When I pull my SUV into Robin’s driveway I see several potted bonsai plants. “My husband’s doings,” Robin says after answering the door.
There’s a lot going on here. Three small dogs greet me as I walk in (I’m a dog lover, so this is welcome). The property is full of whimsical artifacts, like a “Margaritaville” sign hanging outside and a collection of tiny wooden lighthouses and birdhouses. Several one-piece tank top women’s bathing suits decorate the patio walls.
And before I can stop to chat Robin is walking out the back door to let the newest pup — a three-month-old golden retriever — do his business. I follow them out.
The backyard overlooks Lake Travis. A paved walkway down to the water is cleverly bordered on each side by canoe-halves standing upright. I take in the sight and I’m instantly in love. A few feet past the edge of the yard floats a boat dock, belonging to the B&B. A mild breeze is moving the thick shade trees.
Growing Up
Robin purchased her first property here, a single cottage, in 1973. Back then the units were rustic fishing cottages. Over the years she purchased more on this cul-de-sac. By my count she and her husband now have ten living spaces: her own home, the caretakers’ home, a large two-unit long term rental and six B&B cottages.
I run a sailing charter business nearby — sailATX — and Robin kindly sent customers my way. I figured I should stop by and thank her. (The sailing charter was for a 50th anniversary celebration – complete with matching blue and gold anniversary T-shirts).
In the kitchen she serves me icewater and talks about the B&B business. “I won’t do online rentals,” she says emphatically. “People want a hotel experience, that’s not
what we are.” I later learn that she “interviews” customers when they call. She’s looking for hints that they are the “hotel” type. There is nothing wrong with a hotel, mind you, but I know what she means. Here you’ll get something unique, call it Hill Country charm, and probably a few surprises.
Like the food. Some people on the phone ask what’s on the menu. “Well it changes every day,” she says. I like this lady.
Robin cooks the meals and even caters to special dietary needs (like gluten free foods).
∼∼∼
Lakeside Relaxation
Each unit at Robin’s Nest has its own character. “Studio B” is newer with more modern decor. The “Rock Cottage” on the other hand is a sixty-year-old renovated fishing cottage, but with current amenities like washer/dryer, big flat panel TV and full kitchen.
On my tour of each unit I find myself saying, I HAVE to come back with my wife and stay here for a romantic getaway weekend. Walking the grounds I feel a world away from the nearby city. The thick tree canopy and lapping lake water takes the stress level down a few notches.
If you are looking for a relaxing, uniquely Austin experience — in a gorgeous setting — not far from town, give Robin a call.
Contact:
Robin’s Nest
1010 Stewart Cove, Austin, Texas 78734
Phone: (512) 266-3413
eMail: RobinLakeTravis@Yahoo.com
http://robinsnestlaketravis.com/
Sail With Steve 