If you’re looking for a place to live that stands out in a state full of unique locations, you should seriously consider the Hill Country of Texas. This geographic region, generally considered to be where the American Southwest meets the Southeast, is full of pleasant communities ranging from small to large that are perfect for raising families or for young professionals who can work from home and enjoy a lifestyle full of outdoor and cultural activities.
Hill Country sits in Central and South Texas and is made up of several counties. It includes small- to medium-sized communities, such as Fredericksburg, San Marcos, and New Braunfels, and big cities like San Antonio and the state capital of Austin. Homes are very affordable throughout Hill Country and are often set on large lots surrounded by trees. There are many luxury homes and mansions that offer the best of rural and semi-rural living, including golf communities and gated communities.
Hill Country is home to a wide variety of open spaces and beautiful natural areas, making for an abundance of outdoor recreation and sightseeing opportunities close to home. The cities and towns of Hill Country also boast some of the state’s greatest culinary destinations, so nights out with friends and family are sure to be as mouth-watering as they are exciting.
If you have recently bought one of the many Hill Country homes for sale, then you can start settling into your new home and community with these fun activities during your first week in Hill Country:
Spend a day at a celebrated winery
Photo courtesy of Pexels
Buying a home can be stressful and time-consuming, and there’s no better way to start to unwind in your first week in Hill County than to take a well-deserved break from unpacking to visit one of the region’s many acclaimed wineries. The Texas Hill Country has seen a boom in the wine-making industry recently, so much so that it has earned its own name, Texas Wine Country.
Texas Wine Country is home to more than 100 vineyards and wineries, and the city of Fredericksburg is considered the epicenter of this remarkable region. Gillespie County, at the heart of Texas Hill Country, is home to more than half of the region’s wineries, making it a quick and convenient destination for anyone looking to escape from the bustle of everyday life and escape into the beautiful countryside.
Spend a day at a vineyard, touring the hillside landscapes full of grapes and sampling the vintages that have given this area a thriving new industry. If touring vineyards and spending time in the tasting rooms sounds like the perfect weekend activity for you and your friends, you will have plenty to keep you busy well beyond your first week in Hill Country.
Take a drive to see the blooming wildflowers
One of the best-known attributes of Hill Country is its abundance of natural beauty and wide-open outdoor spaces that are home to a vast variety of recreation spots and sightseeing opportunities.
One of Hill Country’s most spectacular natural spectacles is the annual wildflower bloom every spring. Take a drive through the countryside or to one of the many state parks and natural preserves and hike among the blooming flowers like bluebonnets, purple tansy, and firewheels. A weekend drive to see the gorgeous blooming wildflowers is a great way for the whole family to enjoy the warm spring weather of Hill Country together and make memories that will last a lifetime.
One of Hill Country’s most spectacular natural spectacles is the annual wildflower bloom every spring. Take a drive through the countryside or to one of the many state parks and natural preserves and hike among the blooming flowers like bluebonnets, purple tansy, and firewheels. A weekend drive to see the gorgeous blooming wildflowers is a great way for the whole family to enjoy the warm spring weather of Hill Country together and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Try the vibrant dining scene
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
One of the best and most delicious ways to get settled into your new community is to head out to some of the most popular restaurants to begin experiencing all the dishes that the locals love. New residents of Hill Country luxury homes quickly discover that the region is home to some of the finest dining in Texas, from upscale steakhouses to famous authentic barbeque, along with restaurants specializing in international flavors like German sausages and authentic Mexican food.
There are more options for barbeque in Hill Country than you can count, serving favorites like slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. Texas’ local cattle industry also makes Hill Country a great place to get a delicious seared steak or burger, and the restaurants in Texas Wine Country offer some of the most refined dining experiences in the state. Try out a new restaurant throughout your first week in Hill Country to experience what fellow residents love in your neighborhood and get a taste of the best that Hill Country has to offer.
Explore Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
Hill Country is celebrated within Texas for its abundance of outdoor spaces with gorgeous natural scenery and numerous recreational opportunities. One of the most exciting things to do in Hill Country for families who have just moved to the area is to explore the natural beauty of the region by hiking, biking, camping, and more at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.
Located only 1 ½ hours west of Austin and north of San Antonio, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a spectacular outdoor space with breathtaking terrain and scenery. The park features over eight miles of hiking trails and is a great place to watch the local birds and other wildlife. Taking a weekend trip to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is an excellent opportunity for families to get away from the city and enjoy the vast natural spaces of Hill Country together.
Explore Hill Country on horseback
Another great way for families to explore the natural beauty of Hill Country is on horseback. Many towns, including Fredericksburg, are home to a number of equestrian and horseback riding activities. Take in the breathtaking views of the rolling hills and blooming wildflowers on a horseback ride with your family, making it one of the best and most unique ways to settle into your new Hill Country community.
Hire a great agent
These are just a sampling of the things to do in your first week in Hill Country. When you’re ready to start shopping for Hill Country luxury homes, let Topper Real Estate show you the best client services in the region. Reach out today!
*Header photo courtesy of Unsplash