A starter map to the city and the Hill Country beyond it — from the missions downtown to river tubing up the road. Everything below is an easy drive from the retreat.

Stone paths, riverside patios and boat cruises a level below the city streets.

A historic brewery reborn as a food-and-shopping district with a weekend farmers market.

Winding stone walkways, koi ponds and shaded pavilions in Brackenridge Park.

Texas nature, science and culture — an easy, air-conditioned afternoon.

A 1929 landmark stage downtown for touring shows and concerts.

Modern art in a Spanish Colonial mansion, minutes from the retreat.

Guided underground cavern tours — the closest big attraction, just northeast.

Float the Comal or Guadalupe — the classic Texas summer afternoon.

Clear water, coves and beaches under an hour away.

The pink granite dome — hike it at golden hour if you can.

German heritage, a boutique Main Street and Texas wine country in one town.

Texas' oldest dance hall and a historic river town, a short drive north.

Legendary pit BBQ in Driftwood — worth the pilgrimage.

Live music, Lady Bird Lake and mural-hopping about ninety minutes up I-35.

Rodeos, ranch days and living Texas traditions.