Entire home

Mata'Zamo, Almost Africa, cliffside, 900 acres w/trails, farm animals, hiking

Photo gallery for Mata'Zamo, Almost Africa, cliffside, 900 acres w/trails, farm animals, hiking

Bluebonnets abound!
The kitchen/living area downstairs
Nearby Goat Cave is a short hike from the house and is an excellent, easy hike!
Open-concept kitchen and living room
Visit and feed the goats and pigs during your stay!

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 8148.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Hot tub
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Glen Rose, TX
  • Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Paluxy River
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Dinosaur Valley State Park
    ‪24 min drive‬
  • Stephenville, TX (SEP-Stephenville Clark Regional)
    ‪50 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

2 Single Beds and 1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

4 Single Beds

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Half Bathroom

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Mata'Zamo, Almost Africa, cliffside, 900 acres w/trails, farm animals, hiking

Book for 4 nights, 4th night free!

We offer contact-free check-in, but are available whenever you need us by text or phone call.

Our ranch’s most remote “Far Afield” house, Mata’Zamo is spacious both inside and out!
We waited over twenty years to buy Mata’Zamo, and you’ll see why before you even get to the end of the 1.1 mile driveway!

Mata’Zamo, Swahili for 'up high and far afield’, is completely surrounded by our ranch, is in our low-intensity use area, and close to some of our favorite trails and sunset spots. This means we have a place where you can truly get away from it all, surrounded by wildflower and grassy fields, perched on the edge of a cliff giving you a miles-wide vantage point over the edge of Texas Hill Country.

All to yourself!

We completely restored the house to make it energy efficient (spelled C-O-O-L in our Texas summers!) and added an upstairs deck that catches great cross breezes, overlooks the cliffs and faces west. A great place to watch sunsets, clouds and stars! At Mata’Zamo you’ll find:

• A total of 1600 sq feet of living space (including the porches and decks) on two levels.

• Beds for 8 – 1 queen and 1 trundle bed (2 singles) upstairs, 2 sets of bunk beds downstairs.

• Dishes for 12, nicely equipped 'slow food' kitchen for cooking, preparing meals.

• An outdoor gas grill, with propane supplied.

• Indoor and porch tables easily seat 4-6 people each.

• An open floor plan- there are only 4 inside doors, two to the bathrooms, 1 to the kid’s bedroom (w/2 bunk beds) and 1 to the screened-in porch.

• The upstairs (with the queen and trundle beds in the open loft) has a half-bath, opens onto the deck, looks out onto the downstairs living area, no doors!

• The full bath with walk in shower room has all of the closets (so no need to lug your bags upstairs!) and laundry room.

• The adjacent 3 stall horse barn, 2 pens and a pasture are right out the door, along with miles of trails, but it’s bring your own horse!

• High speed internet is available.

We welcome you in a way that feels like home away from home, you'll find familiar touches from your own kitchen, including tea, coffee, spices, paper towers, plastic bags - the basics, and maybe new things to try.

To encourage family time and taking it slow, there is no dishwasher!

We doubt you’ll want to leave, but if you do, we have a detailed list of local restaurants, can help you set up tours at Fossil Rim, and have information on other local attractions (we wouldn’t want you to miss Fossil Rim, Dinosaur Valley State Park, Glen Rose’s Riverwalk and Big Rocks Park, shopping the Square’s antique stores, galleries, clothing stores, weekend farmer’s market and pie shop (plan ahead and order gluten free!!!).

Ask us about our NEW farm store! We offer rainbow pasture eggs, fresh produce, USDA grass-fed ground beef, garden salsa, balm jellies, and more!

Our ranch has been managed organically and holistically for over twenty years, we keep our houses as non-toxic as possible, too.

It is easy to get lost at Mata’Zamo, lost in thought, lost in time, lost from stress and the city life!

All of this and just 90 minutes south of the Dallas-Ft Worth area! We invite you to stay at Mata’Zamo, it’s the best cure we know for nature deficit disorder!!!

Looking for a last minute Saturday night get-away? If by 4:00 on any given Friday, this house shows available Saturday, we are happy to take last minute bookings (you may need to inquire for a 2-night stay though)! If you would like early check-ins or late check outs, let us know, and we will send you a special offer ($100 per 2 hour extra block).

