Ask any Texan what it’s like living in Texas and you will get a long list of reasons Texas is the best state in the country. One of those reasons is sure to be the Texas Hill Country and it’s no wonder why. The laidback lifestyle, stunning landscapes, and unique culture the Hill Country offers have inspired Texans to sing its praises over the years.
With Austin and San Antonio serving as bookends on the north and south ends, the Texas Hill Country spans west over 31,000 square miles and includes beauties such as Fredericksburg, Llano, Bandera, and Dripping Springs. Gorgeous weather, rolling hills, and charming small towns make it an attractive destination. If you are looking for the best place to live or retire, the Texas Hill Country is a no-brainer.
Here are 5 reasons the Texas Hill Country truly is the best place to live.
1. Unique Culture
While many think of Texas as having a western vibe, the size of the state allows each region to have its own flare. Due to the influx of German, Swiss, Czech and Austrian immigrants in the 1800s, the Hill Country has strong European influences. This can be felt when you visit towns such as Fredericksburg, New Braunfels, and Luckenbach where heritage has been preserved through architecture, food, and tradition.
The thick musical influence throughout the state has brought an environment of creativity and acceptance. Legends such as Willie Nelson, Robert Earl Keen, and Lyle Lovett all claim Texas as home, regularly playing in venues across the area.
2. Rest & Relaxation
Recently people have been flocking to the Hill Country making Texas one of the most popular places in the country to retire. Providing the opportunity to get away from it all while still remaining close to larger city conveniences makes this a popular destination to live or visit.
Lush rolling hills are reminiscent of Tuscany or Southern France. An abundance of native plants, wildlife sprinkled throughout the region, and rocky bluffs add to the enchanting atmosphere. As you drive into the Hill Country you can physically feel the stress of city life roll off your shoulders. Among other perks mild weather, stunning scenery, the low cost of living, and plenty of golf courses allow you to truly enjoy some R&R.
3. Cloud Wine
The Texas Hill Country has become almost synonymous with wineries. Within the country, Texas recently became the fifth-largest wine-producing state and the second most popular wine destination. With 50 wineries in the region, you have ample opportunity to sip on your perfectly chilled rosé while sitting in a rocking chair overlooking the idyllic green expanse of rolling hills and large oaks.
Satisfy your inner oenophile when you head to Signor Vineyards, located in Fredericksburg and dubbed by Austin Monthly as the most beautiful winery in the Hill Country. Or visit one of the first wineries in Texas, Fall Creek Vineyards in Driftwood, which sits directly across from the famous and not-to-be-missed Salt-Lick BBQ.
4. Stunning Waterfronts
Texas packs the heat, literally speaking, but it also offers beautiful rivers, lakes, and aquifers to help cool off. The area is home to 10 state parks winding their way through bodies of water such as Lake Travis and the Colorado River. Take a day and float the Guadalupe River, one of the most popular tubing rivers in Texas. Flowing through quaint towns such as Kerrville and Gruene, eventually pouring out into Canyon Lake, this river twists and turns varying in intensity from a lazy river to quick rapids depending on the time of year. Swimming holes such as Jacob’s Well in Wimberly and Hamilton Pool in Austin, both offer crystal-blue water ideal for swimming, laying out or cliff jumping. Garner State Park along the Frio River is the most popular state Park in Texas. Hiking trails within the park offer summits overlooking the entire valley. After hiking, take a dip in the freshwater which remains roughly 68 degrees year-round.
5. Beautiful Weather
The Texas Hill Country is blessed with year-round warmth. Sure, the summers are more blazing hot than warm, but the rest of the year is mild, meaning you can enjoy the outdoors 356 days a year. Seven months of the year average between 65-85 degrees. You really can’t beat that.
Live at Lakeside at Tessera
When considering the best place to live or retire, look no further than the Texas Hill Country. Lago Vista is a short drive from the modern conveniences of Austin, but far enough into the Hill Country where you can feel away from it all. Call now to learn more about starting life in your dream home and all Lakeside has to offer.