Hebbronville, TX 78361(Jim Hogg County)

A system of high-quality ranch roads makes the wildlife watching easy. Throughout the ranch, viewing senderos have been cut through the brush at various widths and distances, ranging from a few feet to a thousand yards. Some are outfitted with feeders while others feature wildlife guzzlers that provide life-giving water throughout the ranch. Food and water both act as wildlife magnets.

While the ranch is managed for wildlife, the current owners have opted not to hunt nor offer commercial hunting.

The ranch is divided into seven grazing pastures using a wagon wheel design in which the headquarters compound serves as the hub. The headquarters is surrounded by a round alleyway. Steel gates, providing access to each of the low-fenced pastures, are located at intervals around the alleyway as are four livestock water troughs.

As cattle come into the water troughs, the gate can be closed behind them. Another gate along the alley way can be opened. In short order, the cattle find the open gate and move themselves into that pasture, removing the need for cowboys and horses. The current owner leases the grazing, which is carefully monitored and well-managed.

The cross-fences, which are constructed primarily with four-foot steel posts, are low. This allows the wildlife to move freely between pastures. The cross-fences have been modified at intervals to allow the oryx, which don't jump, to pass beneath the bottom wire.

When it comes to water, the ranch contains two water wells, a windmill and a small stock pond. One well flows from the windmill to the pond, while the other is controlled by a pump house at the hacienda. All of the utilities are buried which keeps the views pristine and uncluttered.

While the landscape and the wildlife are exceptional, the headquarters compound with the ranch's namesake 6,000-square-foot hacienda is arguably the focal point. In 1991, it was recognized by the Texas Society of Architects for its outstanding design.

The 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath hacienda, constructed in an upscale style reminiscent of Mexico, is built around a central courtyard and features a watch tower that gives residents and guests a birds eye view of the wildlife and other wonders. The landscape of South Texas unfolds to the north and the Sierra Madres appear in the distance to the south on crystal clear days.

A spiral staircase provides access to the watch tower patio that is a literal high point for entertaining. The area is appointed with a grill as well as a dining table and a bar that provides additional seating. It is the perfect place to savor the black velvet night sky bejeweled with diamond stars.

The courtyard is anchored by a central fountain and features four sitting areas perfect for intimate or large gatherings. The courtyard, like the home, is set apart with thoughtful decorative touches. It is part of a landscaped yard that showcases the stark beauty of South Texas' iconic plants including century plants and yuccas.

The patio/courtyard also features a 20' x 20' dining area with a built-in grill, large fireplace and large sink. It is accented by the same beautiful tile found in the bathrooms. A large, round lazy Susan table with eight chairs allows for relaxed dining year-round. Open brickwork on two sides captures cooling breezes in warm seasons, while the fireplace adds warmth and ambiance when the weather turns colder.

The home's interior is both elegant and rustic. Drawing texture from adobe-style plaster, bricks and tile and warmth from custom woodwork, the home is perfectly suited to the region. Large windows and soaring ceilings create a sense of light and air. In a nod to truly unique style, the ceiling in the elegant dining room and the unique study are arched red brick with white mortar.

Designed to host memorable meals, the formal dining features a table that can seat up to 12. Custom cabinetry displays fine China and other valued collections. Large windows brings the outdoors inside and guests are enthralled by the aerobatics of the birds feeding just beyond the glass.

The well-equipped kitchen combines modern efficiency with the solidity of stone countertops and custom cabinets. Outfitted with top-quality appliances including multiple refrigerators, the kitchen is a chef's dream. A larger window allows prepared food to be easily passed for courtyard service.

An in-home office is located just off the great room. Like the dining room, the custom woodwork creates a unique display space for collections of books, minerals and other objects of art and interest.

The opulent master suite provides the ultimate in luxurious privacy. The room, which features a large walk-in closet and an en suite spa-style bath with a walk-around shower, overlooks the nearby pool and offers direct access to the courtyard.

The other bedrooms, each with their own baths, are situated around the courtyard, as is the high-capacity laundry facility.

Two additional residences built in the same regional style are in close proximity to the main house. The houses, which feature open floor plans, can be used for guests or staff. Both have restrooms and sleeping quarters, while one has a full kitchen.

In addition to the residences, the main compound includes a large-scale equipment barn, an equipment shed used to park hunting vehicles, a garage with roll-up doors, an expansive workshop outfitted with a complement of tools and a set of livestock working pens. Hunting enthusiasts will appreciate the walk-in cooler and game processing area.

Most of the ranch equipment, furnishings, art and collections will convey with the sale.

For those who appreciate wildlife and wild landscapes, La Hacienda Ranch is the perfect place to call homefor a weekend or forever.

To explore the possibilities of La Hacienda Ranch for yourself, contact Conner W. Hood with Hood Real Estate Inc. at (830) 928-2317. The ranch is listed for $2,350,000.