Texas hill country road trip

[kermit116]

DH and I are considering a road trip through Texas Hill country in either early Nov or early Dec. Not sure where to post this but since we're trying to stay on a budget and just make this a long weekend trip, hopefully this is the right place.

I know Fredericksburg and New Braunfels are supposed to be good spots to visit, but what are some of the good spots to see that are less touristy? For example, would there be a place we could enjoy one of the beautiful clear rivers I keep seeing pictures of? I've heard there's tubing on the Comal River, but will it be too cold for that in Nov or early December? Are there other good outdoor activities during that time of year? We're not into antiquing and not super interested in shopping. We'd more be looking for fun active things to do during the day, and good food at night.

Also, are there more modern styled boutique hotels or B&Bs? Many of the B&Bs I've seen online appear to be very much in keeping with Bavarian style Germany. I've found one B&B that I think is technically north of hill country that is a little more modern mixed with some traditional Texan elements, but we're looking for other options as well.

We've been to Texas before but never to Hill country. We are willing to drive long distances, so any tips would be great!

 

[beavismom]

It will be too cold to get in the water most likely, but you just can't ever tell in Texas. If you are into wine, Fredricksburg really is a good choice. You can also visit Enchanted Rock State Park from there for a more "outdoor" experience. Some other places to investigate are Gruene (pronounced Green) which is close to New Braunfels has a historic Texas dance hall and there are market days as well. Another place to consider is Wimberly. It has a more artistic focus and is home to several glass blowing studios as well as some weavers and other textile places. There is a zipline and some other outdoor locations like Jacob's Well. Johnson City is another possible destination. The town itself isn't much to look at, but it is close to the LBJ ranch and Pedernales Falls State Park, which is beautiful and has some hikes that are fun. Boerne is another lesser known town and home to Cave without a Name. If caverns interest you at all, you could also consider Longhorn Caverns State Park near Burnet/Marble Falls. Hopefully one or several of these places will peak your interest!

 

[DISzy]

We did a Fredericksburg trip last November. There are some great restaurants there and a great variety of B&Bs. If you are into wine, there are many wineries all in one small area and its a beautiful way to see the scenery.

 

[aggielawyer]

Check out The Daytripper for some good things to do in the area.

What's fun about central Texas are the towns that were populated by a particular nationality, such as Polish, Check, German, etc. That may be why the B&B's you are seeing are reminding you of Germany.

 

[beansmom]

tripadvisor.com is invaluable to me when planning a journey. I love the forums, those people can answer absolutely anything you could ask.

 

[reneaterry]

If you head to gruene,eat at the gristmill.

 

[Planogirl]

I don't consider Fredericksburg particularly touristy. There are touristy places but overall it's a pretty quiet area. Be sure to visit Enchanted Rock.

 

[krissy2803]

We love the Vanderpool/Lost Maples area. We like to stay at Foxfire cabins. They are on the Sabinal River. It's not a fancy bed and breakfast type place, but it is really pretty.

If you decide to go that way, take the drive to Leaky. It's worth it!

 

[beavismom]

There is a Travelzoo deal that might interest you for Kerrville. I don't know anything about the resort, but it looks worth checking out.
$75 -- Hill Country Retreat w/Breakfast for 2 & $25 Credit Source: Inn of the Hills Resort

 

[TxRabbit]

Another vote for Enchanted Rock!

We also like the Frio River in Garner State Park. I can't recall the distance and if that would be on your beaten path. A quick search had several hits for cabins, etc. along the Frio. In the state park, it's a hard bottomed river that runs very clear...at least it did when we were there!

 

[IUTBAM]

I grew up going on vacation to areas like Pedernales Falls State Park. I would definitely recommend checking out the LBJ ranch. which is right on the Pedernales River. His boyhood home is in Johnson City, but the ranch is further out. This will detail it for you:

http://www.nps.gov/lyjo/index.htm

This is also a very scenic drive:

http://www.myscenicdrives.com/drives/texas/devils-backbone

Wimberley is a cute little town, from what I remember (I grew up in Houston, and lived in Austin for 5 years, but it's been ages since we moved from there).

Don't forget Luckenbach, Texas! lol
http://www.luckenbachtexas.com/

 

[kermit116]

Great info - thanks so much!