Relaxing retreats & charming small towns

Words by Sommer Brugal & Abby L. Johnson Directed By Ashley Bowling

Big cities, especially Austin, have it all: live music, a spectrum of cuisines, the perfect mix of a bustling downtown, and sprawling green spaces. The energy is invigorating and exciting. But truth be told, the hustle and fast-paced lifestyle can be exhausting, too. It’s no wonder big city-dwellers often escape to hide in the woods and breathe fresh air, stroll down a small town main street, sip local brews, wines and spirits, or take a long swim in a chilly swimming hole.

Luckily, numerous charming small towns lie within reach of Austin, and we’ve rounded up a few that give way to a relaxing (or adventuring) escape. Whether it’s a day trip, a long weekend, or an extended getaway, these home-grown businesses in this line up of charming towns offer something for everyone.

Marfa
An Artistic Edge

It should come as no surprise that Marfa made the list. The small West Texas town has become not just a destination for Texans, but its eclectic environment has drawn in visitors from all over. Near the Big Bend region, this fewer than 2,000-person town boasts art museums, renowned restaurants, and desert panoramas.

With more than a dozen art galleries or spaces, Marfa offers visitors a slow-paced environment to take in their vast range of exhibits. Art galleries here are often internationally recognized. Chinati Foundation, a contemporary art museum founded by minimalist artist Donald Judd, offers large-scale installations in addition to paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Its large windows provide an opportunity for viewers to peek the never-ending desert landscape.

Ballroom Marfa, a cultural space exhibiting visual art, performance, film, and music, Marfa Open, which offers resources to local and visiting artists, RULE Gallery, and Martin Maria Studio are just a few of the places worth a visit. Other museums include Marfa & Presidio County Museum and Marfa Holocaust and Historic Model Ship Museum.

One thing that stands out is the juxtapositions between the laid-back atmosphere and the attention to detail: from the range of dining options, both high end and casual, to the architecture to accessibility to nature. Marfa, as small as she is, exceeds in providing something for everyone. And it’s no different when it comes to places to stay.

That’s where El Cosmico comes in. The hotel offers renovated vintage trailers, safari and scout tents, Sioux-style teepees, and Mongolian yurts. The accommodations are simple, yet purposeful, and evoke a sense of relaxation and a do-nothing attitude this fast-paced society rarely enables. Take a bath outdoors, nap in the hammock grove, bike, or explore nature. Be intentional, take a drive out west, and have a relaxing few days.

Light Up the Night
No matter when visiting the area, guests may get a chance to see the Marfa Lights. The phenomenon is one of the main drivers for curious people hoping to get a glimpse of the unexplained, mysterious bursts of light that streak across the sky. Their changing colors and random appearances underscore the mystery. Sometimes the lights are red, other times blue, and other times, they’re white.

Every year, the town comes together to celebrate the unexplained lights at the Marfa Lights Festival. The event features live music, food, and a parade. And while no one really knows what they are or what causes them, it’s safe to say that’s part of their beauty and intrigue.

Fredericksburg
Up in the Air

In less than 90 minutes, the environment changes from loud cars and hectic days to towering trees and childhood dreams. At HoneyTree Farm, a cluster of five luxurious treehouses built on the Palo Alto Creek, visitors can enjoy open views of nature, a reading nook, and a no-TV environment, according to co-owner and co-creator Jacob Rhodes.

Upon arrival, guests are often surprised by the missing technology, but eventually, they’re able to reconnect with their partners, read, play games, rest in a hammock, or soak in an outdoor tub in its absence. “People are able to seize the opportunity of seclusion, quiet, and peace to rediscover deeper connections that are starting to slip away in the internet age,” Jacob says.

The five cabins, ranging in size from 300-500 square feet, combine the playfulness of a treehouse with a simple, yet intentional, design to create a space that is not only cozy and intimate but also comfortable. Soft colors against wood backdrops underscore the laid-back esthetic.

Each cabin is creatively laid out to capitalize on the appeal of a short-term getaway, featuring king size beds and huge bathrooms to ensure comfort and the ultimate lounging experience. Large windows give way to an abundance of natural light, and an outdoor hammock that sways below a canopy of trees offers an ideal place to nap or stargaze. “It’s a glamping getaway that’s nature-oriented,” Jacob explains.

Moreover, a treehouse getaway is just one reason to visit Fredericksburg. For starters, several museums offer historical context and a move-at-your-own pace experience.

