By Becca Hensley
A Colorado River reservoir that winds more than 20 miles through Austin’s urban west side, this human-made swimming hole boasts jade-colored water and banks lined with luxury homes and
casual dock-up eateries.
The Experience
The Lone Star State’s capital is as famous for its blistering heat as for its spirited festivals and music scene; join local hipsters and hippies alike for chill-out time in the water.
Stand-up paddleboarding has taken this landlocked burg by storm, but dawn to dusk, you’ll find locals partaking in a plethora of other water sports as well: Kayakers and anglers share the watery expanse with skiers and wakeboarders. Luxury motor craft abound and can be rented. Party cruises and prettied-up tropical-themed rafts set a festive mood.
Explore
Tipple on the Texas Wine Trail, located about an hour away from the resort, near Fredericksburg.
Shop
Find farm-to-table fare at Whole Foods’ flagship store, home to a mélange of eateries, wine bars, and rows of locally made salsa and barbecue sauce—the perfect foodie souvenir.
525 N. Lamar Boulevard.
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Originally appeared in Virtuoso Traveler magazine, June 2014.