Imagine relaxing on the private back deck of the opulent Okavango Lodge, one of ten comfortable accommodations available to overnight guests at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. You sip nonalcoholic cider from a keepsake wine glass while blissfully consuming the luscious ganache dipped fresh strawberries, wrapped snuggly in the plush bathrobe included in the Chuffs and Purrs Romance Package. You feel a bit like purring yourself.
The sun sets in a beautiful blaze of red on the distant Ozark Mountain horizon. As the day fades to dusk, a doe and her fawn forage in the field below. The air is crisp. Suddenly, the doe’s ears arc forward, and the protective mother stands alert as the adjacent valley begins to echo. It is a hauntingly beautiful sound, and others soon join. The lions have begun to speak. This is known as “caroling.” Lions are one of the loudest animals in nature. A lions’ roar can carry up to 5 miles and reach above 110 decibels.
After the sun sets, the hot tub nearby will be inviting and steaming. It sits across the large deck encircling the covered gazebo and fire pit the other adult-only lodges share. The rumble of lions while blanketed by billions of twinkling stars is enchanting. The Refuge is nestled far away from night sky pollutants, and the sky is clear. It is easy to believe you are somewhere in Africa without the side effect of jet lag and the expense of international travel.
You will sleep well in the comfortable queen-sized bed, snuggly warm as the nighttime temperature dips. Oatmeal, fruit cups, muffins, juice, bottled water and coffee are there to enjoy and begin the day. Each room has a well-appointed kitchenette with a small refrigerator, coffee maker and microwave.
Isn’t it time to stop dreaming? So go WILD for wildlife! Book your romantic getaway today and experience Africa in the Ozarks at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge! Visit www.TCWR.org for more information about this amazing sanctuary and unique lodging destination.
Eureka Springs • 479-253-5841 • www.TCWR.org