Find Time to Unwind

Story by Anne Braly

Getting away from it all in the wideopen expanse of the Lone Star State is a time-honored tradition that Texans, long known for their sense of adventure, hold dear.

Here are some tips from Mary Bemis, founder of American Spa magazine, on making the most of your retreat. Extreme experiences – Check your good sense at the door, and if it doesn’t feel right, speak up and don’t do it.

The setting – Think about what kind of environment makes you feel safe. Going to a place without cell service, phone service or internet can be liberating – or just anxiety-inducing.

A good retreat is often a well-marked path. You should know where you’re going and what lies ahead. Prepare and take necessary precautions.

Busy amusement parks and crowded white sand beaches have their charms, but when you really want to relax and recharge, nothing beats a rural getaway and relaxing retreat to secluded locales with attentive staff and a whole lot of pampering. And in Texas, there’s a lot from which to choose.

“From quiet, rural escapes to chic, modern wellness retreats, Texas offers a variety of options for those seeking to refresh their physical and mental wellbeing,” says Tim Fennell, director of Travel Texas Tourism. “Relaxation getaways and retreats in Texas have always been popular types of leisure travel for travelers seeking to recharge, reconnect and reset.”

Whether it’s waking up to the views of the water or hearing the birds as they begin their day, take a step outside the city and you’ll find retreats in the Lone Star State that offer just what you may need to get away from the busyness of life and the mental quagmire brought on by fist-bumping, social distancing and other pandemic protocols.

Here are some excellent examples of what’s in store as you step off of life’s beaten path.

Lakeway Resort & Spa

Lakeway

As the only resort nestled on the banks of Lake Travis in the Texas Hill Country, the 168-room Lakeway Resort and Spa offers a distinct getaway with a hint of the urban allure of nearby Austin. Whether it’s wrapping your body in nourishing oils or massaging that tension in your back, a visit to the spa is a must. The spa’s position on the shore of Lake Travis, as well as its floor-to-ceiling windows, offer dramatic views that tease the senses.

2 pools offer a choice. Want a break from the kids? They have their own pool where they can play on the waterslide and splash pad as you enjoy quiet moments of your own or a cooling drink at the swim-up bar. There are options for all ages in one of several restaurants, from casual poolside dining to a more indulgent dinner at TR Restaurant Bar and Lounge serving comfort food and cocktails.

Visit the Lakeway Resort and Spa website for more information.

Hotel Ritual & Wellness Center

Jacksonville

RITUAL is a retreat that will become a habit if you’re in need of a magical experience. Bring a book and escape to wherever its pages take you. Soak in the heated pool and hot tub with a bartender at the ready. Then, go for some detox in the sauna, mineral water provided.

Gourmet breakfast is available at RITUAL, and there’s a lively luncheonette where you can order salads, sandwiches or a beautiful bowl of warm peach pudding.

For bookings and information, visit the RITUAL website.

Rancho Cortez

Bandera

If there’s one retreat that screams “TEXAS!” it’s Rancho Cortex. Visitors can restore their wellness the Western way at Rancho Cortez’s Cowboy Wellness Program.

Ready for the roundup? The retreat’s wellness program offers guests traditional wellness retreat experiences like hiking, outdoor workouts, nutrition classes and conditioned yoga and strength training, along with opportunities to explore the ranch by horseback. You can also feed the longhorns, relax by the campfire, soak in the hot tub or take a dip in the pool.

The dude ranch is open to day trips and also offers a 2-week fitness program with strength training, pilates, yoga and more. Or, if you can commit, there’s a 60-day program that will totally change your life. However, if you simply need a night or two to get away, the ranch offers a variety of overnight experiences, including a bunk house that sleeps up to 15 people.

All activities and meals are part of an overnight stay, and there’s no sleeping in, cowboy. Breakfast is served at 8 a.m.

To book, visit the Rancho Cortez website.

The Vineyard at Florence

Florence

It’s a pleasure to wake up to the view of vineyards and luxuriate in comfortable linens. The Vineyard at Florence is like having your own small piece of Tuscany in Texas Hill Country.

The Vineyard at Florence is a retreat for the senses with its old-world Italian architecture and a spa offering facials and massages. Enjoy the farm-to-fork menu at its signature restaurant, Farmer’s Commons, with its local honey, goat cheese from a nearby farm, a menu driven by what’s in season and, naturally, a lovely wine list.

Each of the rooms and suites has either a patio or balcony, as well as a coffee bar, flat-screen television, refrigerator and walk-in, tiled shower. Suites also have a fireplace. The Winemakers Villa sleeps up to 10 people and is the perfect setting for a family retreat with its five bedrooms, three baths, living room with fireplace and fully stocked kitchen. Best of all, it overlooks the vineyard and has the best view on the property.

Florence is less than an hour from Austin, but there’s plenty to keep you busy on-site with great places for picnicking, a swimming pool, biking and hiking. Or, arrange for a wine tasting. At night, sit back, look up and enjoy the night sky deep in the heart of Texas.

For bookings or information, visit the Vineyard at Florence website.