If you are planning a trip to Texas, consider exploring the many wineries along the Texas Hill Country Wineries trail. Not only are there over 50 spectacular wineries to tour and appreciate, but there are many options for accommodations along the way as well. The trail spans from Austin to Lampasas and to New Braunfels, TX. Wine connoisseurs, newcomers and everyone in between will love to explore the Hill Country Wineries either on a self-guided tour or an organized Trail, for which tickets may be purchased ahead of time.
1. Messina Hof Hill Country
Located in Fredericksburg, TX guests can enjoy wine tasting, touring the vineyard and even stay overnight on-site at the Manor Haus Bed and Breakfast. Their wine making is inspired by traditions in Messina, Sicily where the owner's family originated. This winery is usually a first stop for most visitors along the Trail. There is available event space should guests seek a venue to host their next function. This winery and vineyard sits on nearly 10 acres of scenic property. Read more
9996 US Highway 290 East Fredericksburg, Texas 78624, Phone: 830-990-4653
2. Bell Springs Winery
Guests can take a self-guided tour around this Dripping Springs winery, where they will find two hospitable owners and their two dogs. The tasting room offers great views of the cedars and oaks on the property, while the “old” Texas architecture creates a rustic, charming atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy tastings on the outdoor patio, or just lounge and relax. Guests are encouraged to bring along a picnic and their friendly dogs to enjoy the grounds and a lovely lunch. They are happy to host weddings and meetings on the property as well.
3700 Bell Springs Rd., Dripping Springs, TX 78620, Phone: 512-643-7398
3. Flat Creek Estate and Flat Creek Enoteca
The Estate is located 20 miles east of Marble Creek and is the where the vineyard is located. This is where the wine is made and bottled as well as where guests can take tours on Saturdays and Sundays. Group tours of eight or more can also be pre-booked. The wine tasting views overlook the scenic vineyards with plenty of seating for everyone. At the Estate, there is The Bistro restaurant for guests to enjoy a delicious dinner by reservation from Thursday to Sunday only.
Enoteca is located directly in Marble Falls and is the urban wine bar location for the Flat Creek family. Guests can sit and enjoy wine tastings as well as wine and appetizer pairings. The Enoteca location features The Wood-Fired Oven which serves a menu of wood-fired foods as a relaxed dining option.
112 US HWY 281 Marble Falls, Texas 78654, Phone: 830-637-7123
4. Bending Branch Winery
This organically focused winery, with sustainable practices at the forefront, is located just outside of Comfort. It boasts 56 acres of gorgeous scenery and 16 different varieties of grapes being grown in their 20 acre vineyard. Their signature grape, the Tannat, has become very popular in Texas and is a frontrunner in the winemaking industry. Guests can take a tour or enjoy a tasting of some of their award winning wines.There is a satellite tasting room, Branch on High, which is found in downtown Comfort and offers the Bending Branch wines for tasting, by the glass or by the bottle. They also take reservations for private tastings, parties and classes as well.
142 Lindner Branch Trail, Comfort, Texas 78013, Phone: 830-995-2948
5. Dry Comal Creek Vineyards
Featuring unique Texas wines, this winery is located just outside of New Braunfels and offers both public and private tastings. Throughout the year they host different events, including grape stomps and education classes all about wine. The on-site gift shop is the perfect location to buy that one of a kind wine oriented gift for a loved one or yourself. They want you to have a good time at this winery, which is why the atmosphere is laid back and casual. Weddings and private functions are always welcome at the vineyard.
1741 Herbelin Rd., New Braunfels, Texas 78132,Phone: 830-885-4121
6. Chisholm Trail Winery
This secluded, scenic winery is found just a short drive from Fredericksburg, away from the hustle and bustle of traffic and congestion, amongst the beautiful Hills country. Guests will love the old west charm of the saloon style tasting room where they saddle up to the bar area to get a taste of the award winning wines available. The atmosphere is both laid back and casual, as their livestock are free to roam the grounds, and the rustic buildings boast barn board accents and Texas charm. Guests can grab a bite to eat at the on-site Pizzeria or just enjoy the outdoor patio. They are happy to reserve group bookings for parties or weddings. There is a wine club for those interested in joining as well.