In the heart of Marktplatz is Vereins Kirche Museum. Also known as “Society’s Church,” the well-known structure focuses on the history of the Hill Country. Then there’s Fredericksburg’s Pioneer Museum tells the story of the first German immigrants, and National Museum of the Pacific War recognizes those who have served our country. For the political junkies, there’s Lyndon B. Johnson State and National Historical Park, which offers details on the former president’s life story and legacy.

For another historical experience, perhaps with an up-beat twist, try venturing to Luckenbach. Just 15 minutes away, the eclectic town features a historic dance hall that fills with live country music every weekend. A mini post office and general store will take visitors straight back to days of the old west.

A Festival for All

Searching for more? Look no further than Kerrville, Texas, about 25 miles southwest from Fredericksburg. While the small town boasts outdoor activities and shopping opportunities, it is known for its folk festival.

Founded in 1972, the 18-day event is held at Quiet Valley Ranch and brings in about 30,000 people from near and far. Concerts are the main attraction, but the event offers activities for guests of all ages such as children’s concerts, songwriter competitions, bike rides through the Hill Country, canoe trips on the Guadalupe River, and beer and wine workshops. This October, the festival is celebrating its 49th anniversary at Quiet Valley.

For those looking to stay the night, step back into the Old West and Y.O. Ranch Hotel. With century-old antiques and game trophies on the wall, the stay is bound to be memorable.

Stop by & Say Hye!
Just outside Fredericksburg is the small, unincorporated community of Hye. Home to a number of vineyards and distilleries, this little town is bursting with opportunities to sip back and relax. Visit Hye Rum, Garrison Brothers Distillery, Hye Cider Company, or William Chris Vineyards. Then end the day with a stop at the Hye Market. This eatery, located inside a historic post office, offers a deli-style experience, complete with locally sourced produce, in a photo-worthy location.

Marble Falls
Tranquil Terrain

Marble Falls is a quaint city filled with the staple features of idyllic American small-town life. Beautiful views, its long history, and a picturesque landscape draw visitors from both near and far. But it also boasts a thriving culture signified by its growing art scene, culinary delights, and surprising number of local breweries and wineries.

Named for the waterfalls that once flowed over a shelf of limestone mistaken for marble, Marble Falls boasts its own lake nestled in the rolling hills. Though the waterfalls are now underwater, the lake remains a prime gathering point for locals and visitors alike.

Talula Mesa, set just a short drive west of town, is the perfect place to recharge and relax while exploring the area. Just minutes away from the shores of Lake Travis, guests will wake up in the comfort of their southwestern-influenced tent/cabin hybrid to serene lake views.

The seclusion of Talula Mesa sets it apart from the many other glamping locations that have been popping up across the country. “We have plenty of room onsite to add more tents, but I love that they’re spread out enough for privacy. I don’t want to build one of those glamping properties where the tents are right up next to each other,” owner Shannon Taylor explains.

The tents are completely custom to Talula Mesa. Shannon reveals, “I literally scratched the first draft out on a paper napkin at my kitchen table and refined it from there with the help of my builders.”

Much like the tents and the land they are situated on, Talula Mesa’s name is one of a kind. While ‘mesa’ is clearly derived from the local terrain, visitors are often stumped by ‘Talula.’ Shannon clarifies, “‘Talula’ is a girl’s name with Native American origins meaning ‘leaping water,’ and the wonderful natural springs and view of Lake Travis are some of the favorite sites of Talula Mesa. But, ‘Talula’ also has Irish roots meaning ‘lady of abundance.’” The relationship between the land and the people is strong here, and, while it took some time to settle on a name, “as soon as we heard the name out loud, it just felt right,” adds Shannon. And just like the sound of the name, stepping out into the grounds at Talula Mesa feels right.

Fun in all Seasons
Whatever the season, there’s always something happening in Marble Falls. Take the family to Sweet Berry Farms to feed the goats and participate in seasonal activities such as strawberry picking in early summer, tulip bunches in early spring, or visit the pumpkin patch and corn maze in the fall. In the winter, take a stroll around the lake to view the spectacular Christmas light show, or glide over to the pop-up outdoor ice skating rink and enjoy looking out over the water.

Dripping Springs
Springs, Rivers, & Wells

Texas summers are hot, and there’s no better reprieve than taking a dip at a local watering hole.

Less than an hour drive from Austin, Hamilton Pool Preserve is surrounded by limestone rock formations that form overhanging cliffs and a 50-foot waterfall that plunges into the head of a steep box canyon. Visitors can get a perfect view by posting up on the beach across the water. Take a blanket, some snacks, and a book, and you’ll be wondering why you hadn’t made the trip before. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time and bring cash for the $8 entrance fee per person.

