The Modern Luxury Austin Way editorial team curates the ultimate list for luxury travel inside and outside of the 512 for Texan hospitality, indulgence and unique experiences.

BIGGEST WELLNESS ESCAPE

THE HOUSTONIAN

Yes, everything is bigger in Texas, and at 26,500 square feet, this hotel’s Trellis Spa—the largest full-service luxury spa in the entire state—is no exception. Now that The Houstonian has added new outdoor soaking pools and a garden, along with a full-time nutritionist, Skin Care Clinic and The Covery wellness therapy suite, it might be time to return and regenerate. 111 N. Post Oak Lane, Houston, houstonian.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF HOTEL DROVER

BEST MODERN-MEETS-NOSTALGIA VIBE

HOTEL DROVER

This new hotel, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, gives serious old-meets-new Texas vibes amid the Fort Worth Stockyards. Sentimental types dig retro touches, such as cornhole around the fire pit, while contemporary characters are more than happy to while away the hours at outdoor cabanas with hanging daybeds and crystal chandeliers. 200 Mule Alley Drive, Fort Worth, hoteldrover.com

MOST PROMISING CULINARY PROGRAM

ALBERT HOTEL

When this new spot opens in just a few months, it will have the makings of an escape fit for epicures. Michael Fojtasek, a three-time James Beard finalist, will lead the main restaurant and James Beard semifinalist Amanda Rockman was tapped to helm its neighborhood market, while competition barbecue pitmaster Justin Spencer will be in charge of Junebug’s, hailed as a “backyard barbecue joint.” We’re champing at the bit. 213 E. Austin St., Fredericksburg, alberthotel.com

BEST GOLF RESORT

HORSESHOE BAY RESORT

Getting onto the greens is a must. Players get their choice of three challenging and scenic courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., while putters can also partake in a Whitewater course with waterfalls, rose gardens and exotic birds. Pros are available for lessons, and a golf academy is set to be unveiled this fall. 200 Hi Circle North, Horseshoe Bay, hsbresort.com

BEST HISTORICAL RESORT

HOTEL EMMA

If these walls could talk, they would likely say Emma is aging better than any fine wine—especially those that originated in 1894! After its renovation, which began in 2002, the former Pearl’s Brewhouse building continues to win accolades, not only because of its desirable location but also for the details that make it archival, like exposed brick walls, claw foot tubs and original stonework. 136 E. Grayson St., San Antonio, thehotelemma.com

MOST SPORTS-MINDED STAY

LIVE! BY LOEWS

While this brand-new hotel offers a fitness center with Pelotons, a heated pool and a running map with local trails for exercise enthusiasts, those who prefer to be sports spectators are simply smitten with its direct access to the Dallas Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field, which houses the 2023 World Champion Texas Rangers. Game on. 1600 E. Randol Mill Road, Arlington, loewshotels.com

MOST AUTHENTIC RANCH EXPERIENCE

CIBOLO CREEK RANCH

Sure, it boasts an airport, pickleball courts and Nespresso machines in each room, but make no mistake— this 30,000-acre ranch gives guests a rustic experience reminiscent of its mid-1800s origins. For the best taste of agrarian life, visitors rent a 19th-century historical fort and then go hiking, hunting, fishing, shooting or horseback riding in the foothills, and they stay up to watch for the Marfa Lights at night, just like their ancestors did. 97139 U.S. Hwy. 67, Marfa, cibolocreekranch.com

MOST REMOTE RETREAT

WILLOW HOUSE

The directions to this minimalist, modern haven comprising only 12 casitas mention a gas station, large boulders and a bright green mailbox, which should serve as a cue to its whereabouts. But its more than 250 private acres are close to Big Bend National Park and the Rio Grande, allowing for spectacular, unobstructed views of the Chisos Mountain Range and next-level stargazing. 23112 FM 170, Terlingua, willowhouse.co

BEST FOR LONG STAYS

RED ANTLER BUNGALOWS

Unfortunately, some of the hotels in Round Top are as dusty as the antiques visitors come for, so it was a breath of fresh air to learn about the four bungalows Houston-based design aficionados John Cone and Greg Fourticq established there recently. Chic and luxurious, each unit has a full-size washer and dryer, gas fireplace and full-size kitchen. Full provisioning services are also available, so staying a while makes sense. 108, 125, 131 and 137 Gretchen’s Way, Round Top, redantlerroundtop.com

