A NOTE TO OUR READERS:
"Romantic Getaway in San Antonio" is from the February 2007 issue of Southern Living.
Because prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change, please check all
information to make sure it's still current before making your travel plans.
Tonight you're far from the crowds and traffic, surrounded by
the comfort of a relaxing resort. Step out on your balcony, and raise a
toast to a sweetheart of a break in the most romantic city in Texas.
You can stroll the River Walk tomorrow--or you might not want to
leave at all. So much has blossomed around The Westin La Cantera Resort,
it's a destination in itself.
Pick a Package
Rates start at $215, but we think the best
buy is the romance package, starting at $239 (based on availability). It
includes deluxe lodging, breakfast for two, and strawberries and
Champagne. Other packages add golf, shopping, and spa treatments. Visit
www.westin lacantera.com, or call 1-800-937-8461. Directions: From I-10
west, take Exit 555 (the Fiesta Texas exit) to 16641 La Cantera Parkway.
Tokens of Affection
Strolling through The Shops at La
Cantera feels like a walk in a garden. More than 150 stores and
restaurants grace an inviting outdoor setting with native plants and
fountains.
There are plenty of gifts to tempt shoppers. Linger in front of the
showcase windows at Tiffany & Co. to admire 18-karat gold Paloma Picasso
earrings ($425). Pick up a sweet treat at Godiva Chocolatier, or browse
through Lilly Pulitzer, LaCoste, Betsey Johnson, Ralph Lauren, and more
than 20 other retailers new to San Antonio.
Enjoy a casual lunch on the balcony at Mariposa at Neiman Marcus, or
grab a table at Nordstrom's Cafe Bistro. Try a cup of the crab bisque
($4.25) and a four-cheese pesto-chicken pizza ($8.95).
Have Some Fun
Even in winter, golf is a big draw at the
resort that's home to the PGA Tour's Valero Texas Open in September.
Hone your game with a lesson at The Academy at La Cantera, a Golf Digest
School. The Resort Course, where the tournament is played, and the
Palmer Course wrap ribbons of greenery around the 508-room hotel. It's a
beautiful view to look out on from your balcony.
There are many other ways to enjoy the setting on one of San
Antonio's highest points. Hike the nature trail that winds beneath
graceful live oaks, or take a stroll around the Lost Quarry Pools, a
recreation area that includes five outdoor pools (heated to 73 degrees
in winter months), two hot tubs, and a water slide.
Unwind with a soothing aromatherapy massage or bask in the sauna at
the Castle Rock Health Club & Spa, which gets its name from a rock
quarry where limestone was once mined.
