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Upcoming Hill Country Events

Boerne’s Kendall County Fair

Aug. 30 - Sept. 1

Herff Park, 1307 River Road

The heart of Boerne will be pulsing with old-fashioned community spirit as the Kendall County Fair Association hosts its 118th annual fair. It’s a weekend where tradition meets excitement, with vendors, a Queen’s Pageant, and a rodeo and livestock show kicking off the festivities on Friday and Saturday. And if you’re craving adrenaline, don’t miss Bull Riding Extreme on Sunday. A lively parade down Main Street will delight visitors on Saturday, and be sure to explore the exhibits in the Homestead Heritage Exhibit Hall, showcasing the area’s rich history.

Bandera’s Labor Day Roundup Musicfest

Aug. 30 - Sept. 1

11th St. Cowboy Bar, 307 11th St.

Bandera isn’t just the Cowboy Capital of the World; it’s a haven for music lovers too. The Labor Day Roundup Musicfest at the iconic 11th St. Cowboy Bar promises a weekend packed with live entertainment. Tap your boots to the rhythms that have long defined the spirit of Texas.

Fredericksburg’s Redbud Artisan Market

Aug. 31

Market Square, 100 block of West Main Street

Fredericksburg invites you to a day of artistic discovery at the Redbud Artisan Market. With over 40 Texan artisans displaying their original creations, you’ll find pottery, woodworking, jewelry, glass art, metal art, and more. It’s the perfect stop to add a touch of Texas craftsmanship to your life.

Celebrate Bandera Roundup

Aug. 31 - Sept. 1

Mansfield Park, Main Street, 2886 SH 16 North; 500 Main St.

Step into a world where the Old West comes alive. Celebrate Bandera Roundup is a tribute to Bandera’s cowboy and Western heritage. Witness a Longhorn Cattle Drive Parade, enjoy arts and crafts, and watch thrilling gunfight reenactments. The ranch rodeo and Lil’ Wrangler activities ensure there’s something for every cowboy, young or old.

Lesser-Known Drives in the Hill Country: Exploring the Road Less Traveled

If the Texas Hill Country were a book, its highways and byways would be the passages where the true beauty of the story lies. Everyone knows the big names, but the lesser-known routes are where you find the heart of this land.

Old No. 9 Highway

This historic 20-mile stretch, starting in Comfort, is often overlooked by visitors. Following the path of the former San Antonio, Fredericksburg, and Northern Railway, it’s a drive that takes you through rolling hills dotted with oak trees, vibrant wildflower displays in spring, and quaint towns like Sisterdale and Grapetown. Don’t miss Block Creek Natural Area with its panoramic vistas, or a stop at Old Tunnel State Park, home to some of Texas’ most interesting wildlife.

Bandera Scenic Drives

Bandera may be famous for its cowboy culture, but its scenic routes are the unsung heroes. SH 173 North winds through Camp Verde and Kerrville, offering glimpses of Texas history and landscape. SH 46 East takes you on a picturesque journey from Pipe Creek to Boerne, while SH 16 and FM 470 West unveil views of rolling hills and rippling creeks that make you forget time itself.

Leakey Area Routes

In the Leakey area, nature has painted some of the Hill Country’s most stunning canvases. FM 337 is known for its breathtaking vistas, while FM 187 North leads to Lost Maples State Natural Area—a jewel in the crown of Texas parks. For a different perspective, take US 83 North, offering glimpses of the Frio River, or SH 39 East, another route where beauty unfolds around every bend.

Marble Falls Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-trodden paths around Marble Falls, FM 1431 West offers breathtaking views and access to the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary of natural splendor. RM 2147 takes you to the western shore of Lake Marble Falls, where tranquility reigns.

Uvalde Area Drives

The Uvalde area is a treasure trove of scenic routes waiting to be discovered. From US 83 North through Concan to Leakey, then west on RM 337 and south on SH 55, every turn reveals something new. RM 337 East from Leakey to Vanderpool, near Lost Maples Natural Area, and RM 187 South from Leakey to Sabinal offer a quieter, more intimate experience with the land.

These drives offer a chance to explore the Texas Hill Country’s beauty away from the more crowded routes. They are a testament to the region’s charm, where hidden vistas, charming small towns, and diverse landscapes await those willing to seek them out.

