Lake Travis Area
Neighborhoods w h e r e to l i v e
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» AN OVERVIEW OF LAKE TRAVIS
lu x u r y a pa r t m e n t l i v i n g i n l a k e way
i m p r ov e yo u r v i e w o f l i f e at m a d r o n e
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Slow down and take it all in. Unwind in a home on the edge of Austin away from the downtown hustle. This is life at Madrone, an eco-friendly community in the hills of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve.
1-3 bedroom floor plans Lake Travis ISD
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Attached garages
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Pet-friendly*
Minutes to Lake Austin and Lake Travis
Spectacular views of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve Minutes from the Galleria Shopping Center
l e as e to day a n d r e c e i v e wa i v e d a p p l i c at i o n f e e
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
BY
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Derek Wright
PRESIDENT
Kevin Evans
VICE PRESIDENT
Robert Nusbaum
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal
OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Adams
PUBLISHER
Kelly Gajewski
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AREA DIRECTORS
Shawna Adkins James Macias
COVER PHOTO
L a ke Tr a v i s L i v i n g
This is the Life
A look at the Lake Travis area neighborhoods, communities and surrounding cities.
Having fun is no joke in Lake Travis. Here you'll find places to golf, shop, eat , play and relax.
42 Area Communities 44 Apartments & Condos
CONTENT + PHOTOGRAPHY
We would like to thank the following individuals, companies, and organizations for their contributions to the publication: Jay Brittain of Studio J Photography, High 5, Rob Aldridge Photography, Lake Travis Independent School District, Marketing Matters, The Reserve On Lake Travis, and Lakeside at Tessera On Lake Travis ________________________________
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We l c o m e t o L a ke Tr a v i s
Staying Happy & Healthy
An introduction and overview of Lake Travis and the surrounding area
A variety of healthcare resources including area hospital and medical center information
The Lake Travis Visitor and Relocation Guide is published and distributed annually by WEB Media Group LLC. For advertising information, please call 512-266-2900.
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L a ke Tr a v i s A r e a To p 1 0 E m p l o ye r s
Get Ready to Make the Move
Although every attempt is made to be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is not responsible for any misprints, errors, omissions, deletions, or the accuracy of the information in the publication. WEB Media Group LLC does not accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication.
A list of Central Texas' largest employers along with short descriptions
22 Excellence in Education Information on the public school districts and many private schools in and around Lake Travis
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56 Golf Courses 59 Shopping + Dining
Jay Brittain of Studio J Photography Courtesy of Lakeside at Tessera
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If you haven't moved here yet, we're guessing you will be soon. Here are tips to help your move to the Lake Travis area a smooth one.
» Welcome Letters 8-9 » Day Trip: Dripping Springs 72 » Lake Travis Events 74 » Advertiser Index 80
© WEB Media Group LLC 2019 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the written permission of the Publisher.
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Phone: 512-266-2900 • Fax: 512-266-2910 www.LakeTravisTxGuide.com
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WELCOME from
THE OASIS LAKE TRAVIS Beau Theriot and all the staff at The Oasis Restaurant are delighted to welcome you to the Lake Travis area. The Lake Travis area is an amazing place to live & play. There are endless adventures to be had in this beautiful part of Austin. The Oasis Restaurant and Event Center has been perched on a cliff 450 feet above Lake Travis for over 35 years and proud to have earned our name as Sunset Capital of Texas. After purchasing the beautiful hilltop property with the breathtaking view of the lake and surrounding Texas hill counrty, Beau decided to open a small hamburger joint in 1982. The Oasis has grown into one of Austin’s best destination for family and friends. We are improving all the time with two great live music venues and a stunning Wedding and Special Event Center along with an Arcade and our adorable Gift Shop. We are so much more than a Restaurant. We hope to become a part of your family while helping to create long lasting memories. and look forward to meeting you soon. Welcome home!
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WELCOME from
REALTY AUSTIN The Lake Travis lifestyle is friendly, active, and full of vibrant opportunities!
With its highly sought after quality of life, Lake Travis is a top destination to make the move and call home. Whether you are a Hill Country newbie or just looking for a change of scenery, we can help you find the right Lake Travis real estate for you. From gated communities to waterfront condos, Lake Travis has many neighborhoods to choose from to suit your lifestyle. Easily search homes in the Lake Travis area on realtyaustin.com/lake-travis or stop by any of our offices where our team is ready to serve you: Lake Travis, Westlake, Central Austin, East Austin, North Austin, and Southwest Austin. Our team of 540 full-time, high-producing real estate agents were hand-selected for their experience, market knowledge, and career accomplishments. Realty Austin is the #1 independent real estate company in the Austin area with over $2.8 billion in sales in 2018. A member of Luxury Portfolio International® and Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, Realty Austin is the most innovative and progressive real estate company in the Austin area, uniquely suited for its high tech, homegrown culture. Make the Move with Realty Austin — and start your home search today!
Yvette Boatwright Broker, Co-Owner, Realty Austin
WELCOME TO LAKE TRAVIS Nestled just 20 miles west of Austin’s bustling city lies an array of robust rolling hills, immersive greenbelts, and adrenaline-pumping recreational water activities. Once considered to be a relatively secluded area, Lake Travis has steadily risen as an attractive mainstay for new housing developments and an exceptional school district.
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» AN OVERVIEW OF LAKE TRAVIS Lake Travis serves as a viable option for those who desire to live in lush, beautiful natural surroundings while being close enough to access the many benefits of Austin’s cultural and business scene. With its lake-front restaurants, fabulous entertainment options, nationally renowned golf courses, and exclusive waterfront communities, Lake Travis offers something for everyone. Over the last 10 years, the Lake Travis area and surrounding communities have become a staple for public educational and successful athletic programs. The area is rich with countless state championship programs in several sports. The progress made by the immediate and surrounding school districts in the area has been an example set to the other school districts in Texas. This area prides itself on educating the youth in a positive, progressive way to ensure the lifelong success of the youth. Its 118.2 square miles bordered by Lake Travis to the north, the Travis and Hays
With its lake-front restaurants, fabulous entertainment options, nationally renowned golf courses, and exclusive waterfront communities, Lake Travis offers something for everyone. county lines on the south, the Pedernales River to the west, and Lake Austin and Barton Creek to the east, offer some of the most breath-taking views of the central Texas hill country.
over 270 miles of shoreline, Lake Travis is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true with fishing, boating, nature trails, camping, zip lining, picnicking, and outdoor dining choices.
Lake Travis itself is a hydroelectric reservoir on the Colorado River that was created through the construction of Mansfield Dam in the late 1930s. The lake is approximately 63.75 miles long, 4.5 miles across at is widest and spans 18,930 acres. Its maximum depth is 210 feet and is the primary flood control reservoir for the Highland Lakes. With
Communities of Lake Travis
Lake Travis is home to the City of Bee Cave, Village of Briarcliff, City of Lakeway, the Village of The Hills, Hudson Bend, and Spicewood as well as many neighborhoods in unincorporated areas of Travis County. This west Austin region has developed largely
One of the many great communities in the area, Lakeside at Tessera On Lake Travis sits on the north shore and offers stunning views of the lake along with many other amenities.
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P HOTO BY ROB AL DRI DG E OF ROB AL DRI DG E P HOTOG RAP HY COU RTESY OF LAK ES I DE AT T ESSER A O N LA K E T R AVI S
LAKE TRAVIS VS. AUSTIN due to Lake Travis ISD’s excellent school performance and beautiful natural surroundings. The City of Bee Cave is just 12 miles west of Austin. Although the Bee Cave region has actively seen homes rising along its landscape since the mid-1800s, Bee Cave became officially incorporated in 1987. Bee Cave is governed by a mayor and five Council Members. Bee Cave is positioning itself as a prestigious lifestyle destination with its development of the Hill Country Galleria - an upscale shopping district that includes great restaurants and a movie theatre. The Village of Briarcliff sits on the gleaming south shore of Lake Travis and is also a part of the highly acclaimed Lake Travis ISD. Brimming with nature trails and a 9-hole golf course, Briarcliff also has a robust community center making it easy for residents to get involved in their neighborhoods. Briarcliff is governed by two bodies: the Briarcliff Property Owners Association (BPOA) which is managed by a nine-member board of directors and the Village of Briarcliff which operates under a mayor and five aldermen. The City of Lakeway is one of the most prestigious communities in the Lake Travis area. In this cozy paradise, one will find a highly modernized suburban lifestyle with pro-designed golf courses and pleasant shopping centers. This city was originally developed as a resort community in the 1960s and has since sprawled into a full-service community, complete with retail businesses, banks, and offices lining Ranch Road 620. It now has over 15,000 residents calling the City of Lakeway home. The City of Lakeway is governed by a mayor and 6 council members. The Village of the Hills boasts residential real estate at its finest and is home to the Jack Nicklaus signature course, The Hills Country Club and golf course. The various other golf courses of The Hills Country Club sprawl through the City of Lakeway with the Yaupon, Live Oak and Flintrock Falls Golf Courses. Tennis and exercise
Proximity |
Lake Travis and Austin are only spaced 19 miles apart from each other, which allows for easy access to jobs, entertainment, and shopping in the heart of Texas. Both areas are located right off the Colorado River, making for beautiful backdrops of the city and environment. Lake Travis and Austin are conveniently placed less than a 200 mile drive to other Texas destinations such as Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio.
How People Work |
Because the two areas are so close to each other, Lake Travis and Austin have jobs where people can work without having much of a commute to either place. Lake Travis’ motto is “If it’s on the Lake, It’s here.” As you can imagine, there are a lot of jobs that revolve around the lake (ex. boat rentals). With entertainment venues like breweries, event halls, golf courses, and wineries, there are many jobs in Lake Travis, as tourism in the area continues to boom. Some of Austin’s top jobs involve vacation rental marketers (ex. HomeAway), digital media (ex. Distractify), and mobile developing applications (ex. Rocksauce). Many of these jobs connect with the changing landscape of marketing in a digital world.
Live And Shop |
Lake Travis has may wonderful options to live and shop. For entertainment, check out cooking classes, live music, and waterparks. For Dining, consider an illustrious amount of catering, restaurants, and food truck options. On the lake, think about taking a jaunt to the marina or sailing the day away. If you are interested in shopping, go to the Hill Country Galleria or Shops at The Galleria, which have items such as music, jewelry, clothing and apparel, and much more. After your time in Lake Travis, you might never want to leave. Lake Travis has many living options like condominiums, homes, and retirement living centers to satisfy you. During the week, there are many events that people can attend around the city, whether it be wine tastings, breakfast workshops, or sporting event parties for anyone to enjoy. Check out www.laketravis.com for more information. Austin, Texas prides itself on its historical venues. Check out the Texas State Capitol, built in 1888, which has the largest square footage in the United States of any other state capitol building. The French Legation building, created in 1841, represented France as its diplomatic office. If you are interested in staying in the oldest hotel in Austin, check out the Driskill Hotel, which was built in 1886. There is much more to Austin than only historical venues. Go to The Mexic-Arte Museum, which houses contemporary art from Mexican and Latino cultures. Over 70,000 people visit this museum yearly. If you are looking for some great shopping venues, you can buy some artwork from The Mexic-Arte Museum, but also tour around Kick Pleat (for shoes) and Outdoor Voices (for great contemporary activewear). If you are traveling on Congress Avenue, there are great shopping areas such as Sunroom and Feathers Boutique. Check out www.austintexas.org for more information. LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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» AN OVERVIEW OF LAKE TRAVIS enthusiasts may also enjoy The World of Tennis Club. Amenities which include 16 outdoor tennis courts, two climate-controlled indoor tennis courts, fitness facility, men’s and ladies’ locker rooms, a kids court, recreational swimming pool, a full-service spa and café. Just off Ranch Road 620 next to Mansfield Dam is a scenic community called Hudson Bend. The majority of Hudson Bend is a peninsula along the south shore of Lake Travis, entirely surrounded by the main basin of Lake Travis, with the rest of the community extending down RR 620 to Stewart Road. There are approximately 1,000 homes in a 4 square mile area as well as many marinas, restaurants and small businesses. Hudson Bend is an unincorporated community that is 16 miles northwest of Austin. The Hudson Bend Colony Neighborhood Association (HBCNA) with 9 board members and the Travis Landing Property Owners Association (TLPOA) with 10 board members are the caring stewards over this unique and diverse lakeside community.
FUN FACT No. 01
When Lake Travis is full to its spillway elevation of 714 feet, it will top out at about 626,691,999,536 gallons of water. It is approximately 681 feet above sea level, with a maximum depth of 210 feet and a surface area of 18,930 acres.
If you are looking for a more rural setting, Spicewood is a small, unincorporated area near the Village of Briarcliff. Spicewood’s restful atmosphere offers a great getaway from the hectic, fast-paced life of a big city. Although it is unincorporated, Spicewood has its own post office, numerous small businesses, and the governing body is Travis County. Located next to Mansfield Dam is Mansfield Dam Park which serves
as the deepest and most accessible boat ramp on Lake Travis. Stunning views of Lake Travis can be seen from the west peninsula of the park, while scuba divers can partake in a day of underwater adventure. With four diving platforms around Lake Travis, divers can follow an underwater trail to see sunken boats, historical dam construction pieces, and other geological formations. A day isn’t complete without enjoying some delicious barbeque from the grills located within the shaded picnic area and going for a leisurely walk along one of the scenic nature trails. Another gorgeous park located on Lake Travis is Pace Bend Park. It features over 1,000 acres of primitive wilderness, limestone cliffs, biking and walking trails, as well as camping facilities that offer electric hook-ups, showers, and restrooms. The pristine emerald waters off of this attractive shoreline offer plenty of water fun including rafting, boating, and swimming.
Tourism, Leisure and Services
Lake Travis enjoys a relatively moderate temperate climate year-round. It has mild winters and takes in low humidity levels although summers can be hot. It averages 300 days of sunshine a year and has an average rainfall of 32.1”. 14
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» AN OVERVIEW OF LAKE TRAVIS Temperatures range from mid-70s to mid-90s in the summer and 40 to 70 degrees during the winter. The average daily temperature hovers at 78 degrees, making the lush landscape that much more enjoyable. The Oasis, located on Lake Travis, is one of the premier tourist locations along the lake to view the radiant Texas-sized sunsets reflecting off the translucent crystal waters. With an indoor and outdoor seating capacity of 2,500, this restaurant prides itself on being the largest outdoor restaurant in Texas. Sweeping views of the lake at sunset makes this 30,000 square foot dining establishment a mainstay for locals and tourists alike. Dubbing itself as “The Sunset Capital of Texas”, it’s not hard to see why this establishment, located 450 feet above the lake with extended terraces, can easily take home the prize.
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center Lakeway prides itself on offering superior state-of-the-art medical care in a warm, hospitable and caring environment. This 274,500 square foot plush hospital offers a full-service emergency room, oversized birthing suites, a level 2 neonatal intensive unit, 106 private rooms, along with open-hours for visitation, an in-room dining program with over 50 made-to-order items, in-room trundle beds for overnight guests, and complimentary internet access. The onsite Heart Institute has the most advanced cardio-technology available coupled with highly trained cardiologists and experienced cardio-thoracic teams. Among the upscale shopping destinations that the Lake Travis area has to offer, the Hill Country Galleria in Bee Cave is in a distinctive class of its own.
Complete with native trees, blooming wildflowers, and rolling streams, this unique lifestyle center is home to 152 acres of pure shopping heaven. The many delightful dining and entertaining spaces enhance the enjoyment of this modern, open-air village setting which gives way to a warm, inviting community feel. Live music and entertainment can be savored from the on-site amphitheater. Stores gladly welcome four-legged animals with water bowls and treats. The Sonesta Bee Cave hotel is located on the premises with 200 hotel guest rooms and 8,000 square feet of meeting space. Office and residential spaces within the Hill Country Galleria also add to the dynamics of this city’s gem.
Mansfield Dam
Mansfield Dam, located 13 miles northwest of Austin, was inaugurated on February 19, 1937 and completed in 1942. Although it was originally created in order to solve the severe flooding problems that farmers had experienced in the area, it was also built to help store water and to serve as Central Texas’ main form of hydroelectric power and drinking water. Lyndon Johnson was instrumental in ensuring the dam was built and completed. Upon reflection a few years later in 1958, he quoted, “Of all the endeavors on which I have worked in public life, I am proudest of the accomplishment in developing the Colorado River. It is not the damming of the streams or the harnessing of the floods in which I take pride, but rather in the ending of the waste of the region. The region- so unproductive in my youth- is now a vital part of the national economy and potential.” It stands 278 feet high, 7,089 feet long and 213 feet wide at the base. The lake can hold up to 369 billion gallons of water and has a hydroelectric power plant with a generating capacity of up to 108
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megawatts. The top of the dam initially served as a two-lane highway, R.R. 620, but a surge in Austin’s growth coupled with the popularity of the area caused too much traffic congestion on top of the dam causing the State of Texas to build an alternate route on the downstream side of the dam. This resulted in a four-lane highway to alleviate the congestion. Drivers are no longer allowed to drive on top of the dam.
the many species that call Lake Travis home. The Lake Travis communities and overall area is truly a one-of-a-kind location in Texas. Offering communities rich in city feel as well as rural beauty, living desires of anyone can be met here. Featuring
historical sites, numerous recreational activities, entertainment, and an easy drive to the state capital of Austin, everything you could want in Texas living is offered here. Each community is growing healthily and consistently. It is no secret why many families are choosing Lake Travis as the place to call home. ď‹ž
Lake Travis Recreation
Lake Travis, itself, is one of the most attractive lakes in all of Texas. Built as the primary flood control reservoir in the area, the water level can vary within a 95 feet range, depending on the amount of rainfall and runoff of feeder rivers. Lake Travis is one of the most desirable recreational lakes in Texas. Popular recreational activities include fishing, diving, scuba diving, boating, swimming, picnicking, camping, and even zip-lining. Famously, the only legal clothes optional park is located on Lake Travis. Hippie Hillow Park is an attractive location for nude swimming and sun-bathing. The water in Lake Travis is considered among the clearest in purest in all of Texas. This equates to great satisfaction in the activities of recreational users. Fishing is arguably the most popular recreational activity on Lake Travis. The lake is home to many gaming species including Largemouth bass, Guadalupe bass, Striped bass, catfish, and numerous species of sunfish. Reaching a depth of 192 feet, the vast water ranges offer great diversity for fish species. The current lake records are evidence of this. The record Largemouth bass was caught in 1993, coming in at a staggering 14.21 lbs. with a length of over 28 inches. A 30.5 lb. striped bass holds the record since 1990. A 54.45 lb. Flathead catfish was caught in 2007! These numbers attract anglers from all over the state of Texas to see the enormous fish they can catch. The healthy habitat, clear water, and varying depths all encourage strong growth in LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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the
LAKE TRAVIS AREA’S
TOP TEN
EMPLOYERS
Austin is the geographic center of Texas, and living in the Lake Travis area makes all the top employers accessible while living the lakeside lifestyle. It also occupies center stage in the state’s positive economic health as a hotbed for a number of industries – including technology, real estate, healthcare, and—as the state capital—local, state and federal government. For example, Austin is often dubbed the “Silicon Hills” because of the plethora of technology companies that have chosen to make their home here. Austin counts 3M, Apple Inc., Hewlett-Packard, Google, Facebook, AMD, Applied Materials, Cirrus Logic, Cisco Systems, eBay/PayPal, Bioware, Blizzard Entertainment, Hoover’s, Intel Corporation, National Instruments, Samsung Austin Semiconductor, Silicon Laboratories, Oracle Corporation, Hostgator, and United Devices among the many top companies with operations in Central Texas. In fact, the tech companies here account for much of all tech-related revenue in Texas – second only to the Dallas/Fort Worth area. This industry diversity offers a veritable cornucopia of employment opportunities for those relocating here, with companies that have chosen to establish operations in the Lake Travis area for its high quality of life, plentiful housing opportunities and relatively low cost of living. The following is a list of the Lake Travis area 10 largest employers. It includes corporations and government or municipal organizations in a range of industries, as well as a brief description of each company or organization and its services. LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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» TOP 10 AREA EMPOYERS
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State of Texas 512-463-2000 • www.texas.gov www.governor.state.tx.us As the state capital, Austin is the undisputed hub of government activity and employment. Some of the largest state agencies include the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts; Texas Department of Transportation; Texas Department of Public Safety; Texas Water Development Board, and the Texas Department of Health. For information and to find local job leads via the Texas Workforce Commission, visit www.workintexas.com.