2367 Usener Rd., Fredericksburg, Texas 78624, Phone: 830-990-2675
7. Becker Vineyards
Becker Vineyards is known for their outstanding quality wines, which have been featured on the Fine Living Channel as well as served at the White House. They are located in Stonewall and hand-craft Bordeaux, Rhone and Burgundian-style wines which pair perfectly with anything from fine dining to casual cuisine. Guests can elect to book a private tour or just sample some their fine wines in the tasting room for a fee. There is also light fare offered at this winery for those looking for a little bite to eat. Guests can experience tours of the winery and the custom cellar as well. Dogs are permitted here and they do offer wedding packages in the Lavender Haus Reception Hall.
464 Becker Farms Rd, Stonewall, Texas 78671, Phone: 830-644-2681
8. Duchman Family Winery
Guests will fall in love with the Tuscany inspired atmosphere at the Duchman Family Winery. Located in Driftwood, this family operated winery creates Italian inspired wines using only Texas grown grapes. The old stone architecture adds to the Tuscan feel, along with the gorgeous scenic grounds. The outdoor picnic areas are ideal for enjoying a packed lunch and bottle of wine or lounge under the covered patio. The Italian Villa-style event space is perfect for parties, events and weddings. Dogs are permitted in outdoor areas only.
13308 FM 150 West, Driftwood, Texas 78619, Phone: 512-858-1470
9. Fall Creek Vineyards at Tow
Established in 1975, this is the oldest vineyard on the Hill Country Trail. Located in Tow, on the northwest shores of Lake Buchanan, this vineyard boasts many awards and accolades throughout its decades in business. Guests can tour the waters via the Fall Creek Falls boat tour, indulge in some light fare in the shady picnic area or enjoy tasting the flavorful wines of the Fall Creek Vineyard. There is a gift shop on-site as well for mementos and wine inspired gifts.
1820 CR 222, Tow, Texas 78672, Phone: 325-379-5361
10. Fiesta Winery Fredericksburg 290
The tasting room at this winery is a small getaway in itself. With tonnes of room for sitting, a patio and a picnic area, guests can enjoy a sampling of wines while taking a break or grabbing a bite to eat. They are located six miles east of Fredericksburg, in the Ricky Hill Complex. Their speciality is their sweet wines with unique, memorable flavors but they also have a great line of dry wines available. Every Saturday and Sunday afternoon guests are entertained by live music on the patio.
6260 Highway 290 East, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624, Phone: 830-997-4466
11. William Chris Vineyards
This vineyard and winery, located in Hye, focuses on Texan pride and the history of winemaking in the State. Guests are encouraged to make reservations for Friday to Sunday since this is the busiest times for tastings and tours. They offer tastings or wine by the glass, plus a selection of Texan made cheese to pair nicely with their wines. Guests can become educated all about Texas winemaking with offerings of classes. Guests can even enjoy barrel tastings for an added authentic flavor.
10352 US Highway 290, Hye, Texas 78635, Phone: 830-998-7654
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12. Fredericksburg Winery
USA Today has named this winery one of the top three producers in Texas. The Switzer family owns and operates this well rounded winery which is located right on Main Street in Fredericksburg. They produce a vast selection of wines from reds to whites to ports and Sherries and even sweet dessert wines. Guests can do a self-guided tour or book a private tour at this winery, however, there is no tasting room. There are educational courses available such as Wine 101, where one can learn all about the different types of wines and find out inside information on producing wine. They also have a wine club to join named “Flight Club”. More day trips in Texas
247 West Main Street, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624, Phone: 830-990-8747
13. Grape Creek Vineyards
This one stop shop type winery provides guests with not only tasting options, but cellar tours, a trattoria with a delicious wood-fired menu and a shaded patio area. With an overall Tuscany feel, guests will feel as though they took a trip to Italy. The tasting room and event center provide a romantic atmosphere done in the styling of an Italian Villa. They are located in Fredericksburg along Highway 290. Guests can book a Taste and Tour package and will ride along in a small vehicle around the vineyards and for a tour of the production area plus the cellar along with barrel tastings, followed by tastings on the beautiful patio. More ideas: Things to Do in San Antonio
10587 East U.S. Highway 290, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624, Phone: 830-644-2710
14. Inwood Estates Winery & Bistro
One of the top 101 American wineries according to Daily Meal, this Fredericksburg estate boasts a higher end winery experience for its patrons. There are different tasting options available, including private tastings with the winemaker, Dan Gatlin. Inwood uses only the highest quality Texas grapes to create their exquisite wine selections. Guests can enjoy the outdoor patio, the bistro and “The Grove” where dogs are welcome.