The Best Times to Take Drives in the Hill Country

Timing is everything when it comes to exploring the Texas Hill Country. Each season has its own story to tell, and knowing when to take your drive can make all the difference.

Spring (March to May): Wildflower Season

Spring is the crown jewel of Hill Country driving seasons. Routes like the Willow City Loop and Three Sisters Scenic Loop burst into life with Texas bluebonnets and other wildflowers. The Old No. 9 Highway, lined with blooms, offers a stunning backdrop for your journey. With mild temperatures, it’s the perfect time to slow down and take in the beauty around you.

Fall (September to November): Fall Foliage

As summer fades, the Hill Country transforms into a canvas of autumn colors. The Gruene-Fredericksburg-Bandera Loop is particularly beautiful during this time. With vineyards in full harvest and the leaves changing, it’s a season of richness, both in scenery and experience.

Summer (June to August): Long Days

Summer drives offer the luxury of time, with long days stretching out before you. Early mornings or late afternoons are best for beating the heat, and routes around Canyon Lake or the Skyline Drive promise stunning views and refreshing waters. Festivals dot the calendar, adding a lively atmosphere to your drives through towns like Fredericksburg and New Braunfels.

Winter (December to February): A Quiet Escape

Winter in the Hill Country is for those who seek solitude and peace. The mild winters make for pleasant driving, with routes like the Swiss Alps of Texas offering serene landscapes without the usual crowds. And with holiday events in small towns, your drive might just end with a cup of hot cocoa in hand.

In summary, the Hill Country is a year-round destination for scenic exploration. Whether you’re chasing wildflowers in the spring, autumn leaves in the fall, or simply escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the quiet of winter, each season offers its own unique rewards.

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Discovering the Texas Hill Country: A Hidden Gem for Retirement

Welcome to a journey through the Texas Hill Country, where natural beauty meets an inviting lifestyle. It’s not just a place to visit; it’s a destination that many are now calling home—especially retirees looking for an affordable, peaceful, and vibrant community.

Scenic Serenity

Nestled in Central and South Texas, the Hill Country is famous for its rolling hills, picturesque rivers, and vibrant wildflower blooms. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, surrounded by landscapes that change with the seasons. This serene environment offers retirees a lifestyle of peace and natural beauty, hard to find elsewhere.

Cost of Living: A Breath of Fresh Air

Compared to popular retirement hotspots like Florida and California, the Texas Hill Country stands out for its affordability:

• Overall Costs: Many towns boast a cost of living up to 17% lower than the national average.

• Housing Affordability: Whether it’s a cozy cottage in Comfort or a charming home in Fredericksburg, housing here is more budget-friendly than in larger metropolitan areas.

• Tax Benefits: With no state income tax, retirees can stretch their savings further, enjoying life without financial stress.

A Lifestyle Rich in Activities

The Texas Hill Country is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. From hiking and fishing to exploring local festivals, music, and cuisine influenced by German, Spanish, and Mexican settlers, there’s always something to do. With over 50 wineries, the Hill Country has become a haven for wine lovers, offering tastings and tours that celebrate the region’s viticulture.

Community and Healthcare

Retirement isn’t just about affordability; it’s also about finding a welcoming community. Hill Country towns are known for their friendly atmospheres, making it easy to forge connections and build lasting friendships. Plus, access to quality healthcare facilities ensures that retirees can receive the care they need without traveling far.

Conclusion

The Texas Hill Country is a hidden gem offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and affordability. With its stunning landscapes, engaging community, and lower cost of living, it’s no wonder more retirees are choosing to call this enchanting region home. So, if you’re considering a retirement destination that combines all these elements, look no further than the Texas Hill Country. Your next adventure awaits!

A Word from WorkFlo

Reader’s Corner: Share Your Adventures!

We want to hear from you! Have you discovered a hidden gem in the Texas Hill Country? Reply to this email with your favorite spots, and we might feature your story in our next newsletter!

Stay Connected with Us

Thank you for joining us on this journey through Texas Hill Country. We hope you enjoyed discovering the hidden gems and unique experiences this beautiful region has to offer. Stay tuned for more insights, travel tips, and local spotlights in our next edition. Don’t forget to share your Hill Country adventures with us!

Jeremy

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