For years, three long-time pals and I have talked about taking off for a girlfriends-only escape. During our last group text, we finally turned the elusive “someday” into now. We decided to head to our favorite spot, the Lake, for some Triple R: relaxation, reconnection, and really big fun.
“The Lake” is our shorthand for gorgeous Table Rock Lake. Nestled in Missouri’s rolling Ozark Mountains, Table Rock’s pristine blue waters lap along 800 miles of evergreen-dappled shoreline. Serene coves, boating and fishing opportunities, and vista-filled hiking trails create an outdoor enthusiast’s idyll. But, that’s just one side of this gorgeous locale’s personality. Table Rock is home to endless entertainment—amusements of Branson, charming Silver Dollar City, glamorous lodging, tote bag-breaking shopping spots, and cool attractions. Can you say, Titanic Museum?
In Table Rock Lake, you can do as much or as little as you want.
Why the Lake? It’s an easy drive for our Midwest-based foursome and offers something that makes each of our hearts sing. There are watersports and nature trails for outdoorsy Kate. Diva Shelley can be buffed and pampered at high-end spas. Ann, a thrift shop sleuth and master up-cycler, will delight in the countless antique and craft shops dotted along scenic Ozark byways. And me, I’m happy to rock away some peaceful hours perched on a lake-view balcony with my Kindle.
I uncorked some seriously delicious wine thanks to the advice of the wise merchants at Vino Wine Cellars.
Still Waters Lakefront Resort was our home, and home base, for our getaway—an easy choice thanks to amenities that were either near or nearer. Kate especially appreciated the condo’s access to the marina, where complimentary kayaks and paddleboards kept her Fitbit humming. It was nice to be close to the resort’s three pools, too. Guest activity schedules rival those on cruise ships with craft classes, poolside bingo games, outdoor movies, volleyball tournaments and so much more.
I uncorked some seriously delicious wine thanks to the advice of the wise merchants at Vino Wine Cellars.
Lounge with some wine at Vino Cellars on your girls weekend.
I uncorked some seriously delicious wine thanks to the advice of the wise merchants at Vino Cellars, the well-stocked (more than 175 wines from around the world!) wine shop on nearby Business Route 13 in Branson West. The cheerful staff also helped me create an oh-so-tasty cheese tray from sophisticated offerings that transformed me into a cheese and wine-pairing genius.
Grounds explored and wine bottles purchased, our first evening was spent reconnecting as we huddled on our condo’s balcony, chatting, sipping, and stargazing until the wee hours.
Sometime during our evening’s catch-up session, Kate convinced us to give paddleboarding a go. Our group was gung ho during the evening’s discussions, but the day of just had us looking toward the spa with hearts in our eyes. Ever the coercer of the group—even without wine—Kate convinced us yet again that paddleboarding was a must and we trotted to the marina. To our delight, we found our balance and spent a few hours of the quiet morning gently gliding atop Table Rock Lake. After working out some muscles that haven’t been used in a while, we were ready for some pampering.
Big Cedar Lodge has a great spa experience that can’t be missed.
We booked two spa experiences at separate, but equally luxurious, spots. We felt beautiful from the moment we arrived at Spa Chateau at Table Rock’s renowned Chateau on the Lake Resort, with its Roman pool and Swarovski crystal chandelier. A massage was the cherry-on-top of the morning’s paddleboard workout. The next day, after yet another morning spent getting our hearts pumping through the Missouri-bred beauty of spectacular Dogwood Canyon on a hike, we headed to Big Cedar Lodge. We soaked in the exclusive “Ozarks Rain Experience” shower treatment, an indulgence that we definitely earned.
Stocked not only with beautiful antiques and unique gifts, Grammy Pammy’s also sells local art and delicious artisan baked goods.
Massaged, moisturized, and exfoliated, our group headed into town for shopping.
What’s more thrilling than finding apple peelers, antiques, and fashion all in one place? We started our afternoon of shopping at Reeds Spring’s charming downtown of awning-shaded storefronts, walking up and down Main Street from retail shop to art shop and so on. Ann didn’t want to miss any good antique and art shops, so we headed to Gallery at the Lake. We perused an exquisite collection of local art pieces and hard-to-find antiques befitting of the French country-style building.
Stocked not only with beautiful antiques and unique gifts, Grammy Pammy’s also sells local art and delicious artisan baked goods.
Grammy Pammy’s Antiques and Tea Room has a great selection of antiques and local finds.
Before we ended our last day, we went to one last antique shop—my personal favorite—Grammy Pammy’s Antiques and Tea Room in Kimberling City. Stocked not only with beautiful antiques and unique gifts, Grammy Pammy’s also sells local art and delicious artisan baked goods. I indulged in a chocolate cupcake made right there in Kimberling City. Rich and oh-so-fresh, it was glorious!
As we packed our new-found treasures into our cars and bid each other farewell, we made a pact: same time next year. The Ladies of the Lake are most definitely returning.
