If you're like most of the rest of us, the constant fear-of-missing-out induced by the barrage of social media that we're exposed to on a daily basis is exhausting. Add that to the never-ending political arguments, the unrealistic image curating and the perpetual narcissistic selfie bombardment, and you've got a recipe for a splitting headache that will last until you turn your smartphone off and don't turn it back on for at least 48 hours.
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In this day and age though, that can be tough. If you're feeling this way, what you need is a digital detox. A weekend away from the phone, computer and social media distractions of life. Places like that are becoming more and more rare, but we managed to scrape up 10 relaxing vacation spots to unplug in Texas. Check it out, and get your digital detox on.
Cibolo Creek Ranch - Big Bend National Park
Most Texans know Big Bend is an incredible place for camping, but if you're less outdoorsy but still want to get away, check out this west Texas resort that is both comfortable and remote. At Cibolo Creek Ranch, you can hike through the national park in the day, and still shower and sleep in a luxurious bed at night. This resort is so isolated it's a 38-mile drive to even get to the tiny town of Marfa.
Cypress Valley Canopy Tours - Texas Hill Country
Located in the lush, green hills just west of Austin, Cypress Valley Canopy Tours allows guests to sleep in a luxurious treehouse that has been built around the splendor of nature. The cottages at Cypress Valley use the beauty of nature as decor, encouraging less screen time, and more green time.
Padre National Seashore
Though North Padre Island and the more heavily-traveled South Padre Island are separated by a waterway (or 100 miles of highway inland) they are worlds apart in terms of relaxation. South Padre, as most people know, is a spring breakers' destination, filled with drinking, loud parties and debauchery, whereas Padre National Seashore on North Padre Island is 70 miles of undeveloped barrier island filled with natural wildlife and the quiet splendor of nature. Stay in a nearby cottage and take a short drive down to the beach for a day full of sun, sea and native Texas wildlife, unburdened by Instagram.
The Rim Cabins - Palo Duro Canyon State Park
What better place to recharge than in one of Texas's most beautiful natural wonders? The rim cabins at Palo Duro Canyon state park were a public works project built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1931. There are three cabins on the rim in the state park, Lighthouse Cabin (shown), Goodnight Cabin and Sorenson Cabin. Palo Duro Canyon is located in the Texas Panhandle, and is well suited to unplugging.
Buffalo Creek Lodge - Frio River
You'll have no need to pick up that iPhone while staying at this isolated lodge surrounded by 60 acres of the most beautiful land in Texas. After a stay at Buffalo Creek Lodge, you won't wonder why George Strait remembers that ol' Frio River where he learned to swim.
The Cliffs Resort - Possum Kingdom Lake
The Cliffs Resort on Possum Kingdom Lake is a country respite that offers many outdoor activities. Located in Graford, Texas, guests can enjoy swimming, kayaking, water skiing or golfing on the resort's beautiful golf course. Why not begin your digital detox someplace full of outdoor distractions and comfortable accommodations?
Travaasa - Balcones Canyonlands Preserve
This spa retreat is located within a convenient driving distance to Austin, but being situated near the Balcones Canyonlands Wildlife Preserve makes it feel very secluded from the hustle and bustle of the Capital City. Travaasa is an all-inclusive resort offering spa services that will leave you so relaxed you won't be able to grip your smartphone, so best to just leave it in the room.
Retreat in the Pines - Mineola
Situated in the east Texas piney woods, the Retreat in the Pines is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Offering both women's retreats (featuring yoga, chocolate and wine!) and private rentals, this wooded lodge will make you want to leave all your electronics behind.
Sinya on Lone Man Creek - Wimberley
This beautiful Texas Hill Country getaway is nestled just outside the quaint country town of Wimberley. The exterior of Sinya on Lone Man Creek resembles a safari cabin, but guests need fear no lions. The cabin is outfitted with its own private porch as well as kitchen and relaxing bath. With views like this, who'd want to look at a cell phone screen?
Rough Creek Lodge - Glen Rose
At Rough Creek Lodge in Glen Rose, you'll be shooting, fishing, and rock climbing, and overall just too busy enjoying life and having fun to be doing something as mundane as surfing the web.
