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Looking to get out of Austin for a few days this summer? With these summer getaways, getting away from the city is easier than you might think. Austin lies on the outskirts of the Texas Hill Country, just a short drive from sought-after destinations like Wimberley, Fredericksburg, and Dripping Springs. In this enchanted region, you’ll find endless opportunities for rest and recreation, from world-class wineries to scenic hikes to natural swimming holes. Moreover, you’ll find some of the most unique outdoor accommodations in America. So, join us as we reveal the best summer escapes from Austin and where to stay nearby!
If you live in Austin, you’re no stranger to the Texas Hill Country. If, on the other hand, you’re planning a side-trip for your Austin vacation, here’s an introduction. The Texas Hill Country is undoubtedly one of the country’s fastest-growing vacation destinations. Here, you’ll find over 300 vineyards and wineries where you can sample locally grown wine and learn about the wine-making process. Abundant wildlife and unique geologic formations take center stage at parks like Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, while freshwater springs like Blue Hole make the perfect way to beat the Texas heat.
If you love the great outdoors, then Wimberley is the perfect summer escape from Austin for you. Wimberley is home to Blue Hole Regional Park, a popular swimming hole with a rope swing your kids will love, as well as hiking trails and a basketball court. For more water-based recreation, visit the Blanco River, where you can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Meanwhile, land lovers are sure to love Wimberley’s Cypress Creek Nature Preserve, offering 7.24 acres of scenic hiking and wildlife watching along Cypress Creek.
Of course, the great outdoors isn’t the only great thing about Wimberley. Located about 50 minutes from Austin on the Texas Hill Country Wine Trail, Wimberley boasts several fine wineries where you can enjoy tastings and tour working vineyards. Popular wineries in Wimberley include Limestone Terrace Vineyard, Seventh Son Vineyards, and Wimberley Valley Winery.
Looking for more fun things to do in Wimberley? Check out our guide to the best Wimberley events!
This historic motor lodge turned boutique hotel sits atop a hill overlooking the breathtaking Blanco Valley. Every newly renovated room boasts a terrazzo bathroom vanity, stylish western decor, and million-dollar Hill Country views. Moreover, The Bygone offers an outdoor pool, farm-to-table chef dinners, a nature trail, and a communal fire pit.
Book The Bygone Here!
The Cedars Ranch is an upscale glamping retreat and event venue featuring a staggering array of top-notch amenities. The resort-style pool is sure to become your fun hub during your escape from Austin, offering the perfect way to beat the summer heat after a long game of bocce or pickleball. Planning a wedding, corporate retreat, or other group vacation? The Cedars Ranch boasts an event hall, an event plaza, and a lounge for your big event. They even offer exclusive wedding packages! Choose from various accommodations, including cabins, yurts, and geodome suites.
Book The Cedars Ranch Here!
With west-facing sunset views and cozy two-person accommodations, Onera Wimberley is the perfect romantic summer escape from Austin. Choose from the Greenhouse or Spyglass and enjoy home-like comforts such as kitchenettes, walk-in rain showers, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Amenities include a communal infinity pool and hot tub, a 95-person event space, walking trails, and more!
Book Onera Wimberley Here!
If you want to savor every last drop of the wine-tasting experience in the Texas Hill Country, look no further than Fredericksburg. Located about an hour and a half from Austin, Fredericksburg and the surrounding area are home to more than 100 wineries. From Grapetown Vineyards to Safari Winery to Signor Vineyards, you’ll have a grape time touring Fredericksburg’s world-class wineries.
Not a big wine drinker? No problem! Fredericksburg offers an exciting mix of outdoor recreation and historic charm that the whole family is sure to love. Hiking and picnicking are just a couple of the activities on offer at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, home to the largest natural granite dome in the United States. Meanwhile, Downtown Fredericksburg is a must if you want to learn about Fredericksburg’s German heritage firsthand.
Ready to start planning your tour of the Texas Hill Country Wine Trail? Check out our visitors’ guide to the top Texas Hill Country wineries!
Onera Fredericksburg is a luxury landscape hotel just minutes from historic Downtown Fredericksburg. However, civilization becomes an afterthought at this summer escape from Austin. Part of a Dark Sky Community, Onera Fredericksburg offers stellar stargazing, as well as sweeping Hill Country Views and magical wildlife sightings. Other amenities include an outdoor pool and a barrel sauna. Onera Fredericksburg boasts 12 unique accommodations spread across its 13 acres. Choose from a treehouse (Spyglass or Monarch), glamping tent (Sage Safari, Buckeye Bungalow, Cocoon, or Lantana Dome), or a container home (Juniper, Pecan Haus, Walnut Haus, Cedar Haus, or Live Oak Lodge).
Book Onera Fredericksburg Here!
The perfect pairing for your tour of the Texas Hill Country Wine Trail, Wine Barrel Cabins is exactly what it sounds like and so much more. Choose from four wine-inspired, barrel-shaped cabins – the Rosé, Chardonnay, Tempranillo, or Cabernet – and enjoy plush king beds, hand-stained interiors, and color-matched quartz countertops. Wine barrels sleep just two guests, but larger groups can book the three-bedroom Hickory Haus, which sleeps up to ten guests. Wine Barrel Cabins is located on five private acres just minutes from shopping, dining, and museums in Downtown Fredericksburg.
Dripping Springs is an enchanting Texas Hill Country town located just a half hour from Austin. Billed as the “Gateway to the Texas Hill Country,” it is home to seven visually stunning wineries, including Bell Springs, Driftwood Estate, and Fall Creek Vineyards. Dripping Springs is also a popular wedding destination. With its diverse wedding venues and picturesque setting, it hosts over 1,000 weddings a year despite hosting a full-time population of just over 4,000. In fact, the Texas Legislature officially designated Dripping Springs the “Wedding Capital of Texas” in 2015.
As the name suggests, Dripping Springs and the surrounding area are also home to abundant freshwater springs perfect for a summer swim. Nearby Hamilton Pool Preserve is a must-see. With its sparkling waterfall, emerald-green water, and natural limestone grotto, it’s one of the most beautiful springs in Texas. If you’re looking for something more active, search out Pedernales Falls State Park, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and more.
This full-buyout retreat consists of the Stellar House, Horseshoe Cottages, and Triplets. Stellar House boasts four bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen. Horseshoe Cottages comprises ten industrial-style cottages surrounding a common lawn area, while Triplets comprises three tiny homes with kitchenettes, living rooms, and in-unit washers and dryers. The Liney Moon boasts a 150-guest ceremony site, as well as an oversized patio and free seating. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool, walking paths to explore, and fire pits. The Liney Moon was named the “Best Girls Trip Destination 2016” by Texas Lifestyle Magazine!
Book the Liney Moon Here!
No matter where you live in the US, Nook Outdoors can help you find a summer escape nearby. From boutique hotels outside New York City to glamping retreats near the Central Florida attractions, our hand-picked outdoor accommodations can help you get spontaneous with your travel habits. So, browse our full directory of accommodations at the link below and book your summer escape today!
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