Horseshoe
Bay Resort
March & September 2020
If you're looking for a bourgie place to stay in the hill country, Horseshoe Bay Resort is your spot. The resort is about 1.5 hours Northwest of Austin. This place ain't cheap, the website describes it perfectly, "upscale, lifestyle vacation destination…” And, of course, it’s a good time.
I've had the opportunity to experience this extravagant resort with the company of my parents and my dog, Cholo. The resort is great for families. They pretty much have everything, multiple pools, lake access, putt-putt golf, and most importantly they are dog friendly.
The property has several different types of rooms. Since Cholo was with us, we selected a room in the Palm Villas. The Villas are the only place where pets are allowed to stay.
I love plants and any place with lots of lush greenery. The resort is surrounded by beautiful plants, flowers, lakes, and waterfalls. Anyone who knows the hill country knows it’s dry, rocky and filled with cactus. When you walk through these trails it feels as though you’ve escaped the dry landscapes and entered a luscious landscape, with a pool, restaurants and a golf course… I’m telling you, this place is fancy pants.
My favorite part of this resort is driving (or walking) over to the Yacht Club and enjoying a dip in the ridiculously cool hot tub. The hot tub has a dark aesthetic with dark tile and surrounded by rock-like sculptures. If you get too hot, just walk about 5 steps to the pool and cool off.
The pool is pretty cold. They only time I've been able to enjoy it is during really warm months, like June - August when it's sunny and hot outside. But, I had no problem keeping warm in the hot tub.
Here's the thing, the hot tub is a fan favorite. If you stay here during a poppin' weekend that hot tub will be full. Like, "what COVID" full. So, I would suggest going during a weekday.
Back in March before the lock-down, things were pretty normal. So, I'll give you a rundown of before COVID (BC) and after COVID (AC).
BC: I didn't have the greatest experience with the servers. Going to the bar and ordering myself was faster. Plus, the bartenders were cool to talk to. The pool would stay open unto 11pm.
AC: The bar area was closed and you have to wave a server down to take your order. You also have to now reserve a time to come to the pool. I believe they have three-time slots. And the pool now closes at 7pm.
Overall, I was impressed with the menu. I believe the food comes from the restaurant next door so, it had to be good. The burgers and nachos were the bomb and that's not just the alcohol talking.
In conclusion, If you've got the bucks this spot is a good one to add to your bucket list.
References: Horseshoe Bay Resort & Texas Monthly