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University of Texas at Austin 1 University Station • Austin, 78712 512-471-3434 • www.utexas.edu Founded in 1883, the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) is the largest component of The University of Texas System – a conglomerate of 16 academic and health institutions – and the largest institution of higher education in the Austin area. With more than 51,000 students (including 11,000 graduate students), and over 24,000 faculty and staff members, UT is the fifth largest public university in the United States.
FUN FACT No. 02
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Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) 7171 Southwest Pkwy • Austin, 78735 512-602-2292 • www.amd.com
NXP Semiconductor 3501 Ed Bluestein Blvd • Austin, 78721 512-933-6000 • www.nxp.com
Advanced Micro Devices develops computer processors and related technologies for commercial and consumer markets. Its main products include microprocessors, motherboard chipsets, embedded processors and graphics processors for servers, workstations and personal computers, and processor technologies for handheld devices, digital television, automobiles, game consoles, and other embedded systems applications.
Once a division of Motorola, NXP Semiconductor began in 1949 as one of the first semiconductor companies in the world and has made automotive and networking its main leadership areas. It is now the largest semiconductor supplier to the automotive industry.
4 Apple Computer, Inc. 12545 Riata Vista Circle • Austin, 78727 512-674-2000 • www.apple.com Personal computer giant Apple, Inc. employs more than 3,000 at its Austin location, with employees who work in sales, marketing, and customer service. A massive expansion started in December 2012 and it has become the tech giant’s new “Americas Operation Center”, with a second phase to be completed by 2021. Apple’s new operations center will more than double their current workforce in Austin.
Travis County's unemployment rate in March 2019 was 2.6 percent, the lowest in the Austin area and Central Texas. The average weekly wage is $1,247, also the highest in the Austin area.
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Travis County 700 Lavaca, Suite 420 • Austin, 78701 512-854-4215 • www.traviscountytx.gov As the seat of government and resource for birth certificates, health and human services and other community services, Travis County is also among Austin’s top 10 largest public employers.
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3M Corporation 6801 River Place Blvd. • Austin, 78726 512-984-1800 • www.3m.com Austin, Texas is the global headquarters of the 3M Electro and Communications Business (ECB) and is the only multi-division site located outside of company headquarters in St. Paul‚ Minnesota. Besides 3M Center headquarters on River Place, the company also operates a plant on Research Boulevard.
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Whole Foods 550 Bowie St. • Austin, 78703 512-477-4455 • wholefoodsmarket.com
Austin Energy 721 Barton Springs Rd • Austin, 78704 512-494-9400 • www.austinenergy.com
Lower Colorado River Authority 3700 Lake Austin Blvd. • Austin, 78703 512-473-3200 • www.lcra.org
In 1980 Whole Foods started with one small store in Austin, Texas and now you can find them all over the United States and internationally. Specializing in organic and natural foods, Whole Foods has its corporate headquarters in Austin, Texas and has 365 stores throughout the world. The EPA recognized Whole Foods as the second highest purchaser of green power nationwide.
Austin Energy is the public utility company providing electrical power service to a 421-square mile area including Austin and parts of the surrounding area in Travis and Williamson counties. It has been owned by the City of Austin since its inception in 1893, and owns all or part of five different power plants. They offer many energy-saving, green options for residential and commercial clients.
The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) is a public service organization that provides vital services to Texas. These services include: delivering electricity, managing the water supply and the environment of the lower Colorado River basin, providing recreation areas and supporting community development. The LCRA employs about 1,800 people in the Austin and Lake Travis area.
Visit our website for more information LakeTravisTXGuide.com
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EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION
For parents who are considering making a move to the Lake Travis area, one of the most important considerations is the education of their children. They want their kids to have a great learning experience at quality schools, and, without a doubt, Lake Travis delivers in that area. From the public schools that are a part of the Lake Travis and Leander Independent School Districts, to private schools in the area, education in Lake Travis is exemplary.
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AN OVERVIEWINOFLAKE LAKETRAVIS TRAVIS » EDUCATION The 6A Lake Travis Independent School District serves the growing area of Lake Travis, located approximately 20 miles west of Austin, Texas. Originally a component of the Dripping Springs ISD, Lake Travis ISD was formed on June 12, 1981. At that time, 541 students were enrolled in grades K - 12. Since then, District enrollment has increased to approximately 10,387 students (as of Octove 2017) in nine campuses that cover 118 square miles. The schools that are a part of the LTISD include: • Bee Cave Elementary School • Lake Pointe Elementary School
ENROLLMENT
FACULTY
STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO
Bee Cave Elementary
745
42
15:1
Lake Pointe Elementary
717
46
16:1
Lake Travis Elementary
888
61
14:1
Lakeway Elementary
716
43
17:1
Serene Hills Elementary
769
48
16:1
West Cypress Hills Elementary
603
38
16:1
Hudson Bend Middle School
1096
68
16:1
Lake Travis Middle School
1108
67
17:1
Lake Travis High School
2699
153
18:1
DISTRICT AND NAME OF SCHOOL
L A K E T R AV I S I S D
Lake Travis Independent School District
• Lake Travis Elementary School • Lakeway Elementary School • Serene Hills Elementary School • West Cypress Hills Elementary School • Hudson Bend Middle School • Lake Travis Middle School • Lake Travis High School
Thanks to more than $321.5 million in voter-approved school bonds since 2004, the schools have modern, excellent facilities, and students excel in both academics as well as extracurricular activities such as athletics and fine arts.
Recent accolades include: • LTISD was named to the College Board’s 6th Annual AP District Honor Roll for increasing access to AP course work while maintaining or increasing the percentage of students earning scores of 3 or higher on AP exams • Lake Travis High School is consistently recognized as one of “America’s Best High Schools” by Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report for how well teachers and staff prepare students for college • A record 43 seniors at Lake Travis High School earned recognition by the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program • Hudson Bend Middle School was named a 2014 ‘Texas Schools to Watch’ for academic excellence
P HOTO COU RTESY OF LAK E TRAV I S I N DE P E N DE N T S CHOOL DI STRI CT
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Lake Travis area and surrounding communities have become a staple for public educational and successful athletic programs. The area is rich with countless state championship programs in several sports.
EMPOWERING MINDS • EQUIPPING HANDS • ENGAGING HEARTS
4K - 12TH GRADE CHRIST CENTERED – COLLEGE PREP Hyde Park Schools is a private Christian school system offering an excellent, Christ-centered, college preparatory 4K through 12th grade education on two campuses in Austin, Texas.
Creating the Future One Student at a Time HYDE PARK HIGH SCHOOL
11400 N. Mopac Expwy, Austin, TX 78759
ELEMENTARY & MIDDLE SCHOOL
LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM 3901 Speedway, Austin, TX 78751
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» EDUCATION IN LAKE TRAVIS • L ake Travis Elementary School was named a 2011 National Title I Distinguished School for innovation in helping students achieve high educational standards • LTISD earned a Platinum Leadership Circle Award from the Texas State Comptroller’s Office in recognition of the District’s financial transparency • LTISD received a four-star rating on the Financial Allocation Study for Texas, a report which examines the relationship between spending and student achievement among districts and campuses statewide • For the 13th consecutive year, LTISD received a rating of ‘Superior Achievement’ under the Texas school finance accountability rating system • Lake Travis High School earned the University Interscholastic League Lone Star Cup for team performance in district and state championships during the 2011-2012 school year • Lake Travis has won 32 state championships since the start of the 2007-08 school year. That includes seven individual state champions in academic events, five football state
From the public schools that are a part of the Lake Travis Independent School District, to private schools in the area, education in Lake Travis is exemplary. championships and a mix of others in golf, swimming & diving, tennis and volleyball. • Since 2007, Lake Travis High School has garnered 24 team and individual state championships in University Interscholastic League athletics and academics as well as in a wide variety of extracurricular clubs and activities.
Bee Cave Elementary School (Kindergarten through 5th Grades) The school curriculum covers a number of different areas including math, language
Lake Travis Elementary (Pre-Kindergarten through 5th Grades)
“Attendance zones” refer to the geographical boundaries that dictate which of the elementary and middle schools children attend. Children must attend the school in the area, or zone, where they live. However, with recent rezoning of the school district’s elementary and middle school boundaries, some students may be “grandfathered” into the school they are currently attending if the rezoning would otherwise have required them to go to a different school. “Grandfathering” is a process by which a student who meets specific criteria may be exempt from changing the school he/she currently attends because of an attendance zone change. The purpose of grandfathering is to provide a limited phase-in of new attendance zone requirements, thereby, providing families with certain options that may reduce family and educational disruption. For more information regarding LTISD School Attendance Zones, visit www.ltisdschools.org/attendancezones. LAK E T R AVIS VISITO R & R E LO CAT IO N GUIDE
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Lake Pointe Elementary School (Pre-Kindergarten through 5th Grades) The school curriculum covers a number of different areas including math, language arts, science, social studies, computer technology, as well as art, music, health/physical education, character education, special education, and gifted and talented programs. Lake Pointe Elementary is located at 11801 Sonoma Drive in Austin, Texas 78738.
In the early years of their schooling, children will attend school at one of six elementary schools depending on where families live within the District, also known as school attendance zones, covered later in the article.
ATTENDANCE ZONES AT LAKE TRAVIS ISD
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arts, science, social studies, computer technology, as well as art, music, health/ physical education, character education, special education, and gifted and talented programs. Bee Cave Elementary is located at 14300 Hamilton Pool Road in Austin, Texas 78738.
The school curriculum covers a number of different areas including math, language arts, science, social studies, computer technology, as well as art, music, health/physical education, character education, special education, and gifted and talented programs. Bilingual classes for English Language Learners and English as a Second Language are also supported daily at Lake Travis Elementary. The school is located at 15303 Kollmeyer Drive in Austin, Texas 78734. Lakeway Elementary (Kindergarten through 5th Grades) The school curriculum covers a number of different areas including math, language arts, science, social studies, computer technology, as well as art, music, health/physical education, character education, special education,
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» EDUCATION IN LAKE TRAVIS and gifted and talented programs. Lakeway Elementary is located at 1701 Lohman’s Crossing Road in Austin, Texas 78734. Serene Hills Elementary (Kindergarten through 5th Grades) The school curriculum covers a number of different areas including math, language arts, science, social studies, computer technology, as well as art, music, health/physical education, character education, special education and gifted and talented programs. Serene Hills Elementary is located at 301 Serene Hills Drive in Austin, 78738. West Cypress Hill Elementary School (Kindergarten through 5th Grades) The school curriculum at the District’s newest campus covers a number of different areas including math, language arts, science, social studies, computer technology, as well as art, music, health/physical education, character education, special education and gifted and talented programs. West Cypress Hills Elementary is located at 6112 Cypress Ranch Boulevard in Spicewood, 78669. Hudson Bend Middle School (6th through 8th Grades) The curriculum at the recently-expanded and renovated campus is designed around the core academic classes of mathematics, science, language arts, and social studies. Students may select academic or Pre-AP classes. The elective curriculum offers a broad array of courses including athletics, health, physical education, dance, art, choir, theater arts, band, orchestra, yearbook, Gifted and Talented/Discovery and several different technology classes. Students may also choose to take Spanish, Gateway to Technology, and Teen Leadership for high school credit. Students at all grade levels have the opportunity to participate in UIL 28
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academic competition, Student Council, National Junior Honor Society, and other faculty-sponsored clubs. UIL athletics is offered in Grades 7 and 8. Student may compete in football, cross country, volleyball, basketball, track and field, tennis, and golf. The school is located at 15600 Lariat Trail in Austin, 78734.
available to meet the needs of identified students. The school operates on an alternating block format with four, 90-minute classes meeting every other day. Four 9-week terms comprise the school year. Terms 1 and 2 make up the fall semester from August to December, while Terms 3 and 4 make up the spring semester from January to May.
Lake Travis Middle School (6th through 8th Grades)
In addition, a strong athletic program offers participation in 17 competitive sports. Students also have the opportunity to participate in band, drill team, cheerleading, choir, orchestra, debate, theater and UIL academic activities. There are also more than 50 student clubs and organizations across the campus. Lake Travis High School is located at 3324 Ranch Road 620 South in Austin, 78738.
The curriculum at the newly-reconstructed campus is designed around the core academic classes of mathematics, science, language arts, and social studies. The elective curriculum offers a broad array of courses including athletics, health, physical education, Spanish (8th), dance, art, choir, theatre arts, band, orchestra, yearbook, and digital graphics. Students at all grade levels have the opportunity to participate in UIL academic competition, NJHS, Gov Club (student council), math contests, art, choir, band, theatre arts and orchestra programs. UIL athletics is offered in Grades 7 and 8. Students may compete in football, cross country, volleyball, basketball, track and field, tennis, and golf. Eighth graders may also participate in cheerleading. The new Lake Travis Middle School is located at 4932 Bee Creek Road in Spicewood, 78669 Lake Travis High School (9th through 12th Grades) Lake Travis High School is a nationally-recognized, comprehensive high school serving approximately 2,500 students. The school offers more than 210 courses utilizing a multi-level curriculum designed to meet the needs of each student. Fourteen Pre-AP and 26 Advanced Placement courses are offered in English, math, science, social studies, computer science, other languages, music and art. A variety of career and technical courses are also offered. A special education life skills program is
Leander ISD
In addition to Lake Travis ISD, Leander ISD is another popular option for families wishing to get near the Lake Travis area. Leander ISD boundaries lie between Lake Travis and Round Rock. This is a highly developing area located northeast of Lake Travis. Featuring over 30 schools, 4000 faculty members, and 37,000 students, this district encompasses a vast area. Additionally, Leander ISD ranks 19th out of 937 in Texas for best districts of 2017. For families who wish to experience a commute or the more traditional full urban environment, Leander ISD offers plenty of options. Leander ISD has almost 3 times as many schools as Lake Travis ISD. The success of these campuses has caught the attention, must like Lake Travis ISD, of many education progression leaders. Leander ISD features a strong ethnic diversity among its students and teachers alike. Extracurricular activities rival Lake Travis ISD in success while offering an activity to peak any student’s interest. Leander ISD covers a vast area in Williamson County. The quality of
education within this district is truly genuine and of high standards. For public education in the Austin area, any family moving into this region will be hard-pressed to find two better school districts than Lake Travis and Leander ISD.
FUN FACT No. 03
Lake Travis High School has two former student football players in the NFL... Baker Mayfield and Garrett Gilbert.
Private Schools
Some parents may want their children to attend private schools rather than public schools. Residents of Lake Travis will find that they have a selection of private schools in the area that might be right for their children. 4 Points Academy 4 Points Academy is a dynamic private school for both elementary and middle school students, located in the Austin area. In addition to core subjects, 4 Points offers Spanish, Mandarin, Art, Music, Theater – even IT and programming, just to name a few. 4 Points Academy prides themselves on offering small class sizes, individual student attention and personal learning paths. They are located at 5145 RR 620 North, 78732. Bluebonnet Montessori Since 2001, Bluebonnet Montessori has provided students in the Lakeway area with excellent educational opportunities. The three-acre campus offers education on a wide range of subjects from geography, math, natural sciences, social development, writing, art and more for children from ages two and a half to ten. Find the school at 15099 Debba Drive, Lakeway, 78734. Hyde Park Schools Hyde Park Schools is a Christ-centered, college preparatory school system in Austin, Texas. Hyde Park serves 4K
International School of Texas International School of Texas is a non-profit, independent private school serving students age 2 through Middle School in the areas of Bee Cave, Lakeway, Steiner Ranch, Four Points, River Place, Westlake and the surrounding communities. The school’s mission is to provide students with rigorous academics while growing global citizens and global leaders. This is accomplished through the integration of the International Baccalaureate Program, the renowned British National Curriculum, and Singapore Math. IST offers a balanced program that includes Spanish, Mandarin, STEM, IT, Music, and PE. They are located at 4402 Hudson Bend Rd, Austin, 78734. Jardin De Ninos Interlingua School Multilingual education is important for the development of young minds. The Jardin
NUMBER
TOTAL ENROLLMENT
TOTAL TEACHERS
STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO
Elementary Schools
25
16,539
1,112
15:1
Middle Schools
7
8,190
558
15:1
High Schools
6
9,407
618
15:1
SCHOOL TYPE / LEVEL LEANDER ISD
through 12th grade students. Their programs are both challenging and academically strong. Hyde Park Schools is a ministry of Hyde Park Baptist Church with campuses in Central Austin (located at Hyde Park Baptist Church at Speedway/39th Street)and Northwest Austin (located at the HP Quarries Complex near Mopac/Braker).
De Ninos Interlingua School promotes the linguistic development of its elementary school students by teaching each child a second language along with the standard elements of the school’s curriculum; social studies, math, science, and art. The school is at 107 Ranch Road 620, Suite 300 in Lakeway, 78734. Lake Hills Montessori Since 2007, the Lake Hills Montessori campus has offered education for children from preschool through kindergarten. They have Montessori certified teachers, a Spanish curriculum, the traditional Montessori curriculum and are fully licensed by the Texas State Department of Protective and Regulatory Services. The school is at 3930 Ranch Road 620 S., Austin, 78738. Primrose Schools – Bee Cave, Lakeway & West Lake Hills Primrose Schools is a national system of accredited private preschools, with three locations serving the Lake Travis area: Bee Cave, Lakeway & West Lake Hills. Primrose Schools uses techniques to build a child’s skills, helping them to become more confident. Their goals are to instill the right foundations for future learning in life. Primrose of Beecave is located at 301 Juniper Trace, 78738. Primrose of Lakeway is located at 601 Ranch Road 620 South, 78734. Primrose of West Lake Hills is located at 3423 Bee Cave Road, 78746. The Magnolia School – Lake Travis The Magnolia School, founded in 2012, offers a year round extended CONTINUED PAGE 31
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L IMIT E D C L A S S S IZ E S
V E R T I S E R A D
SPOTLIGHT
E D U C AT I O N
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF TEXAS AN IB WORLD SCHOOL, PROVIDES A R I G O R O U S G L O B A L E D U CAT I O N
INSPIRING LEARNING EXPERIENCES
The International School of Texas is a non-profit, independent private school serving the areas of Bee Cave, Lakeway, Steiner Ranch, Four Points, River Place, Westlake and the surrounding communities. The school’s mission is to provide students with rigorous academics while growing global citizens and global leaders. “We strive to provide children with a strong academic foundation through the use of our global curriculum including the International Baccalaureate program, Singapore Math, Spanish and Mandarin, and our STEM program,” said Head of School Tim Reilly. “In addition to our global focus and academic rigor, we also place a high level of importance on children’s social and emotional education. We have equipped our inspiring learning spaces with 21st century collaborative furniture and flexible seating to accommodate the high level of differentiation, which happens on a daily basis. We find our modern classrooms optimize learning outcomes for all our students.”
