Who says you're ever too old to partake in summer camp?
While most embrace the experience as a child, it's not too late for those adults still longing to pack their camp bags. We've found something that strongly resembles summer camp, but it doesn't involve sleeping in bunk beds, a bugle wake up call or kitchen duty in a cafeteria. It does involve fireside s'mores though.
There's a destination for adult summer camp tucked away in the rolling hills of Austin called Travaasa. This resort takes outdoor adventure to another level. Surrounded by mature live oak trees and rippling hills of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, this place embraces nature as its bedrock.
Travaasa blends luxury into its rustic escape, so even if you're not the outdoorsy type, there's something for you. Haciendas, fully equipped with cable, rainfall showers and plush robes and slippers, are scattered throughout the property. There is also a spa, so when you're ready to feel refreshed from a day full of outdoor activities, you have lavish hideaways waiting for you.
Perhaps the most enticing elements of Travaasa aren't the amenities, but the endless activities you can experience. From archery to mechanical bull-riding fitness to an elevated ropes course, this adventure is one that requires a step outside the comfort zone. Actually, make that a leap -- throw that hatchet or shoot that bow and arrow. The bulk of their activities are low-tech, with the hyper focus being Mother Nature. Some other offerings include meditation, yoga, equestrian activities, nature trail hikes, geocaching and a bike pump track.
And no summer camp experience is complete without a body of water. Travaasa's version is an infinity pool that virtually cascades over the rolling hills into Lake Travis. From the spa to the picturesque pool, relaxation is inevitable during this adult summer camp stay. Did we mention libations are flowing, just like the infinity pool?
No getaway is complete without a delicious food pairing. Travaasa has a proprietary farm, where staff grows many of the the things they cook with. They have packages that are all inclusive, so you can enjoy your meals in a carefree fashion. From the Short Rib Espagnole to the Tamales Carnitas, all of the food is fresh and organic. Although the food is very nourishing and nutritious, the chefs at Travaasa don't forget about the sweet treat to punctuate the meal.
So everyone can experience summer camp in some capacity, even if it's a couple decades overdue. Albeit, Travaasa is an adulthood experience, this grown-up version is worth the wait.
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By KIMBER WESTPHALL, Special Contributor
