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• Texas Hill Country Bike Tour

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Texas Hill Country Bike Tour: Highlights

“Dancin’ on the pedals in the Texas Hill Country”

Our Texas Hill Country bike tour offers a good ol’ time deep in the heart of Texas. Enjoy exceptional cycling on a web of country lanes through rolling terrain where you see more Texas Longhorns than vehicles. Our Hill Country trip has become both a guest and guide favorite with quiet roads, live music and surprisingly charming Texas towns. This is one of our best tours for intermediate to advanced cyclists!

Our Texas Hill Country bike tour will show you another side to the state you probably never thought existed; lush fields bursting with vibrant bluebonnets, evocative cypress forests and old world small town wineries. This journey around one of the Lone Star State’s most beautiful regions both surprises and delights.  Lizard Head Cycling Hill Country tour is a true tour of the Hill Country region. Rather than staying only near Fredericksburg we visit four different small towns, climbs over ridges to varying river systems and in general explores all that Hill Country offers.

Before your trip, you’ll arrive in San Antonio, where a vibrant music scene and cycling culture reigns. On the road, treat yourself to an authentic Texas BBQ at the Salt Lick  and enjoy live music and two-step dancing at the state’s oldest dance hall all outside in the warm air.

NOTE: If summer rains deliver, each fall there is a 2nd wildflower bloom in October.

Welcome to Texas Hill Country!

Texas Bluebonnets

Bikes and bluebonnets

Luckenback, Texas

Along the Willow City Loop

Enjoying the outdoor music in Luckenbach

Texas Hill Country Bike Tour: Noteworthy Links

☛ New York Times: 36 Hours in San Antonio

☛ New York Times: 36 Hours in Texas Hill Country

☛ The Majestic Theater is the best venue for concerts & shows in San Antonio.

Texas Hill Country Bike Tour: Testimonials

Read what previous guests on our Texas Hill Country Bike tour have been saying…

My 5th LH tour, Texas Hill Country was thoroughly delightful. The riding was great – green rolling hills with wildflowers and all sorts of animals. I really appreciated the guides – Rick, Leslie, Greg and Will. The guide prepared meals were fantastic. Accommodations were great – really enjoyed the music & dancing in Blanco & Gruene. Looking forward to another LH tour next year. – Sonja

My wife Suzanne and I had a spectacular time. The riding and scenery were nice. But honestly I think it was Matt and Paige who made it great. I think every single person on the trip would give them rave reviews for kindness, leadership, organization, and skill. The itinerary was great too, as were the hotels and restaurants. Cheers! – Jeff B.

I want you to know that it was a fabulous trip. I am not an experienced biker, and felt totally safe and with all needs cared for by Rick and Matt. They encouraged me, and helped me in so many ways. The trip was extremely well organized, the accommodations and food wonderful, and I hope to take another Lizard Head trip because of the great experience I had. – Rita

I just wanted to drop a note to say that my four-day trip through Texas Hill Country was terrific – thanks in large part to Rick Miller and Matt Wright. I’ve visited over 50 countries and encountered many, many guides. So, I say with confidence that these guys are in the Premier League. They showed unflagging vigilance and aplomb, anticipating things I needed before I knew I needed them. They displayed the rapport of a couple of longtime cattle drivers – continually circling back to make sure they didn’t lose any stray calves, like me. From bike maintenance to fajita preparation, they did it all. – George

First I love the saying that you put on here from Edward Abbey and desert solitaire that truly tells the story of our Texas Hill Country ride with Lizard Head. I first want to thank you for encouraging me to bring my single speed for the entire trip, it was an incredible experience and it gave me so much more confidence and leg strength to ride above and beyond to infinity. I want to also take the time to first thank Roy and Scott for all their incredible hard work, they are amazing talent to cook up meals and provide imaginative and delicious snacks and to inform us of other rides you provide and always being in a positive good mood encouraging us every morning praising us every evening – without a doubt they were wonderful and worth more than a chest full of gold. As far as the itinerary and the trip path that you provided, it was truly a spectacular and wonderful week of bike riding (as) there was so much to see and never a dull moment. We thoroughly enjoyed the LBJ ranch and airplane and bookstore. We also thoroughly enjoyed Luckenbach where everybody is somebody and I single-handedly made a large donation to their gift shop including t-shirt stickers coffee mug neck cursive earrings for my wife and I’m sure there was a couple other things that I just can’t remember that I bought. You really did a great job outlaying the pass the roads and the itinerary. I think this particular bike trip really is one for people that want to test their ability as it’s not just a flat line bike trip. In closing we really had a 10 out of a 10 experience. I’m already planning my next trip I can’t thank you enough for encouraging us and I really appreciate Scott and Roy as guides and the hard work they did, thank you. Thank you all again so very much. Sincerely – Bob

