Designed by the architect Bernardo Pozas, this remarkable villa on the outskirts of Austin manages to strike a fine balance between opulence and homeliness. There's something very dramatic about the interior, in part down to the tall windows, high ceilings and marble floors. The huge kitchen is the sort of thing that the culinarily gifted dream about, while the rather sleek bathtub is sure to be the spot for many an unrushed soak. We've also only got kind words to say about the contemporary fireplace in the living room, ideal to hunker down next to with a movie on the television. And we've yet to mention the wonderful amenities that lie just outside the glass doors. Spread across two acres and surrounded by mature trees, the garden plays host to a wealth of delights, from the swimming pool and hot tub to an outdoor kitchen and alfresco dining set-up on the terrace ready for summer evening feasts. Another huge perk comes with the location. Barton Creek Wilderness Park lies nearby, so you can easily head out on scenic walks — Sculpture Falls takes fifty minutes to reach on foot, for example. At the same time, Downtown Austin is only a quarter of an...Read more hour's drive when you're in the mood for museums, restaurants and nightlife venues. Read less

Additional fees

• Your host can arrange a chauffeur, private chef, catering, airport transfers, grocery deliveries or massages for an additional fee

• The swimming pool can be heated for an additional fee

Additional fees subject to a 3.5% handling charge.