San Antonio Neighborhoods, Old and New - Part 4: Grey Forest, Tx

The small town of Grey Forest, near Helotes in far Northwest Bexar County, began as a site along the stagecoach route through it's Scenic Loop Road.   Early settlers there often encountered hostile Native Americans in the area.  In the 1920's the Scenic Loop Playground was established as a getaway for the wealthy citizens of San Antonio, and in 1962 the Playground was incorporated into the city of Grey Forest.  Grey Forest now spans across Scenic Loop Road, and is only one mile long and 3/4's of a mile wide, and has about 400 residents. Located 18 miles northwest of downtown San Antonio, the area is rich with open space, lakes and small natural pools.  Robert E. Lee was said to be a frequent visitor to the area, and even has an established ranch bearing the Lee name.

Grey Forest Homes...
Many of the homes built in the 1930's are still present and occupied.  The stone architecture is prominent because lumber at the time was very expensive and difficult to find.  Other homes were built later that were more traditionally constructed.  The neighborhood is home to many artists that like the isolated location, and they hold open houses for tourists and visitors in the summer to showcase their art.


The Grey Moss Inn...

The major business in Grey Forest is the historic Grey Moss Inn.  The Restaurant and Patio are built under a canopy of huge Texas Oaks that beckons you to enjoy the "night." Tables are "candlelit" and the native rock walls and pine-wood floor "creaks" of romance. The adjacent "meadow'" home of the historic Treaty Tree, abounds with deer most evenings.  Owners Nell & Lou Baeten, together with their knowledgable staff  have maintained many of the traditional dishes while adding new "favorites"--such as the Buttermilk--marinated fried Texas Oysters and the Chorizo-stuffed Bandera Quail. Organic herbs from their garden are used whenever possible. The kitchen is lead by head chef Jason Cummins and his innovative Southern US style cuisine.

Grey Forest Real Estate Market...
Currently there are 7 homes available in Grey Forest, ranging from a $110,000,  800 square foot 1 bedroom home to a $482,000,  4300 square foot home with views.  In 2009 there have been four homes sell in Grey Forest, and they sold from $155K to $232K, at an average of $128 per square foot.  If you are interested in learning more about the neighborhood real estate contact me.