Tucked between cedar ridges, limestone bluffs, and lakeside bends, the Texas landscape knows how to stage a grand entrance. In places like Cedar Hill, Johnson City, and the quieter reaches of West Austin, mansions rise like reveries: part frontier myth, part modern sanctuary. Built deep into the folds of Hill Country or pressed up against the water’s edge, they embrace Texas scale without slipping into Texas cliché.
You’ll find a hilltop retreat above Joe Pool Lake, its courtyards turned inward like a cloister, then out again toward fire-orange sunsets. A ranch near Johnson City balances its stone walls with wraparound balconies, oak-shaded patios, and a hush that rewards stillness.
Downstream in Austin, a waterfront estate leans into the riverbank with its own dock, palapa, and glassy views meant for moonlit swims or morning coffee. There’s history here—LBJ’s hometown sits just west—but also innovation, with plans drawn for wings that haven’t yet risen.
These are places that understand quiet majesty. That let the land take the lead.
1. Luxurious Hilltop Estate
The home offers elevated westward-facing views of Joe Pool Lake. Outdoor amenities include four private courtyards with gated security, a saltwater pool and spa, an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace, and remote-controlled patio shades. Located on 2.3 gated wooded acres in the LakeRidge community, this estate spans 6,772 sq ft with 6 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms.
Built in 2009 and listed for $1,995,000. The main house and guest quarters feature multiple balconies, seven fireplaces, six refreshment centers, and a game room with French doors. Additional highlights include a professional kitchen, an 88-gallon built-in fish tank, and a spacious primary suite.
Where is Cedar Hill?
Situated in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Cedar Hill is located about 27 km southwest of downtown Dallas and 16 km from Grand Prairie. Known for its scenic landscape, the city is home to Cedar Hill State Park and Joe Pool Lake, offering outdoor recreational activities.
Neighboring cities include Duncanville, DeSoto, and Midlothian, providing easy access to shopping, dining, and business hubs. Its proximity to major highways like US Route 67 and Interstate 20 makes it a convenient location for commuting and regional travel.
Living Room
Vaulted ceilings and wood beams frame a living area with large glass doors leading to the outdoor space. Dark wood built-ins surround a recessed entertainment center, while a fireplace with a carved mantel adds warmth. Neutral-toned furniture and a patterned area rug complement the hardwood floors. Natural light filters through the glass doors, enhancing the open feel.
Kitchen
Granite countertops extend across a multi-tiered island with seating, offering ample space for meal prep and casual dining. Dark wood cabinetry provides contrast against the light walls and tiled backsplash. Stainless steel appliances, including a gas range and double oven, are integrated into the layout. Pendant lighting and recessed fixtures illuminate the space.
Bedroom
Spacious bedroom features a fireplace with a built-in media center above. French doors lead to a private balcony with scenic views of the property. Neutral tones and layered textures in bedding and furniture create a warm and inviting setting. A separate seating area provides space for relaxation near the windows.
Outdoor Pool Area
Infinity-edge pool overlooks lush greenery with a clear view of the water beyond. Spa section is integrated into the design, surrounded by a spacious stone deck with lounge seating. Balcony and covered patio extend from the house, providing shaded areas to relax. Mature trees and potted plants add to the natural setting.
Source: Coldwell Banker
2. 57-Acre Ranch in Texas Hill Country
This 7,251 sq ft ranch estate sits on 57 acres in Johnson City, TX, and was built in 1980. Listed for $2,300,000, the property includes 7 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms, and three residences—a main house, a guest house, and a carriage house. The stone-built main house features multiple fireplaces, arched windows, and wraparound balconies with expansive views.
Outdoor amenities include a private swimming pool, a BBQ area, and mature oak trees surrounding the property. Located in The Preserve at Walnut Springs, the estate offers access to an equine facility, trails, stocked ponds, and other community features.
Where is Johnson City?
Located in the Texas Hill Country, Johnson City is approximately 77 km west of Austin and 97 km north of San Antonio. This small town is known as the hometown of former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson, with historical sites such as the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.
Nearby cities include Fredericksburg, Marble Falls, and Dripping Springs, offering scenic landscapes and vibrant local culture. Positioned along US Highway 290, the town provides easy access to the Texas Wine Country and outdoor attractions.
Living Area
Exposed wooden beams contrast with light walls, complementing the warm wood flooring. Large glass doors and windows capture panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A cozy seating area faces a rustic wooden coffee table, blending traditional and modern elements.
Dining Room
Dining space features a long wooden table with intricately carved chairs. Dark window trim and wood accents contrast against the neutral walls, enhancing the room’s character. Oversized windows frame a striking sunset over rolling hills.
Bedroom with Sitting Area
Spacious bedroom includes a seating area positioned in front of wide windows, offering uninterrupted landscape views. Plush carpeting softens the space, while soft lighting creates a relaxed atmosphere. A neutral color palette blends with classic furnishings for a timeless look.
Outdoor Patio & Landscape
Stone-paved patio sits beneath mature oak trees, creating a shaded space for outdoor dining and relaxation. Built-in grill station provides a convenient setup for cooking, while string lights add ambiance. Expansive views of rolling hills and open fields stretch beyond the property.
Source: Coldwell Banker
3. Modern Lakefront Estate
Designed for lakeside living, this 4,602 sq ft estate sits on a prime waterfront lot in Austin, TX. Originally built in 1999 and listed for $16,850,000, the property includes 4 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms with expansive outdoor spaces for entertaining. A pergola-shaded dining pavilion, fire pit, and lakeside patio offer multiple gathering areas, while the pool features a swim-up bar under a palapa.
A covered two-slip boat dock provides easy access to the water. The home’s soaring ceilings and oversized windows maximize panoramic lake views, with plans available for a luxury expansion featuring additional living spaces, observation decks, and a spa.
Where is Austin?
Austin, the capital of Texas, is located in the central part of the state, approximately 120 km north of San Antonio and 265 km south of Dallas. Known for its vibrant live music scene, cultural diversity, and booming tech industry, the city attracts both tourists and professionals.
Major highways such as I-35 provide easy access to nearby cities, including Houston (265 km southeast) and College Station (165 km northeast). Austin is also home to the University of Texas, making it a key educational and economic hub in the region.
Living Area
Large windows frame views of the lake and surrounding trees. Seating includes a sectional sofa and two patterned chairs facing a wooden coffee table. A ceiling fan and neutral tile flooring complete the space.
Dining Area
Glass dining table with four upholstered chairs sits near expansive windows. Views include a swimming pool, patio, and lake in the background. Natural light fills the space through multiple angles.
Bedroom
Bedroom features a king-size bed with a dark wood frame and white linens. Two chairs with a small table sit near a large window overlooking greenery. Neutral carpeting and a ceiling fan complete the room.
Backyard Pool
Outdoor space includes a rectangular pool bordered by lounge chairs. A thatched-roof structure and pergola provide shaded seating areas. Red flowering plants line the tiled walkway leading to the pool.
Source: Coldwell Banker
