The Perfect Texas Small Town Getaway

The town of Bastrop, Texas, population 12,000 and counting is just 25 miles from the Austin airport, but it's a thousand miles away from Austin's traffic, crowds and 2 million people. The town was founded in 1804, and it's been a hub of the timber industry ever since due to its location near the Lost Pines Forest . That's right: forest. Not something you'd expect to find in Central Texas, but there are thirteen miles of scenic loblolly pines to explore and enjoy near Bastrop. (After a devastating fire in 2011, volunteers hand-planted 3 million new loblolly pines, which tells you a lot about this community.)

If you're looking a relaxed, beautiful place to stay somewhere that's close to the beaten path, but a little off, Bastrop doesn't disappoint. Here's how to spend a few fun days.

LODGING

There really is no better place to stay than the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines resort . This AAA Four Diamond resort's 405 scenic acres are located on the banks of the Lower Colorado River, adjacent to the huge McKinney Roughs Nature Park, and it's laid out so you never feel crowded. There are 491 guest rooms, and amenities include the Wolfdancer Golf Club , Spa Django and the Crooked River Waterpark and Pool .

One of the most impressive things about Lost Pines is how well it does "Texas." The vibe here isn't over-the-top-rhinestone-Texas, rather it's the much more desirable Hill-Country-Outdoor-Kick-Back-Texas. You notice this in the decor, in the restaurant offerings , and in the full day's schedule of activities that includes things like horseshoes, storytellin' (no "g"), live music, falconry shows, kayaking and rafting, horseback riding, archery tag, fly fishing, and more.

If a big resort isn't your style, consider the Pecan Street Inn , a charming B&B in the historic district, or venture into the wild and stay in a cabin at the state park . These are reasonably priced and great for families. Plus, who doesn't want to stay in a cabin named "Sam Houston"?

ACTIVITIES

Explore Bastrop County is a great website that tells you everything there is to do in the area, including all of the outdoor activities you may want to try. (And there are many outdoor activities available at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines, too.) Be sure to check out Zip Lost Pines . They offer six dual zip lines (meaning you can soar side-by-side with a friend or romantic partner, if you're into that kind of thing) that carry you over shady pine forests and across steep canyons. It's located at McKinney Roughs, and it's a lot of fun. I'd never gone zip-lining before, but the guides were professional and made it easy and I didn't die. Plan on spending at least 2-3 hours here to do all the lines.

Other highlights in Bastrop: The Lost Pines Art Center is a beautiful new facility that features local artists, the Bastrop Farmers Market , open every Saturday, and the Bastrop Museum and Visitor Center .

SHOPPING AND DINING

If you're in the market for boots in Texas, head to the Texas Boot Company. Not only do they have a huge amount of boots and western wear in stock, they can custom order most anything. Plus they serve drinks while you shop, which is a good thing until you have a margarita and start eying a $1,000 pair of Texas A&M boots and you didn't even go to Texas A&M.

But the best way to explore the shopping and dining in Downtown Bastrop is during the First Friday Art Walk, a monthly showcase of galleries, artists, restaurants, shops and small businesses in the historic downtown. A true gem is the Lost Pines Art Bazaar . They feature a wonderfully eclectic selection of gifts, artwork, hand-knotted Persian rugs and other decor.

After you're done shopping at First Friday, head over to Neighbor's Kitchen and Yard , just behind main street, for casual and delicious food. Get views of the Colorado river from the deck of this family-owned pizza joint that features a rustic setting, scratch-made food and handcrafted cocktails. They also have live music on the patio most nights.

Right next to the porch is the Copper Shot Distillery where they produce small-batch, handcrafted spirits in a charming, historic building. The distillery features tours and a tasting room where visitors can enjoy creative concoctions and learn about the distilling process.

You'll no doubt work up an appetite while exploring Bastrop, so during your stay, plan on stopping at Southside Market . Southside Market started in the town of Elgin in 1882, making it the oldest BBQ restaurant in Texas. They're famous for their sausage (that's sold at grocery chain HEB), but they specialize in anything "meat." Southside Market Bastrop location is warm and welcoming, and it smells delicious even from the parking lot. While you're there, be sure to pace yourself because you'll want to order some cobbler for dessert.

And if you're still somehow hungry for another meal after your Southside BBQ, don't miss Maxine's in downtown Bastrop. This cozy cafe is a local favorite, and it's easy to see why with the delicious food, inviting atmosphere and staff that treats you like you're long lost friends. The famous Texas Monthly Stacker, 12 griddle cakes served with a quarter pound pile of bacon was even featured on the December 2011 cover of Texas Monthly. Maybe everything is bigger in Texas?

If you're looking for a quick getaway from Austin, Houston or San Antonio, head on out to Bastrop for a laid-back, friendly Texas weekend. You'll feel right at home.

For more information, go to VisitBastrop.com or ExploreBastropCounty.com .