From wildflower seed farms to acres of vibrant Bluebonnets, the Texas Hill Country will provide you with an ideal Spring getaway. The beautiful rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country can be filled with as many as 5,000 different wildflowers. And that’s not all that will beckon you to Hill Country. You can follow the Texas wine trail, stay at unique B&B’s and soak in the culture of Fredericksburg.
Best Hill Country Places to Go
San Antonio
Many people don’t see San Antonio as a Hill Country destination but the historic city is a great base for exploring the Hill Country. The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa will give you a taste of the Hill Country as soon as you enter the grounds. Once a ranch, the resort has taken great effort to recreate the Hill Country look while providing guests with top notch amenities.
The Westin La Cantera Resort, located within minutes of downtown San Antonio, is perched on an outcropping overlooking the rolling hills and limestone cliffs of the Hill Country. The Westin is also a great place to use as a base while exploring the Hill Country.
Whether you want to enjoy the Hill Country as a day trip or prefer a more urban setting for your exploration of wild flower country, San Antonio is not to be missed.
Austin
Austin, Texas is also a great place to begin a Hill Country vacation. Austin is Capitol of Texas and is the largest town in Hill Country. Austin is known for music and alternative entertainment. The locals have a favorite
saying… “Keep Austin Wierd.”
One of my favorite places to dine while in Austin is just outside town. The Salt Lick Bar-B-Q is on a large ranch. You can watch the hands bar-b-q over huge grills, enjoy country music and sit under the spreading oak trees.
Fredericksburg
Now to really immerse yourself in the Hill Country, consider Fredericksburg. Founded by German immigrants, Fredericksburg retains the European charm yet is a great example of the Hill Country lifestyle. You can stay in a stand-alone B&B in a historic home or check out a guest ranch.
You’ll find ten state parks and natural areas in the region around Fredericksburg. Wildflower enthusiasts and birders will find just what they are looking for at these parks. A wildflower favorite is Willow City Loop Wildflower Trail. This driving trail is accessible from Austin or Fredericksburg.
During your stay in Fredericksburg, be sure and visit the world-class art galleries, quaint shops and restaurants. Don’t forget to indulge yourself in some German food and peach pie, area specialties.
There are some great side trips to enjoy as you travel the Hill Country around Fredericksburg. Fredericksburg is home to a fantastic Herb Farm. The Herb Farm has a quaint restaurant, a day spa and herb gardens.
Wildseed Farms is an exciting place to visit. With wildflower fields, shops and a restaurant, the wildflower lover will have plenty to enjoy. You can purchase wildflower seed specific to your region.
When to Visit to See Wildflowers
In wildflower season, March – April, the hillsides and low lying meadows are ablaze with the colors of a many Texas wildflower varieties. While it is difficult to know exactly when the wildflowers are blooming, the Lady Bird Wildflower Center and the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce are good resources.
More Information on The Hill Country and Texas Wildflowers
Texas Hill Country Guide
Fredericksburg, Texas Guide
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Cycle Texas Website
Texas Wine Tours
Texas Hill Country parks
April is Wildflower Time in Texas
Photo Credit: Elizabeth R. Rose