NEW BUILDING COMING 2020
The school serves children from early childhood, age 2, through Middle School. IST is located on 12 beautiful acres overlooking the shores of Lake Travis, and features an outdoor play area that consists of large playscapes, a turfed soccer field with organic infill, a basketball court and net climber. “Our dynamic campus also includes many school gardens, two outdoor classrooms and nature trails. There is no shortage of outdoor spaces for our teachers and students to utilize and we continue to enhance our facilities and our grounds every year,” said Reilly. Admission to the school is offered on a rolling basis. “We limit our class sizes to keep them a bit smaller which ensures a successful learning environment,” said Bethani Emery, the director of admissions. Students also have the option of being part of the school’s soccer, robotics, cheerleading and drill teams. Open houses at the school are held regularly and individual tours are also offered to prospective families based on their scheduling needs. To enhance the global perspective of the children who attend IST, the school celebrates many cultural holidays and also hosts several community events each year as part of their Trailblazer Speaker Series. “We also offer international trips for IST families to broaden their experience of the world,” said Reilly. “We have already traveled to Peru, China, and Tanzania. There is no better way to open children’s hearts and minds to the world around them than for them to experience other cultures first-hand.” For more information about IST, please visit their website at www.istexas.org or call (512) 351-3403.
H A N D S - O N L E A R N IN G
EDUCATION IN LAKE TRAVIS school day from 7:30AM to 5:30PM. They offer a self-paced education, which lets some students pass through certain areas faster than others. They have a preschool program for children from three to five years old, and a traditional school program for children between six and thirteen years old. They also provide help with tutoring. The school’s address is 2903 Ranch Road 620 North, Building B & C, Austin, 78734. School in the Hills School in the Hills is a private Montessori school that offers a unique and diverse program for children 18 months through 6th grade. They support parent needs in addition to prepparing successful learners and offer before and after school programs. Communities in the area, such as Steiner Ranch, Grandview Hills and River Place, find School in the Hills to be a great place for their children to grow and learn. It is
Private tours
available upon request. Email us at admissions@ISTexas.org
located at 2900 N. Quinlan Park, 78732 and 10819 RR 2222, 78730 St. Andrew's Episcopal School The mission of St. Andrew's Episcopal School is to provide an enriched academic program within a Christian environment emphasizing the fulfillment of each student's potential. Their focus revolves around four main pillars: Scholar, Artist, Athlete and Servant. All students have the opportunity to explore success in academics, the arts, on the field or courts and as community servants. St. Andrew's Episcopal School has two beautiful campuses in Austin, thirteen grades and more than 900 students. St. Andrew's strives to inspire, enlighten, and ultimately graduate young men and women who can think critically, are passionate learners and joyful servant leaders in their communities. The Lower and Middle School is located
at 1112 West 31st Street in Austin, 78705 and the Upper School is located at 5901 Southwest Parkway in Austin, 78735. St. Gabriel’s Catholic School St. Gabriel’s Catholic School educates children in a Christ-centered environment that fosters character formation through scholastic excellence and physical, emotional, and spiritual growth. Students are inspired to be informed and ethical leaders who possess a lasting love of learning and a lifelong commitment to Catholic values and service. The school is located at 2500 Wimberly Lane in Austin, 78735. Trinity Episcopal School Trinity Episcopal School provides the children who attend the lower school and middle school with strong values as well as a great academic curriculum. The school helps children to explore the arts, such as music, drama, and visual arts as well. The school is at 3901 Bee Cave Road in Austin, 78746.
A global education in a beautiful Lake Travis location. Rolling admissions for Age 2 through Middle School.
“WE ARE IST!” - Internationally educated - Socially aware - Tomorrow’s leaders
Providing high-quality international education to children from Early Childhood, Age 2 through Middle School. Also offering 3 day and 1/2 day option for Early Childhood. Brain Friendly Learning. Spanish and Mandarin. Music. Healthy Eating. Inquiry/STEM Lab. Transportation Available.
An IB World School
4402 Hudson Bend Road, Austin, Texas 78734 • (512) 351-3403 • istexas.org LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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STAYING HAPPY &
HEALTHY As a visitor to Lake Travis—or a new resident—you probably have dozens of activities on your to-do list. Make health and safety your priority by quickly acquainting yourself with the area’s healthcare community. Your family deserves the best possible care – and you’ll find it in Lake Travis!
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» HEALTHCARE IN LAKE TRAVIS Preventative Care
Avoid common illnesses by visiting your Lake Travis physician on a regular basis. You can access a broad range of basic healthcare treatments and facilities at the areas modern, well-equipped urgent care centers. For example, the Bee Caves Urgent Care Center provides certain vaccinations, allergy treatments, flu shots, blood pressure checks, and much more. You can even get quick and easy physical examinations for family members who play sports and go camping.
Technological Innovation
You came to the right place! Lake Travis and Northeast Austin visitors and residents enjoy cutting-edge health facilities and some of the country’s finest healthcare professionals. From imaging suites to top-quality lab equipment, the Lake Travis healthcare community has everyone covered.
surgery suite. With DaVinci’s 3D fluorescence imaging and magnification systems, your doctor can get an unrivaled view of your unique physiology. Even better, the DaVinci system offers a level of safety and accuracy that surpasses even the world’s top surgeons. When it’s time to make an incision, you can rest assured as your surgeon controls every step of the process with this extremely precise and groundbreaking piece of technology.
Healthcare Facilities
Everyone can find quality, convenient healthcare throughout the Lake Travis area. In addition to the facilities mentioned below, consider the Austin Regional Clinic in Wilson Parke and the Seton Southwest Hospital. Austin Diagnostic Clinic This newly-opened ADC location in Steiner Ranch provides convenient sameand next-day appointments – minutes away from Lake Travis and the Hudson Bend. At this convenient, multi-specialty facility, you can access allergy, family practice, dermatology, podiatry, neurology, rheumatology, ENT, and pediatric doctors. Be aware – Google Maps may not direct
you to this new location. Enter the Quinlan Crossing Shopping Center from RM 620 and can find the ADC-SR in Building 1. Austin Regional Clinic A multi-specialty group offering accessible, reliable, convenient healthcare, Austin Regional Clinic focuses on primary care, family practice, pediatrics, and internal medicine, stress prevention, evidence-based treatment, same-day access, long-term doctor/patient relationships and coordinated care. Austin Regional Clinic focuses on high professional standards, promoting healthy lifestyles and building relationships with patients so that the Doctor/Patient relationship can be one that provides easy communication and trust. ARC has many locations across Central Texas, including the Lake Travis and surrounding areas. To schedule an appointment, visit www. arcappointments.com.
American Academy of Pediatrics: National website for children’s health resources; separate “Parenting Corner” website is comprehensive site for health-related news, questions, and other topics. www.aap.org www.healthychildren.org
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Lakeway This beautiful facility, which is a Primary Stroke Center and Level IV Trauma Center, provides comprehensive care, close to home. Their Emergency Department physicians are all board certified and provide 24/7 coverage; they are backed by a wide range of specialists including cardiology, neurology, neurosurgery, urology, gastroenterology, orthopedics, pain management, endocrinology, rheumatology, obstetrics, gynecology and more. Wait times are often ten minutes or less to see a physician and their Emergency Department patient satisfaction is consistently in the top 10% in the nation. The Labor and Delivery department offers extra-large birthing suites and they have a level II NICU on-site. Lakeway is building a center of excellence in neurological and neurosurgical care, including care for the most complex brain and spine conditions. You can find the BSWMC at 100 Medical Parkway in Lakeway (78738). For more information, call 512-654-5000 or visit www.bswhealth.com/lakeway.
Texas Medical Association: Listing of member physicians across the state, as well as information on general health resources; go to the “Find A Physician” tab to search by specialty or location. www.texmed.org
Bee Caves Urgent Care The BCUC staff provides many common healthcare services at 50 to 75% of
For example, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Lakeway boasts many innovative navigation technologies in the OR, as well as the DaVinci robot-assisted
FINDING A DOCTOR
Moving to a new city is exciting, but it also requires finding the grocery store you like, the schools your kids will attend – and the healthcare practitioners that fit the needs of your family. The following is a list of local and national physician resources, including the American Medical Association – where you can search for general practice physicians by location, specialty, and more. American Medical Association: Resource for general health information, as well as a search function for local physician resources under the “Patients” tab of the site. www.ama-assn.org
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FUN FACT emergency room costs. At this convenient facility, pateints can get quick treatment for minor injuries like lacerations, minor burns, broken bones, respiratory ailments, and dehydrations. Patients can access X-ray services and 12-Point EKG tests, as well as sports/work physical examinations. At the BCUC, anyone can get certain lab services and preventative medicines like vaccinations and flu shots. Appointment are not needed at this certified facility – just walk in anytime from 9 am to 9 pm. Visit the BCUC at 11614 FM 2244, Suite 130 in Austin (78738). St. David’s Emergency Center This medical center allows people in Lake Travis to access a full-service emergency room at any time necessary. Receive immediate, comprehensive care for a vast array of conditions, including heart attacks, strokes, head and spine injuries, respiratory distress, abdominal pain, dehydration, orthopedic injuries, sports injuries, and lacerations. This 24/7 emergency facility refers patients in need of extended care to St. David’s South Austin Medical Center. The SDEC includes 12 multipurpose exam rooms and a staff of board-certified doctors and nurses. If necessary, you can access its in-house CT scanner, diagnostic radiology equipment, ultrasound machine, and stat lab. St. David’s Emergency Center is located near the Bee Cave City Hall in the Hill Country Galleria shopping center at 12813 Galleria Circle, Bee Cave (78738). Vibra Rehabilitation Hospital of Lake Travis (VRH-LT) At this 36-bed facility, patients can recover from a wide variety of neurologic, traumatic, and orthopedic injuries. Visit the VRH-LT at 2000 Medical Drive in Lakeway (78734). This facility provides extended care and rehabilitation for amputees, people with spinal cord injuries, and patients recovering from strokes. Everyone can count on the VRH-LT to provide top-quality orthopedic rehabilitation to get them up and moving again.
No. 04
Baylor Scott & White hospitals currently have more national rankings for U.S. News and World Report's "Best Hospital Lists" than any other health system in Texas.
Urgent Care Clinics:
FastMed Urgent Care 6611 River Place Blvd, Suite 100 Austin, 78730 512-373-8583; www.fastmed.com FastMed Urgent Care prides itself on keeping patients in mind when they are in need of medical help. FastMed Urgent Care prides itself on being a “high quality” facility that is a “one stop shop” for more than just urgent medical situations. There is an easy-to-use check-in online for patients to prepare the urgent care for the arrival of a patient in need. The clinics “care and concern” for others is a staple for what FastMed Urgent Care wants to be. With extended hours before or after work or a school day, FastMed even extends its hours over the holidays to meet any need. With their “commitment to safety,” FastMed Urgent Care makes sure that their work environment is safe for its patients and its staff. Lastly, FastMed Urgent Care is very affordable with most insurances and there is even a discount program for people who will be challenged to cover the costs of urgent care right away. For a more personal touch, there is a testimonial section for people who want to hear about the good things that FastMed Urgent Care has accomplished over the years. Bee Caves Urgent Care 11614 FM 2244 Suite 130, Austin, 78738 512-263-3911; www.beecavesurgentcare.com Bee Caves Urgent Care is a very affordable clinic that helps adults and children alike with their medical needs. Open every day of the year, Bee Caves Urgent Care opens their doors at 9 a.m. and closes at 9 p.m. No appointment is ever needed when going to this urgent care. The hope at Bee Caves Urgent Care is for short waiting periods and lower costs than going to the emergency room. They achieve this by charging patients 50 to 75% less than a traditional emergency room. Most insurance plans
are accepted at Bee Caves Urgent Care, as well as major credit cards to pay for their services. All doctors are certified and are very experienced to help with any medical issue. At Bee Caves Urgent Care, they have the medical capabilities to treat illnesses and even minor traumas. On their website, visitors can check out the doctors who are on staff, as well as the many services they provide, and more information on the “Med Club.” This club provides a monthly insurance plan that could be used for any medical check-up or concern. An appointment can be made over the phone or by completing information on their website. Medspring Urgent Care Anderson Mill 11521 RR-620 #100, Austin, 78726 512-402-6830; www.medspring.com Medspring Urgent Care is a provider that could be used for medical injuries and illnesses. Every day of the week, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Medspring Urgent Care can help treat non-life threatening emergencies such as back pain, pink eye, viral infections, and so much more. Medspring Urgent Care can treat common illnesses, a variety of injuries, offer other health care options, and test and prevent illness with many vaccines. Medspring is very proud of the fact that they have a friendly staff that helps their patients feel at home. Appointments can be made to go to this urgent care or walk-ins are also accepted. Most insurance companies are accepted at Medspring and they also offer extras such as food, beverages, free Wi-Fi, and televisions in every patient room. On their site, there are a vast amount of reviews for how others have viewed the services Medspring has offered. One thing that makes Medspring Urgent Care different from most is the fact that they offer a blog on their website to help inform their customers on a variety of medical topics such as ACL repair, facts about the flu, and information on seasonal allergies. LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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LAKE TRAVIS
LIVING HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS
Since one of the largest investments in most peoples’ lives is a home, it typically requires a multi-dimensional view. In making the decision, the family considers the best location, affordability and accessibility. Empty nesters have a different vision of a home than those who have little ones scampering across the floor. Those with youngsters must consider more than the impressive home designs, granite countertops and cabinetry; the quality and proximity of local schools skyrocket to the top of their wish list.
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» HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS Families that are fortunate enough to discover Lake Travis are in for a treat. They are often lost in wonder as they examine all that the thriving communities have to offer; they exude ambience, an abundance of family-friendly amenities, a wide range of social activities and top- tier schools. Why, they may even insist they’ve struck gold.
The Birth of Lake Travis
Throughout history, communities have gathered and flourished around bodies of water. And thanks to the foresight and ingenuity of visionaries in 1942, the Mansfield Dam was constructed; this venture heralded the birth of the sparkling Lake Travis, which is now home to thousands of Texans. The mighty currents, courtesy of the Colorado River, sculpted new valleys across the beautiful Texas Hill Country. The result? More than 18,000 acres of glistening water and 270 miles of shoreline provide easy
Your
Neighborhoods in the Lake Travis area provide ample views of Texas sunsets and the beautiful hill country. access for a host of recreational water activities. Many of these activities are designed for individuals of all ages. Add to that the warm southern climate, and it’s easy to understand why water enthusiasts enjoy all that Lake Travis has to offer year around. And so, the list of reasons to call Lake Travis home continues to blossom. The transformed landscape managed to mesmerize prospective home buyers and expert builders, sparking a Texas-sized treasure hunt to stake their claims on a prized tract of land. Although 75 years have passed since, the hunt continues. Ample opportunities remain for those who wish to purchase an existing
waterfront estate, or build their own. These masterpieces are priced from $500k and climb well into the low seven figures. Some of these glamorous estates are within the Spanish Oaks community. Towering cathedral ceilings, glamourous archways and stunning swimming pools adorn these properties. However, more affordable residences, beginning at around $300k, are sprinkled across the hundreds of other vibrant communities. Even those on the lower end of the price spectrum still boast high-end amenities. Those who want to reside in a community where each home is unique will be delighted here in the land of Lake Travis.
r e d n e L s i v a r T e k La AJ Miller
Loan Ofcer, ,MLS S 03782 012.820.0.19 AJ.Miller@Fairwaymc.com ajmillergroup.com 1202 Lakeway Dr. Ste. 12 Lakeway, TX 78734 Copyright©2019 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. NMLS#2289. 4750 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718. 1-877-699-0353. All rights reserved. Other restrictions and limitations may apply. Equal Housing Lender.
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For decades, the teams of professional designers, project managers and craftsmen have been blending their deep industry insights and skills to create master-planned communities and they show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. The homes, existing or new, are crafted with premier energy-efficient products – and appliances - that meet and surpass standard home-building requirements. Each of the communities in the Lake Travis area is distinct; each was is developed to complement and enrich its own environment, whether it is a lakefront property that is only steps away from the water’s edge – or a home perched near a limestone cliff – most lie within gated a community. Regardless of the location, each has free access to its own spectacular view of nature – one that is hard to find in a large city.
Most of the existing homes that are currently available are three bedroom, but some of the larger ones boast as many as five or six. The living area of the homes obviously varies but generally fall between 2,000 – 5,000 square feet. Buyers can select from a large variety of sprawling home or even a cozy condo. The breathtaking homes and the picturesque, postcard worthy sunset on Lake Travis combine to inspire a refreshing lakeside lifestyle.
Looking for a Custom-Built Home?
With great excitement, these expert designers aligned with their own designated communities, somehow capture the dreams of exuberant clients who want a custom-built dream home. The architect dips the tip of the brush into a color pallet and effortlessly creates an image that seems to magically leap from the canvas to the lot. If a homebuyer has a flair for the
dramatic, such as a majestic, sun-saturated residence with soaring windows and elegant arches, the designers can most likely breathe life into it. They are like songwriters, these architectural dreamers; they always seem to have a wealth of unique, inspirational ideas tucked away in their imagination. With each new handshake between buyer and seller, the builders continue to find novel new ways to create a regal foyer or spacious bath. To allow the sun to cast a glorious display of prisms inside the home, builders can choose from an expansive selection of sleek exterior and interior glass that is aesthetically pleasing yet at the same time, designed for optimal functionality. That’s just the interior. Outdoor kitchens and charming patios are a few more amenities that builders can add to your dream home. Still other professional dreamers encircle the lot with a canopy of greenery, flowers, beautifully manicured
Buy or sell Lake Travis with Suzie
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» HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS lawns and trees. These landscaping marvels are sure to enrich the property and elevate one’s mood. And let’s not forgot the master artists who design opulent swimming pools, which could certainly be replicated along the French Riviera. Again, there’s a myriad of ways to add a pool, sauna or waterfall. Each community embraces its own set of guidelines and building restrictions. For example, Serene Hills is a restricted community with a limit of only 295 homes on 456 acres of land. Lots are more expansive than most other communities. Wildlife is a high priority for Serene Hills, which is why they have decreed that 114 of its acreage shall be preserved for parks. Lake Travis real estate is comprised of numerous prominent communities, including Lakeway, Spicewood, Briarcliff, Jonestown, Hudson Bend, Lago Vista, Pointe Venture, Volente, and Lower Basin.
Each neighborhood offers a variety of real estate options, including waterfront property, hilltop homes with spectacular lakefront views, and gated communities with easy access to the shore. As one may imagine, the communities around Lake Travis are buzzing with school-aged children. While all of the surrounding independent school districts are top rated and provide stellar academic opportunities, prospective buyers will have ample districts from which to choose.
