What is the Texas Hill Country?

The Texas Hill Country is roughly defined as an area of Texas just south of the geographic...  oh, wait a minute!

I'll just show you on a map.

As you can see below, it really is just an area of Texas.  Other maps may have different outlines.  But, this gives you a good idea of where TexyHills is located. 

Texas Hill CountryTexas Hill Country by Google

It's kind of a hilly transition between the south plains of the gulf and the high plains of West Texas.  But it's much more than geography. 

Besides all of its natural beauty, it's a great place grow up, live, work and retire. 

I actually think it's one of the best places to travel in the US.  But then... I do live here.


Why is the Texas Hill Country so inviting?

There are a lot of different answers to that question. 

Some people might say it's all the unique little towns.  Others would tell you that it's all about the wineries

You will also get answers that range from State Parks to coffee at a Bed and Breakfast.

No one answer is right or wrong. 

But, the only way to know for sure, is to go find out for yourself.  And by that I mean... go camping, plan a daytrip, find a new restaurant, or go to a wine tasting. 

When you experience the Texas Hill Country yourself, you will find your own answer as to why it's so inviting.   

Towns of All Sizes

Austin and San Antonio are both on the southeastern edge of the Hill Country. 

Downtown Austin, TexasDowntown Austin, Texas

Fredericksburg, though, is really what I would call the center of the Texas Hill Country.  

And keep in mind all those other small towns (like Mason).

Downtown Mason, TexasCourthouse Square in Mason, Texas

Wineries at Every Turn

While sipping on a glass of Pinot Noir... relax outdoors in the shade, with an expansive view. 

View from a winery patio.Refreshment stop at a local winery.

 This winery on 290 was just one of our stops during a lazy day of travel through the Hill Country. 

Actually, the stretch of Highway 290, east of Fredericksburg, has wineries scattered up and down both sides of the road for miles.

That makes it very easy to get in a wine tour during an afternoon.  If not a tour... maybe a tasting (or two).


Texas Hill Country Sights to See

A Texas Hill Country LonghornA very interested Longhorn.

At one of the wineries my granddaughter took a photo of this very interested longhorn.  You never know what you may see while traveling. 

Or when you may run into an opportunity for a good picture.

The Texas Hill Country is loaded with places to explore. 

Lakes, rivers, State Parks and natural areas are just some of the beauties of nature around here. 

Figure some time into your travels for a few of the local events (Food and Wine Fest, Wurstfest, etc.).  And don't forget all the chances you'll have to hike, fish, hunt, or even zipline. 

Bed Down for the Night

If you want to travel into the Texas Hill Country for more than just a day trip, you will need a place to stay.

Downtown FredericksburgDowntown Fredericksburg

Don't worry.  You have options.

In most of the Hill Country towns you will find hotels where you can stay, get rested up, and plan your next day. 

But, there are also local Bed &Breakfasts, luxury resorts, rv parks, cabins, and camping.  

You might even want to experience a dude ranch.  That would be different.

So, you see...  you have lots of flexibility.  Travel within your own comfort level.

A Man's Got to Eat

There are places to eat at practically every town... and a lot of places in between. 

Outside at the Grape Creek WineryGrape Creek Winery

Naturally the bigger towns like Fredericksburg will have a few more restaurants to choose from.  But you can find anything you want in Austin and San Antonio.

The Salt Lick at Driftwood has world class BBQ.  The multi-level Oasis is up on a hill overlooking Lake Travis.    And of course... the Texas Roadhouse.

But really, some of the best experiences (and food) come from the little independent bistros and cafes along your journeys.

My Take

For me, the reason it's all so inviting is... "because it's home".

You know that comfortable relaxed feeling you get when you return home from a long trip or vacation? 

That's how I feel about it. 

The Hill Country (TexyHills), covers a good part of south central Texas.  It has anything you'd ever want. 

Well... we don't have an ocean... or snow skiing.  But, almost everything else is here.

If you haven't found anything inviting yet... keep reading... there's more.

And whatever you decide to do while visiting TexyHills, take your time... enjoy yourselves... and be safe.

See What's Ahead

Towns

Fredericksburg on a sunny SaturdayFredericksburg on a sunny Saturday

Wineries

Grape Creek Winery's BackyardGrape Creek Winery's Backyard

Places to Explore

Tubing on the Comal River near New Braunfels.Tubing on the Comal River

Lodging

Restaurants

Maps