Enjoy History, Lakes, Thermal Spas, and Rejuvenation: The Promises of Lake Hamilton (Hot Springs), Arkansas

It is said that a good travel destination can change you, if you let it. And the same principle applies to Hot Springs, Arkansas, a little gem of a place.

Unfortunately, because of our conditioning, many of us tolerate stress and anxiety as the status quo. To be more effective, we must realize that it is acceptable to want to get away and do something relaxing and refreshing. Furthermore, it is important to grasp that it is not efficient to endure an uncomfortable environment without a break. Bear in mind that there are no guarantees that our health will remain strong. Spending time in a volatile workplace is very demanding of our mind, body and spirit. It is a good idea to invite ourselves to participate in an intimate adventure that recharges our batteries.

It seems these days there are dozens of hotels, towns and cities that are competing for our attention in trying to convince us that they have the enchanting ingredients for a great vacation. Lets face it, not every one of these so-called luxury resorts should even attempt to show us the path to renewal, or rejuvenation. However, Hot Springs, Arkansas, which in no way professes to be an exclusive hideaway, is the exception. It is quite simply an excellent destination that offers travelers the right amenities and activities. It is a place that allows us to dig deep within ourselves and initiate beneficial change that improves and enriches our lives.

Ray & Kristie Rosset, owners of Lookout Point Lakeside Inn in Hot Springs, Arkansas are passionate and dedicated innkeepers with a straightforward and knowledgeable philosophy. They are able to effectively interact with their guests in an inspiring manner. Their friendliness and comfortable accommodations are their greatest strengths. They find delight in helping guests comprehend what Hot Springs, Arkansas is all about. "I serve on the board of directors of PAII, an innkeeping organization," says Kristie Rossett, "We have started a social networking campaign and want to get the word out that a B & B inn is a better way to stay." Continues Kristie, "People who are vacationing are our primary visitors but we also host business travelers," she says.  "At The Lookout Point Lakeside Inn, it doesn't feel like you are staying in someone's home. We have individual tables, and don't ask strangers to sit together." She concludes, "Female business travelers love our inn because they feel secure and parking is close by. Only 8% of the traveling public ever considers staying at a B & B. Part of the challenge is getting the word out."

Hot Springs is best known for the natural thermal water that flows out of the ground from 47 springs on the western slope of a mountain in the historic district of the town. It flows at a temperature of 147 degrees Fahrenheit. The National Park is the oldest federal reserve in the nation. Tourists have made it into a very popular spa town. Hot Springs Creek runs to Bath House Row.

The town was originally discovered by Native American tribes that gathered to enjoy the healing properties of the waters. In 1673, the area was claimed for France. It was ceded to Spain in 1763, returned to France in 1800 and sold under the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. In 1818 the Quapaw tribe ceded the Hot Springs land to the United States. The land was created as a federal reservation in 1820, and in 1832, Congress granted the waters federal protection. During the American Civil War, tourism at the resort declined. After the Civil War, bathhouses and hotels enjoyed a construction boom. A railroad to the Hot Springs resulted in further growth. It was renamed Hot Springs National Park in the early 1920's. Today, you gain a real sense of how the different cultural influences played out against economic forces.

Areas of interest include: The glass ceiling in the Fordyce Bathhouse (visitor center,) Oaklawn Park thoroughbred racing track, Magic Springs and Crystal Falls, Fine arts community, Hot Springs Music Festival, Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, Hot Springs Jazz Festival and Blues Festival, Bathtub Races, Big Barbecue Cook-off, St. Patricks Parade, outdoor skating rink, and Ouachita Jeep Jamboree. There is also the Arkansas Alligator Farm, Lake Hamilton cruises, Garvan Woodland Gardens, and Mid-America Science Museum.

Hot Springs is a down-to-earth, yet provocative destination. Moreover, regardless of the length of stay, travelers will without a doubt return home with a good deal of useful, refreshing insights, and a relaxed attitude. It feels good to take responsibility for our lives, and to do something valuable with our time.

Hot Springs is an exceptional town filled with an abundance of warmth and dramatic history that will keep you continually captivated. It is far from being a mundane resort town. As Kristie Rossett explains, "A guest is coming this weekend whose loved-one died unexpectedly. We planted a tree in his honor in the garden." She continues, "People come, and we see the stress in their faces. Their lives are very stressful but over a few days, we see the anxiety wash away. We see couples fall in love with each other all over again. Guests have written beautiful poems here. Many clergy come for a quiet getaway from the pressures. They take a little bit of their experience and the serenity back with them."

Many guests return home emotionally charged for having had a unique and moving journey. What do people like about Hot Springs? There is a sense of space, history, a mixture of cultures and people, physical beauty and just a "different" feel from most cities. As Kristie points out, "A couple began coming here years ago. The wife was given a gift certificate. They sat on a large porch by the waterfall and it was very soothing. The husband was ill and sat on the porch overlooking the lake with his eyes closed. They really cherished their time together."

An experienced innkeeper can provide well-considered ideas and suggestions about many things especially special events - some everyday and some profound. This is what makes Hot Springs the special place it is. You will come away with an endearing perspective on this very enchanting town. "We have all sorts of destination weddings here that are happy stories," admits Kristie. "Newlyweds have a meaningful wedding in a setting that really cares about them. We have also celebrated the birth of babies over the years. Couples feel very relaxed at our inn."