Set Sail for a Real Estate Tour
Those who are searching for the perfect location have more than one way to tour the area. We highly advise that you survey the various communities while enjoying a boat ride. Landlocked communities don’t have this advantage, but with all the water in the area, this is a perfect way to achieve an almost 360 degree view
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of the place we hope you will call home. The excursion will hopefully provide you with a new appreciation of the allure of Lake Travis, as well as the serenity of the entire community. Another vantage point of taking a scenic lake view of property is to note the abundance of parks, marinas and docks. And of course, there are some secluded areas where the fish are just ready to be caught. Lake Travis has been adequately stocked with Largemouth Bass, Guadalupe Bass, White Bass, Striped Bass, Catfish and Sunfish. And not too far away from the edges of the community lie the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge and mile after mile of inviting trails. Another awe-inspiring place to visit is the 80 acre nature preserve which is home to the magnificent, prismatic 50 foot Hamilton Pond Waterfall. It’s an idyllic setting where you can escape the sounds of the city.
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» HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS To the north of the Lake, are the communities of The Hollows and Northshore on Lake Travis. These are the communities with deep water docks. And on the south side, two other communities also offer marinas with deep water docks: Rough Hollow and Reserve at Lake Travis. Lake Travis real estate is comprised of a conglomerate prominent communities. It’s an exhaustive list but a few of the communities include: Lakeside at Tessera On Lake Travis, Four Points, Hudson Bend, Rough Hollow, Dripping Springs, Spicewood, Lago Vista and Bella Montagna. Several spectacular parks in the immediate vicinity include: Pace Bend Park, Bob Wentz, Windy Point, McGregor Park, Tom Hughes Park, Mansfield Dam Recreation Park and Lakeway City Park. Since Austin is a magnet for businesses, especially in the technology industry, realtors still expect to see a continuous string of buyers and sellers, especially in Lake Travis. Most of these communities are close enough to Austin for commuters to make their daily trek back and forth to the office. The high-tech corridor is home to Apple, Microsoft, Intel and Oracle, but that’s just a sliver of the exhaustive list. As these companies grow and seek new talent, the Lake Travis communities will grow, as well. And to serve the needs of those in the area, the city is seeing an explosion of restaurants, shops, daycares, boutiques, etc. The City is also heavily populated with medical facilities. And for those who want to truly create a distance between work and home, Lake Travis continues to provide a more relaxed atmosphere than in the city. The latest U.S. Census Bureau offers data that indicates the booming population growth in Austin continues to power upward increasing the city’s density; clearly, the city of Austin itself will not be able to support the influx. Consequently, current residents are spilling over into the waterchiseled area of Lake Travis, and those in pursuit of a place to call home are headed to the suburbs, as well. 42
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FUN FACT No. 05
In April 2019, single-family home sales increased in Travis County by 8.4% to 1,449 sales. The median price for a single family home came in at $283,640, according to the Austin Board of Realtors.
In an article in Forbes, four cities in Texas – Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and Austin – are among the nation’s leading centers of population growth. While that is great news for the economy, the growth has drastically increased home values. Again, it’s another reason why the outlying Lake Travis communities should continue to welcome a steady new flock of home buyers. A large percentage of the acreage around Lake Travis is revered; actually, the entire Austin area has been designated as wildlife preserves and sanctuaries. So even if communities and builders wanted to extend their boundaries, they are out of luck. A labyrinth of nature trails crisscross up and down the hills and through the valleys. Here, hikers can set their own pace. Whether they are out for a day of birdwatching or a day of walking off calories, the trails are for their use. While most of the attention is to be focused on the lots, the exquisitely-designed estates, Lake Travis itself is a wonderland of its own. Its depth varies, but in some places is around 700 feet, making it safe for those who want to glide across the lake on skis or jet skis. The lake is also a sensational place to sail, scuba dive or windsurf. Shallower areas provide a luxurious escape for those near the shore who want to take a dip to escape the August heat. On the north side of Lake Travis, The Hollows and Northshore on Lake Travis are two of the larger neighborhoods with deep water docks. On the south side of Lake Travis, Rough Hollow
offers a deep water dock, and Reserve at Lake Travis offers a deep water marina. Lake Travis isn’t the only reservoir fed by the Colorado River, but residents will certainly challenge anyone who dares to say it’s not the best. With prime real estate and natural beauty, Lake Travis offers a splendid blend of easy country living that’s also easily accessible to the lights of the big City of Austin.
A Taste of the Good Life: Area Communities
The entire circumference of Lake Travis, from the north shore to the south, and back again, is splattered with resort-style communities, clubhouses, immaculate recreational facilities, swimming pools, lazy rivers, splash pads, parks brimming with nature and trails laced with leaves. Residents may also take advantage of any of the dozen golf courses with green velvet fairways dotting the Lake Travis area. With so many communities, existing homes, lots and builders, the decision won’t be an easy one, but the following information on area neighborhoods and communities can assist in your decision. Plus, it’s often been said that part of the adventure it the journey itself. Enjoy! BEE CAVE A small community at the end of Bee Caves Road and just off Highway 71 west of Austin, Bee Cave has exploded in popularity for its beautiful scenery and its accessibility to Austin. In fact, it’s estimated that more than
115,000 new residents will move into this triangle of land between Highway 71 and US 290 in the next 25 years, causing the Bee Cave area to undergo a whopping population increase of more than 600 percent by 2030. This fast-growing sub-rural community offers a wide variety of neighborhoods for homebuyers, including The Homestead, and portions of other subdivisions such as The Uplands and Lake Pointe, just to name a few. Bee Cave is an interesting mix of old and new homes – you’ll find everything from trailer homes to custom-built luxury homes in the master-planned development of Spanish Oaks that’s just on the periphery of Bee Cave, where home prices start in the $700s. Students here attend school in either the Eanes Independent School District, or the Lake Travis Independent School District – both of which boast an equally excellent reputation for outstanding academic and sports accomplishments. The opening of the Hill Country Galleria in 2007 has only added to the area’s appeal. This massive, 1.3-million-square-foot lifestyle center is a multi-use complex with 650,000 square feet of retail, 145,000 square feet of Class A office space, 300,000 square feet of multifamily housing, 80,000 square feet of retail pad space, 100,000 square feet of residential condominiums, and 50 acres of greenspace. Falconhead West Falconhead West, Bee Cave is a beautiful new golf course community located within the prestigious Falconhead neighborhood. The stunning homes average 3,300 square feet and the prices range from the $300s to $1 million. The homes offer stunning Hill Country views and have all the modern conveniences. Falconhead West homes are located just west of Austin and are built by Drees, Ryland Homes and Taylor Morrison with an extensive amount of upgrades available. As Falconhead West neighborhood lies within the Lake Travis Independent School District boundaries, students attend Bee Cave Elementary School, Lake Travis Middle School and Lake Travis High School.
Lake Pointe Lake Pointe is a young neighborhood offering spacious, 1 and 2 story homes, with an average price of $1 million. Lake Pointe developers aspired to keep the nucleus of the family paramount in their construction of the community. Residents can enjoy a charming
clubhouse, children’s playground with sturdy equipment, a swimming pool and direct lake access. With Austin just a mere 25 minutes away, residents can emerge temporarily from their quaint retreat and head to the city for entertaining, fine dining and perhaps the theater.
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» HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS The new 50-acre City of Bee Cave Central Park off 620 near Bee Cave Parkway is a top jogging spot. Students living in Lake Pointe are assigned to Lake Travis ISD. Spanish Oaks Spanish Oaks is a private, luxurious 1,200-acre community west of Austin in Bee Cave. Planners designed the exquisite
community as a retreat from the city where the only sound heard is a symphony of singing birds. The builders blended inspiration and architecture into their homes, which have an average price of $2 million. Serenity-seeking residents of Spanish Oaks may enjoy an abundance of premier amenities. The haven is framed with the sweeping landscape of a protected nature preserve. Besides the lavish beauty of the
masterful custom-built homes, Spanish Oaks is proud to showcase the beauty of the Texas Hill Country. The community is 20 miles from Austin, thus residents aren’t completely disconnected. Students in Spanish Oaks are assigned to Lake Travis ISD. Alternatively, they may wish to attend one of the dozen private schools in the area.
APARTMENTS + CONDOS To purchase a condo or rent an apartment? That is the question. Buy a condo or lease an apartment? Rephrasing it doesn’t seem to make the choice any easier. Regrettably, reaching a conclusion isn’t as simple as tossing a coin and calling heads or tails. Obviously, in the stew of indecision, the immediate financial impact associated with relocating bubbles to the top. Others factors of consideration that demand attention are scrambling to the surface, as well. They bear the names of: security, neighbors, easy access to the office, schools and amenities. If you can successfully place these particular issues on the back burner for a moment, you can enjoy a multi-dimensional view of the Texas Hill Country. Some call it paradise. Others say it’s a haven for gazing at Lake Travis, the focal point, from a myriad of locations. Regardless of its name, the Lake Travis area is about 25 miles from Austin. Just far enough away from the buzz to disentangle yourself from work, but not so far that you’d ignore an invitation to meet friends in the city for laughter and fine dining. And if you continue to zoom in on this slice of paradise, you will see hundreds of communities - sprawling across Lake Travis - clearly come into focus. The lakeside lifestyle seems to be too compelling to disregard. The sweeping landscape isn’t home to just traditional home owners; the beauty of the Texas Hill Country, courtesy of Mother Nature, is complimentary to all viewers. Once you savor the invigorating pace and rich diversity of Lake Travis, it’s easier to cross other locales off your list; now your journey to find a place to call your own can begin. At least if you’ve narrowed down the location of your future home to the Lake Travis area, that’s a self-congratulatory, monumental action step. Leasing an apartment has the flavor of freedom attached to it, because it doesn’t sound as permanent; depending upon 44
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the contract, it may terminate after one year. Instead of providing notification to a landlord of your decision to vacate, selling a condo typically involves a realtor – and associated commission fees. The Allure of the Resort-Worthy Amenities
When you take a quick glance of the perks that both apartments and condos offer, there may not appear to be a huge difference. For comparisons sake, you can create a side-by-side list of the pros and cons. No doubt, both provide excellent opportunities for socializing and exercising. By day, the exquisitely designed swimming pools, brimming with sparkling water, beckon those seeking relief from the heat. By twilight, the final rays of the sun dance upon the crystal clear water. One may have the illusion he or she is vacationing on a secluded island. Then there are the comparable, spacious clubhouses which can be rented for events. And most provide 24/7 access to a fully-equipped fitness center. This could potentially mean that those who are paying steep prices at other gyms could cancel their annual membership and redirect those earmarked funds elsewhere on the budget. The Lake Travis Showcase of Apartments and Condos
Many of the neighborhoods encompassing Lake Travis are home to apartments and condos, including Steiner Ranch, Bee Cave, the City of Lakeway, Falconhead and Lago Vista. Fortunately, the designers and builders of these alternative homes - that are woven all around Lake Travis - had a vision for excellence. Some offer a waterfront view and a private boat dock. The Watersone, with 71 units in Lago Vista, is one such community. Its architecture is distinctive from most others. Why settle for boring if you don’t need to, right? This particular
DRIPPING SPRINGS The name Dripping Springs is a hint that the community is drenched with beautiful scenery and easy attitude. Real estate properties available in Dripping Springs include ranches, acreage, and homes from the $300s to $1 million. Some of the master-planned communities in Dripping Springs are Arrowhead Ranch, Caliterra,
LAGO VISTA
Founders Ridge and Headwaters. Although not officially in the Dripping Springs city limits, these four communities are on the edge of Austin, just minutes from Dripping Springs’ town center.
Rich with picturesque views, Lago Vista is a prosperous community that offers plentiful recreational activities that truly inspire the lakeside lifestyle.
Dripping Springs is one of those communities that has its own Independent School District for residents who have school-aged youngsters.
Since the city was incorporated three decades ago, Lago Vista has blossomed into a thriving community. Lago Vista has more than 15 miles of shoreline on
condo prides itself in a unique Italian design, and could be scooped up, carried across the Atlantic and resettled among the elaborate villas that overlook Lake Como in Northern Italy’s countryside. Incentives such as outdoor fire pits, miles of an unobscured view of the shoreline and an abundance of nature trails should ensure that current occupants remain, and prospective buyers will jump at a chance to obtain a deed and a new set of keys. Floor plans and square footage of comfortable living space are other factors to be contemplated in the decision making process. These days, some condos offer about as much space as starter homes. Whereas, the living area in most apartments is a bit scarce. Yet some interiors focus on creating a perception of greater space with high ceilings and floor to ceiling windows. While there may be a tradeoff in elbow room, you won’t have to sacrifice ambiance and serenity in these units. A survey by Apartments.com issued several interesting facts concerning units in and around Lake Travis. The smallest, one bedroom apartment, of 845 square feet has an approximately monthly cost of $1,300. On the flip side of the spectrum, a four bedroom unit boasting 2,885 square feet should cost close to $2,900 each month. While a one or two bedroom condo may usually offer more living space than an apartment, it’s not as easy to calculate and compare monthly payments. Primarily, the amount of the original loan, down payment and interest rates will play significant roles in the total monthly cost. And depending upon the community, the annual homeowners’ association fees will vary significantly. While some may view these fees as superfluous, the benefits are that the property will have the necessary funds
to maintain the well-manicured landscaping. And the dues also are allocated to facilities and equipment maintenance. As residents will want to utilize the clubhouse, pool and fitness equipment they will certainly want these to be fully-functioning. Therefore, this should outweigh the downside of the fees. The sheer fact that apartments and condos are located in Lake Travis speaks volumes of the integrity those who own and operate these facilities. So the chances of properties falling into disrepair are very slim. One drawback with leasing an apartment is that the renter forfeits any right to claim an interest deduction on the annual individual income tax return. Since those who secure a mortgage to purchase a condo will indeed be charged hefty annual interest on their mortgages, at least they can find some consolation in knowing their overall tax liability will be reduced. Whether you select an apartment or condo in the serene hills of Lake Travis, most likely, your unit will lie within a gated, secure community. Some may also offer patrol units that keep watch whether you are at work, on one of the many golf courses, swimming or sleeping. And finally, what about your beloved pets? Most are accommodating but it’s certainly something you’ll want to investigate. Storage space may also be a deciding factor. Those with more furniture than can fit into either an apartment or a condo, may need to rent offsite storage space. Hopefully, this guide will provide some new insight in what to consider when you make Lake Travis you official new home. If you are ready to dive in, a home in the refreshing hideaway of Lake Travis awaits you. LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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» HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS Lakeside at Tessera On Lake Travis offers stunning views, beautiful homes and a variety of amenities for residents that are sure to please.
P HOTO BY ROB ALDRIDGE P HOTOGRA P HY COU RTESY OF LAK ES I DE AT TES S E RA ON LAK E TRAV I S
the North Shore of Lake Travis. There is year-round golfing, tennis, boat and jet-ski rentals, fishing and kayaking in the area. The Balcones Canyonland National Wildlife Refuge is located just west of Lago Vista of FM 1431. The refuge include hiking and nature trails. Events include the peloton La Primavera Lago Vista bike race in March, the Songbird Festival in April and Lago Fest on the Saturday before Memorial Day. Lakeside at Tessera On Lake Travis Lakeside at Tessera On Lake Travis is a gem; it’s an 875-acre master-planned community. Sitting on the north shore of Lake Travis, Tessera is adorned with gently waving trees and quietly drinks in the splendor of the majestic Texas Hill Country. The community, developed by the award-winning real estate developer, Hines, is often called an oasis packed with outdoor recreational activities and resort-caliber amenities. It’s one of those win-win situations; residents enjoy the unrivaled natural beauty but aren’t too far from the city lights of Austin. Prospective home buyers new to the area will be mesmerized by the majesty of the rolling hills; Lakeside at Tessera has been known to cast a spell upon such visitors – as many never leave. To the south, 46
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sunbeams dance across Lake Travis. And off to the west and north is the expansive Balcones Canyonlands Wildlife Refuge. Lakeside at Tessera offers homebuyers a blend of homes with prices that begin at the mid $200's. Hines hand-selected several homebuilders to partner with them in the project including, Emerie Custom Homes, Highland Homes and Wilshire Homes. Their superior craftsmanship and attention to detail, as well as their understanding of the community’s unique natural surroundings, are just a few reasons Hines brought them onboard. Lakeside at Tessera homes are captivating but so are the recreational amenities, which lure residents outdoors to mingle. Even on a quiet, reflective walk, one can admire the community’s scenic surroundings. Lakeside at Tessera features a sprawling negative edge pool, patio and splash pool. The outdoor pavilion offers a perfect atmosphere for community events and impromptu gatherings just a short stroll from home. For those who prefer a nature walk, the hilly greenbelt trails in Lakeside at Tessera entice residents to traverse them. Just beyond the borders of the community lies the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, with meandering trails.
In addition to the scenery surrounding Lakeside at Tessera, there’s also a superb educational asset; students are assigned to the stellar Lago Vista Independent School District (ISD). Inside the classrooms, students are introduced to the academic world; outside, they enjoy the playing field and can participate in extracurricular activities. Lago Vista ISD has a total enrollment of nearly 1,450 students, allowing for very favorable 14:3 student-to-teacher ratios. In the latest accountability ratings provided by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), the school district and its three campuses met standards and performed above targeted scores in four key areas including student achievement, student progress, closing performance gaps and postsecondary readiness. To accommodate growth, Lago Vista ISD built a $30 million high school campus with a 2,500-seat football stadium. It also houses an expansive Performing Arts Center, which can be rented for youth sport camps or community theater. Lakeside at Tessera’s convenient location provides access to the thriving commercial areas of northwest Austin, the home of some of the world’s most innovating companies including, Apple, Microsoft, Intel, Oracle and Google. Aside from the easy commute to the epicenter of Austin’s high-tech corridor, Lakeside at Tessera has a direct, convenient link to numerous shopping and entertainment venues including 1890 Ranch, Lakeline Mall, the Arboretum and The Domain. Countless other grocery stores, pharmacies, wineries, restaurants, movie theaters, churches, spas and other everyday conveniences are minutes from Lakeside at Tessera.
We are more than business partners— we are family. As Lake Travis natives, we know there is no better place to live and raise our family! To elevate our business and provide you with the best service possible, we have partnered with Compass, a sophisticated, forward-thinking company, focused on real estate innovation and top-tier service. Some of our favorites things about Compass are:
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Allows us to curate buyer interest and a pre-market buzz for our sellers, and offer our buyers exclusive access to listings before they hit the market.
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Compass fuses the best of a brokerage and a startup to provide a modern real estate experience.
Agent Network
Compass hand picks the top agents in each market based on tenure, values, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Please give us a call if you are interested in buying or selling!
