Having completed the third phase of a $10-million renovation in 2018, this link in the luxe Four Seasons chain can now compete with all the new kids in the neighborhood—and then some. It’s got the formula down for a perfect stay, whether for work or play: understated elegance, superb service, plus a whole lot of fun. Take the rooms, for example. They have windows that open, a white noise machine, pillow-top mattresses that can be changed depending on how firm or soft you want your bed—and a button on your phone specially dedicated to summoning a margarita cart (from 3–6pm). And, this being Austin, there’s a guitar concierge on staff who will provide you with a Taylor guitar to play while you’re on the property (it’s available for purchase of course, but the Four Seasons logo pick is free). The hotel also makes the most of its location, with the hike-and-bike trail and Lady Bird Lake abutting its lush backyard; it’s the perfect spot for guests to play lawn games, gather around a BBQ grill and listen to live music, or stroll down to the nearby dock to rent a kayak. Adding to the kick-back experience: An outdoor saltwater pool (environmentally friendly, since it relies on few chemicals); a state-of-the-art spa with a Himalayan sea-salt wall; and the Ciclo restaurant, serving Texas fare with Latin influences in all indoor and outdoor dining areas and bars.