Just a short drive from Point Venture, Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge protects thousands of acres of rolling Hill Country, with oak and juniper woodland, limestone canyons and open grassland stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s a wonderfully peaceful place to stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh air and see a side of Texas many visitors miss.
Head to Doeskin Ranch for a choice of easy, well-marked trails that wander past creeks, prairie and gentle hillsides. Or make your way to the Warbler Vista area for sweeping views from the Sunset Deck. The refuge was created to protect the endangered golden-cheeked warbler, which nests here every spring and breeds nowhere else in the world, so bring binoculars and listen out for its buzzy song.
Visit between March and June for birdlife and wildflowers, or on a crisp autumn morning when the trails are cool and quiet. Entry is free and the trails are open from sunrise to sunset. There are no cafés on site, so pack a picnic and plenty of water. It’s the perfect way to slow down and reconnect with nature, then head back to the villa for a relaxing soak in the hot tub.