Guy & Morgan Oberg 512.633.0369 theoberggroup@compass.com theoberggroup.com
All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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» HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS LAKEWAY The City of Lakeway is one of the most prestigious communities in the Lake Travis area. In this cozy paradise, one will find a highly modernized suburban lifestyle with pro-designed golf courses and pleasant shopping centers.This area encompasses Rough Hollow, The Canyons at Cardinal Hills, and the Preserve at Lakeway among others. What was once a sleepy retirement community, the City of Lakeway is now a vibrant, bustling city. To keep up with the expansive growth, the new Serene Hills Elementary recently celebrated its grand opening. Homes in the named neighborhoods tend to be newer, while the majority of Lakeway is an easy flow of new and older homes. In Lakeway, residents enjoy the best of Hill Country boating, golfing and tennis, all within thirty minutes of downtown Austin. Homes in the area start in the low 100,000’s and soar into the millions, with most in the $200,000-$800,000 range.
PH OTO BY JAY B R ITTAIN OF STUDIO J P HOTOGRAP HY C O URTESY OF LAK ESIDE AT TESSERA
Bella Montagna Bella Montagna in Lakeway is as lovely as the Italian word implies. This exclusive, gated community has its own display case of trophy custom built homes. Each home, with an average price of $1.3 million, is unique in its custom finishes including, grand foyers, sweeping staircases, opulent baths, lavish swimming pools, etc. No cookie-cutter homes in this community. Even the entrance is bedecked with a fountain and palm trees that gracefully welcome residents to the upscale community. The additional brilliant landscaping is courtesy of Mother Nature. The Bella Montagna neighborhood lies within the Lake Travis Independent School District boundaries and students attend Lake Travis Elementary School, Hudson Bend Middle School and Lake Travis High School. Flintrock Falls For those who think of golf as less of a hobby and more of a lifestyle, Flintrock Falls epitomizes the ideal community. Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Flintrock Falls is a delightful secluded retreat. The average home is priced around $1 million and contains 3,800 square feet of divinity. Within the neighborhood, home buyers can choose from home sites that provide creek, golf course, or Hill Country views. Seven of the neighborhood’s custom homes, crafted by some of Austin’s most prestigious builders, are often featured in the Showcase of Homes. Built around the Nicklaus-designed golf course of the same name, Flintrock Falls borders yet another stellar golf course at The Hills Country Club. Residents take advantage of fine dining and family activities at the country club - or head down to Lakeway Marina to hit the water. Students residing in Flintrock Falls attend schools within the Lake Travis ISD. The Preserve at Lakeway The Preserve at Lakeway is a beautiful community consisting of single family
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homes ranging from 1,800-6,000 square feet in size. Additionally, three smaller communities of condominium homes lie within The Preserve at Lakeway: The Terrace at the Preserve, The Preserve at Lakeway Villas, and The Courtyard at the Preserve. The Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, a habitat for endangered plant and animal species native to this area, hem the northern and eastern edges of The Preserve community. The Preserve at Lakeway neighborhood lies within the Lake Travis ISD boundaries and students attend Lake Travis Elementary School, Hudson Bend Middle School and Lake Travis High School. The Ridge at Alta Vista Surrounded by the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve on all sides, The Ridge at Alta Vista is a gated community that offers both townhome options and home sites. The average price of a home is $611k. With easy access to Bee Cave and Lakeway, this enviable location offers top-notch spacious home sites with exhilarating views of the hill country. The Ridge at Alta Vista neighborhood lies within the Lake Travis Independent School District boundaries, and students are zoned to the following schools Lakeway Elementary School, Lake Travis Middle School and Lake Travis High School. Rough Hollow Rough Hollow is perched high upon limestone cliffs and overlooks the shimmering waters of a tranquil, secluded cove on Lake Travis. This relatively new waterfront community spills over onto 1,800 acres and offers spectacular views of the amazing cliffs of Lake Travis. The intimate master-planned community is comprised of 17 different sections, each providing spectacular hill country views. Prices within this intimate community range from the mid $300s to more than $3 million. Rough Hollow has a vast array of homes to choose from, everything from
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» HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS environment and offer programs for extracurricular participation. Serene Hills The name encapsulates the essence of the name of this community: Serene Hills. A master planned community, Serene Hills features exquisite homes on spacious lots. Showcased as the Gateway to Lakeway, the luxury residential community is drenched with unspoiled beauty, and is shrouded in rustic oak trees. Prices on these homes begin around $600, and styles range from contemporary Mediterranean to Hill Country Modern. Serene Hills is a restricted community with a limit of only 295 homes on 456 acres of land. Lots are more expansive than most other communities. Wildlife is a high priority for Serene Hills, which is why they have decreed that 114 of its acreage shall be preserved for parks. It is located between State Highway 71 and Bee Cave, offering easy access to Lakeway and Austin. Serene Hills lies within the Lake Travis ISD boundaries. SPICEWOOD garden homes in The Villas to elegant custom houses at Waters Edge and exclusive lake-view sites in The Enclave. Secluded lots with breathtaking views are available in East Rim, The Bluffs, and The Overlook. The cornerstone of the community is the Rough Hollow Yacht Club and Marina. The facility includes a resort-style pool, club house, concierge and valet. Residents can rent a slip from one of the 13 docks. Scuba divers may vanish beneath the water for a while to marvel at the hidden beauty of marine life. Golfers can enjoy any of the 8 golf courses. Those in the mood for tennis can use one of the 16 courts at the entrance of Rough Hollow Lakeway. Students in Rough Hollow attend the award-winning Lake Travis ISD. These schools create a positive learning 50
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If a home with a rural flavor is more your style, Spicewood may well suit your taste. The small, unincorporated community near the Village of Briarcliff offers residents a pleasant, restful atmosphere. Those with an appetite for wine and art will be pleased to know that Spicewood is home to three area wineries that offer tours. And for those who enjoy the visual and performing arts, Spicewood Arts Society has been actively supporting visual, performing and literary arts in the area since 2000. Students living in this area fall under the Marble Falls Independent School District. Schools include Spicewood Elementary School, Marble Falls Middle School, and Marble Falls High School. The Reserve at Lake Travis The Reserve at Lake Travis is a luxury waterfront gated community on the
south shore of Lake Travis. The Reserve features miles of pristine shoreline and beckons water enthusiasts of all kinds. Golfers will also enjoy several championship courses nearby. The Reserve offers residents of the community access to a resort-style pool, state-of-the-art marina, oversized home sites and more. The Reserve at Lake Travis neighborhood lies within the Lake Travis Independent School District boundaries and students who live in The Reserve attend Bee Cave Elementary School, Lake Travis Middle School and Lake Travis High School. West Cypress Hills Superb hill country living awaits you in West Cypress Hills. The community has more than 1,000 acres of rugged hill country terrain, as well as a family pool, lap pool, playground, rambling nature trails and sports courts. A sparkling new amenity center is perfectly situated on top of a bluff as if it’s a sentry standing guard over the powerful Colorado River. West Cypress Hills is located off Highway 71, about 11 miles west of the City of Bee Cave. Residents can enjoy the country life but aren’t too far away from the conveniences of Hill Country Galleria, a newly remodeled HEB and lots more. Future plans for the neighborhood include two new sections as well a new Lake Travis ISD Elementary School and new community park. The schools that serve this community are West Cypress Hills Elementary School, Lake Travis Middle School and Lake Travis High School. VILLAGE OF THE HILLS The Village of the Hills is an idyllic haven that boasts residential real estate at its finest. A hallmark of the Village is the signature golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus. Other courses are available as well. Tennis and exercise enthusiasts may also enjoy The World of Tennis Club.
Amenities include 16 outdoor tennis courts, two climate-controlled indoor tennis courts, fitness facility, men’s and ladies’ locker rooms, a kids’ court, recreational swimming pool, a rejuvenating full-service spa and café. School-aged children attend schools within the Lake Travis ISD. Hills of Lakeway For boat lovers, the Hills of Lakeway community is a dream come true. It’s also a prime locale for golf enthusiasts, retirees and vacationers. Homes have an average price of $740k with about 3,600 square feet of delightful living space. The guarded, picturesque community has an abundance of shops and gourmet restaurants nearby. Residents also can enjoy The Hills Country Club, and the sister club Flintrock Falls’ course. School-aged children attend top rated schools within the Lake Travis ISD. VILLAGE OF BRIARCLIFF The Village of Briarcliff sits on the gleaming south shore of Lake Travis, and offers a mixture of smaller homes built in 70s and 80s, but new luxury homes are currently under construction. Briarcliff homes range in prices from the $200s to over $1 million. Residents have exclusive access to their own private marina, a 9-hole golf course, library, hike and bike trail, tennis courts and more. The community lies within the boundaries of the highly-acclaimed Lake Travis ISD. What began in the 1960s as a weekend getaway for lake lovers has blossomed into a permanent home for more than 1,000 delight residents. VOLENTE The Village of Volente is a community on the northern edge of Lake Travis. Waterfront and hill country lots are still available for those looking to build. Multimillion dollar estates, charming ranches and everything in between can be found in Volente. Lake Travis is the highlight of this region and water enthusiasts have a wide range of parks and marinas from which to choose. Lake Travis has been generously
stocked with numerous species of fish to support recreational fishing. Some of the fish in Lake Travis include Largemouth Bass, Guadalupe Bass, White Bass, Striped Bass, Catfish and Sunfish.
is comprised entirely of custom built homes constructed between 2003 and 2008. The community has a perfect location off of Ranch Road 620, just a mile north of Lakeway.
While the Village of Volente offers a delicious slice of country living, it is just a short 18-mile hop to Austin. Residents enjoy remarkable lakeside views, and for neighbors, they have the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve. This is a wildlife refuge for eight endangered species found in central Texas. Students in the Village of Volente attend schools within the Leander ISD.
The Canyons at Cardinal Hills neighborhood lies within the Lake Travis Independent School District boundaries and students living in Cardinal Hills attend Lake Travis Elementary School, Hudson Bend Middle School and Lake Travis High School.
Additional Lake Travis Area Neighborhoods
Many communities in the Lake Travis area are large enough to cross city boundaries or have an Austin address but still have residents attending Lake Travis schools. The following is a sampling of some of those communities. Belvedere Those wishing for the ultimate in privacy and country seclusion can find it at Belvedere. Enchanting custom homes with the average price at $1.5 million are sprinkled across 442 acres of hill country, but many lots are still on the market for about $225k. The luxurious, vast homes are awash with premier designer touches. The gated Belvedere community offers many unique outdoor facilities, including a lazy river that can virtually transport one to the Caribbean – without the hassle of a flight. An 80-acre nature preserve with the bejeweled 50 foot Hamilton Pond Waterfall allures residents to gaze in wonder at its perpetual fountain. The Belvedere neighborhood lies within the Lake Travis Independent School District boundaries, and students attend Bee Cave Elementary School, Lake Travis Middle School and Lake Travis High School The Canyons at Cardinal Hills If you’re looking for a smaller-sized neighborhood in a great Lake Travis location, then The Canyons at Cardinal Hills might be exactly what you’re looking for. This community
Four Points On the very eastern edge of the Lake Travis area is a community that is experiencing tremendous growth. Within Four Points is a cluster of apartments, condos and homes bursting with children. Residents in the area are delighted to learn of the progress being made in the proposed $18 million bypass connector road project, as it will drastically ease traffic congestion. Four Points is centered where FM 620 and RR 2222 meet and traffic is more often snarled than not. The list of prospective home buyers keeps rising, but the 76 home builders are confident they can match prospective buyers with their dream homes. Families seeking a small starter home, as well as those in dire need of 4 or 5 bedrooms will have a selection from which to choose. The average price is $487k but some of the magnificent residences top out around $6 million. Leander Independent School District is educating more than 38,000 on their 42 campuses. According to a report from the Austin Chamber of Commerce, LISD enrollment has soared 127% since 2002, making it one of the fastest growing districts in Central Texas. Students residing in the Four Points area attend River Place Elementary, Four Points Middle School, and Vandegrift High School. Several new Montessori schools have also seen robust enrollment. LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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» HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS Hudson Bend Nearly twenty miles northwest of Austin lies the scenic, unincorporated community of Hudson Bend, adjacent to Mansfield Dam. Since Hudson Bay is located on a peninsula, most of the 4,000 acres carpet the area along the water’s edge. Back in the 1800s, when two settlers, Wiley and Catherine Hudson, set up house they probably never envisioned that their slice of property would become so coveted. Originally a farming community, the landscape saw a dramatic change in the 1940s with the construction of the dam. More work crews arrived and soon, there was a roadway to allow the country folks access to the city. Eventually, engineers dammed up the river, which gave birth to Lake Travis. Acres of water provided a great playground for families. Today, nearly 2,500 residents call Hudson Bend home. Of the 1,000 homes, there’s a wide range of prices; mobile homes to mansions. No one appears to mind, as all residents seem to think the diversity enriches the lakeside community. Marinas, restaurants and small businesses line the waterfront. For most of the year, the lake offers activities such as windsurfing, waterskiing, water sailing and of course, fishing. A large majority of the residents on Hudson Bend are enjoying retirement, while 20 percent of the population are under 18. Students attend Lake Travis ISD schools including Lake Travis Elementary School, Hudson Bend Middle School, and Lake Travis High School. Steiner Ranch In the mind of T.C. “Buck” Steiner, his swath of rolling hills was merely a place in the country where he could work his cattle. That was until developers transformed 4,600 acres in the mid-1990s into one of the largest master planned communities in the Austin area. Steiner Ranch is home to 43 upscale neighborhoods, with community centers and a championship golf course. 52
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FUN FACT No. 06
Between Steiner Ranch and the Four Point Area you can find River Place Nature Trail, one of Lake Travis' best hiking trails.
The average price of a home in the prestigious Steiner Ranch is $737,000. They offer traditional brick ranchers, Craftsman-style cottages, all the way up to Tuscan-inspired waterfront estates. Some of the builders in Steiner Ranch include David Weekly, Highland Homes, Plantation Homes, Mercedes and Drees Custom Homes. Luxury, gated Steiner Ranch homes blend well with the charming, affordable 1 and 2- story residences. For buyers who wish to have a custom home built, lots are available throughout the community. Steiner Ranch has not one – but three sprawling community centers, each offering a wide assortment of family-designed activities. In addition to swimming pools and splash pools, each center has its own tennis courts, and fields to appease Frisbee, soccer or football enthusiasts. For those who have a vision of an event they’d like to host on the property - but lack imagination of how to breathe life into it - you’re in luck; a full-time activities coordinator is on site at one of the centers. Students residing in Steiner Ranch attend some of the finest public schools in Central Texas, within the Leander Independent School District. The growing community has three elementary schools, which feed directly into the middle school. Developers planned Steiner Ranch as an active community, and designed its residents could have easy access to a nature conservation. More than 20 miles of connecting hiking and biking trails weave through all 43 communities. Two nearby lakes can provide a host of
outdoor activities, although Lake Austin is quieter than Lake Travis. Sweetwater Nestled in the Bee Cave area off Highway 71 is a social community called Sweetwater. It’s relatively new but already has a reputation for offering fine life in the hill country. Yet it still cultivates a close-knit feeling of community for residents. It’s an opulent master-planned community that set aside half of its 1400 acres to be used as parks and greenbelts. Sweetwater Clubhouse has its own 10 acres and residents can enjoy the resortstyle pool, splash pads as well as a sports field. The properties in Sweetwater range from the mid $300s to the mid $700s, offering families of any size a large selection of styles and floor plans. Some of the builders include David Weekley, Coventry Homes, Ashton Woods Homes, Drees, Morrison and Ryland Homes. It’s 25 minutes from Austin, just far enough for residents to savor country living but close enough for commuters to get to and from work easily. Sweetwater students are assigned to schools within the highly-acclaimed Lake Travis Independent School District: West Cypress Hills Elementary, Lake Travis Middle School and Lake Travis High School. In 2019, U.S. News & World Report ranked Lake Travis High School 113rd within Texas. Additionally, Lake Travis High is the only high school in Texas to have the High School Business Program.
Competitive rates for mortgages up to $5 million At Bank of America, we offer jumbo loans that can meet a variety of needs. The benefits of a jumbo loan include: Loan amounts up to $5 million on owner-occupied properties, up to $3 million on second homes and up to $1 million on investment homes1 Competitive fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs),2 10-year interest-only payment option on ARMs up to $5 million and on fixed-rate mortgages up to $2 million3 Down payments as low as 10.01% with no mortgage insurance for qualified borrowers on owner-occupied properties with loan amounts up to $1 million (not available with an interest-only payment option)
Contact me to learn more.
Ronald Mulso Wealth Management Lending Officer NMLS #: 229785 512.585.8345 111 CONGRESS AVE Austin, Texas 78701 ron.mulso@bankofamerica.com https://mortgage.bankofamerica.com/ronmulso
Bank of America’s Digital Mortgage Experience™ Apply through my website: You'll save time and have more control over your mortgage process. You can choose loan options, lock your rate, upload documents and more.
1
Minimum down payment requirements vary by property type and location. Loan amount, interest-only payment option, loan-to-value percentage, property and/or occupancy type may require a higher level of reserves and/or post-closing liquidity. Two separate full appraisals may be required. Excellent credit required, including proof of recent consistent housing payment history. Not available on all loan programs. Other restrictions apply, ask for details. 2 When deciding whether an adjustable-rate mortgage is right for your situation, you should consider the potential risk of rising rates and payments and such factors as how long you plan to own your home. 3 Many of our loans have a 10-year interest-only payment option that allows you to pay only the interest on the money you borrow. If you pay only the amount of interest that’s due, once the 10-year interest-only period ends, you still will owe the original amount you borrowed, and your monthly payment will significantly increase — even if interest rates stay the same — because you must pay back the principal as well as interest. You should ask what the payments on your loan will be after the end of the interest-only period and carefully consider the possibility of “payment shock.” If you are considering an adjustable-rate mortgage, ask what your payments can be if interest rates increase. Loans with an interest-only payment option may require a lower loan-to-value ratio, other restrictions apply, ask for details. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. ©2019 Bank of America Corporation. ARDGJDTH | AD-01-19-2776.A | HL-116-AD | 08-2018 LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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THIS IS THE
LIFE LEISURE + RECREATION
The Lake Travis area has countless things to see and do for the residents who make their homes here, as well as those who just come through the area for a visit. Something fun and interesting is always just around the corner. When you stop to look at the variety of activities, places to stay, and ways to spend your time that the Lake Travis area has to offer, it is easy to see and understand just why it is a fantastic destination for visitors and residents.
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» LEISURE + RECREATION Club and Pedernales Golf Club aka Willie Nelson’s Cut-N-Putt.
With the beautiful weather, one of the most popular activities for residents and visitors, is golf. Lake Travis is home to a plethora of golf courses, including public and private courses. Golf & Leisure
Each of these golf courses offers something special. Architects of the PGA Tour Design laid out Falconhead Golf Club, which guarantees that it is an outstanding all around course. The Hills Signature and Flintrock Falls courses were designed by Jack Nicklaus. Jack Nicklaus II also designed the Flintrock Falls course.
holes, and multiple driving ranges and putting greens top off the Club’s vast array of golf amenities.
