SIGC | Albert Hotel

“If you walk up and down Main Street and go into an art gallery, or a retail shop, or a restaurant that's been here for years, you're gonna get a, ‘Welcome y'all. How's it going?’ And you're going to get a sense of who that person is and what that place really is. There are ways to be luxurious and boutique without being stuffy and pretentious, because the hill country is simply not any of those things.”

We’re in great company with Mike Bolick, the General Manager of the Albert Hotel, a tranquil Texas Hill Country resort that is lovingly restored and set to officially open in January 2025, blending historical charm with modern luxury, tucked just off of Fredericksburg’s bustling Main Street.

There is much talk about town and excitement in the air as this historic Main Street is brought back to life with a vigor to preserve the past and pave way for a new generation of authenticity seeking travelers.

In this episode, Mike shares his credible perspective on and passion for what he and his team at New Waterloo are curating in this ‘Honest Hill Country Getaway,’ - from a culinary scene rivaling that of Austin paired with the talented winemaking scene right outside of town, to the boutique accommodations that are ‘delightfully detailed’ and ‘eclectically elegant.’

Top Takeaways

[1:45] From a childhood growing up in Ritz Carlton hotels to beginning his hospitality career with The Four Seasons to finding his purpose in the luxury boutique hotel space, how Mike found his way to New Waterloo and took a chance on the Albert.

[9:20] Who is Albert you ask? Lovingly described as "the Hill Country's last renaissance man or its first hippie,” there’s much to say about this influential and innovative man.

[14:10] Step back in time to a Saloon serving classic cocktails and a Pharmacy stocked with seasonal kolaches and sweet treats to snack on as you savor the nostalgic decor that adorns the walls.

[20:10] Luxury looks a bit different in Hill Country, focusing on an abundance of time and convenience of location, a genuine community and connection to history, “because, you don’t have to be anywhere else.”

[24:40] From cozy reading nooks to modern suites designed as if you’re staying in your hip aunt’s city flat, from signature spa scents and seasonal ingredients to a sunken pool meant to mimic a Texas swimming hole, there's intention behind every detail of the Albert.

[37:20] Come hungry and leave full - of award winning southern cuisine and authentic barbecue - and fond memories shared over creative cocktails and fine wines.