Editorial written for Farm and Ranch magazine highlighting the waterfront opportunities in downtown Austin

1. AUSTIN
 A Hill Country Oasis 
By Jamie Destouet
boating on the lake, swimming in spring-fed creeks,
golfing on one of the 26 courses or listening to music
in one of the 120 live music venues, there just isn’t
enough time to do it all!”
Born of the Colorado River and just minutes
from downtown Austin, Town Lake—a thriving
Lake Austin Lake Travis
reservoir with limitless aquatic possibilities—of-
A Amidst the vast landscape of Texas’ most renowned
region, the terrain flows and ebbs, mirroring the
feel of the ocean as hills rise in a series of unbroken
waves and the lush valleys blanket the ground like
fers over 10 miles of hiking and biking trails where
joggers, walkers, cyclists and water trail users
spend hours exploring the banks of this unique
expanse of water. As the river flows, the Colorado
winning golf and tennis,” said Susan Doyle with
Avalon Realty.
A highlight of Austin’s numerous waterfront el-
ements, the stunning expanse of Lake Travis truly
verdant pools of calm water. Alive with an indescrib- creates a series of sparkling lakes that stretch for reflects the spirit of Austin both in size and ambi-
able energy, the varied terrain flows as if a single ance. Bordered by towering limestone cliffs, Lake
pebble was dropped long ago amidst a still pool, a Texas Bluebonnets Travis has become an unparalleled destination for
pebble that continues to create waves and embraces boating, fishing, waterskiing, parasailing and swim-
the spirit of waterfront living. ming. Long considered the soul of the city, Barton
As if blessed by the power of Aquarius, Austin Springs creates a pristine 100 foot-long natural pool
seems to control an unending river of mythical wa- born of the crystal-clear waters that run beneath the
ters that flow from the Greek god’s clay jar, splash city and emerge from the depths of the limestone to
along the base of the Texas panhandle and carve provide swimmers and sunbathers with a unique
their way through the Hill Country as the mighty haven of aquatic luxury. Yet, the majestic beauty of
Colorado River. As the powerful flow reaches the the water continues throughout the city as dozens
city, Lake Travis, Lake Austin and countless creeks of lake and creek-side parks provide ample oppor-
and rivers come alive, filling their extensive beds tunities for picnickers, campers and sightseers to en-
and luring residents and visitors of every generation joy the resplendence of its picturesque retreats and
to explore this recreational mecca. the protected habitats of the Wild Basin Wilderness
Fueled by a year-round temperate climate and a Preserve and Mayfield Park & Preserve.
population that craves to experience the unique fla- Across the city, the heart of Austin beats to the
vor of the city’s culture, recreation and endless ame- tide of the Colorado River, a timeless landmark
nities, Austin’s waterfront lifestyle provides a wealth that has not only defined the area, but has also
of possibilities. Along every bank where the rushing over 100 miles: Lake Buchanan, Inks Lake, Lake created an ever-growing community of residents
waters kiss the shore, families, couples and groups of LBJ, Lake Marble Falls, Lake Austin, Town Lake and visitors who thrive on the energy of the water,
friends searching to escape restrictive walls and en- and the prestigious Lake Travis. “Many people appreciate its beauty and respect the delicate bal-
joy the beauty of Austin’s waterfront can find count- know Austin as the Live Music Capitol but they ance of nature. “It is no surprise that Money maga-
less places to reach the water. “There’s no excuse for don’t realize that we also have seven area lakes zine has listed Austin as one of the most desirable
sitting at home with nothing to do in Austin,” said as well as miles of the Colorado River, perfect for places to live,” said Kathryn Scarborough Bechtol
Peggy Schatz with Keller Williams Lakeway. “With boating, swimming, hiking and kayaking, just to of Turnquist Partners Realtors. “I have clients who
Lake Travis easily accessible to all areas of the city, name a few. The Barton Creek community is just have the option to live anywhere in the country,
opportunities for recreation are everywhere. From minutes away and offers luxury living, award- but choose Austin for the quality of life.” V
28 Issue 18-2 Northern California
028 AustinAreaHiLite.indd 28 6/19/07 3:00:15 PM