This Beautiful, Waterfront Destination In Texas Is One Of The Best Spa Resorts In The US

Ideally situated in a serene river valley in Texas, surrounded by woodland-covered hillsides sloping towards a gently lapping shoreline, the tranquility of Lake Austin Spa Resort proves you don't need to escape to a tropical island to experience world-class wellness. The secluded lakeside setting, conveniently close to the city, makes this award-winning spa an ideal destination for a relaxing weekend away and another reason to love Austin. Located just 22 miles away, the waterfront hideaway was recently voted the Best Destination Spa in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler readers, and is the perfect place to escape if you're looking to relax, unwind, and reconnect.

This adults-only sanctuary has the healing power of water at the heart of its wellness philosophy. Surrounded by nature in every direction, the all-inclusive resort features 40 luxurious cottage-style accommodations and a 25,000 square-foot spa. With wellness-focused travel continuing to grow, booking a stay here means access to a sensory experience second to none, and a range of immersive activities and sophisticated yet wholesome culinary delights to help you recharge your batteries at a pace that suits you. Guests can enjoy access to the spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and use of equipment needed for lake activities. All meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages are included, and you'll even be presented with a thoughtful welcome gift on arrival.

Water is at the heart of the spa's nurturing philosophy, and Lake Austin plays a central role. Days can be spent boating, water skiing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. For more calming activities, there's water yoga or cocktail cruises that sail into the sunset. A full schedule of activities means you'll never be short of things to do, but you're free to do what you want, when you want, and if a gentle stroll through the pretty gardens and shaded woodlands is all you need, you're at liberty to wander around the resort. 

For something a little more intimate and refreshing, the spa is the place to be, where there's a sauna, steam rooms, and hot and cold pools. A relaxing session of aqua stretch is the perfect remedy to help ease tired muscles. Water-based rituals continue in the Serenity Suite, where an extensive range of signature experiences await. The self-guided water therapy circuit certainly lives up to its name and includes thermal mud treatments and invigorating hot and cold water plunges. 

For the ultimate relaxation, the Lakehouse River Rock massage and The Regal by Valmont cellulotherapy facial are just two of many restorative therapies on the spa menu. Plus, some of the spa's products are grown in the resort's grounds, including wildflower essences and lavender honey. Tailored packages are also available for a more personalized well-being escape.

A day spent in or on the water is enough to build up a healthy appetite, and the cuisine at the resort doesn't disappoint. A nutritious selection of balanced meals using locally produced, seasonal ingredients, of which many are produced in the onsite organic gardens, and infused with global flavors, find their way onto the mouth-watering menu. 

Dishes like seared Mediterranean branzino or truffle-whipped potatoes tease the taste buds and steer the imagination to far-off places, turning each plate into a delicious culinary journey. Meals can be enjoyed overlooking the lake, at the Aster House Café, in a secluded glade amongst the oak trees, or in the comfort of your own room, thanks to the complimentary room service. There are even immersive culinary demonstrations with celebrity chefs to sharpen up your cooking skills.

At the end of a peaceful day, and perhaps an evening spent stargazing, the cozy cottage-style rooms and their nature-inspired interiors, tastefully designed in soft earth tones and decorated with antiques and artworks, are the perfect retreat to enjoy a deep, restorative sleep. With the emphasis on true rest and recuperation, Lake Austin Spa Resort is yet another hidden gem waiting to be discovered in this tranquil corner of Texas.