My husband and I took our tandem on the Texas Hill Country tour the first week of April. It was amazing from start to finish. We were very lucky with the weather, the wildflowers and the guides. David and Roy were knowledgeable, intuitive, patient, and pretty darn good cooks. I had never been on a ride that was that well supported and I really liked it. Having Roy fix the chain we busted was pretty terrific. Having David pick us up on the side of the road to get us to Fredericksburg in time to meet up with our son was beyond thoughtful. Thank you for accommodating a tandem. I will definitely recommend Lizard Head to our friends who cycle. – Mary

It was a great trip. All accommodations and meals were top notch. David and Roy were wonderful hosts and guides. – Allen

[Lizard Head Guides] Peter and Anna are lovely people. They did a wonderful job and went way out of the way to be accommodating. – Debbie

What a great ride, and such a nice break from Winter. Texas was not at all what I expected, very beautiful, lots of hills, and not much wind. Great weather, lovely hotels, tasty food, and the company of fellow cyclists, all added up to a wonderful adventure! – Marj O.

Wonderful Texas Hill Country trip and Anna and Peter were excellent guides, as good as any I have ever had. Wildflowers were spectacular! – Ed

[The Texas Hill Country Bike Tour] guides were PHENOMENAL in every way. They prepared delicious and nutritious meals for us, were very clear in providing directions and plans for the day, and anticipated our needs before we did. They were top notch in every way – extremely patient, good-natured, and so very competent. – Pace

Back home this afternoon and looking forward to my own bed! Both the Big Bend MTB trip and Texas Hill Country trip were equally good and I’m glad I was able to ride back to back. Big Bend is a great MTB trip, the best of the three I’ve done with you. It’s a nice blend of jeep roads and the single track trails are excellent. In fact I’d say the single track is well underrated. The downside is getting there. Hill Country is a solid week of excellent road biking on solitary roads with great places to stay. Anna and Peter are excellent guides, they are keepers. They kept the trip moving on time each morning and offered solid support on the road. I was particularly impressed with their attention to detail on the daily rides. The turn by turn sheets were very complete and accurate. They also spend a good amount of time in the morning and again after lunch on the route. I’ve been on a lot of trips were the guides barely bothered. They also kept things on time at night regarding dinners. I really appreciate keeping things on time and they did a great job. – Karl

I had a completely fabulous time on this trip… For me, the trip was a perfect balance of athletic challenges, beautiful and soul-restoring natural scenery… delightful bantering with other fun (and ageless!) cyclists, comfort food, plush accommodations filled with character, live music, beer, and dancing!! What more could a girl want? – Kristen

We had a wonderful trip. Kind of at the peak of our biking endurance, but did just fine with well timed rides in the van. We absolutely loved our guides, Peter and Anna. They couldn’t have been more competent, friendly, hard working, and fun. And they make a very cute couple to boot. All in all a terrific experience. – Warren

Texas Hill Country Bike Tour: Dates

Potential tour dates are listed below and not all tour dates will run. Lock in your preferred tour date early as unopened tour dates will be closed. Please see the Spring/Autumn Tour Calendar and the Summer Tour Calendar for confirmed departures. Any unopened date can be a Custom Week (9 riders required). Please contact us via email or call 970.728.5891

To easily register for a particular tour, please click the Book Now! link after the tour date listed below. This will select the tour name and the appropriate date on the registration form.

2024 Tour Dates

Note: Please select “Texas Hill Country 4-Day” on the registration form if you are registering for the 4-Day version of this tour.

• October 27 to November 1, 2024 ( Book Now! ) – TOUR A GO!
• November 3 to 8, 2024 ( Book Now! )

2025 Tour Dates

• March 16 to 21, 2025 Book Now! ) --> – PRIVATE TOUR
• March 23 to 28, 2025 ( Book Now! ) – TOUR OPENED
• March 30 to April 4, 2025 ( Book Now! )
• April 6 to 11, 2025 ( Book Now! )
• April 13 to 18, 2025 ( Book Now! )
• October 19 to 24, 2025 ( Book Now! )
• October 26 to 31, 2025 ( Book Now! )
• November 2 to 7, 2025 ( Book Now! )

Tour Status Notes: NO STATUS = Date Set, no riders have signed up. TOUR OPENED = Tour Opened, rider minimums not met. TOUR A GO! = Tour is Go, rider minimums met. SOLD OUT = Tour Full, rider maximums met.

