USA Today names this Texas oasis as one of the best forest bathing resorts in the country
Have you ever thought about bathing in a forest? Texas has a resort spa where you can try it out.
What is forest bathing? It’s not just taking a bath outside. It’s a wellness practice that also consists of “a mindful observation of nature’s sights, sounds, and scents,” according to the USA Today list. “It’s intentionally slow-paced and combines walking, meditation, stretching, and breath awareness outdoors, creating a profoundly peaceful experience.”
USA Today compiled a list of eight forest bathing destinations in the country by using an expert panel that nominated places readers could vote on. One of them is in Texas, but you’ll have to drive a bit.
Lake Austin Spa Resort
If you are looking for a relaxing getaway, Lake Austin Spa Resort is only a three-hour road trip away from Fort Worth.
The resort is located just west of the big city at 1705 S. Quinlan Park Road.
Though Lake Austin Spa Resort isn’t dedicated to forest bathing, they do have similar amenities with tubs in almost every room. The resort is wellness-focused and offers guests fitness classes and spa treatments.
This spa resort has also been rated as the No. 1 spa resort in the country, as well as the No. 3 in the world by the 2024 Conde Nast Traveler Reader Choice Awards.
The adult-only lodge is all inclusive. Booking a room means you are also booking all three meals a day, complimentary room service, lake equipment, wellness activities and resort experiences. Guests also have access to pools, steam rooms, saunas, whirlpools and gardens.
They have a dining room with a lake view and also offer cooking classes with guest chefs. Their menus are curated to make guests feel good with balanced and delicious meals.
Lake activities include boating, tubing, paddle boarding, water and lakeside yoga, hiking, kayaking and cruises.
Wellness activities are extensive. The spa offers facials, massages, energy work, meditations and aquatic myofascial releases. They also have spa day packages for couples, friends, and family members. Booking the spa is separate from the resort stay.
The all inclusive resort has lakeside cottages or hot tub bungalows starting at $1,095 a night.