Name: The Crossings, Austin, Texas
Type of Spa: Learning Center and Wellness Spa
The Crossings is the most gorgeous value-priced overnight spa in the country. An Austin “Dell-ionaire” built this $20 million retreat and wellness spa that offers personal growth programs.
The Setting for The Crossings, Austin, Texas: Texas Hill Country one half-hour northwest of Austin. It overlooks Lake Travis, with stunning views.
The Spa at The Crossings, Austin, Texas: Texas farmhouse meets Zen retreat. The spacious spa has an outdoor infinity pool and a first-rate outdoor Watsu pool – an amazing find at an affordable spa.
Spa Treatments at The Crossings, Austin, Texas: I got lost on the trails and was late for my Batu Jamu Indonesian Ritual ($160 for 80 minutes), a combination Thai Lemongrass body scrub and hot stone massage . The therapist calmed me down, and we decided to skip the body scrub and go straight to the hot stone massage, called “Stone Spirits." Using both hot and cold stones, she truly soothed body and spirit. It was one of the best stone massages I've had. Later that afternoon I had my first go at Watsu, and was once again impressed by the nurturing spirit of the therapist, who made me feel like a safe, well-cared for baby. (Some people are tense during Watsu because they don’t trust the situation, but sometimes they’re the ones who benefit most, the therapist said.)
Accommodations at The Crossings, Austin, Texas: Beautifully designed in simple Texas farmhouse style, they’re quiet and restrained. Rooms have nice balconies overlooking Texas Hill Country. No phones. If you’re looking to save money, stay in the Bunkhouse.
Rates at The Crossings, Austin, Texas:Rooms with a private deck and beautiful view starts at $140 per person (double occupancy), which includes meals and classes. Small "bunkhouse" rooms with a shared bath start at $100 night, with meals. Workshops and spa treatments are extra.
What’s Special at The Crossings, Austin, Texas: The facilities are truly incredible for the price, and the therapists are unusually giving.
What Could Be Better at The Crossings, Austin, Texas: Those low prices have to show up somewhere. The buffet food is okay, but not for gourmands. And the spa lockers are too small.
Bottom Line: This spa is for you if you want an affordable, beautiful spa and personal transformation workshops. This spa is not for you if require a restaurant dining experience
Contact Info for The Crossings, Austin, Texas: The Crossings, 13500 FM 2769, Austin, Texas, 78726, 1-512-334-4637, www.thecrossingsaustin.com
