Over the course of the past decade, Houston, Texas has transformed itself and its reputation into a city that has undergone a real transformation. Once a symbol of the problems with urban life in the United States, they’ve taken their Los Angeles-rivaling sprawl and transformed it into a home of culture and diversity. While the sprawl of the city may rival that of Los Angeles, they have half of the population density. Even with the city having become a greater version of its former self, one still needs a getaway from city life. These are our five favorite luxury retreats that are an easy drive from Houston.
The San Luis Resort Spa
With the distinction of being the only gulf-front property on our list, The San Luis Resort Spa is also easy to reach at less than one hour from Houston. It is on beautiful Galveston Island and also a AAA Four Diamond Award recipient since 1999. The consistently good San Luis Resort Spa describes itself as “the perfect Galveston hotel and resort experience with lavish accommodations, breathtaking Gulf views and personalized service.” With award-winning restaurants, refreshing poolside cocktails and a full range of resort amenities, you’ll be happy to spend time at the resort or take advantage of the location and explore everything Galveston Island has to offer.
The Woodlands Resort
Another in very close proximity to the city, The Woodlands Resort is just 30 minutes from downtown Houston. First opened in 1974, The Woodlands Resort has seen many iterations and recently revealed a new guest wing and several other improvements and upgrades to the property. Here you will in find a full service spa, championship golf course with 36 holes, event space, and also extensive dining options. There are activities to keep you busy whether you prefer to relax or stay active. In addition to the resorts amenities, they have a wide range of options for accommodations. Book one of their deluxe rooms, pool walkout rooms, balcony rooms, club floor rooms, or – our favorites – suites which provide all the comforts of home.
La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa
As they note about this beautiful property, “on the shores of Lake Conroe, La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa is a relaxing family getaway, just one hour north of Houston”. Not only does the resort’s location allow for taking in perfect views for relaxation but also opportunities for a host of activities including golf on their championship course, swimming and relaxing at their Aqua Park, or an immersive rejuvenation in their full-service spa. Their variety of restaurants, bars, and lounges will appeal to you regardless of your mood or that for which you have a hunger or thirst. The suggest – and we agree – that you get “away for a relaxing couples weekend or family vacation at La Torretta”.
The Inn at Dos Brisas
Situated on 313 acres, The Inn at Dos Brisas is, in their words, “ an idyllic getaway situated among the rolling meadows of the eastern foothills of Texas Hill Country, within a short drive from Houston or Austin. What began as a ranch retreat our family purchased in 2000 has evolved into a Relais & Chateaux luxury inn, brimming with character and charm afforded by this sumptuous yet rustic locale.” Whether you opt for an action-filled outdoor vacation or a quest escape, you’ll be ideally positioned for either. The icing on the cake for The Inn at Dos Brisas is the state’s only five-star dining experience in Texas.
They also note that the “history of Dos Brisas is steeped in hospitality. Throughout the centuries, these grounds have hosted Union soldier prisoners, cotton farmers, horse trainers, and cattlemen.” Today, they “welcome you to discover it for yourself and enjoy your time away from life’s occasional stresses.”
Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park and Resort
One of the most effective ways to escape from the pressures of city living is to commune with nature and Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park and Resort couldn’t be more ideal or effective for that.
Uniquely nestled in the Upper Highland lakes region of the Texas Hill Country, Canyon of the Eagles takes its name from the American Bald Eagles that winter in the area. The park showcases the flora and fauna of Lake Buchanan and provides a refuge for the endangered Black-Capped Vireo, Golden-Cheeked Warbler, and American Bald Eagle. Common wildlife sightings include rabbit, deer, roadrunner, snake, bobcat, feral pig, and armadillo. Throughout the spring and early summer, wildflowers bloom in abundance!
Take the time to reconnect with nature and reconnect with your soul in this gorgeous resort.
With a state as large as Texas, you can expect it to be filled with more of the things you love to enjoy. Into which of our retreats an easy drive from Houston will be checking? If you need something even more secluded and don’t mind the travel time, review Meditative Retreats: Where to Go to Recharge.
