AustinTXEstates

In the latest sear for America’s best cities, Kiplinger named Austin the #1 in best cities for the next decade. Why you might ask? Three factors: smart people, great ideas, and collaboration. This is not exactly something new to those who live in Austin but what is impressive is that the rest of the world is starting to see how awesome Austin truly is. In a place where the educational institutions, business communities, and the government work together, prosperity and economic growth is certain. As the article expressed, “it’s no coincidence that economic vitality and livability go hand in hand.”
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On the chain of six lakes that officially make up the Highland Lakes, Lake Austin is the closest to downtown, sitting just northwest of the heart of the city. Created in 1939 by the LCRA (Lower Colorado River Authority) with the construction of the Tom Miller Dam, Lake Austin falls between the Mansfield Dam and the Tom Miller Dam. It provides flood control of the river, hydroelectric power, and recreation.

A great site for water sports, you can take one of the boat tours available, or bring your own. High cliffs provide shelter from the wind and make boating favorable, while also providing great sites for beautiful homes. It is also a spot for recreational fishing, stocked with largemouth bass, catfish and sunfish.

Mount Bonnell, the highest point in Austin, is a natural limestone feature, and has been a popular picnicking spot since the mid 1800s. From the brief hike to the top you can see over Lake Austin, the 360 Bridge (or Pennybacker Bridge), and to the downtown skyline.

Pictured: Private cove of Lake Austin from 1611 Westlake Drive

Away from the busyness of downtown Austin is Lake Travis. While still being a short drive to the things you love about Austin, Lake Travis has a whole set of recreational activities, dining, and getaways of its own.

Lake Travis was created with the building of Mansfield Dam from 1937-1941, named after the Texas Congressman of 32 years. The dam was built and is maintained with money it makes from its sales of water and electricity. Currently, Lake Travis is Central Texas’ favorite spot for water recreation including boating, fishing, and even scuba diving, as well as hosting state parks, golf courses and many residential communities.

A great resource for exploring Lake Travis is available at www.laketravis.com. Here you can find any accommodations you need and get links to any dining or recreation. Try the Oasis Restaurant, “the Sunset Capital of Texas,” with its covered outdoor dining and stunning lake views. Spicewood Vineyards has wine tasting and tours. You can find the latest weather and information about weekly community or charity events.

If you can imagine living on Lake Travis, there is a listing for a custom home with two story views overlooking Lake Travis and protected greenbelt. You could enjoy the Lake from your private pool, hot tub and waterfall, or patio inside the exclusive gated community. This 4,268 square foot home on 1.8 acres is listed at $899,900. You can see the entire listing with pictures here.

If you love Lake Travis, you can also see available lots for your business, ranch or home here. The Dave Murray Team is a full service real estate team serving all your needs from first time buyers to relocation. We are experts in Central Texas Waterfront, Development, Luxury and Ranch properties. These properties and more can be seen on our website, www.DMTX.com.