For more incredible views, the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center sits just outside Dripping Springs. This 76-acre nature preserve offers the opportunity to take a guided walking tour that transports visitors from the flat grasslands to a stunning sheltered canyon. Trek through a limestone crevice and end the walk gazing up at a 40-foot waterfall from the Westcave grotto. Visitors can also explore the Westcave uplands and hike through the savanna or stop by the Warren Skaaren Environmental Learning Center which offers several different exhibits perfect for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of the natural world. Explore the unique ecosystem of Westcave and discover what makes this area so precious.

Other notable watering holes include the picturesque Reimers Ranch Swimming Hole, also in Dripping Springs, or scenic Krause Springs in nearby Spicewood.

With nearly 3 miles of land along the winding Pedernales River, Reimers Ranch offers not just swimming—when permissible—but also fishing, hiking, and mountain biking on the more than 18 miles of trails. It’s a beloved spot for rock climbers with never-ending views of the Texas Hill Country.

Across the way at Krause Springs, the 115-acres boast 32 springs with magnificent cypress trees dipping into the blue-green water. Reservations are not required for the swimming hole but should be secured for both tent and RV camping sites. If open, the butterfly garden is a calming place with huge wind chimes, and ample picnic tables adorn the grounds.

If staying overnight in Dripping Springs, Stay Asante provides a memorable experience. Surrounded by wildlife, including gazelles, Egyptian geese, Rio Grande turkeys, and deer, Asante’s five lodging areas come equipped with a full kitchen and king-size beds. The elegant, yet natural, environment and wild animals are the perfect counter to everyday life in the city.

One lodge, Nyumba House, features a combination of Texas Ranch and East African décor, a private pool, hot tub, and several outdoor living areas with landscape views for a larger crowd. For couples, we suggest The Machan, a treehouse of sorts wrap-around porch, nestled within a grove of live oaks.

The lodge’s proximity is not only close to parks and watering holes but also to nearby wineries, breweries, and distilleries, such as Remington Family Distillers. Founded in 2014, the distillery launched with a premium coffee liquor, Caffe Del Fuego. Today, it has expanded to offer Remington Vodka and Remington Revival whiskey, which is aged in American oak barrels. The tasting room offers craft spirits and handcrafted cocktails—the perfect way to end a getaway to the Hill Country.

Back in Time
The Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead Museum is the perfect place to learn about the history of Dripping Springs. The farmstead consists of five beautiful acres, a nearly untouched home built in 1854, a renovated barn, and more. The farmstead offers a glimpse into the life of early Central Texas pioneers. This informative experience will create a deep appreciation for the thriving town Dripping Springs is today. Plus, exploring the lush landscape dotted with old-growth oak trees is a lovely way to wind down for the evening.

Wimberley
Retreat & Relax

Located between Austin and San Antonio, Wimberley’s scenic, natural environment shines center stage at Jacob’s Well Natural Area. The 81.5-acre preserve features a nature center, and perhaps the most popular attraction, Jacob’s Well. Because several migratory birds make their way through the area annually, this is a fantastic place for bird watching along the trails.

While the preserve is open to visitors year round, reservations are required for swimming in the spring’s chilly water from May to October. The water remains a consistent 68 degrees throughout the year. Underneath the water’s surface, however, is a cave system, which reaches almost 140 feet deep and nearly is a mile long.

About ten minutes south is another favorite, Wimberley’s Zipline Adventures. Featuring 10 lines of zipline crossings, ranging from 150-900 feet, trained guides will steer sky-high enthusiasts through the 1½- to 2-hour course with unparalleled views of the Hill Country’s diverse landscape.

Beautiful scenery and natural habitats also flourish at 7A Ranch, which is only a short stroll to city-center. Along the bluffs of the Blanco River, the cabin- and lodge-style resort offers couples, families, and large groups a place to unwind. Swim or kayak in the river, take a dip in the pool, play basketball, or stroll the one-mile hiking trail through the ranch.

The resort opened in the 1940s on just seven acres. Now, it comprises 142 acres and includes Pioneer Town, a replica of an 1880s Old West town that was built for their guests’ entertainment. The old-fashioned town features an old-time ice cream parlor, complete with handmade goodies, an arcade, an opera house, and a pioneer chapel. The Bottle House, made entirely of glass bottles, is an enjoyable stop for old and young alike.

Utopia by Another Name

Searching for an adults-only getaway? Look no further than Yurtopia Wimberley, a luxurious glamping experience in a traditional Mongolian yurt. The circular domed tents have colorful hand-painted wood that holds the canvas structure in place. Staying true to the Mongolian tradition, there are no screws. Camel hide and horse hair ropes hold the interior together. Smells of natural hand-made materials such as the sheep wool insulation and spruce greet guests in a surprisingly comforting way.

