1,874.83 Acres in Bandera, TX - $29,997,280

The ever-changing landscape is enhanced by diverse vegetation. Cypress trees surround the main lake. Pecan trees shade the valley. Live oaks and Spanish oaks dot the native grasslands. A lone bull mesquite shades the pavilion. Cedar has been aggressively cleared and prescribed burns have been used to clear and reinvigorate the land. As a result, desirable native Hill Country browse provides a nutritious buffet for wildlife.

Whitetails that benefit from enhanced genetics, Rio Grande turkeys, dove and bobwhite quail are native to the ranch. A herd of bison, numbering upwards of 50, graze the flats and hillsides. Auodad sheep along with blackbuck antelope, axis, fallow and sika deer also call the ranch home. Other wild denizens include coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions and a host of other non-game species and songbirds.

Two Longhorns also roam the ranch. Ones horns measured 13.5 feet the last time a tape was put to them. Those numbers place him in world-record territory.

Year-round Myrtle Creek brings life-giving crystalline water to the property. It feeds nine dammed ponds, making water for wildlife easily accessible throughout the ranch.

An 8-acre spring-fed lake, stocked with largemouth bass enhanced by Florida bass genetics, blue cats, blue gills and sun perch is arguably the recreational focal point. Anglers have landed some bass that tipped the scales at more than 14 pounds. A boat house, with a bathroom, a fish cleaning station and a pontoon boat, ensures that family and friends can make the most of the clear, inviting water.

The ranch boasts second spring-fed lake, which is smaller. It, too, is stocked with desirable fish for additional angling fun.

Living

The three-bedroom/two-bath ranch house reflects its setting. Native limestone defines the exterior and interior flourishes including the impressive fireplace. Built with an eye to simple, comfortable elegance, the bright airy home combines soaring ceilings, shiplap, warm wood accents, Saltillo tiles and oversized windows. In the sunroom, which overlooks a pond surrounded by a bounty of native vegetation, the line between outside and inside is seemingly invisible.

In addition, the homes open floor plan includes a well-appointed kitchen, living room and trophy room. It's aesthetic and design invite gathering.

Building sites, with exceptional views, abound. The possibilities for creating a livable masterpiece built to the new owner's taste and specifications are limitless.

A nearby open-air pavilion, reminiscent of old-time Hill Country dance halls, takes the party outside. The pavilion, which follows the architectural theme of the main house, includes a full kitchen and large fireplace.

The comfortable three-bedroom/two-bathroom caretaker's quarters with a full kitchen and large porches, front and back, is situated nearby. Currently, it is used for employee housing, but could host overflow guests.

Infrastructure

More than 25 miles of improved roads stretch to the highest peaks and most far flung corners providing complete, easy access.

The main barn (approximately 40 x 60), which is constructed from metal and insulated, features four horse stalls, an office with a shower, a tack room and a tool room. Twelve-foot-tall doors on both ends keep equipment access simple.

An equipment barn (approximately 20 x 45) with a game cleaning station that includes winches, running water and a walk-in cooler rounds out the infrastructure.

The Opportunity

The Hill Country is known for its live water and breathtaking scenery, but its rare to find a ranch that has both with plenty of elbow room. The fact that BW Ranch is also conveniently located to small towns and San Antonio makes it one of one.

To experience the natural beauty of the BW Ranch for yourself, call Howard W. Hood with Hood Real Estate Inc. at (830) 739-3815. The ranch is listed for $16,000/acre.