Nearby getaways where you can relax and recharge.
By Deborah Hamilton-Lynne
Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”
― Anne Lamott
Since seeing the “Treat Yo Self” episode of Parks and Recreation, (when Tom and Donna go on a spending spree treating themselves to everything from massages to fine leather goods) I say ‘Treat ‘Yo Self’ whenever contemplating an expensive, indulgent purchase or expenditure. However, treating yourself to something that you enjoy – or can help relieve stress levels – is money and time well spent.
Many therapists suggest that taking time out to relax and recharge is beneficial in many ways. Doing so can lower blood pressure and muscle tension; reduce stress and anxiety; improve sleep quality; enhance focus, concentration and creativity and regulate moods and alleviate depression.
What better time for a little self-care than after the holidays – and what better way to ‘Treat ‘Yo Self’ than to unplug and retreat to a place where you can relax, recharge and kick off the new year with a new attitude? We have found four of the best spots for doing just that, all within a short drive from Austin. Several of the locations purposefully do not have wi-fi service. Whether you are going solo or with your favorite person we recommend bringing a good book, a bottle of good wine, your favorite music, and taking the time to unplug and enjoy your retreat – completely free from distraction.
- Go Glamping. The Wahwahtaysee Resort located on 100 acres on the San Marcos River just 45 minutes south of Austin is a luxury glamping resort. This experience will defy any memories or preconceived notion of camping out. Seven luxurious safari tents, custom made in South Africa provide all of the comforts of a boutique hotel while allowing you to connect with the great outdoors. Each accommodation includes a golf cart for exploring the grounds, an outdoor deck with Yeti Hondo chairs for stargazing as well as a gas grill and Green Egg for barbecuing your meals. The resort provides walking trails, fishing holes, several beaches and cabanas on the river as well as a pool and bocce court.
- Climb a Tree. If you have ever had the fantasy of your own treehouse or remember what it was like to dream of one as a kid this is the place for you. Cypress Valley is one of the most unique resorts in Texas with several individual treehouses designed by visionary entrepreneur, Will Beilhartz. Beilhartz’s company, Artistree includes treehouses and sustainably built structures. He grew up on the property and the amazing designs reflect his childhood connection to nature. Resting high among the majestic Bald Cypress Trees with nothing but the sounds of the wind and the water of a creek below gives a whole new meaning to becoming a ‘tree hugger’ – in fact it is as if the tree is hugging you. Each of the five treehouses has its own one of a kind design. Yoki, Lofthaven, Juniper, and Willow treehouses each sleep two guests, and The Nest sleeps four guests. If a romantic getaway is in your plans, opt for Lofthaven which has a private bath house with a heated, cascading waterfall that fills a soaking tub. All set in over 100 acres in Spicewood, it’s a getaway that feels like your own private sanctuary – perfect for unplugging and recharging.
- Retreat. Retreat Ranch located on 46 acres in Marble Falls “blends the tranquility of mindful practices with the appreciation of local delicious wines.” The ranch is family owned and operated, and is the vision of bestselling author of The Retreat Leaders Playbook and Surrender: A Journey Towards a Fulfilled Life and retreat guru, Shannon Jamail. For rest and relaxation, the ranch provides all the amenities you could wish for – labyrinth, wood burning sauna, hot tub, plunge pool, firepit, dipping pools, hammocks, hiking trails and horseback riding. Although you cannot book individual retreat time the Retreat Ranch hosts several options throughout the year.
Manifesting, Malas and Mandalas: January 17 – 19
Inspired Yoga and Pilates: February 21 -25
Wine and Unwind: Multiple dates and April 10 -13
- Resort. If your idea of relaxing and recharging doesn’t include “roughing it” and does lean to some retail therapy, a luxurious spa, golf, an adults-only pool and floor and gourmet cuisine, take a short drive down towards San Antonio to La Cantera Resort and Spa. Treating yourself to the pleasure of a four-diamond resort with all the amenities you might expect, and then some, may just be the best attitude adjustment you can find. Set in the hill country, the views from almost anywhere are spectacular; particularly from the adult pool cabanas and the hillside firepit on the great lawn. The lobby with its wooden beamed ceiling and huge stone fireplace is warm and welcoming. Rooms and suites on SEVEN are for adults only and include a lounge with complimentary snacks, drinks, appetizers and happy hour. The resort also includes 34 boutique styled villas. A shuttle to the nearby Shops of La Cantera is provided for retail therapy and dining. If gourmet dining and an extensive wine list helps you relax, Signature, a 2024 Michelin recommended restaurant fits the bill.
For the ultimate R&R escape to the Loma de Vida Spa. With the feeling of a true sanctuary, a day at this spa can allow you to completely de-stress. There are several enticing treatments which can be personalized for individuals and couples, several of which include time in the Skyloft with a private cowboy tub, champagne and incredible views.
“When you recover or discover something that nourishes your soul and brings joy, care enough about yourself to make room for it in your life.” —Jean Shinoda Bolen
Whatever it takes to take care of yourself, take the time and make the investment in yourself. Self-care is one of the healthiest things you can do. Reconnect with nature, make your soul happy, slow down, unplug and replenish your spirit. Relax, recharge and get ready for the year ahead. In the words of Tom and Donna, “Treat ‘Yo Self. It’s the best day of the year.”