The Wayback: Austin's Hidden Gem Hotel in the Texas Hill Country - Seat 1A

Looking for a quaint, luxury escape just minutes from Austin? Here’s why The Wayback in Westlake Hills should be your next Hill Country getaway.

One hotel I can’t stop thinking about? The Wayback Cafe & Cottages. Nestled in the heart of Westlake Hills, north of Barton Creek, along Bee Cave Road, this Texas Hill Country boutique hotel is a cute, secluded enchanted retreat that’s totally up-to-date and beautifully built with stunning interior and exterior design. Located just 15 minutes west of downtown Austin, it’s the perfect blend of Hill Country charm and modern luxury.

Why The Wayback is at the Top of my Getaway List

With an on-site saltwater pool, farm-to-table cafe, and 8 private cottages set under mature live oak trees, you would never need to leave – it’s the perfect getaway from the city or an ideal venue to rent out for a family reunion or intimate wedding. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, girls’ trip, or family vacation, The Wayback offers that boutique hotel experience you just can’t find at chain properties.

Our Family-Friendly Experience at The Wayback

We met another couple flying in from Denver to golf Barton Creek Country Club, and we chose to stay at The Wayback because it had plenty of room for our family, including my mother-in-law and our 7-month-old baby. Read more about my secret to packing light with kiddos here. The spacious cottage we stayed in featured one large bathroom, a studio-style room with a king bed and comfortable seating area, plus a smaller room with two twin beds – perfect for a family.

On arrival, I was immediately charmed by the board-and-batten cottages that are so well-designed with those aesthetic vibes and a touch of service and luxury you just don’t get at a chain hotel. Each cottage feels like your own private Hill Country retreat with modern amenities and thoughtful touches that make The Wayback one of Austin’s most unique hotels.

Activities and Amenities That Make The Wayback Special

Our Hill Country weekend was filled with fun right on the property. The saltwater pool surrounded by oak trees is perfect for afternoon relaxation, while the fire pit area creates magical evenings under the big Texas sky (where we could enjoy an evening with the baby monitor). The outdoor patio dining at their on-site cafe serves fresh, locally-sourced meals that rival any Austin restaurant.

We had a fantastic day golfing with friends at nearby Barton Creek, then ventured into downtown Austin for some nightlife. Our final dinner was at Blind Salamander inside The Omni Barton Creek Resort where we gathered our family and friends together for a really unforgettable evening full of laughter.

Perfect Location for Texas Travelers

The Wayback hotel is strategically located just a short drive from Austin in the heart of Texas Hill Country, making it a perfect getaway from Midland or anywhere in West Texas. The Westlake Hills location puts you minutes from Barton Creek Mall, upscale shopping and dining along Bee Cave Road, and easy access to Lake Austin activities.

Why The Wayback is on My Shortlist

I would highly recommend The Wayback whether you’re planning a girls’ weekend in Austin, romantic Hill Country getaway, or family trip to Texas. The intimate scale (only 8 cottages!), personalized service, and stunning Hill Country setting make it feel more like staying at a friend’s elegant ranch than a traditional hotel.

I can’t wait to go back – I’m secretly planning a Mahjong meetup here and can’t wait to break it to my girlfriends! For anyone seeking luxury accommodations with genuine Texas Hill Country charm, The Wayback is absolutely worth the drive.

Planning your own Hill Country escape? The Wayback is located at 9601 Bee Cave Road in Westlake Hills, just 15 minutes from downtown Austin and perfectly positioned for exploring the best of both worlds.

What I’m Packing

Get my detailed, printable packing list here. I used the wearable breast pump for golfing and it worked like a charm! I absolutely love my Amma wrap, and I find it the most comfortable for nursing or pumping in any type of weather! Would never go anywhere without a sound machine but the cottage was a small space – extra necessary in close quarters.