Why Should you Sign-Up Now and OPEN a Tour Date? This is the proverbial chicken and the egg conundrum! We need our cyclists to first commit to the date that works for them so that we can commit to that date.

For starters, when you OPEN a date you get to pick your preferred departure date, and there is no penalty if the tour does not run. Once you pick your tour date, Lizard Head closes nearby dates and funnels all additional riders to your chosen date until the tour meets its 6 rider minimum.

BONUS: As an added bonus, we can also hold a spot for you on another tour date of your choosing. There is no fee to switch to another tour date.

In conclusion, if you want a tour to run, we need you to sign up and not wait for others to do the same! Waiting for others may mean that a tour date takes longer or does not confirm. Just Do It! Once a few riders jump into the proverbial waters, others will follow!

Texas Hill Country Bike Tour: Overview

Lizard Head Cycling Guides main competition in Texas Hill Country is Trek Travel. Here's the scoop on our much larger competitor. The Trek Travel offering is a Ride Camp that only rides in the Fredericksburg area, and not an actual tour of the greater Hill Country. From nearly a decade of offering tours in the Hill Country, we have discovered there is so much more to see and explore than just Fredericksburg!

Lizard Head Cycling Guides Texas Hill Country tour is a personalized tour of Hill Country. We would compare Trek's ride camp model to the Italian bike-hotel model that is essentially a self-service crash pad for cyclists often with 20 or so riders. NOTE: Lizard Head Cycling Guides also offers a Texas Hill Country Base Camp tour that is a bit different than Trek's offering.

Trek Travel Texas 7-Day Ride Camp Lite Bike Tour:

• 6 nights accommodations in the same 2-star hotel for the duration of the tour.
• 7 Breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners.
• Some days without van-support.
• Some days without a guide.

Lizard Head Cycling Guides Texas Hill Country Tour:

• 5 nights accommodations in 4 different unique and beautiful 4-5 star inns.
• 5 breakfasts, 6 gourmet lunches, 4 dinners.
• A private performance alongside the Blanco River from our own band of 6-plus years.
• Live music at the Gruene Dance Hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas! This is your chance to learn the Texas 2-step.
• Includes an authentic Texas BBQ at the famous Salt Lick BBQ .
• Includes van and guide support each day throughout the tour.

Tour Length: 6-Days Cycling/5-Nights Lodging, or 4-Days Cycling/3-Nights Lodging

6-Day Tour Starting & Ending Town: San Antonio, Texas. If driving or flying: the tour meets the morning of Day 1 at the meeting hotel listed in your confirmation document and ends back in San Antonio on Day 6.

4-Day Tour Starting & Ending Town: Blanco, Texas. If driving: guests leave their car in Blanco, Texas the morning of Day 1 and return to their car at the end of Day 4. If flying: the tour meets the morning of Day 1 in San Antonio, Texas at the meeting hotel listed in your confirmation document. At the conclusion of the tour on Day 4, guests need to arrange for a shuttle from Blanco back to San Antonio. Hill Country Express is a service we have used in the past.

Total Miles: 225 up to 350 over 6 days of riding, or 215 over 4 days of riding. ( Can I keep up on this tour? )

Average Daily Mileage: 60 (daily mileage options are available).

Families with Teenage Riders? The Hill Country is one of our best tours for families. We have taken numerous families on this tour and they integrate well with other riders. The roads are very quiet and safe and the towns offer a variety of activities. There are also easily accessible mileage options for a variety of abilities.

Group Size: 6 to 15 riders

6-Day Tour Cost: $3,350 per person with shared accommodations. Add $490 per person to this Tour Cost for a private room each night of the tour (5-Nights).

4-Day Tour Cost: $2,235 per person with shared accommodations. Add $285 per person to this Tour Cost for a private room each night of the tour (3-Nights).

Tour Discounts: Please see our Reptile Rewards & Tour Discounts page to learn more about Reptile Rewards, Tour Discounts, and Group Discounts. Tour discounts are not stackable with any other discounts or promotions – only the highest valued discount is provided. Please note that for discounts to apply the tour minimum must be met.

6-Day Tour Includes: 6-Days guide service, 5-Nights lodging, meals include all breakfasts, 5 dinners (1 on-your-own), daily gourmet lunch en route, a Texas BBQ lunch at the world famous Salt Lick BBQ , entrance fees, energy food, liquid refreshments, in-tour shuttles, and mechanical support. Alcoholic beverages, bike rental, and massage (if available) are additional.