Property manager

Sandra Skrei

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
We have an open staircase!
default

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Ask about our event actions and pricing
default

Pets

No pets allowed
Dogs on leashes when outside!
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 99
Note from host: Ask about our event actions and pricing
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Glen Rose

Located in Glen Rose, this holiday home is in a rural area. Barnard's Mill and Somervell County Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Squaw Valley Golf Course and Hico City Park. Discover the area's water adventures with nearby fishing, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling, hiking/biking trails and horse riding.
Map
Glen Rose, TX

What's nearby

  • Fossil Rim Wildlife Center - 10 min drive - 5.0 km
  • Paluxy River - 21 min drive - 14.1 km
  • Big Rocks Park - 21 min drive - 15.0 km
  • Dinosaur Valley State Park - 24 min drive - 14.5 km
  • Dinosaur World - 26 min drive - 15.8 km

Getting around

  • Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) - 112 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Boot Scootin Country - ‬24 min drive
  • ‪Loco Coyote Grill - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Rough Creek Lodge - ‬42 min drive
  • ‪Taylor's Turn & Burn Cafe - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪The Overlook Cafe at Fossil Rim - ‬9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Mata'Zamo, Almost Africa, cliffside, 900 acres w/trails, farm animals, hiking pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Mata'Zamo, Almost Africa, cliffside, 900 acres w/trails, farm animals, hiking?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Mata'Zamo, Almost Africa, cliffside, 900 acres w/trails, farm animals, hiking?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Mata'Zamo, Almost Africa, cliffside, 900 acres w/trails, farm animals, hiking located?

Situated in a rural location, this holiday home is 3.1 mi (4.9 km) from Fossil Rim Wildlife Center and within 9 miles (15 km) of Lake Granbury Medical Center and Barnard's Mill. Somervell County Museum and Walnut Springs City Museum are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 65 out of 67 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 67 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 67 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 67 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 67 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

BROOKE R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Vacation

We had such a great time here! The cabin is beautiful and just as described. The view was amazing and getting to explore was fun. We saw tons of deer and of course the cows and goats! Our kids loved it! We'll definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

ELISA C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect and Peaceful!

Our stay was perfect and peaceful! Our cabin was in a secluded part of the ranch and it has amazing views. Our group was able to help feed the ranch animals nightly, which the children really enjoyed. We witnessed Zoey, the donkey, laugh! Overall, this is perfect get away from the city life and we will definitely visit again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect spot for a family getaway

We thoroughly enjoyed our Mata ‘Zamo, the cabin, the scenery, the hiking…we can’t wait to go back ! 😀
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tyson H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Always love Mata’zamo!

This is our second stay at High Hopes ranch! We enjoyed it so much the first time we knew we had to come back even if it took a few years. Everything was perfect for our family of 5!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Amanda K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved It!!!

This is definitely one of our favorite stays! The house and views were absolutely beautiful and our kids loved exploring the trails!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kellan B., Fort Worth, Texas

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We are definitely coming back!

We are definitely coming back! My five-year-old son has not stopped talking about our trip since we got back. Sandy is awesome. Maintenance of the property was impeccable. The house was incredibly clean, and had everything you could ever need to enjoy your trip. And, the proximity to fossil rim dinosaur Valley state park was amazing!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Getaway

My kids loved the house and beg me to come back every year (we have visited the twice now). Peaceful and quiet, friendly and helpful staff— we will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Tracey S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful getaway

Beautiful, quiet setting away from the city. Great place to spend time with friends.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Allison A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic

Took me back to my childhood running around my grandparents acreage up north. Very peaceful, no tv or other electronic distractions. Just like other reviews, kids 5 and under did not want to leave. Would be great vaca spot any time of year. Hope to be back soon!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Erika B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A time to reconnect

We had an amazing time reconnecting as a family and exploring the property. There is so much to explore on the property or just relax on the top deck and look out over the serene forest. Kids enjoyed sunsets and sundaes on the balcony. We found fossils and fed goats thanks to our amazing hostess. If you need a get away definatly check this out. I will miss the nightly conversations starring out at a sky full of stars. Also dog friendly so we were able to bring the fur babies along for the trip and all the hikes.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Rachel A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Weekend Getaway

Our stay at Mata ‘Zamo was wonderful! The house was secluded on the property, and we did not even have to leave the property to get our fill of hiking and nature. All throughout the weekend, I was texting Sandi and asking her questions, and she always responded. She was very helpful. The house was clean, neat, and beautifully furnished. We already want to go back again! Thanks for a wonderful weekend of memories.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Natalia R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful escape from the city

Great view and many activities to do in the property and in the surroundings. Enjoyed the stars when having a campfire. If you enjoy nature this is a great place to be, we loved it! We are already planning to come back.

10/10 Excellent

Matt C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing views and a unique Fossil Rim experience!

