A Hill Country Getaway Near Austin
Updated: 4 days ago
The easiest Hill Country getaway near Austin is 15 minutes from downtown. The Wayback is 8 private cottages under the live oaks in Westlake Hills, with a saltwater pool, a café and craft bar, and no long drive to get there.
There's a version of a weekend away that involves gridlock, packed lakefronts, and plans you didn't need. And then there's the version where you're floating in a saltwater pool somewhere quiet in the Hill Country, cold drink in hand, watching the light go gold over the live oaks.
That's the one we'd vote for.
Fifteen Minutes From Downtown, a World Away
The Wayback is just fifteen minutes from downtown Austin, but it feels like a world away, and never more so than on a holiday weekend, when the city revs up and we stay exactly as we are. Eight cottages tucked into the trees. A café with food that tastes like the season. A pace that lets you remember why you took the days off in the first place.
If you've been thinking about a long weekend away, this is your sign. Reserve your cottage and come spend a few days the slow way.
What's Happening at The Wayback
There is usually something on the calendar. Recurring favorites include Mahj on the Lawn, live jazz nights and jazz brunch, and seasonal workshops. See current dates on our events page.
Not staying the night? Book a pool pass for a day at the saltwater pool.
The Wayback Café Hours
Wednesday: 11 am–9 pm
Thursday: 11 am–9 pm, half-price bottles of wine all day
Friday: 11 am–9 pm
Saturday: 9 am–9 pm
Sunday: 9 am–3 pm
Monday and Tuesday: closed
Happy hour runs Wednesday through Saturday, 3–5 pm: half-off bottles of wine and $3 off signature cocktails. Reservations open 21 days ahead.
FAQ
How far is The Wayback from downtown Austin?
About 15 minutes west of downtown, at 9601 Bee Cave Rd, Austin, TX 78733, in Westlake Hills.
What is there to do on the property?
Swim in the saltwater pool, sit in the cabana or the oak grove, eat at the café and craft bar, and join recurring events like Mahj on the Lawn, live jazz nights and jazz brunch.
Can you get breakfast at the cottages?
Yes. Cottage Breakfast Delivery is $26 (plus tax and 20% gratuity), Wednesday through Friday, delivered 8:30 to 9 am. On weekends the café serves breakfast and brunch from 9 am.
Which cottages have Hill Country views?
Cottages 5 through 8. Cottage 8 also has a gas fireplace and kitchenette.
Can I give a stay as a gift?
Yes. Gift cards cover stays, pool passes, and food and drink.
Looking for a bed and breakfast near Austin? Here is our guide to the Austin bed and breakfasts that are still open, with breakfast details and prices for each.
Stay at The Wayback
Eight private cottages plus the Nook, each with organic cotton sheets, Pom Pom at Home throws and San Saba Soap Co. products. Condé Nast Traveler named The Wayback one of the best boutique hotels in Austin. Bringing friends? Read our girls weekend in Austin story.
See y'all at the Wayback soon.
Sydney
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