Entire home

The Perfect Executive Retreat in Central Austin

Waterfront holiday home with kitchen and furnished patio

Photo gallery for The Perfect Executive Retreat in Central Austin

Private, backyard setting
Property video
Outdoor dining
Private patio
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 3850 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Washer
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
Austin, TX
  • Place, Antique Marketplace
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Place, Northwest Little League Field
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Brentwood Park
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Airport, Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.)
    ‪20 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

Master Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Main bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Perfect Executive Retreat in Central Austin

The "Barkis Bungalow" is the perfect executive retreat - a fully furnished 850sf 1Br/1Ba guest home in Central Austin with vaulted ceilings, a walk in closet + all high end amenities situated in the middle of an acre on Shoal Creek (Guests tell me that they feel like they are in the middle of a park). It's a very safe neighborhood, just 5 minutes from the University of Texas; 7-10 minutes to downtown and 7 minutes from the Domain. It is wired to the hilt with high-speed internet and on the TV, Netflix and Apple TV.

Barkis, by the way, is my dog. He's a very friendly and lovable older Wire Fox Terrier and he's deaf and blind, but it doesn't stop him from visiting when you want him to. Everyone falls in love with him.

There is a private, gated entrance through the carport with parking on the property (and not in the street) and a circular driveway, providing easy access in and out. It is located in the beautiful 50's Allandale oak tree-filled neighborhood. The Austin bike path goes down the street, and the neighborhood is full of joggers, cyclists and every now and then, a guy with a bagpipe (just to keep Austin weird!). Guests who stay here love it because of its style, location, privacy and amenities, including a gym with weights, a Peloton and a Concept 2 RowErg rowing machine.

The guest home encompasses:

KITCHEN: Full-sized kitchen with brand new refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher, oven,
microwave; toaster oven; coffee maker; dishes; a full set of Calphalon
cookware; blender, rice cooker, glasses and everything else you might need for
cooking at home;

LIVING ROOM: Large living room w/ vaulted ceiling, dining table + sofa, HDTV,
and ceiling fan;

BEDROOM: Large bedroom w/ vaulted ceiling, queen-sized bed, luxurious linens, dresser, office desk (or vanity), side table, ceiling fan and walk-in closet with extra sheets, down and alternative down comforters and pillows (which are replaced every 2 months);

BATHROOM: Well-lit bathroom with very large shower and seating area in the shower with an overhead and hand-held nozzle;

LAUNDRY AND STORAGE ROOM: Large heated and air-conditioned laundry and storage room with brand new Samsung washer and dryer;

GYM: Very well-equipped gym with mirror; weights; Peloton and Concept 2 RowErg Rower;

PRIVATE PATIO: Private Patio with dining table, 4 chairs, umbrella and Kamodo grill. There is also a very large Weber gas grill up by the main house that you are welcome to use;

SCREENED-IN PORCH: In a separate structure there is a beautiful screened-in porch with a fan and view of the creek to enjoy

SCREENED-IN GARDEN: If you have a green thumb, you're welcome to visit the garden and pick fresh herbs and vegetables

OFFICE AMENITIES INCLUDE:
+ Color HP printer
+ HP Scanner available
There is a large home office in the main house, if you need additional equipment or office supplies I'm happy to provide them to you upon request.

YOU HAVE TO SEE THE YARD TO BELIEVE IT:

The guest house sits further back on a very rare (for Central Austin) 1-acre, well-maintained, tree-filled yard that backs up to Shoal Creek. Because the home is situated further back on the property, it is very quiet and private. There is also a large enclosed garden and separately, a screened-in porch with a fan that also has WiFi.

LOCATION: ALLANDALE AND THE BURNET ROAD CORRIDOR

The Bungalow offers the best of all worlds: You’re 7 minutes from downtown and situated in a park-like setting on an acre. You're also 7 minutes from the Domain. The Bungalow is located in the Allandale neighborhood of Central Austin on Shoal Creek Blvd., 3 minutes from MoPac Expressway and parallel to Burnet Road as well Lamar (the primary North-South corridors in Austin).

