Say hello to Texas Hill Country
Over the past years, Austin has gained in popularity, and with good reason! It’s a place of happy vibes, live music and welcoming people. My sister and I spent several days here and we already want to plan a trip back! Austin is an eclectic city that reminded me a bit of San Francisco. However, instead of hyphy music and the Bay Area, it had a mix of country/ blues/ big band music and good ‘ol Texas Hill Country.
Austin is a place that inspires visitors to go out and explore. It’s a city that gives off a contagious energy that makes this city stand out. With art, a colorful culinary scene, live music, nightlife and nature, it offers a special vibe that draws visitors in from all over the country.
Whether you want a taste of Texas Hill Country’s big, blue skies and expansive scenery, or a night on the town in the heart of a bustling city, Austin is a place to experience both.
We spent two nights in the vibrant Rainey Street District (click here for more!) and two nights at the incredibly charming Wayback Cafe and Cottages in Texas Hill Country.
Bee Cave, Austin
Located in Bee Cave, Austin, it’s nearby by attractions that include The Bee Cave Sculpture Park, a seven-acre natural park with rotating sculptures, and easy access to Lake Austin. Lining this gorgeous body of water are epic lake-facing properties.
Swimming, sunshine, music, drinks, and sightseeing on the lake is an epic way to explore beyond urban Austin. I highly reccomend Float On, a company that boat rentals from both Lake Austin and Lake Travis. Book a rental with this company then take a short 10 minute drive to the lake where you will find 360 Boat ramp. Here you can jump aboard a rented boat decked out with a speaker system, stocked coolers, a fun captain, and more.
The Wayback Cottages and Cafe
The Wayback Cottages and Cafe is a chic boutique is just 15 minutes away from downtown Austin, offering a change in pace. It’s the perfect place to disconnect, relax and unwind.
Fresh air; sprawling, lush, wide-open spaces; and all the quaint vibes you could dream of makes it a relaxing place to rest your head. It’s really picturesque and offers the perfect combination of rustic elegance.
You’ll find The Wayback on a three-acre, oak-tree-dotted property and is home to eight cozy cottages, each uniquely designed and decorated. All of the cottages are situated in a peaceful oak grove and most even have views of Hill Country. Oozing comfort and homey vibes, the cottages feature vintage furniture; fresh, organic cotton linens; pops of bright colors; and custom art.
Each cottage is special in its own way. With intentional details like the pom pom Belgian linen fringed throw or the brightly patterned decorative pillows, you feel you’re staying at a best friend’s vacation cottage.
Amenities and Cafe
The Wayback features a chill poolside lounge surround by looming oak; spacious fire pits; and an on-site café that offers guests breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The upscale café’s seasonal menu utilizes local bounty in its dishes, each specially curated to bring out the best flavors from what’s available.
We had a delightful evening dining there. The menu offers a nice selection of cocktails and wines and the food was absolutely delicious! Featired entrees include Lockhart Quail; Seasonal Fish; Chicken Confit; Crab Cakes; 44 Farms 12 oz NY Strip; and more. The staff was kind and the experience was intimate, cozy and memorable.
If you find yourself looking for a snack during the day, you’re in luck. Grab one of the cafe’s prepared charcuterie board, featuring Antonelli’s Meats & Cheeses, and take it outside to dine al fresco. The grounds are ideal for a picnic! Alternatively, you can choose to enjoy breakfast or weekend brunch on the back patio, taking in the views of Hill Country.
The Wayback is a hidden gem in Austin that should not be overlooked!
More photos:
Check out these below articles for more on my reccomendations while in Texas!
TravelPulse – Hill County Meets Urban Living In Austin, Texas
Forbes – A Day Of Eating In Austin, Texas
Blog – Hotel Reviews
To book your stay & find out more information on Austin’s The Wayback Cottages and Cafe, click here.
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Chelsea is a San Francisco-based journalist whose passion revolves around exploring the world, immersing herself in foreign cultures, and of course, eating and drinking everything delicious.
Her work can be found in TravelPulse, Forbes, INSIDER, SF Gate and more. She covers all things food, drink and travel and is always up for an adventure, whether that means an adrenaline-pumping excursion or trying a new cuisine.
