Find Villas With Vistas And Room For The Family At These Hill Country Retreats

Whether it’s out in the country or on the lake, each of these rental properties has stunning Hill Country views.

By Marika FlattOctober 4, 2018 11:48 am,

I grew up in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. But it was only after I moved away to college and then settled in Austin that I found out just how far the Hill Country stretches! Here are three places you likely haven’t heard of where you can experience a Hill Country haven.

For a restorative time away from the hustle and bustle, Rockin’ B Ranch is nestled over 55 peaceful acres in the Hill Country between Boerne and Bandera. For a special anniversary or maybe even a quiet honeymoon, Rockin’ B earns an “A” in hospitality, with special touches like your initials on the entrance gate and fresh flowers upon check-in.

One of the four residences on the ranch, the Love Shack, has a queen bed and a private hot tub. Sit on your porch in the morning and enjoy your coffee, while your hostess greets you with fresh breakfast treats.

If you’re seeking a bigger nest, choose one of the three larger homes on the property. The Bluff House sleeps up to eight and offers an incredible bird’s eye view of the Hill Country, and an expansive deck with a hot tub that’s comfortable enough to seat the whole house.

Guests may also bring their dogs or horses along, and the property features plenty of hiking trails and a catch-and-release spring-fed creek for fishing or kayaking.

I heard about Moon Dance Ranch from a friend I grew up with. What a diamond in the rough! This large, fun house for rent in Utopia is near Garner State Park. You’ll experience the best views the area has to offer! This five-bedroom house was just built last year and is an amazing place for a family reunion or group of families to enjoy a fun time of togetherness. The kitchen is expansive and perfectly stocked with everything you need to serve a big group; in fact there’s two of everything, including two washers and dryers! The living room features a pool table, large sitting area and big dining table.

But my favorite part is outside: There’s a pool that overlooks a serene Hill Country view. Alongside the pool is a patio with plenty of furniture and a pingpong table, and nearby is a putting green and a washers game area. If you’re lucky, the owners will send over their baby goats for some petting.

Vintage Villas on Lake Travis is a great place to stay if you want to be near the lake. There are three villas, each depicting a geographical part of the state. The layout is ideal for big groups of friends or family reunions, and each villa has its own lobby for gathering.

We enjoyed catching up with friends on the balcony that boasts a fantastic view of Lake Travis. There’s no pool or activities on site but you can find plenty to do nearby.

A full Hill Country breakfast is served, buffet-style, each morning to all guests as part of the room rate. From quiche to fresh fruit salad and hot coffee, it’s a great start to your Hill Country day!

You can learn more about these and other Texas destinations in the travel issue of Texas Lifestyle magazine.