BEST BEACHSIDE

THE VILLAS AT THE SAN LUIS RESORT

Found directly across the beach, these five private, residential-style suites enjoy lovely breezes coming off the Gulf of Mexico. While guests are known to spend most of their time on the sand, otherwise they luxuriate at The Villas’ private bar and pool or inside their suites,which feature private verandas with a hot tub and seating area. 5222 Seawall Blvd., Galveston, villasatsanluisresort.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HYATT REGENCY LOST PINES RESORT AND SPA

Best All-Around Resort

THE HYATT REGENCY LOST PINES RESORT AND SPA

Just a short drive from downtown Austin, a premier resort experience in the heart of the Hill Country awaits. This resort is surrounded by lush acres and features a newly re-designed golf course, a calming spa, a lazy river and other amenities. It’s the perfect escape from the city while still being within reach. Whether you’re traveling with your family, partner or friends, you’ll find everything you need at Lost Pines. 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Road, Lost Pines, hyatt.com/hyatt-regency

MOST ESCAPIST EXPERIENCE

THE VINEYARD AT FLORENCE

We all know Paris, Texas, is hardly a destination for francophiles. Still, it turns out Italophiles can totally find amore at this luxurious resort with a Tuscan-style lodge amid a winery. Some rooms offer vineyard views and, naturally, guided tastings of the award-winning wines and meals at the upscale farm-to-table restaurant, which are among the best ways to spend hours here. 111 Via Francesco, Florence, thevineyardatflorence.com

Most Picturesque Escape

COMMODORE PERRY ESTATE

Enter your Italianate manor era in Austin at this historical oasis, newly reimagined by interior icon Ken Fulk, nestled among lush oak trees—offering a whimsical, old soul in the heart of the city. The estate is known for its exquisite cuisine and picture-perfect wedding venues. Take a break from exploring the city and enjoy delightful cocktails at Lutties (named after the original Commodore’s wife), or relax by the iconic pool. 4100 Red River St., Austin, aubergeresorts.com/commodoreperry

Best Rooftop Views

THE LOREN

If you’re looking for tranquility and breathtaking views, The Loren is the perfect choice. It is located near Lady Bird Lake, the crown jewel of Austin’s scenery. The rooftop restaurant, Nido, boasts unmatched city skyline views. The midcentury modern rooms are designed to help you find inner peace. Guests have asked to buy the linens. It’s that good of sleep. With sister properties being Bermuda and Turks and Caicos, ATX is lucky to get a slice of heaven in our midst. 1211 W. Riverside Drive, Austin, thelorenhotels.com/austin

Most Popular Property

AUSTIN PROPER HOTEL

Designed by the renowned Kelly Wearstler, this trendy hotel offers a one-of-a-kind experience. With its speakeasies, delicious restaurants, and stunning decor, you might be tempted never to leave the hotel. The Peacock is the Mediterranean restaurant of everyone’s “Meet for lunch?” texts. Situated in the Seaholm District, the hotel is centrally located and offers plenty of gems to discover—including The Quill Room, its upstairs “secret saloon.” 600 W. 2nd St., Austin, properhotel.com/austin

Most Romantic Stay

THOMPSON AUSTIN, BY HYATT

Nestled on the corner of the beloved 6th street and Brazos, this is a sexy elevated stay for those wanting to stay under the radar, nosh on food led by world-renowned chef Mashama Bailey from Diner Bar, and enjoy the sultress black bathrooms and soft white linens. Popular happy hour hot spots within the hotel draw in many different crowds of charisma. 506 San Jacinto Blvd., Austin, hyatt.com/thompson-hotels

Best Golf Destination

OMNI BARTON CREEK RESORT & SPA

Few Austin Hotels offer weddings as they are not grand enough; that is not the case at the Omni. The golf is great, and watching it from the pool on a summer’s day is even better. The divine dinner libations are precisely what one needs after a long day traveling or working. The elevated bar is elegant for a nightcap and makes one want to extend the reservation. 8212 Barton Club Drive, Austin, omnihotels.com

Most Desirable Location

W AUSTIN

Amid a fabulous re-design, this 2nd street gem is next to one of ATX’s best music venues, Austin City Limits at the Moody Theater. On the corner of some of the city’s most iconic streets, The W also has direct access to the heart of downtown, where some of the best restaurants and shopping lay. The cherry on top is the fantastic pool deck, always filled with music, cocktails, and fun. 200 Lavaca St., Austin, marriott.com