In the heart of South Texas, nestled at the base of the hill country just south of Utopia, there's a remarkable transformation that has taken place, turning an abandoned horse barn into a dove hunter's paradise. Valdina Ranch & Lodge, a 1700-acre property off of CR 111, was once a cinder block horse barn with a history dating back to 1941. The barn had long been left to the elements, inhabited by owls, swallows, mice, snakes, and spiders, as no one had used it for horses since the untimely deaths of its former owners, Mr. and Mrs. E. F. Woodard, in 1943.
Partners Sammy Nooner and Eric Larson took on the ambitious task of revitalizing this historic property, and the results are nothing short of astonishing. Valdina Ranch & Lodge has emerged as a premier dove hunting destination and a unique event location where up to 90 guests can be accommodated in understated luxury.
In this article, we'll take you on a journey through the transformation of the old horse barn into a modern lodge, the meticulous preparations for dove hunting, and the vision that turned Valdina Ranch & Lodge into a year-round destination for hunting enthusiasts, corporations, families, and more. From the beautifully converted horse stalls to the idyllic dove hunting fields, this is a story of passion, dedication, and a deep love for the South Texas landscape. Join us as we explore the unique double life of Valdina Ranch & Lodge, a place where memories are made, whether under the open sky on a hunting expedition or within the luxurious walls of the lodge during the off-season.https://www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/news/2020/11/04/valdina-ranch-and-lodge-transforms-an-abandoned.html
