I'd been looking at staying at Travaasa Austin for our anniversary for MONTHS and luckily travelzoo ran a promotion that we could not pass up. :) From the moment you pull up to the gate, you feel like you have entered an oasis. You drive up this huge winding hill to the welcome center and are greeted by a very warm staff. We were shown to our room that was situated all the way at the back of the property. It was so peaceful. We had a canyon view room, and I believe it is smaller than the trail view, but we didn't really mind. The view from the balcony was breathtaking. We arrived late in the afternoon so most of the activities were over for the day but we decided to head out to the hiking trail. It's 2.5 miles if you do the whole thing, and not only a great workout, but very pretty as well. Such a peaceful way to start the trip! We opted to eat dinner on the property that evening and were amazed at how incredible it was! I loved how the nutrition information was listed on the menu as well. We had been told to make a reservation so we did, and there were only maybe 3 other tables in use. The next morning we had another incredible meal, this time out on the terrace. I took a Pilates class with Heather. What a workout!!! I think often times people think of Pilates as just a lot of stretching, but it really challenged me. It was great. Lunch was again fabulous and so fresh. I also spent some time at the spa, and opted to get the honey massage treatment with Amalie (sp?). It was beyond relaxing, and a great combo for someone looking for a massage and not necessarily a full facial, but something that incorporates it. The mask left my skin so clean and healthy feeling. She even sent me with the leftover and told me how to use it! Another great thing about this resort is that yes, it is 4 stars, but you see people mainly dressed in workout clothes and even spa robes. There is no expectation of needing to be dressed up. This part was especially appealing to my husband. Ladies, especially those with a "Texas boy" type like mine, will appreciate this. :) The second night, they once again recommended reservations, but we didn't take them too seriously, as the night before there were so few people. Well, we should have listened that night! There was a farm to table dinner with several chefs fom the area coming to prepare meals. We really wish we would have listened as I'm sure it would have been incredible! We wound up going into downtown Austin that evening, as it was not too far (maybe 30 minutes). The next morning we had to leave and we were so sad to go. We both agree we can't wait to return! The ONLY negative was that the first night the wind was so bad that because of my husband's allergies we were forced to use the AC and it was beyond loud (like something I'd expect in a 2-3 star hotel) that we woke up every time it kicked on. Luckily the 2nd night we were able to open the windows and get some sleep. If you go during the summer, bring earplugs. In the winter, hopefully you will be fine. All in all, can't wait to return. We left feeling sore from the workouts (love this!) relaxed, and like we'd had a true vacation! You won't regret going!

We had a group of 12 stay at Travaasa and it was truly amazing. The staff was extremely attentive and friendly. The unique activities gave a fun camp-like environment, and the dining was out of this world! Overall, there is an atmosphere of tranquility, with a undercurrent of high energy! I can't wait to return!

Found this spot by pure chance. Much needed getaway and looking for a place to relax and this was the perfect place for a few days to recharge. Weather was perfect in November. Had a wonderful view from our room, excellent spa services, and the reflection pool looking out over Lake Travers and the Canyons was quite lovely for lunch and a swim. We enjoyed guided meditation in a peaceful environment, relaxing in a hammock and some great hikes in the 200 acre grounds.

I'd not been to a true "destination" spa before and this exceeded my expectations - particularly since it seemed a lot more reasonably priced than other spas of this type. Staff was friendly and down to earth and the grounds were very nice. There were very few guests when I stayed, and I was only there mid-week, so there were not as many activities happening as I might have liked. But the ones I did participate in worked out well (45min is just the right amount of time).

I did not get the all inclusive meal plan, however the a la carte prices were not bad. Meals were well prepared, and the nutritionals are clearly disclosed. They do have wine available, which is not true at all spas.

The spa staff in particular was excellent and I enjoyed the body treatment I'd arranged far far more than any other spa treatment I have ever had.

Travaasa is a bit out of the way - Super Shuttle from the airport is a good option to consider.