Just a few minutes from Houston’s 610 Loop, The Houstonian Hotel feels miles and miles away from the traffic jams and congestion of America’s fourth-largest city. Nestled on a secluded 18 acres, the urban resort received a Forbes Four Star Rating.

The lobby of the hotel is inviting with a massive stone fireplace, featuring a 10-foott-high mantle. Paneled walls, paintings of animals and warm colors contribute to the lodge-like feeling. The gracious staff swiftly checked us in to our deluxe guestroom and explained some of the hotel’s perks, such as free WiFi; complimentary guest membership to the private Houstonian Club; and a shuttle service to the nearby Galleria, a mega shopping center with some 400 stores and dining options. In addition, we had concierge-level privileges, including continental breakfast, evening cocktails with hors d’oeuvres and after-dinner sweets and cordials.

We stepped into our guestroom and were immediately drawn to the floor-to-ceiling window with a wooded view. The expanse of trees gave us a sense of privacy. The raised king-sized bed with a leather headboard dominated the room. A desk was tucked into one corner and a comfy upholstered chair in another. We made a cup of coffee and settled back to read under one of the five lights. Other in-room amenities included dual phone lines, plush bathrobes, a safe and L’ Occitane bath products.

My husband changed into his workout gear and walked to The Houstonian Club — the 175,000-square-foot facility was named by CNBC as the most luxurious fitness club across America. The three outdoor pools accommodate a variety of exercise personalities. Guests can get an intense swim in the competitive sports pool; splash and play at the resort pool with a 32-foot-long slide and waterfalls; or soothe sore muscles in the therapeutic warm waters of the garden pool. Guests can also lift weights, play tennis, hit the racquetball courts or join a group exercise class. After working out, unwind at the Trellis Spa or along the lush walking paths.

Our final morning at the hotel, we dined at the Olivetti Restaurant. The extensive menu featured Texas-sized portions of strawberry-stuffed French toast, huevos rancheros, turkey Benedict, pecan-smoked bacon, steak, eggs and more. As we read The Wall Street Journal and planned our day, we savored the serene wood view. If you like being near the action but far from the throngs, The Houstonian provides a relaxing big-city hideaway.

The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa

111 North Post Oak Lane
Houston, TX 77024
tel 713 680 2626