Bed and breakfast innkeepers are thoughtful observers and we can learn a great deal from their experiences. They are good at providing practical information about the essence of their town. They know about things that make a place special and unique. Their expertise translates easily into an interesting itinerary of activities, restaurants, museums and historical sites, as Kristie reaffirms: "Being innkeepers is our calling. It is our love. We are the luckiest people in the world. I get to cook and serve and meet the nicest people that walk through our doors. We are just very happy. It is very hard work, and we get tired, but we can't imagine doing anything else. I get to work with my husband, and we get to work in a beautiful place."

FEATURED PROPERTY:  It goes without saying that the grounds and facilities of the Lookout Point Lakeside Inn in Hot Springs, Arkansas, are peaceful and soothing to the soul. A welcoming atmosphere is evident throughout the inn. The Lookout Point Lakeside Inn is recommended to anyone who wants a good dose of serenity, privacy and rejuvenation. The inn encompasses all the warmth and charm of refined accommodations. The inn is a truly unique creation meant to be enjoyed by anyone searching for peace of mind. Starting from the splendid architecture of the inn, to the labor of love on the details inside, this is not a B & B inn to be taken for granted.

When guests make a reservation, a confirmation email is sent along with a list of special services, and a sample itinerary of things to do in Hot Springs. The inn asks if guests have any special requests, needs or dietary considerations.

Upon arrival the innkeeper will familiarize new guests with the property, give them a tour of the inn and share some of the history. The breakfast particulars are explained, along with other details, including activities available in the surrounding towns. Guests then retire to their quiet and elegant rooms. The innkeepers are known for their smiles, hospitality and attention to detail.

Lookout Point Lakeside Inn is recommended to anyone who wants a good dose of serenity, privacy, relaxation and adventure. Relax on the deck or sit in the garden and just gaze at the beautiful lake, waterfalls and lush landscape. Listen to the birds and watch ducks on the water. Star filled nights, sunrises and sunsets shimmer majestically in the distance. It is a place where you can spend easy times in good conversation with friends.

SUMMARY: Lookout Point Lakeside Inn is a lovely blend of warm service, sumptuous breakfasts, and upscale charm. The accommodating staff, spacious & comfortable rooms, abundant amenities, exceptional location, and excellent value make for a pleasant getaway experience. The 2-acre location overlooks a lake, distant hills, waterfall, and beautiful scenery. This gives visitors a sense of privacy and seclusion. The beautiful setting along with great service makes this a destination of unsurpassed charm.

ROOMS: Rooms are comfortable, spacious, romantic, airy and inviting. Relaxing beds, luxury linens and signature toiletries are provided along with robes. Most rooms have fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. All accommodations feature breathtaking views of Arkansas' Lake Hamilton and the gardens. In addition to regular rooms, guests can stay at a lakeview terrace condo, perfect for families, away from the main inn, which gives visitors a sense of privacy, space and romance. There is free WiFi, cable TV, parking, CD, and DVD players. In addition to the comfort, rooms are immaculately clean with tasteful design, fabrics, original fine art and furniture. The property has several gardens, several decks, lakeside swings, a hammock, a dock, a stream, and a small pond with fish and a waterfall.

SERVICE: Expect to receive gracious service with a warm smile. The owners/innkeepers and staff are well known for their genuine hospitality, efficient service and willingness to help plan activities or excursions. The staff is knowledgeable about the area and provides helpful suggestions to all of their guests.

AMENITIES: The inn is known for providing an exceptional gourmet breakfast that is artfully presented. The dining room is filled with character and looks out over the lake. Raspberry stuffed French toast and bacon artichoke frittatas are some of the items on their menu. Picnics are available on request. The owner collects unusual furnishings, original artwork and fabrics that are interspersed around the house. The porch, hammocks and library are ideal reading areas for visitors. The common areas are peaceful spaces with a variety of books, magazines, board games, CD's and DVD's. The property arranges nearby spa services for aromatherapy, couples and singles massages, and rejuvenating treatments. The inn has a grass and stone labyrinth, modeled after the Chartres labyrinth in France. It is used historically for walking prayer and meditation. People have lovely experiences in the labyrinth as it generates calm, peace and clarity. It can be used as a metaphor for what is happening in our lives.

LOCATION: The location of the inn is ideal for those who want to feel they are in a quiet nature getaway, yet still within a few miles of the historic district. Shopping is 15-30 minutes away; as are some of the well-established galleries where you can purchase jewelry, ceramics, textiles, fine art, or antiques just to name a few. Performing arts centers, wineries, museums, dining, parks, attractions, and cultural activities are 10-20 minutes distance from the inn. Its proximity to swimming, hiking, biking, walking trails, wildlife viewing, kayaking, and water activities provide incomparable value. The inn has a canoe for guests and a pontoon boat for lake tours. Complimentary snack bar and beverages are available 24/7. Every evening at 4:00pm the inn hosts a reception in the lobby featuring appetizers, homemade desserts, wine and beverages. This is a great opportunity to interact with other guests.

CLEANLINESS: The inn is known to be spotless, especially the guestrooms. The grounds and gardens are meticulously maintained. Overall everything, including the town, is quite picturesque.

VALUE: Compared to a standard hotel room, this property provides an excellent alternative. The niceties, amenities, friendly conversation and attentiveness of staff make the difference.  The guests appreciate being asked if they are comfortable. The staff is always available to help without being intrusive.