4-Day Tour Includes: 4-Days Cycling, 3-Nights lodging, meals include 3 breakfasts, 2 dinners (1 on-your-own), daily gourmet lunch en route, entrance fees, energy food, liquid refreshments, in-tour shuttles, and mechanical support. Alcoholic beverages, bike rental, and massage (if available) are additional.

Non-Riding Spouses & Partners on Tour: If a non-riding spouse or partner would like to join you on tour and they have their own transportation, they can stay in your room for the cost of the tour's single room supplement. Please note that non-riders cannot check into hotels prior to guide arrival as the guides need to manage the check-in process. Checking in a large group can be challenging and take longer than normal, so non-riders need to hang back and be patient. Non-riding spouses and partners are welcome to join the Lizard Head meal plan which includes breakfasts and dinners for $75 per day. Note: Lunches are not included for non-riders driving their own vehicles due to the inherent variability of both lunch timing and locations. It is best for non-riders to plan to explore each day.

4-Day Tour Optional Night #4: If a 4-Day guest wishes to add a 4th night of lodging and leave the following morning after enjoying the BBQ and band on the banks of the Blanco, then add $195 for double occupancy or $325 for single occupancy to the tour cost. Includes an additional night of lodging, dinner and breakfast.

6-Day Tour Lodging for 5-Nights: (subject to change)

• Night 1: The Kendall , Boerne, TX
• Nights 2 & 3: Hoffman Haus , Fredericksburg, TX
• Night 4: Tillman Resort , Blanco, TX
• Night 5: The Gruene Mansion Inn , Gruene, TX

*If guests are staying in San Antonio post tour (Friday night) on the 6-Day version, they need to secure their own accommodations in San Antonio for Friday night.

4-Day Tour Lodging for 3-Nights: (subject to change)

• Night 1: Ye Kendall Inn , Boerne, TX

Meeting Hotel and Ending Hotel reservations and costs are NOT included unless specified otherwise. Guests are on-their-own to make reservations at the Meeting Hotel or Ending Hotel, or other nearby hotels.

Road Bike Rentals

NOTE: The make, model, and specifications of rental bikes may differ from what is described below. Please contact us if you have any specific needs for a rental bike or have any questions about rental bikes.

Lizard Head Cycling Guides is proud to rent Scott Bikes. The Scott Addict 10 Disc was designed from the ground up with those longer days in mind. With geometry that is less focused on racing and more on enduring, the Addict 10 will be your go to when you’re looking to put the miles in.

The Scott Addict 10 Disc features: Carbon Frame and Fork, Shimano Ultegra 2x11 Drivetrain, 34x32 Compact Gearing, 30mm Tires, and Hydraulic Disc Brakes. Approx. Weight: 16.89 lbs / 7.66 kg (without pedals)

☛ Learn more about our Rental Bikes and Equipment

Road E-Bike Rentals: Click Here for more information on our Road E-Bike Rentals including pricing. Please note that E-Bikes are not available for certain tours including those that involve camping. Please contact us for more information before registering for a tour. NOTE: E-Bikes are great, but our tours are designed to be ridden without motorized assistance. We offer "bumps" along the road so that everyone can stay together.

Take Your Rental Bike Home! Click Here for more information.

Couples Bike Rental Discount: Sign up as a couple and receive one free Road Bike Rental per couple for a one week tour. ($250 value. Pedal bikes only. E-Bikes excluded.)

Tandems and Recumbents: Lizard Head Cycling Guides happily accommodates both tandem and recumbent bikes on our tours.

If you have any further questions, please read more on our Rental Bikes FAQ page. You can also email us at [email protected] or call us at 970.728.5891

Meals On Tour

We also pride ourselves on being able to cater to specific dietary requests and needs, so rest assured that you will be able to get the nutrition that works best for you during your tour. Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan, or a someone who loves it all – we will keep you well fed during the tour!

Lunches: Lizard Head Cycling Guides prepares healthy lunches to keep you going. We will serve you fresh organic fruits and veggies, salads, hummus, sandwich fixings, nuts, gourmet cheeses and, of course, plenty of salty/sweet snacks such as chips and cookies.

Visit the Texas White House

Ability Level: Can I Ride this Tour?

The details: This tour is a cyclist’s dream. With lightly traveled back-country roads, Texas-sized hospitality and delicious regional cuisine, this 6-day spin through the Texas Hill Country is one of the best kept secrets in the country. It delivers an exceptional start or end to the bike-touring season.

Lizard Head Cycling has worked with locals to devise a route on single and two-lane roads with little traffic.  The routes wind through rolling limestone hills, past wineries and through quiet river valleys under the shade of giant cypress trees. The destination towns have a rich history of independent German and Irish immigrants who fought off Comanche and Apache Indians to settle there.  There is a little taste of Europe in Hill Country with a Texas flair.

