If you have never been to USA and all you know about this country comes from books, movies and TV-shows, it’s very likely that America seems to be the land of skyscrapers, yellow taxis, hamburgers and sexy world saviors like Bruce Willis. Which is true, but only in part because USA is so much more than that. There’s also a green, flowery, beautiful world of nature. And Krause Springs in Spicewood, Texas is one amazing example. Spicewood is located only one hour drive from Austin, which makes it perfect for a day trip.
I can’t believe this place is in Texas! It looks like a magical paradise somewhere in the tropics.
Krause Springs in Spicewood, Texas
The popular swimming hole looks like tropical paradise, but there’s another amusing thing. Are you ready? This place is a private property owned by Krause Family! What? This gorgeous place is somebody’s summer house? Correct, just like Jacob’s Well is somebody’s backyard pool (Jacob’s well is also great for a day trip from Austin).
Krause springs is a popular swimming hole in Texas during hot summer months.
The best thing about the springs – apart from the opportunity to take a perfect shot for Instagram that will earn you hundreds of likes – is that it’s shady. Hiding from merciless Texas sun couldn’t be easier. The water is… how do I say it gently… refreshing. To tell the truth, it’s freaking cold but only in the first five minutes, then you pretty much stop feeling your limbs.
That’s the case with all natural springs, so if you live in Texas, you are probably used to it. If you are from abroad and accustomed to warm waters (like I am after living in Sri Lanka for three years) – man up and jump right in! After a couple of minutes of heavy breathing and active kicking you will be just fine.
There’s also a man-made pool on the property…
… and a gorgeous butterfly garden.
Can you believe you are in Texas and not in some kind of royal garden in Europe?
Naaahh… still in Texas!
After burning calories in icy water of the springs you have to restore powers Texas style – with BBQ.
Half chicken, dry-rub ribs, and jalapeño sausage at Opie’s BBQ
Opie’s BBQ
Opie’s BBQ, included in the list of 50 best BBQ joints in Texas, is only 5 minutes’ drive from the springs. They have a huge dining room, a bigger-than-life warming pit which is also a showcase of all the meats and heavy wooden furniture – proper Texan experience all in all. And I haven’t even started on the menu yet. I have tried the half-chicken, jalapeño cheese sausage and dry-rub ribs. All juicy and full of flavor.
Half-chicken at Opie’s BBQ.
I rarely take chicken in BBQ restaurants, it always feels like a waste of the precious space in my stomach, but this juicy spicy meat was totally worth it. Ribs are one of the best I have tried anywhere. And Opie’s sausage is praised in every review I have found online.
Dry ribs, jalapeño sausage, and beans
The funniest part is that I brought my vegetarian friend to this smoked meat kingdom, and after finishing up three different side dishes, she proclaimed that was the best meal she had in Texas. Even veggies rock in hardcore Texan BBQ restaurants! Try their craisins and almonds coleslaw. I can’t prepare BBQ at home, but I will attempt to prepare the coleslaw (I will probably make a whole bucket and eat it for a week).
Krause Springs — 404 Krause Spring Rd, Spicewood, TX
Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM (year round)
Admission: $7 per adult (cash only)
Opie’s BBQ — 9504 TX-71, Spicewood, TX
Hours: Mon – Wed: 11 AM – 4 PM, Thu – Sat: 11 AM – 7 PM, Sun: 11 AM – 5 PM
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