Austin's Best Neighborhoods : Amenities to wish for

Suburbanites have come a long way since the first introduction of the Levittown community in New York, America’s first suburban neighborhood. Since the famous community, suburban developments have greatly matured and demands are even higher than before. Expectations never run low and Austinites have a short drive into the city and more than a few amenities for their convenience. Historic or new, all of these exclusive neighborhoods feature beautiful homes with fantastic views of either the city, the hills or both. Austin’s rich history includes neighborhoods with a strong determination to keep their community as close to original as possible. New developments have become integrated within the outskirts of the city and some have even created their own services. No matter where you live, downtown or in the hills, take a peek at these neighborhoods to see what makes them special. You may find yourself packing.
River Place
From a garden club offering tips for a beautifully landscaped yard to a nature trail that follows along Panther Creek, this community offers more than just amenities. There are three scenic overlooks to enjoy a panoramic view of the neighborhood and a board walk is incorporated into the community which provides views of a pond located at the end of the nature trail. The elite River Place Country Club offers social activities, dining, as well as satisfying all of one’s fitness needs. Community events include a new resident welcome mixer and movies in the park.
Steiner Ranch
Apart from the spectacular sports amenities, this neighborhood provides its residents with more than 12 miles of nature trails and three community centers, with one resembling a water-park. The community boasts its 800 acres of nature preserve and stunning views of the Hill Country at its best. The exclusive Lake Club provides families with 11 boat docks, a pavilion and a playscape with dual access to both Lake Austin and Lake Travis. Children in the community have a choice between six neighborhood parks and a variety of play areas or wide open space throughout.
Austin Lake Hills
Wine and beer tasting are just a couple of activities that residents can enjoy in this community. Outdoor activities are common with basketball, volleyball, hiking and bicycling to choose from. Whether engaging in a political forum or gearing up the boat to enjoy a ride on Lake Austin, many find an experience to be had with ease and simplicity. Boat ramps and docks provide access to the popular lake and guarded swimming pools put parents at ease. The Cuerny Jam, sponsored by the Lake Hills Community Association, brings the community out to enjoy arts and crafts, music and food.
Arbolago
Lakefront views, lavish pools and easy access to Lake Travis offer a taste of what this community has to spoil their residents. A full-service Lakeway Marina can be accessed through a private 19-acre homeowner’s park. The woods of Arbolago provide a scenic setting for walking trails winding through. Homes in the neighborhood have a Mediterranean and Old World influence. Golfers can choose from four championship courses.
Villa Montaña
Internationally renowned interior designer and restaurateur, Beau Theriot has created a community that is exceptional, Villa Montaña in Comanche Canyon Ranch, nestled on a hilltop just past the Oasis. A beautiful enclave of timeless design and style. Unspoiled and exclusive, Villa Montaña features the natural beauty and architectural grace of a eclectic and intimate hillside village.
“It has been a 20 year quest to create a living environment that captures the aura and style of the Mediterranean set in Austin’s most scenic hills above Lake Travis. I want our home owners to feel the dedication and love of creativity thathas inspired Villa Montaña.” Whether you find inspiration in a beautiful sunset or pleasure in living in a perfectly designed home, Villa Montaña is Austin’s address for your lifestyle.
Villa Montaña is the ideal blend of gracious homes, majestic scenery and proximity to Texas’ most exciting city. With 44 of 98 lots still available, build your dream home or buy a new featured home. Luxury Lake living nestled within an eco-wise nature preserve.
A gated community, on property concierge service is located in the midst of a nature preserve just outside of Austin in the hills above Lake Travis, Villa Montaña is an exclusive address for only ninety-eight homeowners. Residents will enjoy a private park with panoramic lake and canyon views and incredible sunsets.
Vistas and street views are unobstructed as Villa Montaña features full underground utilities. Specially paved concrete streets further enhance the quality of life in a community where the importance of aesthetics and attention to detail is paramount. Architectural features, design integrity, and community standards at Villa Montaña are of the utmost importance.
Carefully controlled architectural standards; Consultations with Beau Theriot and his architectural design committee regarding your home’s architectural design elements.
On-Site Concierge Services includes;
- Personal appointment assistance (physicians, beauty, travel, spas, wellness, golf, marina, dinner and lawn care)
- Local knowledge and business referrals, from florist to housekeeping services
- 24-hour availability for emergency situations
- Oversees all common area maintenance and beautification . . . and the list goes on!
Estates of Lakeway Hills
Nestled in the city of Lakeway, this community provides recreational opportunities at The Hills Country Club such as private golf, tennis, fishing and swimming. On the shores of Lake Travis, the 64-acre Lakeway City Park is available for residents to relax or play. A clubhouse, community pool, playground and tennis courts are conveniently located in the neighborhood. Scenic jogging paths create a setting that any resident would enjoy.
The Ridge At Alta Vista
The Balcones Canyonland Nature Preserve surrounds three sides of the community and is sure to have a breathtaking view from almost every angle. A “tot lot” ensures hours of fun and serves its purpose as a children’s play area with a water feature. The grandiose gates, flanked by waterfalls and granite columns, set the ambience that seems to seep through to all the homes. A junior Olympic pool and clubhouse with a basketball court and fitness center are among the amenities.
