I finally got to stay at Hyatt’s most relaxing brand, Miraval! Rates are normally $1600+ a night for the Austin location, so it is a bit difficult to actually stay here. However, we spent 137K points to get two nights and have a relaxing weekend in the “Hill Country ™” away from the hustle and bustle of DFW.
Location
The resort is located near downtown Austin, but it’s not exactly in Austin proper. It’s hidden away off the side of a road and locked down by a gate. I assume this is because it’s right in the middle of the Balcones Canyonlands Nature Preserve. The resort is about 220 acres, which is almost the size of Epcot and two times larger than Magic Kingdom!
On the property there are several guest room structures. We ended up in the newest buildings comprised of building 11, 12, and 13- called “The sanctuary”.
Activities
What sets this resort apart from others is that it’s a luxurious wellness retreat. Most things are included in the price of a night's stay, such as beverages, meals, and numerous activities. Some activities cost extra, such as massages at the Spa, or private lessons from one of the coaches. For those, you get an extra $170 you can spend on those courses, and if you want to do more you can always pay extra.
Some of the activities I tried, include meditating in the Yoga Barn
Archery at Live Oaks
And just exploring the campus!
I actually spent a lot of time, (and money) at the spa. Some of the best massages I ever had in my life!
The Room
The room is fantastic! It’s large, with a balcony facing the hills outside. The bed itself is very fluffy and soft. It did wonders for my back. The Pillows were also very soft, but I don’t like soft pillows that much, so my neck took a beating.
When you first walk into the guest room, it splits into the bathroom directly ahead of you (It’s got 2 showers!), and the bedroom to the left. The bathroom was adorned with the Miraval special lotion and soaps, that all felt and smelt very nice.
Not $60 nice though
There is a toilet in a separate “closet” or so I like to call. It fully closes for privacy.
Breakfast
Breakfast was Buffett style with a small accompanying menu you could order from. If you aren’t a fan of eggs, I don’t have good things to say. But if you are okay with eggs, it can be great for you.
I made myself some Bagels, and Oatmeal and made the most of it, but very little fruit, no cereal, and no other meat besides bacon.
Disappointing…
A major boon that I also want to acknowledge, is that, for once, lunch and dinner are also complementary. I greatly enjoyed those offerings. Especially their famous “Nest Burger” I have had 4 of them. Delicious every time.
Pleased.
Overall Score
This being my first time at a Miraval, I was very impressed. At first, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I know people rave about it, and the place has good reviews. But since they encourage you to unplug, no one has any videos or pictures of the property. I snuck some for you ;)
But I enjoyed the classes, the food, the feeling of being in college again — going from my room to class and back. I enjoyed the spa, and spending quality time with my significant other. The service was also superb, and everyone was very sweet—even the other guests.
I have to give this place a
5/5