Each yurt at Yurtopia has its own name and tiny, yet brightly, hand-painted wooden door – just like the Mongolian nomads do. They’re each outfitted with their own private outdoor bathroom, outdoor dining and living spaces, and the inside is appropriately heated and cooled, equipped with their own mini-fridge, drip coffee, and cozy king-sized bed.

The Hilltop yurts at Yurtopia are a secluded sanctuary in the woods without another soul in sight. They offer their own hot tub/lounging pool, outdoor kitchen, a fire pit, and a rooftop deck, complete with a hammock and panoramic views. While the three RiverBluff yurts are private with their own bathrooms, hammocks, and dining areas, they also have access to shared amenities such as an outdoor kitchen, a conditioned dining/gaming area, fire pits, and hot tubs. And last, but not least, a short steep stroll leads to a green open lawn and the peacefully flowing Blanco River lined with towering cypress trees that spread their roots to the water’s edge. RiverBluff dwellers can take a canoe out for a trip down the shallow river.

Watch the sunset over the rolling hills and star gaze under the dark sky. Both are possible no matter the selection of RiverBluff or Hilltop yurts. The goal is to be one with nature, and Yurtopia Wimberley has made this peaceful connection easy.

Soaring Through The Sky
Experience a rush while soaring over canyons and creeks with breathtaking, mile-high views of the Wimberley Valley and Texas hills at Wimberley Zipline Adventures.

Burnet
Adventure Awaits

There’s no right way to spend your getaway, but it’s safe to say there are a few styles of vacationers: those who want to relax and unwind with a book and those who prefer an active adventure.

If the latter sounds more appealing, consider visiting Burnet, about an hour and a half northwest of Austin. From biking to swimming to star gazing, this Hill Country destination has it all, including its scenic landscapes and never-ending sky.

Spider Mountain, which features the state’s only lift-served, year-round downhill mountain bike park, or Reveille Peak Ranch are excellent places to start an activity-filled day. The Ranch, with both single- and double-track trails, meets expectations for all mountain bikers: beginners and seasoned riders.

“There’s such a variety of terrain [and] lots of vegetation and natural beauty,” says Andrea Roach, director of operations. Some trails cut back and forth under tree branches. Others glide through straightaways with no tree canopy overhead, while others feature wooden bridges that look over nearby hills. A creek flows through the middle of the ranch, and its two peaks, Reveille Peak and Decision Point, offer gorgeous views of the lake and countryside.

The Ranch also houses Upper Highland Lakes Nature Center – where visitors can request a guided hike or a naturalist talk that usually lasts about an hour. With 900 acres of trails, Andrea says visitors often are in disbelief realizing just how vast the space is.

After a day of activities, consider posting up at Canyon of the Eagles, a nature park and resort, just 25 minutes outside the city. Guests can opt to stay in one of the resort’s cabins, or guest rooms, where features range from cushioned window seats to private outdoor porches to panoramic nature views, hook up at the RV campground, or embrace a full-on tent camping experience in the woods or along the water.

The 940-acre nature park includes 16 miles of hiking trails with guided walks and hikes, kayak rentals to explore Lake Buchanan, and a sightseeing cruise tour on the history of the lake and Colorado River. Perhaps the most unique experience, however, is Eagle Eye Observatory, which sits about 1,100 feet above sea level and features retractable roof sections to grant sky gazers an “entire structure to the sky” telescope-viewing experience.

More Parks, More Fun

Despite Reveille Peak Ranch’s popularity, there are two other must-see parks outside of Burnet: Longhorn Cavern State Park and Inks Lake State Park.

The first is a 693-acre park that features an underground river-formed limestone cavern. To see inside, visitors can join a walking tour or a “wild cave tour” which, at times, requires participants to crawl through low levels of the cavern. Above ground, visitors can peek out from the observation tower.

The second, Inks Lake State Park, offers both land and water activities such as fishing, paddle boating, canoeing, kayaking, picturesque sunsets, and nearly 200 campsites which fill up fast. Another infamous swimming hole, Devil’s Waterhole, features the park’s huge red rock formations with ledges rising up to 40 feet above the water.

Geological Intrigue
About 20 miles southwest of Burnet is the Llano Uplift Archeological Society (LUAS), founded to educate people on the history, prehistoric materials, and sites in the Llano Uplift and neighboring regions. Dubbed the “central mineral region,” the Llano Uplift features granite, gneiss, and schist. The excursion makes an exciting adventure for families with kids.