying to quite songs of the birds while sipping our morning coffee while hearing roosters in the distance is relaxing. Andi and Jerry were great with commication and providing privacy. Very relaxing and well stocked accommodations. We look forward to returning the next time we need a getaway to re-energize and spend time together. Andi was fantastic in
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jayson M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming Hill Country Get A Way

Nestled in the rolling hills just minutes from Dripping Springs the Cowhouse is a gem. From the host to the house and check-in instructions everything was amazing. Well stocked with snacks and any items you might of forgotten. Andi, was an amazing host. They made us feel like family. I loved the BBQ grill and the views were out of this world. I truly look forward to visiting again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Debra G., Illinois

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfection!

Everything about the Cowhouse was exceptional! My husband and I were both thrilled with all of the amenities, saving us a trip to the grocery store upon our arrival. Andi, the host, anticipated all of our needs and desires by supplying an abundance of snacks, water, Kcups, laundry detergent and more. The bed was comfortable and the bath towels were the best! The view is lovely and on the last two days we experienced the beautiful sunrise from the patio! We will definitely rent again!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katie V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect! Amazing!

The perfect weekend! Andi is an incredible hostess from the drinks and snacks in the kitchen right down to extra toothbrushes if you forgot yours. The view was amazing. You can’t come to Hill Country and not stay somewhere with a view. We changed plans and decided to grill out at the house just to enjoy the view one night! Cowhouse is a short drive to anywhere you want to go. I really can’t say enough wonderful things. We will definitely be back and we will recommend the Cowhouse to everyone we know!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jamie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay Here! Home Away From Home!

Wow! From the moment we arrived to the moment we left we were highly impressed. Beautiful Cowhouse w/all 5-star amenities. Bed had crisp, high-quality sheets, towels felt like luxurious blankets after showers, pillows were thick, yet billowy and soft! Kitchen cabinets fully stocked w/snacks, and refrigerator as well. We felt like we were visiting our grandparents for the weekend with how welcome our stay was. Fruit tray, snacks, juices, milk, water, tons of coffee pods, full couch, huge tv, full washroom, and THE VIEW! 15-20mins from restaurants, breweries, distilleries, etc...We are coming back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kyle F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Hill country getaway (and great for telescopes)!

This property is the PERFECT place to get away from it all. The house is fully furnished with everything modern, a huge smart tv, wifi access, full stocked kitchen, big refrigerator with ice maker, a laundry room with large size washer and dryer, roomy bathroom, plenty of storage space for long stays and a huge comfortable bed.The wifi has good bandwidth, easily enough to do conference calls or video conferences or any other remote work you may want to do.The real magic is outside. The property overlooks a valley with a large covered porch, bbq. Right out front are a pair of chair swings overlooking the valley. Fantastic way to spend a morning or evening just enjoying the silence.For me I went here to get good sky views to do some telescope astrophotography. This is a great place to see the skies (scope or not) and is far enough away from Austin that you don't see as much light pollution.Overall I highly recommend staying here!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kelli

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Andi was excellent host—property well stocked, and excellent communication regarding check-in. Will definitely stay again if return to area. Property peaceful and quiet with excellent views!!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Richard B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
An ideal hill country location.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

debbie m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was very nice enjoyed the view plus the wildlife Host was very nice with all the little extras
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lynn S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay at the Cowhouse was excellent. The amenities inside were above and beyond! Very comfortable bed and luxurious linens, great shower, well stocked kitchen and a living area with comfortable seating and Smart TV and WiFi. Outside the views were wonderful, and the huge front porch perfect for bird watching and relaxing. Our hosts were gracious, respectful of our privacy and easy to communicate with. It was a perfect quick getaway and we hope to return soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jason K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very comfortable set up.

We enjoyed our stay . Loved seeing the cows and wildlife. Morning coffee on the porch, with a view, and so quiet was awesome.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

John Todd C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Camp Lucy wedding weekend

Easy short drive over to all of the weekend wedding festivities at Camp Lucy. Couldn't have been more convenient and welcoming.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023