Spa Road Trip: Where to Spa in Austin

“Keep Austin Weird” is the unofficial, catchy slogan of Texas’ capital city, but one thing that strikes us as the opposite of odd is Austin’s established spa scene. Don’t mistake what we’re saying—the spa setting here is far from boring; in fact, it’s downright dynamic with well-executed treatments to try and luxury design to boot. Among the lively music venues, unique shopping boutiques, and seamless expanses of outdoor spaces, Austinites can relax big time at one of the many spas in store in this eclectic city. Here are our picks for some great Austin spas.

At the heart of Travaasa Austin is an eco-conscious approach that pays tribute to the destination spa’s majestic natural habitat; this casual, campus-style retreat sits on 200-plus acres of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, capped off by views of Lake Travis. The green philosophy extends to its 11 treatment-room, Hill Country-style spa, where you’ll be impressed by both its craftsmanship—made up of sustainable, local materials—and its devotion to services that utilize the restorative elements of plants and essential oils.

Though Lake Austin Spa Resort inspires an intimate retreat with just 40 guest rooms, its LakeHouse Spa promotes wellness on a grand scale. There are 20 indoor treatment spaces equipped with soundproof fixtures and private showers, along with four alfresco treatment areas—the Bamboo Room garden suite has an in-ground hot tub and outdoor shower—and 100-plus services created in house. Herbs and vegetables from on-property organic gardens are used in treatments like the Gifts of Our Garden (100 mins, $325).

Unique treatments. Fitness instruction. Fresh spa cuisine. A Hill Country setting. Three Springs Spa at Omni Barton Creek Resort is another we love because it has all the above mentioned and more. Before services such as the Signature Facelift Facial (50/80 mins; $150/210) or Sports Specific Muscle and Joint Massage (80 mins; $210), unwind in the relaxation enclave, which centers around a calming natural limestone wall.

Spa Django in Cedar Creek, 20 miles from downtown Austin, stays in tune with the city’s deep musical roots: Django, a Romany gypsy word meaning “I awake,” stems from the famous Belgium-born guitarist Django Reinhardt, whose “gypsy-jazz” musical style was said to influence Texas’ music progression. Offerings include the Django Massage (60 mins; $140), which intertwines rhythm and aromatherapy techniques, and the Herb Garden Facial (60 mins; $140), using fresh extracts from the spa garden. The spa experience is heightened by a 24-hour StayFit at Hyatt gym.

If you can, pull yourself away from the superb Lake Travis views seen from the private spa terrace because you won’t want to miss San Saba Spa at Lakeway Resort’s menu of services that combine traditional treatments with signature rituals (the Soothing Texas Desert Heat Wrap being one of them [50 mins; $121]). Afterward, try the dry sauna, browse the boutique, or head back to the terrace to relax alfresco.

If you can, pull yourself away from the superb Lake Travis views seen from the private spa terrace because you won’t want to miss San Saba Spa at Lakeway Resort’s menu of services that combine traditional treatments with signature rituals (the Soothing Texas Desert Heat Wrap being one of them [50 mins; $121]). Afterward, try the dry sauna, browse the boutique, or head back to the terrace to relax alfresco.

Set on the W’s fourth floor, Austin Away Spa offers a sleek, vibrant design and sophisticated menu of services that both detox and refuel. Get the blood pumping at the Sweat® fitness center, then follow up your workout with the signature AWAY Massage (45/75/100 mins; $95/160/210), which uses a proprietary combination of oils blended by spa mixologists. If you book Monday through Thursday, you get to use the WET® pool deck before or after treatments; plus, spa-goers receive complimentary valet parking at the hotel.