5 Things to Know Before Your Texas Hill Country Vacation
If you’re searching for the heart of Texas, you’ll find it in Hill Country. The Texas Hill Country is the nexus for all things that make Texan culture so unique. Mouthwatering bbq, charming wineries, and small towns abound throughout the rolling hills that give the Hill Country its name.
Though Texas Hill Country is beloved by most Texans, few outside of the state of Texas are familiar with this breathtaking region. Yet they should be. If you love long, scenic drives punctuated by wine tastings and water adventures, Texas Hill Country is the destination for you. Discover five more things to know before embarking on a Texas Hill Country vacation.
What is Texas Hill Country?
Texas Hill Country refers to the region of Central and South Texas. Because of its varied climate and terrain, many consider it to be the boundary between the southeast and the southwest. Exposed rocks and boulders punctuate the rolling hills, the most notable of which is Enchanted Rock, the second-largest granite dome in the United States.
Hill Country also touches major metropolitan areas. This region is bound by northern San Antonio, the western reaches of Austin, and Balcones Escarpment geographic wonder to the east. Drive through the region to discover the many things to do there, as well as the native yucca, prickly pear cactus, desert spoon, Texas live oak, and vibrant wildflowers.
Countless Wineries
Meander through the Texas Hill Country long enough and you’ll discover winery after winery. Over 50 unique wineries got their start scattered throughout the region’s scenic countryside. Here, you can sip everything from Italian varietals to Rhone-style wines.
As you experience the wineries, you’ll also discover quaint towns, the winding Pedernales River, and rustic family wineries that put Napa to shame.
Rambling Scenic Routes
The Texas Hill Country is one of the few places where the journey is as enticing as the destination. Whether you’re en route to a winery or a state park, the Hill Country will mesmerize you along the way. Drive beside fields of Texas bluebonnets, pastures filled with livestock, and scenic viewpoints. Try Farm Road 1323 in the spring for some of the state’s best wildflowers, or Farm Road 337 to witness the region’s most otherworldly hills.
Indulgent Day Spas
Day spas in the Hill Country draw inspiration from the rolling hills they sit beside. Situated on one of the highest points in San Antonio, Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness invokes the spirit of the Hill Country through their luxurious spa offerings. Relax amid facials, massages, couples treatments, and more that make use of native botanicals. Treat yourself to one of their signature rituals.
Water Adventures
The Southwest may not scream water sports, but there are actually endless opportunities to cool off in the Texas Hill Country. Take a dip in the Blue Hole in Wimberly, or swim in the more rustic Hamilton Pool, a crater outside Bee Cave. Don’t miss Krause Springs, a privately owned, 115-acre park with 32 springs that surface into a man-made pool.