10303 US Hwy 290 East, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624, Phone: 830-997-2304
15. Spicewood Vineyards
Guests will find an array of tempting wines to taste at Spicewood Vineyards. They are set on a 32 acre vineyard in Spicewood, and have a relaxed tasting area for guests to enjoy a selection of their 12 varieties of wines. Winemaker tours are also available by reservation. If patrons are searching for an event center, Spicewood has the perfect venue to host, as well as a gift shop and picnic area for guests use.
1419 Burnet CR 409, Spicewood, Texas 78669, Phone: 830-693-5328
16. Where to Stay
There are many bed & breakfast establishments to choose from, each offering something a little different. In Dripping Springs, visitors will find Mt. Gainor Inn, which is located only 15 minutes from five wineries; Hillside Acres Retreat, offering six elegant cabins and a one bedroom guest house all fully furnished and ultra-comfortable; and Camp Lucy Cottages, offering delicious breakfast and plush, comfortable rooms. In Wimberley, travelers can choose have a look at All Wimberley Lodging, which offers a reservation service and has access to cozy, romantic cottages, homey bed and breakfasts, and stunning vacation homes on the river.
Blair House Inn is also located in Wimberley and boasts 12 rooms/suites plus an art gallery and cooking school. Guests can also indulge in spa services. If heading to Fredericksburg, visitors and stay over at The Back Forty of Fredericksburg which is the perfect place to call home base while touring the Trail. It is located within easy distance to many of the Fredericksburg wineries and vineyards. Guests stay in their own private cottage and can enjoy spa services as well as the nearby creek for beautiful views or to try their luck at fishing. Cotton Gin Village is another option, which resembles an 1870's log cabin village complete with waterfalls, limestone walls and surrounding gardens.
A combination winery and bed and breakfast option, as previously mentioned is Messina Hof Hill Country, with four themed, private retreats to choose from. Gasteus Schmidt is an alternative to finding accommodations on your own in Fredericksburg. They are a reservation service with over 125 options of top notch accommodations available in their pool of lodging choices. They have special packages available for those looking to tour the Texas wine trail, as well as trip planning assistance with transportation and other ideas for romance or spa trips. Gift certificates are available through their website for anyone wishing to give the gift of travel.
If you prefer a hotel, there are a couple of options available along the Trail. Fredericksburg Inn & Suites offers guests a relaxing, yet very elegant atmosphere on their five acre property. They are located along Barons Creek, giving guests a feeling of seclusion and tranquility without being too far from downtown. They feature 94 guestrooms and nine suites to choose from, plus two pools and a large outdoor hot tub.
Horseshoe Bay Resort is another hotel option, located in Horseshoe Bay and providing guests with true luxurious comfort. On-site, guests will love the 72 holes of golf, the full service spa and salon, a marina, tennis courts and dining by the waterfront. There are over 380 guestrooms as well as waterfront condos and tower suites. There are endless activities to enjoy at the resort as well, whenever travelers are not exploring the wine country trail. Guests will be staying in ultra-luxury at the Horseshoe Bay Resort.
Depending upon each traveler's wishes and preferences, there are accommodations to suit every taste and budget. The website, texaswinetrail.com is a wonderful resource for available lodging options, as well as descriptions of each type of accommodation. Visitors can reserve at one or a few different accommodations to explore the entire Trail. Texas wine country will not leave any visitor disappointed.
What are the 16 Best Texas Hill Country Wineries?