It is within walking distance to some of Austin's best restaurants, including Fonda San Miguel, Epicerie, Voodoo Donuts, Monkey Nest Coffee and one of the best trailer food parks in the city. It is one block from the trendy Burnet Road Corridor (Central Austin's version of SoCo or South Congress). Central Market is 5 minutes away, as is the local HEB grocery store.

The long, tree-lined street is also the premiere area for biking and walking in Austin.

Here are other distances:

+ The University of Texas: Via Guadalupe 5 to 7 minutes
+ Downtown: Via Lamar Blvd. or Mopac: 7 to 10 minutes
+ The Domain: Via Mopac 7 minutes
+ The Arboretum: Via Mopac 5 minutes
+ ABIA Airport: 20 minutes (via the 183 Toll Road)
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 9:30 AM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 5:30 PM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings and birthday parties
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 9 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
I reserve the right to reject specific pets
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
There is a designated space for parking to the right of the circular driveway, please don't park in the middle of the driveway!
In general, I don't allow pets. I do make exceptions, specifically if you are home often enough to take care of it so let's talk to me upfront

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings and birthday parties) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 12
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Austin

Located on the waterfront, this holiday home is in North Central Austin, a neighbourhood in Austin. Sixth Street and Rainey Street are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lake Austin and Lady Bird Lake. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Darrell K. Royal - Texas Memorial Stadium or Moody Center. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain biking and hiking.
Map
Austin, TX

What's nearby

  • Antique Marketplace - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Northwest Recreation Center - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Northwest Little League Field - 3 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Shoal Creek Hike and Bike North End - 4 min drive - 2.7 km
  • Brentwood Park - 4 min drive - 2.3 km

Getting around

  • Highland Station - 9 min drive
  • Austin Station - 12 min drive
  • Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) - 24 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Torchy's Tacos - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪KHON Thai Kitchen by Seeda - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Fonda San Miguel - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Little Woodrow's Burnet - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Billy's On Burnet - ‬12 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is The Perfect Executive Retreat in Central Austin pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 9 kg per pet.

How much is parking at The Perfect Executive Retreat in Central Austin?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Perfect Executive Retreat in Central Austin?

Check-in begins at 9:30 AM.

What time is check-out at The Perfect Executive Retreat in Central Austin?

Checkout is at 5:30 PM.

Where is The Perfect Executive Retreat in Central Austin located?

Located in North Central Austin, this holiday home is within 3 miles (5 km) of Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin, Austin Community College Highland and Lake Austin. The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria and Colorado River are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 9 out of 9 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 9 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 9 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 9 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 9 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Tom D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was great!
Stayed 31 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sharon 'Missy' S., El Paso, Texas

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Austin Oasis

This property is so tranquil and quiet! The privacy of being tucked back on the property and shaded by mature trees is a real slice of heaven. Very easy and peaceful. I could have moved in permanently! Everything about Barkis Bungalow is accurate. Very true to listing description. Toni is a delightful host. Very considerate. Stay here! It does not disappoint! 🙂
Stayed 25 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tracey N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect home for Austin Intern

My daughter stayed at Toni’s for her 6 week OAG clerkship, and we were both thrilled with entire experience. Toni’s guest home is literally your home away from home. She even took my daughter to dinner for her 24th birthday since we couldn’t be there! Toni put some Tiny Pies ( an Austin icon) in her refrigerator so she had a birthday treat to come home to. My heart was full and I was so grateful for Toni’s kindness. Above and beyond doesn’t begin to describe Toni’s effort to help my daughter feel at home.
Stayed 35 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jay h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Fantastic Fantastic

Great location in the city but it is so quiet it feels like you're in the country. This is beautiful spot large yard with a creek. The bungalow is very comfortable and has everything you need. Toni the owner is great. Very friendly will help you with anything you need. This by far the best VRBO place I've stayed at.
Stayed 91 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent Allandale Property

This is such a beautiful bungalow on a property with lovely trees and paths. The cottage is pristine, with cheerful colors, efficient, clean, and well appointed. The small private gym attached and the screened in porch nearby made this perfect for a private, cozy, relaxed environment. Our host was congenial, informative, and attentive. We hope to have a longer stay on our next trip to Austin.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

David L., Washington DC

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What a great place!

