Have you ever wanted to buy a retreat? Now’s your chance; A remarkable 12-acre property on the Sabinal River in Utopia, Texas, has hit the market for $2.5 million.
As investors are snatching up properties left and right for the next wedding venue or event space, the Utopia River Retreat is the next hidden gem in a booming wedding industry. The Knot estimated in 2022 that a Texas couple’s average wedding budget is $27,000. The website also estimates that 30 percent of a couple's wedding budget goes toward a perfect venue for their special day.
The next owners of the retreat can continue to provide couples with a naturally beautiful Hill Country experience — one that’s continued for over a century. The property's legacy as a wedding destination began with the first wedding ceremony in 1861. The only structure on the land at the time was a stone fort, which has since been converted into the “Fortress," a lodge that can sleep 12 guests.
Other features of the Fortress include:
- Two master suites
- Three semi-private lofts
- Full kitchen
- Fireplace
- Wrap-around porch
- Original stonework on display
The retreat also boasts nine guest cabins in addition to the Fortress. Each cabin has its own full kitchen, living space, and covered porch. Three cabins have two bedrooms that can host up to six guests, and six cabins are single-bedrooms that can sleep up to four guests.
Another highlighted feature of the property is the renovated hay barn. The previous owners turned it into a bespoke event space with an open floor plan, wood beam ceilings, a stone fireplace, and attached deck. Also around the barn is a large green space and a covered gazebo with a breathtaking view of the Sabinal River.
The Utopia River Retreat sale is facilitated by Chad Foster, the founder and broker of Uvalde-based real estate group Foster Farm and Ranch.
“With its current amenities and space for expansion, Utopia River Retreat provides potential buyers with a lot of entrepreneurial opportunities,” said Foster in a press release. “The event space, cabins, and renovated fort make Utopia River Retreat a great addition to any real estate portfolio.”
Even outside of wedding season, the property can host many events such as family vacations, reunions, and corporate retreats. The town of Utopia is located about 140 miles southwest of Austin. Austinites may be familiar with the area thanks to the long-running Utopiafest that used to offer live music and camping.
More information about the property can be found at the utopiariverretreat.com, and more information about the listing can be found at fosterfarmandranch.com.
