Well, this design is a result of several modifications, and I had no effect on site wireframe, all of the elements are there because client wanted them to be there.
Also, you can't read anything because this forum destroys pictures.
It should be 960 px wide, not 650.
As for your input.
Image is warm, and comfortable, it invites client to book a lodge on this site.
Four images on the bottom are dummy ones, so your argument about button covering it is irrelevant.
Text on the logo is supposed to be carved, but the resolution here is too low.
And last of your arguments, it's all about what would YOU do, and that doesn't matter. Never put YOU in your design, as stupid as it sounds, it's true. (payed designs, of course)