The 16 Best Texas Hill Country Wineries according to local experts are:
- Messina Hof Hill Country
- Bell Springs Winery
- Flat Creek Estate and Flat Creek Enoteca
- Bending Branch Winery
- Dry Comal Creek Vineyards
- Chisholm Trail Winery
- Becker Vineyards
- Duchman Family Winery
- Fall Creek Vineyards at Tow
- Fiesta Winery Fredericksburg 290
- William Chris Vineyards
- Fredericksburg Winery
- Grape Creek Vineyards
- Inwood Estates Winery & Bistro
- Spicewood Vineyards
- Where to Stay
Attraction Spotlight: The National Museum of the Pacific War, Fredericksburg, Texas
Although often a somber experience, the museum is an important part of understanding the history and significance of one of the events that altered the course of American history. Guests will leave with a better sense of the people, events, and timelines involved with this major historical event. The museum, located in Fredericksburg, Texas, is the only in the United States that is dedicated to telling these specific stories.
History
The first building that now makes up only a portion of the museum complex was opened in 1967. That campus is now six acres with more than 900 different artifacts and works in close partnership with the Texas Historical Commission (otherwise known as THC) which helps with its preservation goals and mission (which is to teach the history of the war and to honor all that served).
Permanent Exhibits
Admiral Nimitz Museum - This building is the original location of the museum before the facility expanded and outgrew it. Built in the late 1800s, it was previously the SteamBoat Hotel and was owned as well as operated by the Admiral’s grandfather. It has been restored to its original glory and is now the home of an exhibit that focuses on the life and career of Admiral Nimitz as well as the Cailloux Educational Center, the grand ballroom, and the mezzanine.
George Bush Gallery - Although named after George Bush, this gallery focuses on a variety of exhibitions on the attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese on December 7th, 1941. There are many artifacts that are meant to make an impact, like the HA-19 (a two man sub that was used by the Japanese as part of the attack). The gallery also makes use of media - through presentations, testimonials, and other artifacts. Follow the Army as well as the Marines from island to island while they fight for America’s freedom. Sail along with the Navy’s Pacific Fleet as they fight in the Pacific Ocean.
Peace Garden - The Japanese Peace Garden was a gift to the United States from the people of Japan in honor of Admiral Nimitz. This garden is meant to be a peaceful oasis, and visitors will enter through a replica of the Japanese Navy’s Admiral Togo’s meditation study. Built in Japan and reassembled in Texas, it opened to the public in 1976 and was restored and reopened in 2015 and 2016. Guests should make sure to keep a special eye out for a few key objects : The Bamboo Spring, the Togo Study, The Pool/Stream and The Stone Garden.
Memorial Courtyard - Visitors should make sure to see the Memorial Courtyard, where the people (and ships) who fought in the Pacific Theater are honored with plaques that are dedicated to their contributions.
Plaza of Presidents - Outside of the Bush Gallery is the Plaza of Presidents, a series of monuments made out of stone that honors the Presidents who served during World War II.
Education and Research Center - Located inside the center are thousands of different manuscripts, documents, photographs, and interviews with veterans of the Pacific War. These artifacts are open to public viewing by appointment only during the weekdays from 9am to 5pm.
Special Events
First and foremost, the museum offers a constant rotation of special exhibits that focus on different aspects of the war from many perspectives. A few of the exhibitions that have been or will be featured are the Pacific Combat Program (this event is held on a monthly basis), Leadership, Art of the Aloha Shirt, etc. Check the website for additional information, as it is frequently updated.
The museum also hosts an annual golf tournament, generally held in June, that is thrown for charity and draws golfers from all over the country. Held at the Boot Ranch, the charity that will receive the proceeds changes on a yearly basis and the tournament regularly raises around $200,000.
Another big event at the museum is Pearl Harbor Day observance. Usually featuring one or a few keynote speakers, the memorial is held in the courtyard and is offered free of charge to the general public.
Shopping
All products purchased at the gift shop go into supporting the museum. With a large selection of books about World War II, the Pacific War, and Pearl Harbor as well as collectibles like coins and ornaments. They also offer a selection of apparel (shirts, jackets, etc) and homegoods (mugs, tumblers, etc) for every price point and taste level.
The National Museum of the Pacific War, 340 East Main Street, Fredericksburg, TX, 78624, Phone: 830-997-8600
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