Situated on 18 acres in the small town of Liberty Hill TX, the River Ranch Inn is so delightfully eccentric, it refuses to let you take life too seriously (and that’s what getaways are all about, right?). Its atmosphere is truly irreplicable!
Before we dive into all the quirky details, here is a little insider info. A former Austin resident, Jenna Radtke, designed Liberty Hill’s River Ranch Inn, the same creative genius behind Austin’s famous former costume shop “Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds.” You’ll see panels repurposed from her collections of old fabric all over the inn, inspiring each unit’s standout theme.
Radtke purchased the 18 acres in 1992. She moved her first home, the Casa Rio de Colores, from behind her shop in Austin to the property. In 2000, she moved a Victorian-style home from Lexington, Texas and named it the Inn at the Blue Hole. It was later renamed the River Ranch Inn in 2021.
Although the property exchanged hands from Radtke to Amber and Grady Daniel in 2021, all the decor is original, aside from some cosmetic changes like new mattresses, linens, and some new furniture.
The River Ranch Inn is a piece of Austin in the middle of Liberty Hill and we’re here for it!
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River Ranch Inn’s Private River Access
River Ranch Inn is between Leander and Liberty Hill TX, a mere 45-minute drive from downtown Austin.
The River Ranch Inn also offers access to the Blue Hole, a section of the South San Gabriel River. Because of it’s location on the hotel’s private land, you’ll have exclusive access to this oasis during your stay. There are even showers and restrooms nearby so you can rinse off before heading back to your room.
You’re free to kayak (kayaks are provided for free by River Ranch Inn), paddleboard, swim, float, or use their charcoal grills and picnic tables during your stay. Don’t forget to bring your fishing poles, bikes for the nearby walking trails of Williamson County, and s’mores for the fire pit, surrounded by a natural bamboo forest.
You can access the water via the ladder or rock stairs. There’s even a picturesque waterfall built by Radtke herself!
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The Eight Units at the River Ranch Inn
The River Ranch Inn’s eight, individually designed units truly set it apart from other hotels. Each one has its own captivating theme and character. Plus, two bedrooms, a full bath, kitchenette, and adjoining dining area. It’s the perfect set-up for families, friends, or couples looking to escape to the Texas Hill Country.
These are not your ordinary hotel rooms; they’re vibrant, whimsical, and downright magical. And, of course, they all come with private access to a stretch of the South San Gabriel River! What could be better?
The Kitchenettes
Each kitchenette has its own unique decor and is filled with modern appliances like an Air Fryer, coffee maker, microwave, refrigerator, silverware, and cutlery. If you’re not looking to adventure around Liberty Hill or nearby Leander (but we highly recommend you do), it’s convenient to cook in the comfort of your unit.
If you prefer a change of scenery, the outdoor common area beneath the inn’s beams features additional seating, a grill, and yard games. Enjoy your morning coffee outside, gather with friends, or make new ones!
Revière
This unique unit offers a delightful fusion of colors, from the main bedroom’s tropical theme and the second bedroom’s delightful mix of blues and purples. Both rooms are furnished with a queen-size bed.
The full bathroom features high fashion, grayscale decor that adds a playful, but aesthetic touch to the Revière.
Its proximity to the river means you’re in for beautiful views any time of day!
Orion
The Orion’s king-size bedroom is decorated with light and airy Moroccan-inspired décor, featuring both a dresser and TV. The second, queen-size bedroom is covered in different shades of red and intricate patterns.
Even the bathroom and kitchenette feature eye-catching pieces of art and vinyl, including the refrigerator and cabinetry.
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Allegra
The Allegra features two queen-size bedrooms. The first is adorned in calming shades of green and matching, elaborate patterns. The second, known as the Unicorn Space, features playful decor, like a giant portrait of a pink unicorn, and a beautiful stained glass chandelier. It’s not just for kids; it’s for the young at heart, too.
When it’s time to freshen up, the full bathroom maintains the fun with wildlife decor and clean towels.
Belle
Named after the fictional character from “Beauty and the Beast,” Belle promises a stay that is as beautiful as it is exciting with views of the South San Gabriel River.
One of the two queen-size rooms highlights the majesty of your favorite large cats, like tigers and cheetahs.
The second bedroom features a giant peacock painting with rainbow stripes on the floor. Plus, more vibrant colors and intricate patterns.
The unit also features a rock-and-roll-themed bathroom with splashes of bright red and a stocked, Western style kitchenette.
The kitchenette looks like something out of Alice and Wonderland, with more beautiful art, stripes on the floor, and red everywhere. Every inch of this space is decorated to impress!
Aurora
The Aurora unit at River Ranch Inn offers an eclectic and comfortable retreat for your next stay in Liberty Hill.
The queen-size bedrooms feature an eclectic vibe in one room and a free-spirited blend of “Old Hollywood Meets Old World” in the other. Both bedrooms provide ample storage space for your luggage.
The shower curtain mimics looking through a pine tree grove, matching the bathroom’s forest theme.
Saffron
Both of these queen-size rooms are covered in rich colors. One bedroom sets the mood with its sultry red walls. The second takes a fun turn with its sunny, yellow interior.
The full bathroom is a pale blue and stocked with fresh linens, ensuring you start your day feeling refreshed.
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Adrina
The main room features an ocean theme, with a coral reef behind your head, and a cozy queen-size bed. In the second queen bedroom, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a comic strip, with a rainbow floor and bright, colorful cartoon characters from floor to ceiling.
The full bathroom adds a touch of Western flair to your stay. And when it’s time to eat, the Eastern-themed kitchenette sets the stage for relaxing meals at the end of the day or quick bites in the morning.
Calista
You’ll find a queen-size bed surrounded by clouds and blue “sky,” creating the sensation of floating. The second bedroom embraces eclecticism with another queen-size bed and pop culture art all over the walls. Both spaces offer convenient storage solutions for your luggage.
The bathroom counter is laden with blue and green tile, complimenting the similarly shaded paint on the walls. The kitchenette’s color is mild in comparison, but the arts adds just the right amount of flair.
The Event Space at the River Ranch Inn
If you are looking for a unique venue for your next special occasion, the River Ranch Inn offers a one-of-a-kind setting for weddings, parties, reunions, and more.
You can even reserve the entire property! This includes all eight of their themed rooms and 24-hour river access.
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The River Ranch Inn: Final Thoughts
The River Ranch Inn is more than just a place to rest your head — it’s an experience. You can explore surrounding Liberty Hill, nearby Leander, or take a short drive into Austin for even more adventure!
But sometimes, there’s nothing quite like enjoying the serenity of River Ranch Inn’s uniquely designed rooms and riverside location.
We’re also looking forward to seeing the Casa Rio de Colores open to guests in the near future!
Whether you’re a local looking for a unique escape or a traveler seeking a memorable adventure, the River Ranch Inn in Liberty Hill TX is a must! You just have to experience it for yourself to truly understand.
Last Updated 1 month ago by Jessica Serna | Published: September 23, 2023
