It’s a stretch to say that writing these reviews is tough work or any type of work, for that matter. In fact, this time around, my escape was more like a mini–vacation. After having traveled to Mexico’s Mayan Riviera last time, I was ready for something closer and cozier. Enter Austin and its latest wellness and relaxation hot spot, The Crossings.
The drive was easy. My iPod was loaded with my favorite travel tunes, and the journey up I–35 flew by. The last mile of my short road–trip was just the beginning of a fabulous weekend. Complete with a beautiful winding roadand aged, overhanging trees, this small stretch of road created the perfect entrance to the ultimate “de–stressing” escape. I loved the long climb into the property and the sense of being hugged by hill country trees on the way to the check–in. I handed over my bags and was given a quick tour around the property by the gracious owner before being escorted to my suite, or what I like to call a slice of heaven in Texas. From my balcony, I could see the sun setting over the horizon. The sun lit up the trees surrounding the 210–acre campus, and off in the distance, the glare shimmering over Lake Travis was pleasant. I took a deep breath of fresh country air and got ready for a 6:00 massage.
The Crossings offers a large variety of mind and body treatments from the traditional to the very exotic. (Ladies, I hear that its facials are amazing.) I chose a good ’ole Swedish massage, and let me tell you, it was medicine for the soul. After a long week at the office, the gentle work on my body was just what the doctor ordered. Along with a nice glass of wine and a short stay in the sauna, my mind was finally beginning to fully relax. I went back to my room, stepped out on the balcony, engulfed in my plush white robe, and gazed into the hill country sky while sipping on cold water to finish off my day. Living in the city, it’s easy to forget how soothing the sounds of nature can be. No cars, no TV, no radio, no people phones, just the birds and the wind.
Early Saturday morning, I took in a nice hike around the resort. This is one of the more unique features; the resort’s beautiful, natural surroundings. In fact, The Crossings considers itself an eco–retreat and does everything to make sure guests enjoy nature to its full. The clear day and brisk breeze were perfect for this outdoor activity. After hiking a few miles, I grew hungry and joined the rest of the guests for lunch in the cafeteria. If you are into healthy eating, this is the place for you. Don’t expect greasy hamburgers or fried foods at The Crossings. Meals there follow the rest of the ongoing theme: healthy living. As someone who often reviews restaurants across the state, I can honestly say that the food was a pleasant surprise. Taste at The Crossings is not compromised for the sake of nutrition; its employees have truly mastered the healthy, tasty meal. I was on a mini–health kick and was beginning to feel like a new man.
The evening was still young, so I decided to head out to the pool area and enjoy the rest of the night listening to music and relaxing in the Jacuzzi. The night was beautiful and the stars, normally hidden by our city lights, painted a picture–perfect sight. A certain unique resort activity intrigued me. On some nights, the studio space adjacent to the pool becomesa dance hall where all types of music are played and everyone in the resort is invited to dance their stress away. From teenagers to 60–year old grandparents, they were all having a great time.
One aspect I truly enjoyed about the resort was the sense of pure serenity and relaxation. You really get a chance to enjoy nature and take a deep breath of fresh air. “The Crossings focuses its effortson reinforcing sustainability in all aspects– individual, organizational and of course, of the environment,” says Ken Beck, co–owner of this hill country oasis.
Whether you’re there for one of the many wellness workshops, the training seminars or just for some much needed R&R, I think you’ll find this to be quite the treat. I’ve been to many wellness resorts, and I can honestly say that The Crossings ranks up there with some of the best spa resorts anywhere and is now one of my favorites. I highly recommend it, and I think you will, too, once you take the short drive to Austin.
Visit www.thecrossingsaustin.com to see for yourself what I experienced.
