Austin, Texas' Luxury Boutique Hotel Blends Lakeside Charm With Downtown City Convenience

Austin's got a lot of things going for it. Sure, it's been regarded as the "Live Music Capital of the World" for over 30 years. Of course, it's been named the best college town in America multiple times. But this hip, bustling metropolis lures visitors for lots of reasons we love from recreation to festivals to football. No wonder the capital city of Texas attracts over 20 million visitors a year.

But rarely do you find a hotel that manages to bring so many elements of Austin into one centralized location. The Loren at Lady Bird Lake is a stunning five-star boutique hotel perched right on the busy corner of Riverside Drive and South Lamar, with spectacular panoramic views of downtown, the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, and — of course — Lady Bird Lake. With its proximity to the best amenities Austin has to offer, its luxurious accommodations, and its unique organic yet artistic decor, The Loren is an ideal home base for any Austin escapade.

Every single one of The Loren's 108 stunning guestrooms and suites boast floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views. The soothing natural color palette, plush European bedding, and natural stone bathrooms give guests a quiet oasis in the middle of the bustling city. If you're lucky enough to score a balcony suite, be sure to enjoy the sunset from your fully-furnished private terrace while you sip a drink from the stocked minibar. Rooms start around $320 per night in the low season and can range up to $1,450 per night for a spacious two-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath, balcony suite.

You never have to worry about missing a workout with the hotel's state-of-the-art fitness center. You can choose from several Peloton bikes and treadmills, a Hydrow rowing machine, and a wide variety of free weights and medicine balls. Cool off with a chilled carton of "Boxed Water Is Better" from the mini fridge before you make your way up to the rooftop pool on the 8th floor. Choose from a row of comfy lounge chairs or couches as you relax poolside. Should you need a snack or beverage, you can scan the QR code on your table to place an order from Nido, the hotel's restaurant. If you're looking for some extra pampering, The Loren's full-service spa and salon, Milk + Honey, is conveniently located across from the lobby entrance next to The Loren Residences.

Downstairs tucked behind the front desk, you'll find Cafe at The Loren offering guests coffee, pastries, and a variety of grab-and-go items. Situated on a busy corner, it's a fantastic place for people-watching. In addition to hotel guests, the cafe is bustling with runners and cyclists headed to the park, locals with their fur babies enjoying their coffee on the outside patio, and maybe even a couple of chess aficionados engrossed in a game. Open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., it's a great place to grab some quick fuel for the day's adventures.

For a more upscale dining option, take the glass elevator to the top floor where Nido at The Loren prepares locally sourced modern American cuisine with a side of jaw-dropping rooftop views. If weather permits, a seat on the outside patio is a must. But if that's not in the cards, the dining room is still a chic and dramatic backdrop for a culinary experience. Although the nighttime views are incredible, Nido is open for every meal.