If you're looking for a relaxing escape in nature, and if a cozy cabin in more your speed rather than camping, this is for you!
Getaway House provides a peaceful glamping experience with beautiful scenery outside of several of the biggest cities in the US. They now have 24 locations all over the US!
The ethos of the cabins is all about taking time to rest and connect with your travel partner or yourself. The thoughtful details really set these tiny homes on wheels apart from other retreats and allow you to enjoy the peace of the outdoors.
Currently, there are 24 Getaway House locations and they are always adding new ones! Here are some of the cities that they offer:
- Dallas
- San Antonio & Austin
- Houston
- Cleveland & Pittsburgh
- Boston
- Washington DC
- Los Angeles
- Eastern Catskills New York
- Western Catskills New York
- Portland
- Minneapolis
This review is based on my stay at the Piney Woods cabins, which are located outside of Dallas, Texas. I've also stayed at the Getaway House location outside of Indianapolis!
The Texas Piney Woods region is known for tall trees and lush forests, and it's a peaceful area for a weekend getaway from Dallas.
What you need to know:
- There are two different cabin sizes, so you have the choice of one or two beds.
- Located an hour and a half drive from Dallas.
- Prices typically range from $109-$315/night depending on the day of the week. There are usually two night minimum stay requirements on the weekends.
Learn more about things to do in the Piney Woods in my Piney Woods article!
When you arrive at the Piney Woods cabins, it will feel a bit like the middle of nowhere as you pass through the barely marked entrance (a small sign says “for guests only” but it does not say Getaway House). You will then wind your way through the gravel road neighborhood to find your cabin.
There are more tiny homes there than I thought there would be; 40 in total! However, they are properly separated from each other for a peaceful stay.
Each cabin is named after a grandparent of a staff member. I stayed in Alexander, which is located right next to one of the nature trails in the neighborhood. It was nice to be close to the trail, but it did mean that there were instances of people walking very close to our cabin. The nature trail was not very impressive, but made for a nice stroll through the area.
The interior of the cabin is made of light colored wood with a large window and a comfortable bed. The cabin is equipped with essentials including a fridge, stovetop, utensils and dishes. It also has some fun items like books about coziness and escapism, games to play and a cell phone lockbox to really unplug.
There are some food items inside for an additional fee. You can purchase oatmeal, pasta, soup or other similar items to cook if you did not bring your own. I have to admit, I was really disappointed that the coffee was not included in the stay. It costs $1.50 and was a single serve instant pour over.
Outside of the tiny home on wheels, you’ll find a fire pit, chairs and firewood available for purchase. One of my favorite parts was the s’mores kit - you receive marshmallows, graham crackers, chocolate and sticks to use to make the treat. Roasting marshmallows by the campfire really makes the evening complete.
Overall, I was really impressed by my stay and would definitely recommend coming here.
For more romantic destinations near Dallas, read my blog on the couples trips from Dallas, Texas!
Things to do near Getaway Piney Woods
You could easily never leave the cabin and enjoy reading a book, the company of your travel partner or the properties trails. However, if you like to explore, there are a variety of hiking trails and other attractions nearby to complete the trip.
Purtis Creek State Park
Purtis Creek is a 35 minute drive from the Getaway House and has about 6 miles of trails. Enjoy both forest and lake views on the 1.3 mile Beaver Slide Nature Trail or hike through the Piney Woods forest on the Wolfpen Hike and Bike Trail. Be on the lookout for a uniquely bent tree on the Red loop of the Wolfpen trail!
Find more details about visiting Purtis Creek in my guide!
New York Texas Zipline Experience
For a thrilling adventure only 15 minutes from Getaway Piney Woods, check out the New York Texas Zipline Experience. You can choose between a 6 line course or a 9 line course as you fly above the Pineywood trees. There are times when you will have 30 mile views of the surrounding area. The tours typically last 1 ½ to 2 hours.
East Texas Arboretum
Located 25 minutes west of the Getaway House, the East Texas Arboretum is a beautiful place to explore. The gardens have over 2 miles of trails and a mix of historic structures, flowers and greenery. You’ll find a barn with antique farm tools, a beautiful garden planted by a master gardener, shaded picnic areas and more.
Tropical Paradise Fresh Fruits & Smoothies
For a refreshing treat, visit Tropical Paradise Fresh Fruits and Smoothies, 30 minutes from the cabins. This local shop serves ice cream, fresh smoothies and aguas frescas in a colorful space. They even serve wild ice cream sundae creations topped with cookies, chocolate sauce and fresh fruit.
Kiepersol Winery
If you enjoy visiting wineries, be sure to visit Kiepersol Winery and Distillery during your trip. The winery is located 40 minutes from Getaway Piney Woods and is made up of 63 acres of vineyards. The property offers tours, wine and spirit tastings and has a nice restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Explore more of the Piney Woods
If you are willing to drive further or would like to explore more of the region in combination with a stay at the Getaway House, be sure to read my list of things to do in the Upper Piney Woods region! There are more incredible nature spots within a couple hours, like the mysterious Caddo Lake.
Final Thoughts
If you love cabins and are interested in escaping DFW for some time in nature, I know you'll love Getaway Piney Woods! From the secluded area to the surrounded forest views, this is a beautiful place to visit year round.
For More Texas Travel Guides, check out these blogs:
- The Perfect Fredericksburg Weekend Itinerary
- The Perfect Itinerary for Dallas, Texas
- The Best Things To Do in Weatherford, Texas
- The Best Things To Do in Beaumont, Texas
- How to Spend 4 Days in Austin, Texas
- Stay in a Storybook Cottage in Dripping Springs
Thanks for Reading!
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