Ex-Pro Golfer’s Guide: Top Reasons – Golf Communities & Lake Living

🌿 Living in Spicewood, Texas: Hill Country Charm Meets Modern Luxury

Looking for natural beauty, lake views, and golf course living—but still want to be within reach of Austin?

Spicewood, Texas might be your perfect match. Nestled just 30 miles west of the city, this peaceful Hill Country town offers rolling hills, wineries, spring-fed pools, and now, a game-changing new community: Thomas Ranch and the Laura Loma Golf Club.

I’m Nicole Cooper, your Austin-area real estate expert—and today I’m giving you the complete guide to what it’s like to live in Spicewood now, and what’s coming soon.

📍 Where Is Spicewood?

Located off Highway 71, Spicewood is:

• Just 30 miles west of Downtown Austin

• Close to Lake Travis, Pedernales River, and the Texas Wine Trail

• Surrounded by outdoor escapes, golf courses, and expanding luxury communities

🍃 Lifestyle & Outdoor Highlights

Spicewood is all about wide open spaces, relaxed vibes, and natural charm.

🏞️ Top Spots to Explore:

• Krause Springs: 32 spring-fed swimming holes, waterfalls, and camping on a private 115-acre historic ranch

• Lake Travis: Boating, paddleboarding, fishing, and floating marinas

• FireSong Ranch: A luxury Hill Country retreat with pet-friendly cottages and sunset views

• Spicewood Airport: Yes, there’s a small private airport if you’re flying in (or dreaming big!)

🍷 Wineries, Distilleries & Live Music

Spicewood has serious Hill Country character with a twist of flavor.

• Spicewood Vineyards – Estate-grown wine with tastings

• Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery – Whiskey, vodka, and weekend music

• Poodie’s Roadhouse – Live music venue and local legend

• Opie’s BBQ – A Central Texas staple for smoked meats

🏘️ Real Estate in Spicewood

If you want space and privacy, Spicewood delivers.

🏡 Homes You’ll Find:

• Modern Farmhouse on Acreage

  • 3,800+ sq ft, 1+ acres, ~$1.3M

• Raw Land Opportunities

  • 20+ acres from ~$1.1M—ready to build, farm, or roam

Expect larger lots, Hill Country views, and plenty of elbow room. Many properties are tucked off gravel roads, offering unmatched seclusion and natural surroundings.

⛳ Golf in Spicewood (Current Courses)

You don’t have to wait for Thomas Ranch to enjoy great golf here:

1. Barton Creek Lakeside

• Part of the Barton Creek family

• Initiation ~ $40K (vs. $175K for full Barton Creek membership)

• Hill Country views, lakefront holes, peaceful setting

2. Lakecliff Golf Club

• Lower cost, links-style course

• Flat terrain, scenic and approachable

• Homes nearby in a relaxed, friendly community

🔮 The Future: Thomas Ranch & Laura Loma Golf Club

🏗️ What’s Coming:

• 2,200-acre master-planned community

• 3,300 homes + apartments

• 40+ miles of trails

• Restaurants, shops, healthcare (Baylor Scott & White planned)

• Resort + Spa + Boutique Hotel

• Equestrian facilities + Riverfront Park

• Preserving 60% of land for open space

💎 Laura Loma: Private, Gated Golf Living

• 18-hole course designed by Scottish architect Maclay Kidd

• Opening Spring 2025

• Homes begin construction in 2026

• 24/7 gated enclave inside Thomas Ranch

• Lots range from $795K to $1.5M+

Golf Membership Initiation Fee: $100K
Annual Dues: ~$18,800
Rates expected to increase in 2025

Laura Loma will offer a world-class golf experience, cliffside clubhouse, elevated dining, and sweeping river views—all in a low-density, high-luxury setting.

📊 Spicewood at a Glance

📞 Want to Tour Spicewood or Laura Loma?

If you’re looking for early access to the Laura Loma Golf Club, a homesite in Thomas Ranch, or want to explore acreage properties in Spicewood, let’s talk.

Call, text, or email—my team and I would love to help you find the perfect home that matches your Hill Country lifestyle.

Until next time,
Be kind to yourself and others. I’ll see you out in Spicewood. 🌄