7 Best Hotels in Austin, Texas

Saint Cecilia goes beyond anything you'd expect in an eclectic, decidedly Austin accommodation, from the art deco–style bar to the neon lights that read "S-O-U-L" shining above the heated outdoor pool. No two rooms are alike on the swanky, highly exclusive South Congress estate, from contemporary poolside bungalows to suites in the historic Victorian main building, though each reflects an extravagant, vintage-inspired style in a rock-and-roll meets turn-of-the-20th-century France motif. All have luxurious Hästens beds, refinished antiques, and unconventional artwork ranging from Keith Richards portraits to vintage Cuban movie posters. An on-site café has an all-day menu.

On a hilltop ridge amidst the Balcones Canyonlands nature preserve, just 30 minutes from Austin, Travaasa delivers a refreshing spin on a luxury resort, inspired by its Hill Country setting. Daily itineraries of “adventures” engage guests with their surroundings, from Zen garden meditations and ropes courses to horseback riding and campfire stargazing. Do everything—or simply disconnect at the infinity pool and recently renovated organic spa, which debuted additional lounge areas and private steam rooms in 2014. As of this writing, a Watsu pool for specialized aquatic therapies is under construction. The Preserve Kitchen & Bar offers seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine in a romantic setting. Rooms are arranged in varying sizes, some with charming treeline views. The adults-only property is ideal for romantic getaways and executive retreats alike. À la carte and all-inclusive packages available.

Tucked on the edge of the quaint Hyde Park neighborhood, just north of campus and downtown, the 1928 Commodore Perry mansion has been renovated to Italianate-style perfection and is now home to this Auberge Resorts Collection boutique hotel. Situated on an unassuming sprawl of 10 acres, the historic property achieves an idyllic, private countryside feel despite being minutes from downtown. A stone wall and immaculately landscaped grounds (strewn with the estate's trademark antique roses) separate the austere three-story mansion from its immediately lackluster surroundings. (The Hancock Center across the street, however, is convenient for essential needs like H-E-B or Jo's Coffee.) But the Commodore's insular luxury extends from the courtyard lounges and private terraces to the glamorous Texas-meets-European-classic interiors and exclusive, members-only atmosphere (locals can pay an annual membership fee to access the grounds, outdoor pool, and weekend fitness classes alongside hotel guests).

You get what you pay for in superior service and amenities at this elegant hotel on beautifully manicured grounds overlooking Lady Bird Lake. Rooms are average in size, but stylish—beds have goose-down pillows, L’Occitane bath products are provided, and iPhone docking stations are standard. Some rooms have small balconies, and upper-floor units enjoy impressive views, either of the lake or downtown Austin. Extras include a lending library of Texas literature and an outstanding on-site restaurant, Ciclo, which attracts discerning locals in addition to guests. The hotel has an attractive outdoor saltwater pool, indoor pool, and whirlpool, as well as a fitness center and full spa.

Located next to Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theater, Austin’s W Hotel is one of the city's busiest places to see-and-be-seen. The Second Street property, encompassing a full city block, is the first mixed-use occupancy building of its type in the world to be LEED-certified. Rooms are contemporary yet inviting. The lobby features a variety of hip hangout spots, from the Records Room to the in-house W restaurant featuring a seasonal all-day menu. The Wet Deck outdoor pool lounge swells with beautiful people on weekends, and the AWAY Spa provides a relaxing oasis the otherwise crowded property.