This is a lovely house on a beautiful property, adjacent to the creek. Great indoor and outdoor spaces, a fully equipped gym. Toni, the owner, is a friendly and supporting person, who has made our long stay here so very pleasant.
Stayed 48 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Timothy S., Albuquerque

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A neat and comfortable cottage

This is a very clean and very comfortable place to relax quietly in between whatever exciting Austin activities you have planned. The cottage is attractive with modern amenities.The neighborhood is quiet and tree-lined which is perhaps a welcome break from Austin's many high energy activities and venues. There is a substantial damage deposit required but this is efficiently returned if you take reasonable care of the cottage and clean up after yourself. Communication with the property owner or her assistant is efficient and helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

John & Staci R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful cottage close to everything in Austin

Beautiful furnishings, Comfy bed, Great host, wonderful outdoor space - perfect for a fabulous weekend in Austin! We will be back
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Alastair M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A breath of fresh air from a typical rental unit.

Area is great -- lots to do >> restaurants, amenities, etc. all really close and lots of choice. The home is clean, new, and situated on an amazing lot. Host is very welcoming and communicative. A great choice!
Stayed 10 nights in May 2019

About the host

Hosted by Toni Moss

Host profile image
I've never met a stranger and love interacting with and helping guests enjoy the absolute best of Austin. Having lived abroad for 14 years (Amsterdam, London, Dublin, Vancouver), I especially enjoy guests from other countries. I work from home, so I'm around if you ever need anything, but the guest house is private enough for you to feel that you're in your own home. I'm a former professional tennis player and am an entrepreneur and event producer working in the global housing finance industry. I did not build the guest house with the intent to rent it out, which is why everything is higher end. I'm also very selective about who stays here, which most guests really tend to appreciate. Most often, my guests tend to be executives who are in town for a month or longer or couples who are thinking about moving to Austin and want to gauge the feel of it and/or are shopping for a home. I do not do short-term rental, the minimum stay is a month or longer. It's less wear and tear on the property, and I really enjoy interacting with the guests who want the interaction.

Why they chose this property

Allandale is one of the best and safest neighborhoods in Austin. It's close to the University and downtown, so it's easy to enjoy all of the cool restaurants, museums, sports, bars and music that Austin has to offer. The Burnet Road corridor, which is two blocks away from my home, is the new "SoCo" (South Congress) without the crowds and traffic. It's a very 50's community with large, tree-lined streets and mid-century modern ranch-style homes and a very nostalgic and "retro" feel. I love seeing the homes with cafe lights in the yard and smelling things being grilled on the barbeque in the evening. Shoal Creek Blvd. is the premiere walking and biking route in all of Austin. I have fantastic neighbors, too!

What makes this property unique

You'll see that thus far, my reviews are 10/10 and I intend to uphold that experience. Most of my guests are very surprised by the reality of the home vs. the photos - they consistently say that the photos don't truly capture the size and beauty of it. The guest house is very quiet and private, and a great retreat both indoors and out. I'm also a very helpful host with a killer espresso and latte maker in the main house! I'm passionate about music and many of the local musicians are friends so don't be surprised if I try to rope you into attending a concert with me. You can easily walk to two of Austin's best restaurant, and one of them (Fonda San Miguel) has the absolute best margaritas in town. The home is very centrally located, whether your destination is north (to the Domain) or South (to downtown or the lake). If you need to conduct business while in town, the guest house is wired to the hilt and I have peripherals like high speed printers, scanners, extra monitors, and all office supplies that you can use if needed.

Languages:

English, Dutch