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Finding Peace and Quiet at a Funky Zen Retreat in Lockhart

The Little Lockhart Oasis offers an enchanting place to stay while you enjoy art galleries and barbecue in the charming city of Lockhart, Texas

Exterior of Little Lockhart Oasis
Charming exterior of the Little Lockhart Oasis with a garden full of butterflies. (photo by Heidi Okla)

Nestled in the small city of Lockhart, Texas, the Little Lockhart Oasis is a unique retreat for an ideal getaway close to Austin. Just like the artistic, creative community that is blossoming in Lockhart, this adorable guesthouse rental mixes funky with zen-like elements in a modern, colorful and enchanting space. Born from owner Janeane Tolomeo’s personal journey of resilience following her own breast cancer recovery, the Oasis aims to provide a space of solace and relaxation. 

GETAWAY GIVEAWAY: Visit TRIBEZA’s Instagram account to enter to win a 2-night stay!

Comfortable backyard offers many ways to relax and unwind. (photo by Laurel Coyles)
Comfortable backyard offers many ways to relax and unwind. (photo by Laurel Coyles)

A Lockhart healing retreat

Tolomeo had been traveling around the US in 2021, staying in Airbnbs across countless cities, before being diagnosed with breast cancer which prompted her return to Austin. After complex surgeries in 2022 and 2023, she created her own little retreat in Lockhart while navigating her healing journey. 

“This project channeled my energy post-cancer, and checked the box on a lifelong goal of mine to create something meaningful and tangible for people,” shares Tolomeo. “I believe little getaways are key to maintaining perspective, reducing stress, and stimulating your mind – especially when you’re going through a health crisis.”

fire pit at Little Lockhart Oasis
Relax by the fire pit. (photo by Laurel Coyles)

Funky Touches in a Modern Space

In addition to a comfortable and thoughtfully designed modern interior, the Oasis boasts a tranquil backyard. Enjoy a Cowboy Pool, barrel sauna, fire pit, shaded outdoor dining space and yard games. The landscape of wildflowers and native plants attract butterflies and offers a soothing ambiance and natural beauty. The comfortable lounging areas and curated spaces are perfect for unwinding amidst the stresses of life. The environment encourages mindfulness, offering space for such activities such as yoga and journaling.

Successfully capturing the goals for this space, Tolomeo shares one of her favorite quotes from a guest, “It’s like a design-forward Disneyland for homebodies.”

The bedroom includes a lovely sitting area at Little Lockhart Oasis. (photo by Laurel Coyles)
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The bedroom includes a lovely sitting area. (photo by Laurel Coyles)
living room at Little Lockhart Oasis
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A comfortable living room features a Sonos sound system and streaming services. (photo by Laurel Coyles)
board game & record collection at Little Lockhart Oasis
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Explore the board game & record collection at Little Lockhart Oasis. (photo by Laurel Coyles)
Relax in the barrel sauna. (photo by Laurel Coyles)
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Relax in the barrel sauna. (photo by Laurel Coyles)
cowboy pool at sauna at Little Lockhart Oasis
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Take a dip in the Cowboy Pool and a sit in the sauna. (photo by Laurel Coyles)
Living room and kitchenette space at Little Lockhart Oasis.
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Living room and kitchenette space at Little Lockhart Oasis.
bedroom sitting area at Little Lockhart Oasis
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The bedroom includes a lovely sitting area at Little Lockhart Oasis. (photo by Laurel Coyles)
kitchen at Little Lockhart Oasis
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The little kitchenette includes a cute retro fridge, Nespresso machine, Chemex, electric tea kettle, and a tiny Wonder Oven. (photo by Laurel Coyles)
Outdoor dining area + grill
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Enjoy the shaded outdoor dining area and grill. (photo by Laurel Coyles)

As for being an Airbnb host, Tolomeo says, “I’m so grateful to be a part of people’s life celebrations – ranging from baby moons, birthdays, anniversaries and best friend reunions.” She noted that she has also hosted breast cancer survivors with free stays because “stress reduction is key to a successful recovery,” which was the inspiration for this space. 

While this little hidden gem offers a welcoming place to rejuvenate and find peace, it’s also a great place to settle in and explore all that Lockhart has to offer. The Oasis is a testament to the talents of locals. Tolomeo mention that she worked with local photographers, landscapers, vintage furniture shops, art galleries, record stores, etc. to create just the right vibe of her home. 

Retro arcade machine for 1-2 players with so many games to choose from.
The retro arcade machine for 1-2 players has so many games to choose from. (photo by Laurel Coyles)

“We created this oasis to be a funky zen playground for adults, notes Tolomeo, “and we chose Lockhart for its playful spirit and old’ Austin vibes. Needless to say, we’re having a great time living out some lifelong dreams here.”

For booking information and more details, click here.

Caldwell County Courthouse in Lockhart, Texas
Caldwell County Courthouse in Lockhart during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. (photo by Heidi Okla)

Exploring Lockhart: More than Meats the Eye

Well-known as the barbecue capital of Texas, there is much more to this charming city to explore. Home to an array of art galleries, adorable shops along the historic town square, live music, festivals and more, it’s the eclectic spirit of Lockhart that is so endearing. Browse through TRIBEZA’s Guide to a Weekend in Lockhart for more to see and do.

Lockhart Travel Guide: Kreruz Market
Photo courtesy of Kreuz Market

RELATED: Is Lockhart the New Marfa?

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