So you're considering a move to West Lake Hills, a tranquil oasis on the west side of Austin, Texas. It's an area where life effortlessly blends the convenience of city living with the peaceful aura of a countryside retreat. Keep reading to discover the unique qualities that make this community stand out, from its activities to an assortment of fabulous restaurants.
Leisure and exploration: An array of activities
West Lake Hills offers a variety of nearby activities to keep both your mind and body engaged.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
One of West Lake Hills' most prized possessions is the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Stretching over seven miles, this urban oasis is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The greenbelt boasts a series of stunning limestone cliffs, shaded hiking trails, and tranquil swimming holes. It's a haven for hikers, bikers, rock climbers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush or a peaceful escape, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is the place to be.
Westlake Beach
Nestled along the shores of Lake Austin, Westlake Beach offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This private, members-only beach club is a true hidden gem. With its sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, and lush picnic areas, Westlake Beach is the ideal spot for families and individuals looking to unwind. Boating, paddleboarding, and sunbathing are just a few of the activities you can enjoy in this tranquil haven.
Wild Basin Preserve
For those who crave a deeper connection with nature, Wild Basin Preserve is a must-visit destination. This 227-acre nature preserve offers a network of hiking trails winding through lush canyons, alongside clear-flowing streams, and under the shade of towering oak trees. The preserve is home to diverse wildlife and an array of native plants. Whether you're an avid birder, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a serene escape, Wild Basin Preserve will captivate your senses.
Austin Country Club
The Austin Country Club, situated along the shores of Lake Austin, is a golfer's paradise. With its meticulously manicured fairways and challenging course design, it has been a favorite among golf enthusiasts for decades. Beyond golf, the club offers a wide range of amenities, including tennis courts, fine dining, and social events.
Alissa’s Dance Academy
Alissa's Dance Academy stands as a beacon of culture and creativity in West Lake Hills. This esteemed dance school has been nurturing young talent for years, offering classes in various dance styles, from ballet to hip-hop. The academy's experienced instructors are dedicated to helping students discover their passion for dance and develop their skills. Performances by Alissa's Dance Academy are a highlight of the local arts scene, showcasing the talent and dedication of its students.
Epicurean delights: The best local eateries
For foodies, there are many great restaurants to enjoy in West Lake Hills.
Las Palomas
Founded in the early 1980s, Las Palomas Restaurant-Bar is a family establishment serving authentic Mexican flavors. The decor is pristine and harkens back to the multiple regions of interior Mexico from which the dishes also hail. Whether you’re looking to dine inside or out on the patio with a margarita, you’ll find yourself satisfied and delighted at Las Palomas.
The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen
For a relaxed yet upscale dining experience, head to The Grove Wine Bar & Kitchen. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or none of the above, this restaurant has something to delight you. Enjoy the patio on a beautiful spring evening, dining on the tasty New American fare and sipping a glass from their excellent wine collection.
Blue Dahlia Bistro
Enter a sanctuary where rustic meets refined, where the ambiance is as enriching as the cuisine. Blue Dahlia Bistro is where time slows down, creating the perfect setting for either a languorous brunch or a romantic dinner that lingers on till the candles burn low. Every dish here is a symphony of European-inspired flavors — whether it's the buttery smoothness of a hollandaise sauce or the crisp zest of freshly picked greens, every bite promises a culinary escapade. As you sip on your mimosa, surrounded by the comforting hues of the bistro's decor, you'll feel as if you've been whisked away to a chic café on the cobblestone streets of Paris.
Flower Child - West Lake
Flower Child is the epitome of dining with purpose, a vibrant setting that radiates energy and positivity. The walls are adorned with colorful murals, setting the backdrop for a menu that is a kaleidoscope of fresh, natural ingredients. From grain bowls to smoothies, the focus here is on nourishment that delights both the body and the soul. When you eat at Flower Child, you're not just consuming a meal; you're taking part in a philosophy of healthy living that invigorates your entire being.
Sway
There's something almost mystical about the blend of spices, herbs, and flavors that Thai cuisine brings to the table. At Sway, this magic comes alive against a backdrop that's as modern as it is inviting. With a trendy ambiance that mirrors the cutting-edge city it resides in, this restaurant is where traditional Thai recipes meet contemporary flair. From the first whiff of lemongrass to the final burst of chili, each dish is a sensory voyage to the bustling markets and serene temples of Thailand. The flavors here don't just satisfy; they exhilarate, each bite a crescendo in a melody of taste that you wish would never end.
A focus on education: The schooling landscape
The future is something we create. And there's no better foundation for a promising future than a solid education. In West Lake Hills, education isn't just a pathway; it's a promise — a covenant between the community and its youngest residents. This region takes the schooling of its children not just as a task but as a sacred trust, and that ethos echoes in its educational institutions, which rank among the best in the state, if not the nation.
From the moment your children step into any of the area's highly-ranked, nationally competitive schools, they are enveloped in an environment of academic rigor balanced by the joy of extracurricular discovery. Whether it's mastering the intricacies of algebra, delving into the wonders of literature, or finding their rhythm in music and sports, young learners here are groomed to be well-rounded individuals. Schools in West Lake Hills don't just teach; they inspire. They ignite imaginations, foster innovation, and, most importantly, instill the priceless understanding that learning is a lifelong journey — a magical expedition of mind and spirit that never truly ends. Eanes Independent School District ranks 10th in the nation for its excellent academic and athletic standards.
About Kathryn Scarborough Real Estate
Kathryn Scarborough is a fifth-generation Austinite who brings a wealth of experience to the table, with over two decades of expertise in Austin's competitive real estate market. If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the West Lake Hills, Texas, real estate market, contact Kathryn Scarborough Real Estate today.