Barton Creek
Made up of 16 different neighborhoods, this community is located southwest of downtown. There are many smaller, exclusive communities within the subdivision, namely Mirador and Escala. Many of the homes are custom built and close to the Barton Creek Resort and Club. The club offers tennis courts and four 18-hole championship golf courses. The fitness center provides residents with an indoor pool, jogging track, steam rooms, saunas, whirlpools, massage and aromatherapy. The creek in which it is named for flows freely through the community. Views can vary from overlooking the hills, downtown or Barton Creek.
Rough Hollow
Located near Lake Travis, residents can enjoy the convenience of the proximity and access to water sports by boating, cruising, water skiing, jet skiing, sailing, parasailing, diving or fishing, to name just a few! To take a break from the water, residents can take a hike on the easily accessible trails, grab a tennis racket or a golf club. A coffee bar and deli can be visited while members decide between eight golf courses.
Spanish Oaks
Adventure is an everyday event in this community and it couldn’t be any easier. Residents can create their own adventure and pursue it with the help of the Outdoor Pursuits team. Activities for each member of the family include a ladies’ poker night, Kids’ Dog Show and wine tasting. Convenience is an amenity and comes in the form of refrigerator stocking, dry cleaning, pet care, house sitting, unpacking services and transportation provided by the community. A five- acre fish camp stocked with trophy large mouth bass includes trails, hiking grounds and an overnight pavilion for camping out with the family.
The Hills of Lakeway (The Village of The Hills)
Residents looking to up their game can turn to PGA professionals at a golf clinic hosted by the Lakeway Golf Club. Of the four courses offered at the posh country club, two championship golf courses were designed by Jack Nicklaus, better known as “The Golden Bear,” and promises to be continuously challenging. Fine dining, swimming and a fitness center are among the amenities. The community prides itself on the choices residents can choose from, whether it be anything between a bridge or exercise group. Tennis players in the area have 18 outdoor courts and two indoor courts for year-round matches.
Lost Creek
The multigenerational community offers fabulous views and residents are guaranteed diversity within the neighborhood. Each house represents this in their varying designs and floor plans, with no two being alike. Home to walkers, runners and cyclists, nature trails provide a beautiful backdrop during their morning or afternoon routines. Located near the Greenbelt and Barton Creek, nature seems to be a few steps away. A fitness center, golf course, 16 tennis courts and three swimming pools are a few amenities in this unique neighborhood. Social activities include the Fall Festival, Spring Family Fun Day and a July 4th parade and party.
Rob Roy
Arguably among the best in terms of commute and views, this community is comprised of six neighborhoods. The scenic 227-acre Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve contains over two miles of hiking trails throughout grassland and woodland habitats. Nearby golf courses render hours of competition and Lake Austin can be enjoyed through sailing, waterskiing or fishing. Most homes are on estate-sized lots and include guest suites, outdoor living spaces and waterfalls in the backyard. Many overlook the Colorado River Basin, which winds through the limestone hills.
Woods of Westlake Heights
The community spans only seven blocks on four different streets, but provides a high quality of life to those who reside there. Shopping is considered an amenity high on the list in this community. With numerous stores to choose from out of the Westlake Plaza, Westlake Village and Westlake Center, residents in the nearby neighborhood may feel overwhelmed. Runners, cyclists or hikers can take advantage of the beautiful trails which provide a calming exercise experience throughout the community. Sport enthusiasts will never be bored with tennis courts and gold courses to choose from. Community swimming pools ensure residents keep cool and can relax in style.
Tarrytown
The prestigious neighborhood has attracted statewide and national celebrities with its incredible value and amenities. Homes range from 1920s cottages to modern homes and provide residents with a sanctuary to be proud of. The variety in sizes of the houses lure families in to enjoy dozens of amenities near their homes. Deep Eddy pool provides months of recreational swimming and the historic Laguna Gloria, located on Lake Austin, still holds art exhibitions. The Tarrytown Park and Reed Park offer a relaxing setting to enjoy Austin’s beautiful sunny days. Nearby is the Mayfield Reserve, a 22-acre nature preserve featuring a lily pond, deer and peacocks. The Lions Municipal Golf Course keep its golfers challenged, yet satisfied with their game of golf. Active parents in the area have organized, funded and coach football, soccer and baseball. Some of Austin’s most expensive real estate can be found here. Residents are deeply involved in the neighborhood group and protect their community by staying informed on several issues affecting the area. The community has the perks of a great location minus the quick pace of the city.
Travis Heights
Gen. W.H. Stacey, a former commander of the Texas National Guard and key developer of Travis Heights, ran streetcars of prospective buyers out to this neighborhood from the capitol in the early 1900s. The neighborhood’s success is due to various lot sizes and prices, not to mention its spectacular views. Homes range from vintage 1920s bungalows to modern. General Stacey incorporated deed restrictions against multifamily & commercial development into Travis Heights to further entice buyers into the area. At the time of Stacey’s death, 600 lots were sold and over 160 homes were built. The tree-lined neighborhood is located near the Blunn Creek Nature Preserve features 40 acres of woodland habitat in combination with streams. Scenic overlooks and a trail are of easy access to nearby residents. Norwood Estate Park, an off-leash dog park, spoils dogs with over 500 acres of land. The dogs are just as happy as their owners in this historic neighborhood. The community has been summed up into two words: beauty and convenience.



