Someone once told me that Lake Austin has the looks of a luxury first-class spa, but the warmth of a friend’s lake house. He was right. If you’re living in Dallas and in need of an escape from the heat, Austin is the perfect driving distance. The oasis waits only 3 hours away!

Nestled along Lake Austin, the scenic and peaceful view provides the perfect backdrop to unwind. While sometimes 2 glasses of wine do the trick, once in a while a spa weekend is just necessary and Lake Austin won’t disappoint.

The spa itself is gorgeous and the staff makes you feel like you are the only guest that matters to them. You can literally do anything you want. For example, I took an awesome paddle boarding class with yoga moves (insane, right?) that made my abs feel like they were on fire, followed by a relaxing sauna session and a light yet surprisingly satisfying 330 calorie scrumptious dinner. My favorite was the wild mushroom tortellini with cavolo nero, pesto, pine nuts and slowly melting Parmesan cheese.

If you’re traveling with a girlfriend or parent, stay in one of the premier rooms, which comes equipped with lake views and two queen beds. Traveling as a couple? Opt for the Premier Hot Tub Cabin, which comes with 1 king-sized bed, zen garden, and hot tub.

It was named the #1 destination spa in North America by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler in 2010 and 2008, as well as one of the top ten spas in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. That should say it all, I rest my case.

Photographs courtesy of the property.