HILLSIDE Boutique Hotel
Hidden Gem in the Hill Country
Guests often call the Hillside Boutique Hotel "Texas's best-kept secret." Located in the Hill Country, it's owned by local hotelier Pete Markwardt, who combines design passion with craftsmanship. The hotel, its decor, and the surrounding landscape blend harmoniously.
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Pete Markwardt
A San Antonio native and SMU graduate in business finance and real estate, transformed his passion for antique hunting into a global furniture business. Formerly of Alamo Height’s Armoires and Accents, Pete's unique imports add luxury to his hotels, including Casa 1810 in Mexico and Hillside Boutique Hotel. Pete combines his business expertise with design connections to create inviting, upscale spaces for guests.
Details
Castroville is a small, historic town with French and German roots, showcasing old sites, Alsatian eateries, and scenic trees. Overlooking this town is the Hillside Boutique Hotel, set on 13 acres and offering 38 rooms. This hotel gives guests a relaxing space with modern comforts reminiscent of Texas's top retreats.
The hotel has custom decor and furniture with distinctive features like shiplap and crown molding. Its Bistro, bar, and patio areas have glass walls and doors inspired by 1880-1920 industrial warehouses. These designs, made in Markwardt’s warehouse, provide clear views of the Medina River Valley, especially from the meeting room's expansive windows.
The Rooms
Designed by Hillary Walker of Courtney and Company, our rooms blend luxury and comfort with unique decor, including handpicked blankets from Mexico and Turkish rugs.
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We have 38 rooms, from a 375 sq ft Classic King to various 425 sq ft options. For added luxury, there's a 620 sq ft Premier Suite with two bedrooms. The two-bedroom Luxury Suite, over 1,100 sq ft, feels like a Hill Country home, complete with a full kitchen and a private balcony with Medina River Valley views. Every room offers modern TVs and free Wi-Fi. Customizable options such as welcome drinks and spa services are available upon booking.
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The Spa and Amenities
The spa spans 1,000 square feet with four treatment rooms for facials, massages, and body treatments, complemented by a raindrop shower and products from Malin + Goetz and Texas-based Rhonda Allison skincare. Guests can also relax by the hilltop pool, which offers private cabanas and scenic Hill Country views.
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The Bistro and Events
Hillside Texas Bistro offers a fresh take on comfort food across its lunch, dinner, and brunch menus. The spacious, 1,100-square-foot area boasts Hill Country views and is lit by custom Turkish chandeliers.
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Above the Bistro, the 800-square-foot Barrel Room features deep leather seating, a bar, historic Castroville photos, and reclaimed wood. Originally an open loft, it now seats 40, ideal for casual meet-ups.
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For larger events, the Bistro's Tasting Room holds 60 people, and the ballroom fits 100, suitable for parties, weddings, and more. The entire venue can also be reserved for special events.
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About Hillside Boutique Hotel
Located on 13 acres in Castroville, Texas, the 38-room Hillside Boutique Hotel underwent a revamp in 2018. Showcasing Hill Country design, it offers stunning views just 26 miles from San Antonio. Guests can indulge in a spa, a hillside pool with cabanas, and the outdoor Arbor for events. The Hillside Texas Bistro serves contemporary comfort food in a 2,600-square-foot space.
The hotel provides 4,500 square feet of indoor event space and a luxurious two-bedroom suite. With upscale amenities and room for up to 200 guests, it's great for both business and leisure stays.