Located in Downtown Smithville within a 5-minute walk of Colorado River, this vacation home is within a 15-minute stroll of James H. Long Railroad Park and Museum. The vacation home includes a private pool, a kitchen, and a fireplace.
World's Largest Gingerbread Man - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
James H. Long Railroad Park and Museum - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
Bastrop State Park - 7 min drive - 8.8 miles
Sherwood Forest Faire - 27 min drive - 31.2 miles
Circuit of the Americas - 40 min drive - 43.5 miles
Getting around
Austin-Bergstrom Intl. Airport (AUS) - 39 min drive
Restaurants
Dairy Queen - 18 min walk
El Mexicano Grill - 20 min walk
Quinto Patio Restaurant - 7 min walk
Comfort Cafe - 7 min walk
Pockets' Grille - 5 min walk
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
The Ella Norah. A Luxury Retreat. Pool and Spa. Steps to Main Street.
Welcome to The Ella Norah, a 1910 Cyprus Greek Revival, that has been fully restored to modern day luxurious glory while still retaining its historic charm. A relaxing & gorgeous haven surrounded by large Magnolia & Oak trees. A bird lover's paradise.This unique place has a style all its own & is in the central historic district of quaint charming, Smithville, Texas where many movies and TV shows have been filmed including Beneath The Darkness, that was filmed at The Ella Norah. Just a short walk to restaurants, art galleries, antique shops. and the Colorado River. A fabulous place to gather with family & celebrate special occasions. We are dog friendly and allow events. Dogs must be pre approved in advanced, paid for and able to follow our strict dog rules. Please do not bring your dog if you plan to leave it alone. Smithville is very dog friendly. Our rates are designed to accommodate 10 guests. Guests over 10 will require pre approval, an event agreement and fees. Please inquire about event pricing.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 4.5 bathrooms, and a balcony. There's space to spread out with 5 bedrooms and a dining area. Other standard amenities include a private pool, a washing machine, and a fireplace. Housekeeping is available on request.
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
General
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Garden
Housekeeping (on request)
Local artist showcase
Unit size: 3,375 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rules
All Events and Dogs must be preapproved, planned in advance and paid for. Our rates are for accommodations for 10 guests only.
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
1 total (50 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
Service animals exempt from fees
Note from host: We have strict pet rules. Pre approval required.
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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: 25
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 25
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 25.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
There are no elevators.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to do around this vacation home?
This vacation home is situated in Downtown Smithville within a 10-minute walk of Colorado River and James H. Long Railroad Park and Museum. You'll also find Buescher State Park and World's Largest Gingerbread Man within a short drive.
Will I be able to park at The Ella Norah. A Luxury Retreat. Pool and Spa. Steps to Main Street. ?
No, there isn't parking available at the vacation home.
Is this vacation home adjacent to a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, this vacation home doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are an outdoor pool and a hot tub.
What will couples enjoy most about a stay at The Ella Norah. A Luxury Retreat. Pool and Spa. Steps to Main Street. ?
There are many amenities for couples at this vacation home, including a private pool and a fireplace as well as an outdoor pool.
Are there hot tubs at The Ella Norah. A Luxury Retreat. Pool and Spa. Steps to Main Street. ?
No, this vacation home doesn't have a spa tub.
Does this vacation home include breakfast service?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.
Are there connecting rooms at The Ella Norah. A Luxury Retreat. Pool and Spa. Steps to Main Street. ?
No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this vacation home.
Can I book a room with a balcony at The Ella Norah. A Luxury Retreat. Pool and Spa. Steps to Main Street. ?
Yes, every house at The Ella Norah. A Luxury Retreat. Pool and Spa. Steps to Main Street. comes with a balcony.
The Ella Norah. A Luxury Retreat. Pool and Spa. Steps to Main Street. Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 13 out of 13 reviews
10 - Excellent
13
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 13 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 13 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 13 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 13 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Janet K.
Mar 7, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Second time to stay here. Very enjoyable.
Janet K.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
10/10 Excellent
Oni F.
Feb 25, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
This was my favorite rental yet for my birthday celebration. The neighborhood was great, and the aesthetic of the house was beautiful — it honestly inspired me to rethink parts of my own interior at home. We had such a great time and truly enjoyed every minute. The host was quick to reply and very communicative, which made everything seamless. I would absolutely stay here again!
Oni F.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth M.
Dec 13, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We had such a wonderful time at the Ella Nora in Smithville, TX! We were impressed as soon as we opened the front door. The home was spotless, beautifully decorated, and had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The kitchen was well-stocked, the beds were super comfortable, and the little touches made all the difference. The home was very spacious with ample parking onsite. Everything featured in the photos and property description was perfect.Incredible location for exploring the area! We loved being able to easily walk to the downtown shops and restaurants. All communication with the host was excellent. I received prompt replies, and they were always very courteous. The host made us feel right at home.
Elizabeth M.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kari K.
Dec 8, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Kari K.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Christi E.
Nov 26, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We had a group of ten and we enjoyed our weekend so much. There was enough room for us all to gather and eat together in the kitchen, soak in the hot tub, or hang out on the porch or balcony. In addition there was enough space and activities for everyone to break off and do their own thing, whether it was laying by the pool, walking to antique stores, watching tv, frisbee golf, or taking a nap. The house is beyond beautiful and we took lots of great family and group photos. I’ve started a tradition of doing the Tejas Trails Wild Hare with friends and family every year for my birthday. Since this was my 50th, we splurged for The Ella Norah and it was worth every penny. You definitely will want to stay longer.
Christi E.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
10/10 Excellent
Maggie D.
Sep 21, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
This property was the perfect location for our girls reading weekend! The house had everything you could possible need and hosts were responsive. House is in amazing condition and the attention to detail with the renovations are impressive.
Maggie D.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kelly H.
Dec 10, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay!
This house was clean, well stock and we all slept comfortably! House is well situated for the area! I recommend this house highly!
Kelly H.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Bonnita G., Austin
Nov 3, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great house and fun area
The house is great for 9 people. It’s well appointed and had everything we needed. We enjoyed the charm of the house and area. The house is very updated but has the charm of a stately mansion.
Bonnita G.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Sarah S.
Oct 30, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Exceptional experience!
We were in town for a wedding and stayed at the Ella Norah. What an amazing home! Every detail is perfect and well thought-out for beauty and comfort. The hosts could not have been more gracious or helpful. This is hands down the best place we have ever stayed and we hope to return one day.
Sarah S.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jamie L.
Aug 19, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Girl’s Weekend
This property is more amazing than the photos. We will be back!
Jamie L.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
David H., Calgary
Apr 17, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Incredible House - Beautiful & Clean
My family stayed here for a family reunion. The house is even better than the pictures on VRBO. We've stayed in lots of VRBO's and this is right at the top. I literally have nothing negative to say, all positive. The house was clean, kitchen well stocked, everything worked (including the pool and hot tub), etc. Also, communications with the property manager was awesome. Response was usually within 8 hours of my question. If you're ever looking for a unique and awesome place to stay, this is it!
David H.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
10/10 Excellent
Giancarlo M.
Oct 23, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Great House
The place is great and the host is very responsive.
Giancarlo M.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Charles E.
Sep 7, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome place to stay
Property is a trip back in time with all the modern amenities!!! Really easy to kick back and relax!!!
Owner is perfect with communicating with.