The Hills Country Club sets a standard of excellence for country clubs in the Austin area. No other private country club in Central Texas boasts four challenging golf courses, including an 18-hole Nicklaus signature course and an 18-hole Nicklaus-designed course, a renowned tennis and fitness center, impeccable dining facilities and superior service in a relaxed, friendly environment. A three-hole practice facility with par-3, -4 and -5 practice
Private courses in the South Lake Travis area are all part of The Hills Country Club, a Member of the Club Corp family and include Live Oak Yaupon, Flintrock Falls (designed by Jack Nicklaus and Jack Nicklaus, II and The Hills Signature (designed by Jack Nicklaus) Public courses in the South Lake Travis area include Falconhead Golf
Live Oak Golf Club has been serving the community for more than thirty years, and they have everything that makes a golf course a great place to visit. The course is beautiful and fun to play. At the Pedernales Golf Club, you will find a nine-hole course that is just a short distance from the Pedernales River. It is a relaxing CONTINUED PAGE 58
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PUBLIC GOLF COURSES IN THE LAKE TRAVIS AREA Crystal Falls Golf Club
3400 Crystal Falls, Leander
512-259-5855
www.crystalfallsgolf.com
Falconhead Golf Club
15201 Falconhead Blvd., Austin
512-402-1558
www.falconheadaustin.com
Highland Lakes Golf Course
20522 Highland Lake Drive, Lago Vista
512-382-6529
www.lagovistagc.com
Lago Vista Golf Course
4616 Rimrock Drive, Lago Vista
512-267-1170
www.lagovistagc.com
Point Venture Golf Club
422 Venture Blvd. South, Point Venture
512-267-2768
www.pointventuregolf.com
Willie Nelson's Pedernales Cut N Putt
807 Paisley Drive, Spicewood
512-264-1489
www.willienelson.com
512-329-4000
www.omnihotels.com
512-261-7200
www.clubcorp.com/ clubs/the-hills-of-lakeway
PRIVATE GOLF COURSES IN THE LAKE TRAVIS AREA
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Barton Creek Resort
8212 Barton Club Drive, Austin
The Hills of Lakeway The Hills Signature Flintrock Falls Yaupon Live Oak
26 Club Estates Parkway, Austin 401 Jack Nicklaus Dr, Austin 100 Clubhouse Dr, Austin 510 Lakeway Dr, Austin0 Lakeway Dr
Lakecliff Golf Club
1700 Kahala Sunset Drive, Spicewood
830-798-0695
www.lakecliff.com
Spanish Oaks Golf Course
13453 West Highway 71, Bee Cave
512-533-2300
www.spanishoaks.com
University of Texas Golf Club
2200 University Club Drive, Austin
512-266-6464
www.utgolfclub.com
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V E R T I S E R A D
SPOTLIGHT
R E C R E AT I O N
FALCONHEAD GOLF CLUB EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY Located just west of Austin Texas, stands Falconhead Golf Club with a course that truly rises to meet the promise of its handsome site in the famous Hill Country of Texas. This is perfect land for golf, and Falconhead is the perfect layout for Austin landscape. From the knobby oaks and cedars to the rolling hills filled with creeks and ponds, Falconhead has a golf course that stands above others in the area. What makes Falconhead particularly special is that it was laid out by PGA Tour Design Architects. Golf enthusiasts will experience first hand how it feels to play on a PGA designed course while enjoying the beautiful surrounds of Texas Hill Country Golf. Falconhead’s expert staff will ensure that your visit is one of the best golf experiences you will have. Falconhead’s amenities include a fully stocked golf shop, driving range with short game practice facilities, golf lessons, Talon’s Bar and Grill, and membership packages.
For more information call 512-402-1558 or visit www.falconheadaustin.com.
» LEISURE + RECREATION and fun place to visit that many enjoy because it is so different from the traditional country club. Another name for the club is Willie Nelson’s Cut-N-Putt, and the entire course has a sense of humor about it that other country clubs are lacking.
The Spanish Oaks Golf Club is one of the top private golf courses in the entire state. The 18-hole course is a blast to play and the golf club features everything a golfer could want, including practice areas, a short game area, a putting green and practice range, and even comfort stations
AU D I TO R I U M S E L I M with a beautiful lake view
located along the course. Some of the club amenities include dining, catering, a golf shop, a pool pavilion and a fish camp. The University of Texas Golf Club is a stellar course. Designed by Bechtol Russel, the 7,412-yard championship golf course is one of the premier places to play in the Austin area. The private club, located between Lake Austin and Lake Travis, features a variety of amenities, including a 3,400 square-foot clubhouse, dining areas, a fitness facility, a fantastic clubhouse and even a Walk of Fame. If you are looking to improve your golf game, there is no better place in the nation than the Academy of Golf Dynamics. The Academy is recognized as one of the best in the nation for golf schools and instructors by Golf Magazine. • The Academy of Golf Dynamics is the first site ever designed and constructed specifically for learning to play better golf.
conferences + meetings
weddings + banquets
concerts + recitals
Planning your next event?
Highland Lakes Camp and Conference Center is the perfect location for Retreats, Conferences, Weddings, Banquets, Concerts, Recitals, Leadership Training, Corporate Meetings and Family Gatherings.
CALL TODAY
for Rates and Availability
888.222.3482 512.264.1777
• • • • • •
Over 8,200 sq. ft. of meeting space Large (55’ x 27’) stage with black backdrop drapery Built-in projection and sound system Production and environmental lighting Hospitality room with direct access to the stage Versatile foyer (38’x78’) perfect for use as a welcome center, exhibit hall or reception for up to 200 people
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• They don’t offer teachers who have been hired to just teach every student the same theory over and over again. Your skill level, goals, outlook, temperament — even the way you receive, process and retain information are used to create a learning program for you. • Their experienced golf professionals analyze your individual needs to help play your best. The Academy’s team of PGA Teaching Professionals is the finest and most respected in the nation. Each has years of experience, a keen eye for diagnosing golf swings, and excellent teaching and communication skills. • The Academy complex has a 500-yard learning center with target greens and three championship golf courses. • On the teaching course, instruction takes place on real fairways, bunkers, roughs, and greens. Under the watchful eyes of Teaching Professionals, you can test your skills under actual course conditions without the pressure of other golfers playing through. For more information, visit www.golfdynamics.com.
FUN FACT In addition to a wide array of golf enthusiast’s options, there are also options for the tennis lover. The World of Tennis Sports Complex is home to the Club’s 16 outdoor tennis courts, two climate-controlled indoor tennis courts, fitness facility, men’s and ladies’ locker rooms, Kids Court, recreational swimming pool, and a full-service spa and café. Lake Travis features nearly any leisure activity you could possibly imagine. In addition to the great golf and tennis activities available, there are several activities involving Lake Travis itself. Scuba classes are regularly held as well as swimming and diving. There are instructors to show you the lake and fisheries around the lake as well. There are even boating classes and overall instruction of lake features to support a great day on the lake. Nearly any park you wish to visit will offer basketball courts and volleyball courts for family fun. Finally, there are simply too many gyms to talk about that offer a wide array of classes to suit the fancy of anyone and everyone. The possibilities are simply endless.
No. 07
The Shops at the Galleria in the City of Bee Cave have about 550,000 square feet of retail space in their open-air village setting.
Shopping
Residents and travelers alike will want to know all of the great places to go shopping around Lake Travis. From specialty boutiques to everyday shopping, there are plenty of different choices and options. One-of-a-kind stores and hidden treasures abound in Lake Travis community shopping districts; with an exceptional selection of specialty stores, independent boutiques and nationally recognized retailers.
If a distinctive shopping experience is what you seek, then Lake Travis is sure to please. Long-time businesses contribute to the comfortable, hometown appeal of shopping districts throughout the area. Wine tasting bars, upscale clothing boutiques, and distinctive gift shops are just a few of the many unique stores found around Lake Travis. Each community has its own special collection of stores. Below are a couple of the major shopping areas in the area: Hill Country Galleria This is the epitome of the outdoor shopping experience. Featuring over 550,000 square feet of retail space, this location features several retail giants such as Dillard’s and Dick’s Sporting Good’s as well as numerous local vendors. In addition to the great items you can purchase, live entertainment in an amphitheater and wine tasting accompany a great shopping experience. Additionally, even your four-legged friends are allowed here.
Falconhead Golf Club is one of the many beautiful courses golfers have to choose from in the Lake Travis area.
P H OTO C O U RT ESY O F FA LC O NH EA D G O LF C LUB
Lakeline Mall Lakeline Mall is the ultimate in customer selection. This is one of the fastest growing malls in the state of Texas. There are over 150 stores to choose from. This mall features over one-million square feet of retail space. For an afternoon of shopping in the Lake Travis area, you will have a hard time finding a better selection to suit all of your needs than the Lakeline Mall. LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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» LEISURE + RECREATION Places to Dine
Explore a culinary spectrum in the Lake Travis community. A world of tasty treats awaits at the numerous restaurants in the region. Friendly wait-staff and skilled chefs, bakers and sweet makers offer top-notch cuisine and warm welcomes in restaurants, eateries, bakeries, grills, and pubs. Diners can experience a full gourmet gamut, from Tex-Mex to barbeque to seafood specialties and traditional American favorites. Relaxed and casual is the dining tradition in Lake Travis, and there is no shortage of places to go for family-friendly meals or a quick bite on the go. Between the favorite local burger hut, a casual sunset meal overlooking the lake, fine dining and gourmet-to-go, there’s something to please even the pickiest of palates in Lake Travis. Whatever style of food you may be
wanting can be accessed with a short drive in a near radius of your home. We will look into several styles in this list and give brief overviews of each one. 827Ray's Known for their Wine Dinners, 827Ray’s has become a hot spot for local foodies and wine aficionados who love to partake in the creations of Chef Wayne Brooks. 827Ray’s brings a fresh seasonal menu of modern French cuisine, and boasts of using only the highest of quality ingredients while providing impeccable service. Alley's Kitchen at High 5 Alley’s Kitchen in High 5’s is a full-service restaurant bar serving American favorites with a gourmet twist. Their menu is inspired by regional and southern flavors, so they are sure to please palates. Stop in for lunch, dinner or happy hour – or even a small bite between games!
Boat House Grill The Boat House Grill offers a great selection of seafood classics as well as an incredible chicken fried steak. The essence of the Boat House Grill is the great atmosphere it provides. This location truly captures the history of Lake Travis and its great community. The inside features lake memorabilia and countless photos of community figures throughout history. The Boat House Grill is located at 6812 Ranch Road 620 North. Briarcliff Bistro & Bacon Bar Briarcliff Bistro offers a bit of everything. The atmosphere is supremely laid back with simple meals that appeal to anyone and everyone. Featuring great burgers and sandwiches, adults will love the food as well as the delicious drink menu. Children will love the simple and fun kids menu. This bistro features an outdoor country setting with several walks of music and style. Check out the Briarcliff Bistro at 108 Pace Bend Road. Café Blue Café Blue combines thoughtful cooking with coastal ingredients shipped in daily. Each meal is perfectly plated for a casual dining experience unlike any other. Their oyster bar features the freshest oysters available, and their wine selection is award-winning. Stop in for lunch, weekday happy hour, dinner, or weekend brunch. Canyon Grille at Rough Hollow This location features great, affordable food with a “Come as you are” dress code. The gorgeous Hill Country sunsets are the background for your dining experience. Live music is featured on most weekends and a laid back, clever staff serves each patron equally and swiftly. Topped off by one of the most affordable wine menus in the Lake Travis area, this is a favorite for any household looking for a night away from the real world. Check them out at 103 Yacht Club Cove. Cho Sushi Japanese FusionSteiner Ranch In addition to a wide variety of wine and beer, the two locations of the
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Âť AN OVERVIEW OF LAKE TRAVIS Cho Sushi brand in the Lake Travis area feature the best Japanese food in the area. Patrons rave about the fast service and the family friendly atmosphere. The fish is fresh and the Kobe Beef is some of the best to be had. The diversity of the menu is the perfect
mix of Japanese flavor with a southern twist. Don Mario Mexican Restaurant Located in the heart of Lakeway, this is some of the most authentic Mexican food in the entire area. Featuring tacos
al pastor, or the famous street taco, they simply provide unforgettable Mexican cuisine in a casual, growing environment. They started as a small taqueria and have quickly grown to this new location. This great restaurant features a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. This is one you need to visit at 1700 Ranch Road 620 north to believe. The Donut Hole As the name implies, a great breakfast choice in the Lake Travis area is The Donut Hole. Locally owned, this shop has a great small town feel with a diverse flare. These aren’t just your regular donut options. The Donut Hole features numerous breakfast and brunch options as well as the most diverse selection of donut creations you will find. It is conveniently located at 2422 Ranch Road 620 South.
Perfectly Plated Casual Dining
D o w n t o w n Aust i n 512.428.5796 H il l C o u n tr y Gal l er i a 512.366.5230
cafebluetx.com
The Grove This is one of the best casual locations you will find in the Lake Travis area due to its incredibly diverse menu selection. Vegan and gluten free patrons will enjoy a full selection here as well. The wine menu features a selection for any budget or taste. The building is beautiful featuring high ceilings and elegant shape while providing a casual feel. To top it off, there is a joining coffee lounge for your morning commute. Seemingly any need is met at The Grove. Check them out at 3001 Ranch Road 620 South. Lakeside Pizza Lakeside Pizza and Grill is home to the #1 Best Voted Pizza in the Four Points Area. They have family friendly, full service dining as well as carry-out and delivery. Come out and enjoy their huge selection of delicious entrees, pastas, salads and appetizers. All food is prepared daily, using only the freshest ingredients. The League Kitchen and Tavern This is perhaps one of the most unique designs of any restaurant in the Lake
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WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD Come and stay awhile. * * * ************
Inspired by fresh, seasonal ingredients and the world’s finest wines, 827Ray’s welcomes guests with delicious culinary creations in a relaxed, elegant environment.
OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER To receive your Free Appetizer, please fill out you name and email address below & present to server.
COMPLIMENTS OF CHEF BROOKS
FREE
APPETIZER
........................................... First & Last Name
........................................... Email Address
Open 7 days a week Happy Hour 3 – 6PM Monday thru Friday Sunday Brunch 10AM – 2PM
Reservations & private events welcomed 512.266.9445 | 3519 Ranch Rd 620 N
827Rays.com LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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» LEISURE + RECREATION Travis area. The design of The League Kitchen and Tavern is revolved around the 1920’s speakeasy atmosphere with the sophisticated visitor at heart. It is absolutely gorgeous. The bar selection is one of the best and the food is top notch. This location is growing in popularity by the day. Easily one of the best experiences you will have in the Lake Travis area. It is located at 1310 Ranch Road 620 South. Little Country Diner This Lake Travis restaurant is exactly as it says. Featuring a great southern feel and that made from home flavor, this restaurant has been successful in its food and service for many years. One of the more unique and appealing features of the Little Country diner is its delicious all day breakfast menu. For those who love biscuits and gravy and everything in between, this is the place for you. You can visit and enjoy the delicious food at 22000 Texas 71. Lone Star Grille and Amphitheatre The Lone Star Grille is simply the best choice for live music and a party your socks off atmosphere. Live music is featured with a massive two story building. The downstairs portion is child friendly and a great area for fun. The upstairs is an adult only area. A massive selection of beer is available as well as a famous chicken fried steak. This is a
popular choice for an adventurous Friday or Saturday night. Check it out at 1501 West New Hope Drive. Lucy’s on the Lake Lucy’s is arguably the most impressive location on the list. It is nestled on Lake Travis in an absolutely breathtaking setting. There are a few central facts to Lucy’s: fried chicken, live music, and oysters. Lucy’s is one of the few places on Lake Travis that offer fresh oysters. They also have a full bar with a huge beer and wine selection. This is one of the best settings to enjoy an evening in the Lake Travis area. Lucy’s is located at 2900 Ranch Road 620 North. Mangieri’s Pizza Café Mangieri’s is one of the most popular family options in town. The secret to success and popularity of Mangieri’s is the ingredients. The dough is made from scratch and the cheese is made of 100% whole milk. All of the sauces are homemade and made fresh each time. The herbs and vegetables are all of the absolute best quality. Overall, the pizza at Mangieri’s is simply better than most any other you can possibly have. It is a great place for your entire family. Mangieri’s is located at 2133 Lohmans Crossing Road. Maudie’s Tex-Mex Maudie’s is one of the most recognizable locations in the Lake Travis area. It has
THE OASIS ON LAK E TRAVIS. P HOTO COURTESY OF WWW.12 3 RF.COM/P ROFI L E _AMADE U STX
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won numerous awards for its incredible food with a local twist. The item that seems to bring everyone back is the hand squeezed margaritas. The margaritas are considered some of the best in Texas. It is no wonder why customers of Maudie’s Tex-Mex keep coming back again and again. Give it a try yourself by visiting 12506 Shops Parkway. Noble Sandwich Co. Noble Sandwich Co. has a simple philosophy that has helped them attain and sustain success for many years: make it better than the guy down the street. The ingredients they use for their creations are locally produced and the freshest possible. They are a friendly counter contact service that offer a great choice for a quick yet delicious lunch. Noble Sandwich Co. is located at 12233 Ranch Road 620 North. The Oasis Also known as The Sunset Capital of Texas, The Oasis on Lake Travis is home to legendary Lake Travis sunsets and phenomenal foods. The Oasis is the perfect event venue, seating close to 2,500 guest and has indoor and outdoor banquet and event space available. Visit their website for a full line up of live music that entertains while you dine. Oasthouse Kitchen + Bar If you are seeking a relaxed environment and a great selection of draft beer and locally sourced food items, then Oasthouse Kitchen + Bar may be the ideal spot for you. This is a great place to enjoy an evening with friends and family as well as a perfect location to watch the big game. The draft beer selection is one of the best in the Lake Travis area, with over 20 choices. The food is simple yet incredible. To visit the relaxed setting at the Oasthouse Kitchen + Bar, take a trip to 8300 North Ranch Road to Market 620. Opie’s Barbeque Texas is barbeque. That is the point that Opie’s Barbeque is out to prove. For a patron, the moment you walk in the
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» LEISURE + RECREATION to go. Located a bit down the road from the Little Country Diner, you can visit Opie’s at 9504 Texas 71.
door this point is driven home. You are greeted by an enormous black barbeque pit and your senses filled with the unwavering aroma of flame cooked beef, pork, and chicken. To put it very simply, if you are a barbeque lover, this is the place for you. Opie’s is consistently recognized as the spot in Lake Travis
Sandeez Hamburger Hut Sandeez Hamburger Hut has been a staple in the area since 1979. This is the epitome of a neighborhood burger
V E R T I S E R A D
SPOTLIGHT
E D U C AT I O N
THE OASIS LAKE TRAVIS T H E SU N S ET CA P I TA L O F T E X A S They say everything is bigger in Texas. For The Oasis Restaurant, this could not be any truer. This is the largest outdoor restaurant in Texas. Think about that for a moment; the largest in the entire state of Texas. That is truly incredible. The amazing views and scenery of this restaurant setting has earned it the nickname of “The Sunset Capital of Texas.” Its location on a cliff over 400 feet above Lake Travis make it one of the most astounding views of any location in the Lake Travis area. It features a massive 30,000 square feet overall restaurant area. The food is simply top-notch, offering a bit of everything with a wide range of competitive pricing. It is a favorite location for anyone who is planning parties for any event, with 8 total rooms that can accommodate anywhere from 2 to 2,500 people. The Oasis is most appealing for its surreal atmosphere and reputation as the best sunset in Texas. Again, that is a powerful statement to make considering the size of Texas. The Oasis is seemingly a town in itself. Outside of the restaurants you will find several shops offering a variety of great and unique items. The food is centered on Tex mex and American fare however there is a great variety for nearly any taste. The drink menu is one that is comparable to any other location you could want to visit. The margaritas are some of the best in town. An often overlooked aspect of The Oasis are the benefits to such a large size restaurant. With the amount of room for hungry patrons, there is typically not much of a wait time that you may expect from such a highly reviewed and respected restaurant. Also, the size is designed to ensure that there isn’t a bad view in the house. Whether you are looking for a great place for a romantic dinner date, or just an evening out with your friends, The Oasis has no real flaws to speak of. This restaurant is truly one of the best in Texas, much less Lake Travis. Come by and see the amazing view for yourself! For more information, visit www.oasis-austin.com, call (512) 266-2442 or stop by 6550 Comanche Trail. 66
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shop that we all know and love. The atmosphere is the essence of the southern lifestyle. Featuring a fast drive-thru and down home southern cooking, this is one of the most popular lunch stops in the entire area. Sandeez is located at 113 Ranch Road 620 North. Shack 512 Shack 512 is a lakefront restaurant on Lake Travis. This is a casual dining establishment that is frequently packed with boats making the trip to enjoy the laid back, southern cuisine. Overall, pretty much anything you had growing up in the south will be featured at this restaurant. Many say they have the best soups in town. With the lake in the forefront and the hills in the background, this establishment has some great views. You can make a stop at 8714 Lime Creek Road to try it out. Shore Club Volente Beach Restaurant & Water Park This is the ultimate get away for those hot summer days of Texas. The Shore Club Volente is located at 16107 Farm to Market Road 2769. The water park is a great place to take your whole family. It is open to the full public and all are welcome. The real beauty of this location is the restaurant. The Shore Club Volente features exceptional hand cut steaks that are some of the best around. This is a great choice for the entire family. Steiner Ranch Steakhouse If you are looking for the best steak money can buy in the Lake Travis area, this is your spot. Located directly on the lake, you will be treated to breathtaking views throughout your meal. All of the steaks offered at Steiner Ranch Steakhouse are USDA and of the best quality. The tradition of this steakhouse goes back over 100 years to its days as a cattle ranch. In addition to the amazing steaks, the wine menu is incredible and the service is outstanding. It is located at 5425 Steiner Ranch Boulevard.
