Between the food-coma-induced pains of Thanksgiving, the frantic gift searches of Christmas and immense stress of already failing at your New Year’s resolution, you’re exhausted and you deserve a break. You loved being surrounded by family and friends during the endless parties of the holidays, but now you’re ready for the relaxation and peace of mind only Texas can provide. Luckily for you, the hard parts of trip planning have already been done — all you gotta do is take a deep breath, get your planner handy and choose how you’d like to indulge yourself at one of these 7 Texas getaways.
Get Refreshed in Nature
Take in the view at Palo Duro Canyon. Picture by Chase Fountain.
If your idea of a getaway is breathing that fresh Texas air, spending hours getting lost in nature, and freedom from the hustle and bustle of life, than these nature getaways are perfect for you.
Palo Duro Cabins: Spend the night in these cabins at Palo Duro Canyon that are basically made of the canyons themselves and you might just have one of the prettiest views in all of Texas. You can hike the canyons if you wish, or just sit out on the porch with a cup of coffee and watch as the sun moves over the canyons. There’s no way to get bored at these cabins.
Canyon of the Eagles Resort: At this resort in Burnet, TX, your days will be filled with hiking through the beautiful Hill Country landscapes of this 940-acre nature park. End your day of hiking and mountain biking with a gourmet dinner and a view of the sunset on the lake at The Overlook restaurant or a “Star party” at the Eagle Eye Observatory.
Dixie Dude Ranch: Mosey on down to Bandera, TX to spend the weekend like a real life cowboy: at a working longhorn and goat ranch that’s been around since 1901! Enjoy a weekend free of stress (and cell phone service), horseback ride or hike through the countryside, sing songs around the campfire and just take in that country air.
Get Pampered at the Spa
Relax by the pool at Travaasa Austin. Picture by Travaasa Experiential Resorts.
Does just the thought of spending the day sitting around, eating desserts and being treated like royalty instantly put you at ease? Than read on, my friend.
Travaasa Austin: This spa in the heart of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve in Austin has everything you need to relax your body and mind, but it specializes in providing you with awesome experiences. Along with the offerings of a full-service spa (including a men’s spa package for those who need a mancation, complete with Texas craft beer on tap), Travaasa also offers a full range of fun adventures from cooking sessions and Texas Two-Step lessons to archery and hatchet-throwing that’ll have you checking things off your bucket list.
Trellis Spa: If you’re looking for the more traditional spa experience filled with massages, hot tubs and not having to lift a finger (except during your manicure), than this full-service spa in Houston is for you. Sure, it’s pricey, but it’s got all you need to unwind, and there are even packages for men, teens and pregnant women — so everyone can take a breather! And if at the end of the day, you’re just too relaxed to travel home, it’s connected to the luxury Houstonian Hotel!
Get Lost in the City
Stay on the Riverwalk at Hotel Contessa. Picture by Hotel Contessa.
If your idea of unwinding is being surrounded by skyscrapers and having tons of eclectic restaurants, shops and clubs at your fingertips, than get yourself to one of these urban getaways stat!
Hotel Contessa: Enjoy a romantic getaway at this beautiful luxury hotel on the San Antonio Riverwalk. Saunter along the river, gorge yourself on some of the best Tex-Mex in the state or just enjoy relaxing in a cushy bed with a stunning view of the Riverwalk from your hotel room. The hotel has tons of room discounts and packages, including specials just for being a Texan and packages that include a luxury suite, champagne and chocolate (my three favorite things…)
The Ashton Hotel: This hotel with a history in downtown Fort Worth, is right in the center of all the fun. Walking distance from Sundance Square, the mellow Scat Jazz Club and Bass Hall, you can choose to explore the city and catch a show or stay cozy in the hotel. Make reservations to sip tea and munch on desserts at the Winter’s Tea each Saturday (pinkies up!).