This property was remote, and would have been difficult to find without the amazing communication and help from Sandara. She was available to provide a personal tour and provided useful information about the trails on the property specific to our group. The house was well-appointed, and had just what we needed for a stay with four adults and four kids. The property and the sunsets were beautiful. Everyone had a wonderful stay. I'm already trying to figure out when we can make a return visit to explore more of the beautiful trails around Mata'Zamo. Thanks again for a wonderful time.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jessica H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Time

My family (includes 2 boys 2 and 5) had such a nice, relaxing adventurous time here. We enjoyed walking the trails, exploring Goat Cave, watching the sunset and relaxing at the house. We went to Fossil Rim twice and had a different, fun experience each time. We can't wait to come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Wendy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing weekend!!!

From booking the reservation to arrival To the amazing views and hikes, this weekend get away could not have been better! Hiking was so fun! We didn't feel like we were blazing our own trail and yet it was not like walking on a paved sidewalk. It was the right blend of nature and comfort with a touch of adventure. Can’t wait to return!!

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful, beautiful, and fun!

I took my daughter to High Hope Ranch as a Christmas present. It was even better in person! This place is so well planned out. Beautiful hikes. Scenery that’s just beautiful no matter the weather. The staff went above and beyond to make sure we had everything. My daughter is already planning to come back next year she loved it so much. I can’t wait to come back with a group. Fossil Rim is a must do too! Get the guided tour. It was amazing!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Rodger M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome!

Sandy and Marcia made our stay so easy and enjoyable. My kids got to feed goats and go on nice walks. The communication was excellent and the property and views are pretty epic. We will he back!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Bob T., Duncanville, TX

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We enjoyed a great weekend.

Every thing was excellent. House is well equipped. Hiking trails are marked and enjoyable. A very quiet time.

10/10 Excellent

Rev S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing (again!)

This was our second trip and we enjoyed it just as much as the first time. Beautifully designed home in a gorgeous setting. The managers are always a delight to work with. Something tells me we are going to make this an annual family getaway.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Amber A.

Best ever

This place is truly amazing! And Sandy was so nice and helpful. True relaxing happens here (even with 3 kids -ha). The kids loved feeding the goats; and the wild flowers were amazing mid April! We will be back for sure.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Elias G.

It was a great relaxing experience for our family.

Mata’Zamo is a charming and comfortable cabin in a very scenic place. The hiking trails are great, and you can enjoy a most beautiful sunset from the balcony. Overall feeling is one of tranquility yet very close to the amenities that nearby towns (20 minutes far drive) offer. We stayed over the weekend and plan to come back for sure!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Courtney F.

Great views, very private and quiet. Highly recommend!

We had an amazing weekend getaway at High Hope Ranch, a perfect escape from Dallas to wide open space with great walking trails. Our boys (2 and 4) can’t wait to come back again to see their friend, Speckles the goat. Sandy, the property manager is so welcoming and accomodating. The house was immaculate and stocked with toys, games, and all of the kitchen supplies we needed. We will definitely be coming back again!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Matt C.

What a gem!

We had a FANTASTIC time at Mata'Zamo. Even though it rained the whole time, everyone had a blast just relaxing for a couple of days. We played games, roasted s'mores, and the kids even read actual books! The property was exactly as described - and the ranch is so big! Sandy gave us a very thorough orientation once we arrived, and her communication overall was excellent. We will definitely be back, and hopefully next time we'll have some good weather!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Guido P.

Best kept secret near Glen Rose

We returned after two years to enjoy this property with our family. Best kept secret near Glen Rose, TX. Great property to relax and enjoy walks. Thank you for having us as guests again
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2018

10/10 Excellent

Kelley A.

Excellent home

The home is beautiful, well equipped and the owners went above and beyond to make sure we enjoyed our stay. I would recommend this place to friends and will use it again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2018

About the host

Hosted by Sandra Skrei

Host profile image
High Hope is a quiet, relaxing, nature focused Ranch where you can retreat from the daily stressors of your life and exist in complete solitude if you so choose. Drink in the exceptional stargazing, miles of hiking trails, and scenic views of the ranch. You can feel the tension of daily life melt away as the quiet tranquility of the land works her magic.

If you're looking for more of a family-oriented experience, we've got that covered too! We offer opportunities to meet and feed our farm animals, garden tours, and a Farm Store for you to peruse our homemade goods! From the fossilized dinosaur prints in the Paluxy Riverbed at Dinosaur Valley State Park, to the drive through safari experience of Fossil Rim, High Hope is your perfect launch point to experience all our area has to offer!

Why they chose this property

You will experience a true safari getaway at Mata'Zamo! Enjoy one of the best views in Somervell County.

What makes this property unique

You can sit on our upper deck and feel like you can see forever, or at least to Stephenville! Since it is at the end of the road, you have no neighbors. Unless you happen across another guest hiking a trail, chances are you won't see anyone else while you are here!

Languages:

English, Spanish