FUN FACT No. 08 Sundancer Grill The Sundancer Grill is located on Lake Travis. It is known for its great location and atmosphere relative to the lake. It features boater access in addition to plenty of parking for the commuter. Overall, this is a great local bistro experience that will leave you wanting to come back to try more and more items on the menu. The view is simply incredible. You can visit the Sundancer Grill at 16410 Stewart Road. Tony C’s Coal Fired Pizza This is arguably the best local pizza choice in the Lake Travis area. The perfect spot for a quick lunch or an extravagant evening date, Tony C’s features a contemporary setting with absolutely delicious food. The Italian cuisine is accompanied by some great wine choices as well as a full bar. The appeal for this location is in the
The Oasis Restaurant opened its doors in 1982, and to this day is a landmark in the Lake Travis area better known as the “Sunset Capital of Texas”.
product and the inviting atmosphere. You can visit Tony C’s at 12800 Hill Country Boulevard.
Attractions and Family Fun
Lake Travis and its surrounding areas feature a wide array of family activities and attractions for everyone to enjoy. Children will never run out of things to see and do in Lake Travis. There are several key areas that are always being updated to provide a refreshing
•Delicious Lunches And Sunset Dinners •Panoramic Indoor And Outdoor Views •Perfect Cazadores Margaritas
Canopy Tours Canopy tours are simply unforgettable. The views you will see in this breathtaking experience are indescribable. You will see beautiful CONTINUED PAGE 70
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•Live Music And Feature shows •Venues For P rivate Parties And Celebrations •One of A Kind Local Finds In The Oasis Gitt shop
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experience with each visit. Family fun is something that is of central importance to this area. On top of attractions that are cemented in the culture of Lake Travis, there are also yearly festivals and celebrations that are simply unforgettable for the whole family.
Limit One Per Table Valid Monday - Thursday 11:30am-3pm Expires 12/31/19
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V E R T I S E R A D
SPOTLIGHT
ENTE
RTA I N M E N T
HIGH 5
IT'S WHERE
WE CELEBRATE!
lanes, bar or dining room. (Hint-No greasy snack bar here, this is not your granddaddy’s bowling alley!)
Led by Scott and Jenny Emley with the support of an enthusiastic group of over a dozen local area investors, High 5 is born of ideals and dreams.
After 9pm, UpTop, is off limits to the younger set, open to 21+ only, and is a great date night, with black light lanes, a huge bar, darts, pool tables, plenty of TV’s including large screens over the lanes, and a jukebox to set the mood, away from all of the hustle and bustle downstairs on the main level. Just in case your date night includes the family, there is an overlook from UpTop where you can see the entire Arcade and Laser Tag entrance, so you really can have it all at High 5.
Scott played football for the UT Longhorns in the late 90’s, graduating with a degree in Engineering, and a Master in Business Administration and Jenny, a Texas A&M graduate, is a former elementary educator for Hyde Park Baptist Schools in Austin. They are raising their 3 young children here in the Lake Travis area and knew we needed a place for families to play together that was also weather proof, and thus, the idea for High 5 was born. As a VP of Marketing in the Technology sector, Scott relocated the family for work a few times and as many of us do, spent more time away from his family than he would have liked, so they decided to do something about it. The Emley’s created a place where they could enjoy family and work at the same time. High 5 is a 47,000 square-foot family entertainment center filled with fun for everyone! With the latest arcade games and a huge prize redemption counter the whole family can enjoy playing together, and then have some friendly competition in the award-winning laser tag arena. Themed like an old Sugar Mill with an Austin sky-line and two-stories of heart pounding excitement, adults always come out of there with the biggest grins, because they didn’t know what the kids already knew- laser tag is so much fun! There are more unexpected adventures as you realize there are two levels to the building, with bowling and bars on both stories! There are 16 lanes on the main level and another 12 UpTop. Right next to both sets of lanes are fully stocked bars that produce exquisite hand crafted cocktails from fruit infused jars right in front of you. While you are there you can order surprisingly good food from Alley’s Kitchen. Their executive chef ’s choices for lunch or dinner can be enjoyed at the
In addition to the free Wi-Fi and plenty of seating throughout the building, High 5 also boasts 5 private meeting spaces that can be rented out for small business meetings all the way up to huge company events, holiday parties, weddings, rehearsals and the like. Their professional event staff can plan your event from start to finish and make you look like the hero for planning the best event ever!
For more information about High5 or to book an event, visit www.bowlhighfive.com or call (512) 710-2695.
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 LEISURE + RECREATION landscape and natural wonders, as well as enjoying the excitement in your family’s eyes. There are 3 main canopy tour outlets in the Lake Travis area. Lake Travis Zipline features a 2 1 /2 hour experience ranging from 250 feet to 2000 feet above the ground. You will see the inlets of Lake Travis as well as the beautiful surrounding canyons. There are 7 different zips to choose from. Cypress Valley Canopy Tours offers a zip line course focusing on old growth cypress trees. An unforgettable experience for the whole family, this is a highly popular option for children of all ages. Finally, Wimberly Zipline Adventures offers their services that feature a 15 mile view of the Wimberly Valley! Canopy tours are one of the most popular attractions of Lake Travis.
Waterparks The Texas heat can leave you needing a refresher in the summertime. What better way to cool down than visiting a water theme park. Waterloo Adventures is a Lake Travis favorite for enjoying the sun and having an entertaining experience. Visitors can enjoy excursions on the lake, including a boat ride and unlimited access to their water park. Take a tour of the Adventure Island, a 45-minute pulse pounding session on their challenge course. The course consists of a series of floating obstacles including climbing walls, monkey bars, slides, hurdles, balance beams, bridges and more. Another great local option is Volente Beach. This is a beach club on Lake Travis that features a water park, pirate boat, and a wading area. There are also many watercraft available to
rent and is most assuredly one of the most popular spots on Lake Travis on a hot summer day. Schlitterbahn Water Park and Resorts has a location in New Braunfels that is surely to provide excellent relief and excitement that will not soon be forgotten. Free Family Movies A great feature for the summertime at Lake Travis is the free family movie that starts in June and happens each Tuesday morning. Beginning at 9 A.M. free tickets are handed out. They are on a first come, first serve basis so hurry! What better way to enjoy some fun that to spend some quality family time enjoying a new movie? Zoos The Lake Travis area features some of the best zoos in the state of Texas. The Austin Zoo and the Capital of Texas Zoo are great options. These feature a wide array of animals as well as several options to keep cool and keep your little ones enjoying wildlife with continued excitement. Another great choice is the Zoo Exotic Ranch. This is 137 acre drive through zoo that is a must see. This ranch features unbelievable exotic animals in a premier natural habitat. This will leave your whole family wanting to come back again and again. Caverns There are several cavern tours in the Lake Travis area. The Inner Space Caverns, Wonder World, and Longhorn Caverns are great services to safely show and educate amazing rock formations to the entire family.
Lake Travis and the surrounding areas offer endless activities for kids, and with a lake as a backyard, kids are sure to stay busy and active. 70
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A typical tour will take a couple of hours and feature an ever changing rock make-up that will leave everyone in wonder and fascination. This is a great option any time of the year. Hiking Trails In addition to the parks that all offer some sort of hiking options, there are many other options in surrounding areas that feature great trails for any level of hiker. The beauty of this area can be enjoyed right under your feet. Take the whole family out and experience the beauty of the canyons, the gorgeous outlook of Lake, or the friendly view of the plains.
Rest + Relaxation
Casual with class is the theme when it comes to the many lodging options in Lake Travis. Hotels, resorts, bed & breakfasts, RV parks and campgrounds provide a full range of amenities to both pleasure and business seekers in the area. Conference facilities, direct access to marinas and recreation areas, and spectacular scenic views are just a few of the idyllic offerings of Lake Travis accommodations.
Spas + Hotels
Lake Travis offers several premier options to quick lodging and relaxing spas. No matter what your interest or preferences may be, there will surely be an option that will be suit you. The beauty of the overall location of Lake Travis is that you can go to the other side of the lake and feel like you are in a different environment. A few miles drive will yield you several new options to enjoy a day. Vintage Villas Hotel: If you are looking for a beautiful atmosphere and breathtaking view, this is the hotel for you. This hotel rest on a steep bluff overlooking Lake Travis. Consisting of an assortment of 3 modern villas, this is a modern, contemporary style hotel that features elegant design with gorgeous landscape. This is one of the more popular options of the area.
While water recreation is king in the Lake Travis area, the hills and prairies of Travis County offer unlimited additional opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Lakeway Resort and Spa: Another choice that overlooks Lake Travis. This resort features a full spa and countless amenities. This is a stylish yet very contemporary resort with private balconies and direct access to the lake. It even features 3 full size pools and an elegant hot tub. The Shores at Lake Travis: This option features condo style lodging. Occupying 5,000 acres on the banks of the Colorado River, this is a private option that is greatly suited for those who are seeking a peaceful and relaxed stay on Lake Travis. Lake Travis Tree Lodge: The Lake Travis Tree Lodge is by far the best option if you are seeking more of the “camping trip” feel to your stay. The rooms are incredibly open and luxurious. The location of this hotel is right off of Lake Travis in the beautiful nature seen on the Western side of the lake. This is the essence of Texas.
Luisa’s Spa and Salon: Featuring serene views of Lake Travis and a peaceful atmosphere, this spa is known for its professionalism and friendliness. One of the true rising stars of the Lake Travis area, 5 star reviews tends to be the theme of anyone who has visited this location. Many people rave about the massages they have received. Definitely a great option to check out. Sage and Sweetgrass Wellness Spa: This spa is just a few miles south of Lake Travis. The beauty of this place is the overall experience you will receive. This is a therapeutic facility that will not only provide your basic spa expectations, they will also work with you to achieve overall wellness in everyday life. The people who are regulars at this location will swear by it. Oh yea, apparently they have some of the best facials in the area!
Montina Beach on Lake Travis: This is a private lakefront guesthouse on the open side beach of Lake Travis. The area features a volleyball court, fire pit, elegant housing, open design plan, and a large beautiful yard. This is a growing theme on Lake Travis and presents an example of a personal feel stay in the area.
Spa at the Lake: Lastly, the Spa at the Lake is exactly what it sounds like. This location is known for its friendly staff and diverse services it offers. It is a bit more contemporary atmosphere, so appointments will typically be fast and open. Like the other locations on this list, professional appeal and customer satisfaction is what they strive for.
The Island on Lake Travis Spa and Salon: This is one of the best spa locations in the entire area. You can rent a condo for extended stay at this location as well as enjoy spa care with a highly qualified and respectful staff. Offering full services for spa amenities, whatever you are looking for will be available here. This is best described as a full service Lake Travis location.
Overall, Lake Travis has a huge array of hotels and spas to choose from. These are a few of the most popular choices. Most of the franchise hotels have stakes in the area for you to choose from as well. The overall theme of the entire area tends to be one of relaxation and peacefulness. Lake Travis offers some of the best services and stress relief in the entire state. LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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» LEISURE + RECREATION Parks + Recreation
Outdoor enthusiasts from around the state and country can enjoy the abundance of recreational activities that are available throughout the Lake Travis area. While water recreation is king in the Lake Travis area, the hills and prairies of Travis County offer unlimited additional opportunities for relaxation and exploration. With nearly a dozen parks maintained by Travis County and another half-dozen operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), the Lake Travis community is the ultimate vacation destination. Boating, sailing, windsurfing, camping, fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, picnicking, swimming and sunbathing are popular activities that can be enjoyed at many of the Lake Travis community parks. Pace Bend Park, featuring limestone cliffs, rocky coves, bike paths and
DAY TRIP
nature trails over nine miles of scenic shoreline along Lake Travis, is one of the most popular parks in the Hill Country of Travis County. Pace Bend offers visitors a wide array of activities and recreational opportunities and is mostly accessible by vehicle via a seven-mile roadway that circles the park. However, the interior of the park is a managed wildlife preserve that can only be reached by foot, bicycle or horseback. Several trails wind into the hills, providing spectacular views of the lake along with opportunities to see plenty of native wildlife. While Pace Bend offers more than 1,000 acres of primitive wilderness, many of the campsites also offer modern conveniences including electrical hook-ups, showers and restrooms, boat ramps, RV facilities and seasonal wave runner rentals to name a few. The City of Lakeway offers numerous opportunities for outdoor fun, from greenbelts to local parks. Tennis courts, a
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Additional Area Parks
LCRA/Travis County Parks Lake Travis is one of the clearest and deepest lakes in Texas. Seven parks along Lake Travis are owned by LCRA and operated by Travis County. (512) 854-7275 or www.lcra.org/parks. Arkansas Bend: This isolated and peaceful park on the north shore of Lake Travis is ideal for camping, picnicking and fishing. The park has two miles of gently sloping shoreline, a boat ramp, and plenty of open space for hiking and camping. Bob Wentz Park at Windy Point: Two sand volleyball courts, a hike-and-bike trail and a picnic pavilion make this park a popular recreation spot. The boat
DRIPPING SPRINGS
Dripping Springs Wine Trail has nine wineries, three distilleries, and four breweries. All of these locations are just 40 minutes from Austin. Needless to say, there are an enormous amount of options to choose from when you are planning your daytrip. One location that takes the cake, however, is the Treaty Oaks Distillery. Located at 16604 Fitzhugh Rd in Dripping Springs, this distillery produces some of the best liquors in the entire state of Texas. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the Treaty Oaks Distillery offers a 45 minute tour of the facility. Located in the beautiful hill country, this will provide you with the opportunity to relax while seeing how some of the best in the business make their liquors happen. You may even get to try some of their new products! Some of their famous creations include Graham’s Texas Tea Vodka, Red-Handed Bourbon Whiskey, Starlite Vodka, Treaty Oak Barrel Reserve Rum, Treaty Oak Rum, Waterloo Antique Gin, and Waterloo Gin. The Treaty Oaks Distillery recently opened up its new location that is quite like the state; BIG! This distillery is famous for catering to its customers and 72
swim center, a skate park and the Lakeway Activity Center, with its endless array of classes, programs and community events are among some of the recreational diversions accessed here. Visit www.CityofLakeway.com.
making them feel like guests rather than customers. In addition to its famous brews, they offer a variety of meats and cheeses that can be purchased for sample with your alcohol of choice or bought in bulk. The tour you can go on will give you great insight into the processes that make this distillery stand out from the rest. You will learn the amazing history of Treaty Oak, including the story of how they came up with the name (a question that is on most visitors’ minds.) Guests receive free souvenir glasses and 3 great samples of some of their best creations. Recently, Treaty Oaks even started making their own beer! This distillery literally offers everything. Weekends typically include several special events and live music. This area is expansive and will only get better. To start any daytrip, this has to be your first stop. The only problem is that you may never want to leave! Painting with a Twist Lakeway: This is a favorite for your late afternoon get together. Located in the Oak Grove Plaza on RR620, the area is serene and peaceful. Bring your favorite wine, whiskey, or beer and enjoy hours of fun with your friends.
ramp is limited to sail craft, creating the perfect setting for windsurfing, sailing and scuba diving. Cypress Creek: A gently sloping waterfront, boat ramp and cove lead to one of the busiest areas of Lake Travis. This park is a family favorite for camping, boating, picnicking and fishing.
a primary access point for scuba divers and boaters. Other popular activities are picnicking, swimming, sunbathing and camping. Camping is by reservation only. Reservations: 830-825-3442.
Hippie Hollow: Hippie Hollow features a steep, rocky shoreline and spectacular views of Lake Travis. The only clothing-optional public park in Texas, Hippie Hollow is popular for sunbathing and swimming. Entry to the park is limited to those 18 years and older.
Westcave Preserve: Just 30 miles from downtown Austin lies Westcave Preserve, a uniquely beautiful place with a limestone canyon, cave formations, spring-fed waterfall and natural pool. The 30-acre preserve is home to many plants, animals and birds, including endangered species. One of several preserves owned by LCRA, Westcave is operated by a nonprofit organization that offers guided tours and natural science programs. Westcave also has an educational center carefully designed to minimally impact the land. For information, call 512-854-7275 or visit www.westcave.org.
Mansfield Dam: Mansfield Dam Park is located adjacent to the dam on the main body of Lake Travis. The park is
Bee Cave Central Park: The latest addition to the area’s recreational space is a new park in Bee Cave. Bee Cave Central Park
Sandy Creek: This park is an ideal spot for swimming, nature walks and flora and fauna observation, including endangered species of birds and plants. The park also offers a stunning view of Lake Travis.
