A great place to get away from it all....just 2 hours from Laredo or McAllen, Texas. A 20 minute drive up from Monterrey via hairpin turns with breathtaking views brings you to Hotel Chipinque perched atop a mesa amidst pine forested Chipinque Park. Our 2 bedroom cabin (#501) was comfortably furnished, though a bit shop worn, but very private and quiet. Patio with wrought iron table and chairs was the perfect spot for morning coffee and evening wine. Not avid birders but we observed numerous black vultures, either Western Scrub Jays or Mexican Jays (not sure which) and friendly Acorn Woodpeckers begging for daily handouts just outside the restaurant. Squirrels also skampered through the restaurant at lunch looking for a free meal. Also shared our patio with a pair of tarantulas every evening. Nature lovers, hikers, bikers and trekkers will love the Park. Restaurant was adequate....try the Carne Seca which is dried beef served with salad veggies...be sure to rehydrate with lots of fresh lime juice. Our pick for a refreshing cocktail is the Sangria Preparado but it packs a wallop! Great Margies too. Hotel had the requisite pool, exercise room, wet and dry saunas, tennis courts, children's play area but R&R was our goal and Chipinque delivered in spades. If, like me, you have to have your morning cup of Joe and you are driving, be sure to pack your coffee maker...it is a long stroll from the secluded cabins to the restaurant. Our cabin was furnished only with a small 'frig. Also your corkscrew and wine glasses!