Beckham Creek Cave Lodge is a retreat like no other, embodying luxury hospitality with a natural setting and acres of secluded wilderness
In a natural cavern in the Ozark Mountains near Jasper, Arkansas, in the US, Beckham Creek Cave Lodge is a truly unique property, which is about state-of-the-art living in the most extraordinary setting. Located on 256 acres of private land, the 5,800-square-foot cave was originally purchased in 1983 by John Hay, one of the founders of the Celestial Seasonings tea company, who spent two million dollars transforming the cave and its surroundings. Having changed owners in the intervening years, it has become a place that seamlessly marries wilderness and opulence.
“Our main goal is catering to nature lovers who still want luxury,” explains Rayne Davidson, Beckham Creek Cave Lodge’s Manager. “In 2013, the property went through a massive renovation. It took us three years and a million dollars, and we totally remodelled it into what it is now. When you walk in, it’s a mindblowing experience – it’s beautiful and surrounded by acres of pristine natural forest with mountains and waterfalls. Whenever folks come, they have to drive along a winding gravel road and cross a river, so they get the whole mountain experience.”
That is, unless guests choose to arrive via the helipad instead. Whichever method of transport is preferred, what awaits is a wonderfully secluded private estate, providing a luxurious and relaxing escape. The property’s four en-suite bedrooms each incorporate the natural cave wall into their elegant and modern decor, while the design allows a surprising amount of natural light into the lodge. There is also intelligent use of strategic lighting, used where necessary to ensure that the space never feels dark or claustrophobic. The living areas are spacious and resplendent, not least the main space, the focal point of which is an impressive all-natural rock formation called the Spanish Piano Waterfall. “That’s the highlight of the whole cave,” says Rayne. “Scientists from all over the world have come to study it because there’s no other water feature exactly like it inside a cave.”
The attraction of staying at Beckham Creek Cave Lodge is also about the great outdoors. An off-road tour of the whole estate is included, which offers guests the chance to view some of the world-class hiking trails before setting out alone. Ranging from just over one mile to six or seven miles, the treks in the National Forest often lead to some of Arkansas’s most spectacular waterfalls. Other activities include rock climbing, horseback riding and scenic mountain drives. At the nearby Buffalo National River, an area where hundreds of wild elk roam, guests can go angling or kayaking. Trout-fishing tours are also available.
Sonic massages can be arranged in calming settings, while for guests who prefer to stay inside the lodge to rest or entertain, there is a 75-inch television and a high-end kitchen, as well as the services of a private chef.
Whatever guests choose, “we want everyone who stays here to create the memory of a lifetime,” says Rayne. “There’s nothing like it in the world and it truly is for everyone, whether that’s grandparents introducing their grandchildren to nature, or people who want to get away from the city and noise and pollution
“When here, you’re just connecting with nature, but still living in luxury while you do so. For those seeking adventure and longing for the peace and serenity of seclusion in Mother Earth, this is the ultimate experience of that.”
www.beckhamcave.com