Oasis Texas Brewing Company: This third floor patio location overlooking Lake Travis is a Texan’s dream. This place is the former home of Billy’s Brew & Que. This location will provide you with some of the best and original summer beers in all of Texas. This is the true session beer location. These will be lighter beer mixtures that offer the brewer more creativity to provide an amazing product. This must be on your daytrip list! Crystal Creek Moonshine: Located in Spicewood, this is the new age moonshine that will be a staple in your daytrips from the moment you arrive. Located off of Bee Creek Rd. you are always welcome to sit and relax in their tasting and distilling room and get your moonshine lesson. They will soon be moving to a bigger location in the famous Dripping Springs. They offer several different flavors of moonshine. Considered to be a trendy moonshine and the new age of moonshine to hit shelves, this will be a stop that you won’t soon forget. El Gaucho Winery: Located at 21301 Kathy Lane in Spicewood, this winery has arguably the best selection of wine in the Hill Country. The owners are very personable and friendly. From sweet reds all the way to base whites, any wine lover will fine a wine to suit their fancy here. The food that is offered is exceptional. This winery is very kid friendly as well, with large play
P HOTO BY JAY B RI TTAI N OF STU DI O J P HOTOG R A PH Y COU RTESY OF LAK ES I DE AT TES S E RA
is located off Bee Cave Parkway, west of RR 620. The 50-acre park features a paved two-mile hike and bike trail, amphitheater, two play areas, a sport court, a dog park and two pavilions. There is also lots of wide open grassy areas, perfect for flying a kite or having a picnic in the grass. The Mighty Kite Flight event is held here in the spring, which included kite flying contests, music, local food vendors, and family fun.
areas for little ones to enjoy. If that isn’t enough, you can bring your pet too. This winery offers something for everyone. Twisted X Brewery: This is another location in the famed Dripping Springs. This brewery is famous for its Mexican style beers with a flavor variety and sweet taste. Creating IPA’s, Lagers, pilsners, and several others, there is surely an option for every beer lover out there. This brewery is known for its attention to detail and its focus on fine beer. This is another great option for your daytrip fun. Overall, the Lake Travis area is known for its brews. The Dripping Springs location near Lake Travis is easily the most famous location of breweries and distilleries in the entire state. While we have listed several choices for you, there are literally hundreds of possibilities for you to choose from. Any of the nine Dripping Springs stops are all great choices. If you are looking for some relaxation on the beach, there are also several bar options for you to choose from. This location is ideal for entertainment of all kinds. The best part of all of these breweries is their desire to cater to your whole family. With responsible fun and a relaxed peaceful atmosphere, memorable experiences can be made on each and every day trip! LAKETRAVISTXGUIDE.COM
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The Hill Country Rolling Sculpture Care show has been an institution at the Hill Country Galleria since 2008, with upwards of 200 classic and collector cars and bikes on display. All proceeds benefit the Friends of Bee Cav Public Library.
Sweet Heart Dinner The Oasis Lake Travis 512-266-2442 www.oasis-austin.com
Make a reservation for Valentines to enjoy a dinner at the legendary Oasis Lake Travis restaurant. Enjoy watching the sunset with your sweetheart while watching the incredible view. Reservations are required for this special Sweet Heart dinner.
Rodeo Austin Star of Texas Fair & Rodeo 512-919-3000 www.rodeoaustin.com
Founded in 1938, the Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo hosts the world’s fifth largest indoor, regular season ProRodeo. It includes an amusement park for kids of all ages and great entertainment from artists in a range of musical genres from rock to country.
South by Southwest (SXSW) Austin 512-467-7979 www.sxsw.com
One of the word’s largest and most respected industry conferences, SXSW showcases two weeks of the best in new music, film, digital media and interactive arts - plus hundreds of industry-related seminars, discussions, workshops, interviews, meetings, and panels.
Big Band Bash Lakeway Activity Center www.lakeway-tx.gov
Put on your dancing shows and bring your own beverages and snacks to the Lakeway Activity Center (Located at 105 Cross Creek). Enjoy big band music from a 17-piece Republic of Texas Band. This event is free and open to all ages. This event is sponsored by the Lakeway Arts Committee.
Lake Travis Elementary School Spring Carnival Lake Travis Elementary www.lte.my-pta.org
Fun, food, games and prizes! The Lake Travis Elementary School PTA holds their annual Spring Carnival to benefit the school. All are welcome to attend and join in on their silent auction and festivities. Wristbands for the event are available at the gate cover the entertainment and fun.
Mighty Kite Flight Bee Cave www.beecavechamberofcommerce.com
Take a visit to Bee Cave Central Park and watch the Mighty Kite Flight – an event put on by the Bee Cave Chamber of Commerce. Event details and kite contest rules are available at their website. Food vendors and ice cream will be available for spectators.
Spicewood Vineyards Spring Wine Club Pick Up Party & Wine Release Spicewood 830-693-5328 www.spicewoodvineyards.com
Wine Club members can come out to their Spring Pick Up Party. Spicewood Vineyard will be hosting their spring event to pick up bottles and introduce upcoming available wines. Live music and delicious food bites will be paired with wines. Spicewood Vineyards is located in Spicewood, Texas. The vineyards was first planted in 1992 and has grown to 22 acres.
Real Ale Ride Blanco www.facebook.com/ltcycling
Take a bike ride to the Real Ale Brewing company with the Lake Travis Cycling Club. Enjoy the scenic route of the hills of Blanco, Texas and gear up for some local beer and barbecue at the finish line. Routes with distances of 15, 30, 50, 65 and 80 miles to choose from.
Sculptfest at Oasis Texas Lake Travis www.tsos.org
The Texas Society of Sculptor’s (TSOS) has their annual art show on the grounds of Oasis Texas Mall in Austin. This show includes work from 50 sculptures from across Texas and throughout the United States. This family friendly event has sculptures of all sizes and also includes sculpture demonstration in stone carving, 3D printing and bronze pouring.
MAY
APRIL
MARCH
Rolling Sculpture Car Show Bee Cave www.beecavetexas.com
FEB
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T H I N G S YO U WO N ' T WA N T T O M I S S
The Republic of Texas Biker Rally is the biggest motorcycle rally in Texas and one of largest motorcycle events in the U.S. Come and enjoy an impressive selection of machines, motorcycles and legendary Austin nightlife during this four-day event. The Rally is known for great music, too – past headliners have included Hank Williams Jr., Willie Nelson, Bret Michaels, Joan Jett, Paul Rogers, Steppenwolf, David Allen Coe, and Charlie Daniels.
JUNE
July 4th Celebration The City of Lakeway www.lakeway-tx.gov
The City of Lakeway kicks off a day-long July 4th celebration, including a parade. After the parade head over to the Lakeway Activity Center at Cross Creek Road. Courtyard music provided by the Lake Travis Fiddlers.
JULY
Austin Bat Fest Austin 512-441-9015 www.roadwayevents.com
This unique celebration, of one of the region’s most interesting natural wonders, attracts around 40,000 spectators and features arts and crafts, music, food, bat watching, children’s activities and educational displays. Enjoy the scenic backdrop of Lady Bird Lake and downtown Austin as two million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge for their nightly flight. A general admission fee is charged.
AUGUST
Tri Rock Austin Auditorium Shores, Austin www.trifind.com
Now part of the Land Rover TriRock Triathlon Series, the Austin Triathlon is an annual, world-class event that attracts top local and international athletes and spectators.
SEP T.
Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL Fest) Zilker Park, Austin 512-505-4483 www.aclfestival.com
This annual musical event, which is occurs in two consecutive weekends, brings home the city’s nickname as the “Live Music Capital of the World” with a huge array of artists from local and international stages. In all, the ACL Festival hosts more than 130 acts playing rock, indie, country, folk, electronic and more on Zilker Park’s eight stages, with more than 70,000 fans attending each day.
Boo At The Zoo Austin Zoo 512-288-1490 www.austinzoo.org
Visit the Austin Zoo for a fun-filled evening appropriate for any age. Children can come dressed in their Halloween costumes and enjoy Zoo-wide events. Take a trip through the Haunted Mansion and the eerie train ride while you are there, and check out the spooky nocturnal animals.
Halloween Events at Lake Travis Community Library Lake Travis www.laketravislibrary.com
When planning any fun activities for the Halloween season, be sure to check out the Lake Travis Library for their calendar of events for Halloween fun. Great child-oriented activities ranging from Halloween Story Time, Halloween Crafts to the Pumpkin parade. Visit their website for more details.
Hill Country Singers Fall Concert Lago Vista www.lagovista.org
Take the time to visit Lago Vista and watch the Hill Country Singers perform at Lago Vista High School Performing Arts Center. Get geared up for the holiday season with some beautiful serenades.
City of Lago Vista Tree Lighting Lago Vista www.lagovista.org
Visit the City Hall Square of Lago Vista for their annual Tree Lighting Celebration, and get into the holiday spirit with all your neighbors! Enjoy music, photos with Santa, cookies and much more. Blue Santa usually makes an appearance to collect food and gift donations.
Lakeway Lights On Lakeway 512-314-7532 www.lakeway-tx.gov
The City of Lakeway starts the holiday season off with the first lighting of the Trail of Lights behind city hall. Have fun decorating cookies, or even roast a marshmallow on the fire pit. The City of Lakeway will be collecting donations and non-perishable food items to benefit the Lake Travis Crisis Ministries.
OCTOBER
Republic of Texas Biker Rally Austin / Central Texas 512-252-9768 www.rotrally.com
NOV. DECEMBER
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GET READY TO MAKE THE
MOVE S E T T L I N G I N T O L A K E T R AV I S
The Lake Travis Visitor and Relocation Guide is designed to provide those new to the Lake Travis area with a wealth of information. And, as excited as you may be with your relocation decision, it is still a challenge to settle into any new community. In this article, you’ll find relocation tips, based on more than thirty books and extensive personal experience, to smooth your adjustment into the Lake Travis area.
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» SETTLING IN TO LAKE TRAVIS Learn About the Lake Travis Area
You may find yourself lodged in a hotel or temporary housing until your belongings arrive, and that’s a nice opportunity to become familiar with the Lake Travis area. The Lake Travis Visitor and Relocation Guide is the perfect place to start learning about what this wonderful area has to offer. You can also find additional information on our website www.laketravistxguide.com, hotels/ motels, the airport, and real estate offices. A walking or bus tour, while fun for the whole family, actually serves to help you become acclimated and learn about the city. You can also visit local points of interest such as museums, parks and exhibits; enjoy a concert; and try out restaurants featuring local cuisine. Check out any services, activities or organizations that are of particular interest to your family.
Spouse Career Considerations
One of the biggest challenges of moving is relocating a “second” career. If you, as a spouse, are transferring your job to a home office, then a computer, telephone, e-mail account and fax machine may be all that you will need to get started. However, if your job was not “portable,” you might consider a new career, part-time or temporary employment, or perhaps even start your own business. Evaluate your skills, accomplishments and greatest strengths when you are planning your next endeavor. A few resources to tap are your spouse’s employer, local organizations, real estate offices with “Partner Career Assistance Programs,” independent career counselors, your university/college alma mater and, of course, the Sunday edition of the local papers. If you are searching for a job, start networking by telling those you meet that you are looking. If you have chosen to take a break from your career, consider volunteering your time and talent. Volunteering to a 78
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HELPFUL WEBSITES American Medical Association
www.ama-assn.org
Monster.com
www.monster.com
American School Directory
www.asd.com
National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies
usa.childcareaware.org
Elder Care Locator
www.eldercare.gov
American Animal Hospital Association Hospital Locator
www.aaha.org
Parents Without Partners, Inc.
www.parentswithoutpartners.org
charitable organization is a wonderful effort as well as a way to meet new people and learn more about the community. Volunteer activities add depth to résumés, but the experience needs to be documented so that the service equates to business expertise. Before you again become fully employed, use any free time to enjoy your new community. Refer to the Advice for Volunteers website for guidance in selecting a volunteer position and Monster.com for spouse assistance in the Helpful Websites sidebar.
Successfully Relocating Your Smallest Movers
The majority of relocating families have dependent children. If you are moving with children, you probably researched schools before moving; however, personal school visits will transform the unknown into reality. Visits to new schools to survey the classrooms and meet teachers will go a long way to allay your, and your children’s, worries about the new environment. Listen carefully to each child’s concerns— every move can bring new issues to the surface. Encourage your children to maintain contact with former friends, even while trying to make new friends. Exchanging photos, having e-mail access and possibly a cell phone with a camera feature can help bridge the gap between old and new friends during the early weeks in a new location.
Dealing with challenges: Keep in mind that every stage and every age can bring new challenges. Children who sailed through the last move could be in an entirely different place emotionally and physically for this move, so parents cannot assume that a child will ease into the current move. Routinely share accomplishments and challenges with each other and talk about ways to overcome difficulties. Children need to know that even though the parents are responsible for uprooting them, you both have challenges to face, and you need to work together as a family to solve them. The following signs may indicate that children are struggling with the adjustment: sudden reading difficulties, changes in attention span or study habits, weight loss or gain, altered enthusiasm or energy levels, strained relationships with you or their siblings, or disturbed sleep patterns. Stay closely involved with your children during the early months in a new location so you know how they are feeling, what they are thinking and who their new friends are. Consider volunteering or get involved with the school so that you can see for yourself how your children are managing. Both adults and children need the stability and comfort of established routines, so keep the same rules, bedtimes, mealtimes, allowances and expectations that you had before moving.
Children and Safety: When children are in an unfamiliar environment, they can easily forget basic safety rules. The following are always a good reminder: • Keep close to a parent, and take an adult’s hand in crowded areas. • Carry personal identification and phone numbers to contact parents at all times. • Know where to meet in case families become separated. • Review street crossing safety guidelines. • Make sure children understand how to get help safely if they get lost.
Medical and Safety Precautions
It is a fact that moving places additional stress on individuals and consequently, they are more vulnerable to accidents or illness, not to mention unexpected flare-ups of chronic health conditions. If an emergency occurs, every second
counts; therefore, as a precaution, locate hospitals, pharmacies and physicians that will meet your family’s needs before an emergency arises.
The suggestions in this article have worked for many relocating families, and they can also help your family become comfortable in your new home.
Learn the procedures, telephone numbers and access codes for emergency care and always carry medical identification with you. Also, in an emergency, you may forget your new telephone number and/ or address so before an emergency arises, program them into your cell phone and place written notes near each telephone in your home, as well as basic directions to your residence. Directions will not only be useful for family members in the early days at your new home, but they will also assist babysitters and visiting relatives.
As an aside, when people learn that I’ve moved 19 times, the response is often “What place did you like best?” My answer is always the same: “Where my family was.” I wish you all the best!
Embrace the move Whether or not you have children, or you are married, single or retired, relocating to a new community can ultimately become a wonderful and enriching experience.
About the Author | Beverly D. Roman founded BR Anchor Publishing in 1990 and has written more than 30 international and domestic relocation books. Two of her books won the Employee Relocation Council’s Achievement Award for Special Purpose Programs. Her international newsletter has supported corporations and the military in over 140 countries for more than18 years. Beverly served from 2002-2004 as founding chairperson for Families in Global Transition, Inc. (FIGT) an organization that focuses on the most critical issues associated with international cultural transitions. Contact her at broman@branchor.com, 904.641.1140 or visit www.branchor.com.
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ADVERTISER INDEX Apartments | Apartment Locators Apartments Here
www.apartmentshere.com
Avanti Hills at the Galleria
www.avantihills.com
Inside Back Cover p. 40
Madrone
www.livemadrone.com
p. 4-5
Banking | Mortgage | Investments American Financial Network Inc.
www.vickielasher.com
p. 41
Bank of America - Ron Mulso
mortgage.bankofamerica.com/ron-mulso
p. 53
Fairway Mortgage - The AJ Miller Group
www.ajmillergroup.com
p. 38
SouthStar Bank Mortgage
www.southstarbank.com/mortgage
p. 43
Entertainment Falconhead Golf Club
www.falconheadaustin.com
High 5
www.bowlhighfive.com
p. 57
Highland Lakes Camp & Conference Center
www.hlccc.org
p. 58
Lake Travis Waterloo Adventures
www.waterlooadventures.com
p. 15
Lake Travis Zipline Adventures
www.ziplaketravis.com
p. 15
p. 16, 60, 68-69
Events | Event Venues High 5
www.bowlhighfive.com
p. 16, 60, 68-69
Highland Lakes Camp & Conference Center
www.hlccc.org
p. 58
The Oasis on Lake Travis
www.oasis-austin.com
p. 67
Culligan of Austin
www.culliganofaustin.com
p. 3
Grandeur Cellars
www.grandeurcellars.com
p. 2
www.falconheadaustin.com
p. 57
For the Home
Golf Falconhead Golf Club
Homebuilders Brookfield Residential
www.brookfieldtx.com
Back Cover
Home Improvement | Construction Texas Platinum Construction
www.texasplatinum.com
p. 7
Barbara Terry – Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS®
www.barbarasellstexas.com
p. 49
Intelligent Real Estate
www.intelligentrealestate.com
p. 17
Mary Lynne Gibbs – Keller Williams Realty
www.marylynnegibbs.com
p. 1
Oberg Properties
www.obergproperties.com
p. 47
Realty Austin
www.realtyaustin.com
Suzie Adams – Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS®
www.suziesellsaustin.com
Real Estate Companies + Professionals
Inside Front Cover p. 39
Residential Communities Provence
www.brookfieldtx.com
Back Cover
Rough Hollow
www.brookfieldtx.com
Back Cover
Restaurants 827Ray's
www.827rays.com
Café Blue
www.cafebluetx.com
p. 63 p. 62
Canyon Grille at Rough Hollow
www.canyongrille.com
p. 61
High 5
www.bowlhighfive.com
p. 16, 60, 68-69
The Oasis on Lake Travis
www.oasis-austin.com
p. 67
Schools | Education Hyde Park Schools
www.hp-schools.org
International School of Texas
www.istexas.org
School in the Hills
www.schoolinthehills.com
p. 25 p. 30, 31 p. 27
Storage Secured Climate & Storage
www.securedclimatestorage.com
p. 79
Vine Vault
www.vinevault.com
p. 65
Wine | Wine Storage Grandeur Cellars
www.grandeurcellars.com
p. 2
Vine Vault
www.vinevault.com
p. 65
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MAKE YOURSELF
AT HOME WITH
We offer innovatively designed, impeccably built homes in Central Texas communities that feature beautiful views, desirable amenities, exceptional school districts, close proximity to shopping and entertainment and access to outdoor adventures. We want our customers to be both physically and emotionally drawn home.
ROUGH HOLLOW Experience exhilarating canyon and lake views in our community of Rough Hollow in Lakeway, TX. Homes feature innovative designs, modern floorplans and unlimited amenities. The community also feeds into the exemplary Lake Travis Independent School District. There are five distinct sections to choose from: Canyon Pass Location: 203 Gulfton Street, Lakeway, TX Floor Plans: From 1,900 to 3,000 sf | Price: From the mid $300s
Highland Terrace Location: 456 Anfield Circle, Lakeway, TX Floor Plans: From 2,300 to 4,000 sf | Price: From the $300s
The Summit Location: 203 Gulfton Street, Lakeway, TX Floor Plans: From 2,237 sf | Price: From the mid $400s West Rim Location: 203 Gulfton Street, Lakeway, TX Floor Plans: From 2,300 to 4,000 sf | Price: From the low $400s Arroyo Divide Location: 456 Anfield Circle, Lakeway, TX Floor Plans: From 2,500 to more than 4,200 sf Price: From the $430s
PROVENCE Surrounded by lush nature on Hamilton Pool Road in Austin, Provence will feature sought-after seclusion and tranquility while offering the conveniences of an onsite amenity center and ample shopping and entertainment at nearby Bee Cave and Lake Travis. Price: From the high $300s | Floor Plans: From 1,800 to 3,500 sf
Now Selling!
VISIT US TODAY: 16314 Hamilton Pool Rd, Austin, TX 78738
BrookfieldTX.com (512) 982-4877
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