Don’t miss out on the music when you arrive! San Antonio is the heart and soul of a vibrant country, blues and rock scene. The venues and performances are legendary and electric. While on tour cyclists enjoy up to six live performances and dancing legendary Texas dance halls in Luckenbach and Gruene.  So treat yourself to some of the best live music you’ll enjoy anywhere.

The weather: Fall and spring bring ideal cycling weather to the Texas Hill Country.  The highs range in the 70’s and 80’s. The evenings are pleasant and provide ample opportunity to outside dining.

Why choose this tour?  The Texas Hill Country Bike Tour is designed for intermediate to advanced cyclists. Lizard Head Cycling Guides has developed an exceptional route through the Hill Country with the help of our local Texan clients.  Our tour includes excellent lodging, a live band on night 4 and many other small surprises. Both cyclists new to multi-day tours and advanced riders who pedal over 5,000 miles annually will enjoy this tour. The tour offers a challenge similar to rides such as Cycle Oregon, Ride the Rockies, or RAGBRAI.

Do the Bump! Daily mileage options allow cyclists of varying abilities to enjoy this tour. One of our favorite options is to give cyclists a “bump” via the support vehicle, or a 10 to 20 mile lift down the road representing an hour of pedal time.

After the bump the rider is “off the front” and riding at his or her own pace without feeling they are being left behind the group. They’ll then have time to linger and take in the spectacular scenery. All cyclists come together in time for lunch. Afterwards, cyclists can take another bump and/or continue riding.

Seamless Mileage Options Lizard Head Cycling Guides designs multiple mileage options for each tours – something we’re well known for in our business. Daily shuttle options allow cyclists of varying abilities to enjoy our tours through mileage customization.

Slow or Fast?

Many cyclists who sign up for our tours have worried themselves silly about not being able to keep up. But then they’re surprised to find that all the worrying was about nothing. They do just fine!

Slow and Fast only exist as relative terms to other people.  Speed does not matter as long as you are moving on the bike.

Like we say to even the most reluctant cyclist: “You will be ready for a tour with Lizard Head Cycling when you are finished with a Lizard Head tour”.

If you have questions about your ability to ride this tour, please contact our office ([email protected] or 970.728.5891).

See How the Shuttle works below Day 7’s description in Tour Beta .

Please also see this blog post for more information.

Overall Route Map

Texas hill country bike tour: itinerary*.

*PLEASE NOTE: Tour itineraries are subject to change and modification based on the group, available accommodations, road construction, road closures, and other unforeseen circumstances including weather, wildfires, flooding, hurricanes, landslides and/or other acts of nature. Also, the distances and elevation profiles shown below may not reflect the actual distances and elevations while on tour as these are provided here to give an idea as to the anticipated mileage and terrain. Please view this itinerary, the distances, and elevation profiles as a general outline as to what to expect while on this tour.

4-Day Texas Hill Country: The 4-Day version of our Texas Hill Country Bike Tour follows the first four days of the 6-Day itinerary as shown below. If you only have time for a short bike tour, this is the tour for you as we take you into the heart of Texas Hill Country for the best of the best riding experience.

Day 0: Arrival in San Antonio

You’re in Texas, so you need to start BIG! Could there possibly be a better way to start off a week long bike tour of Texas Hill Country than by spending an evening in downtown San Antonio? The San Antonio River Walk offers entertainment to suit all tastes – from music, to boat tours, to restaurants, to shopping – the River Walk has it all and more! Have fun, but don’t stay out too late because our cycling adventure begins early the following morning from the meeting hotel.

Day 1: Boerne to Fredericksburg via Luckenbach 69 miles with up to 3,145 feet of climbing Optional: 50-mile route 

The first day takes cyclists across the heart of Texas Hill Country with a stop in Luckenbach, Texas , a modern ghost town with strong western roots, a rich music history and a population of 3. The route offers a few short climbs at the start, then a longer one to Bat Cave State Park for lunch.

After Luckenbach, we continue our ride through the rolling Texas hills to end the day in Fredericksburg, Texas and to check into the Hoffman Haus , our accommodations for the next two evenings. Sit back after a day of cycling in their serene and secluded enclave. Stroll a block to downtown for a hearty Texas sized dinner, live music and post ride camaraderie. This town with it’s deep German heritage is sure to offer something to everyone.

NOTE: Massages are available at the Hoffman House Spa . Please contact the Hoffman House to schedule.

Elevation Profile: +3395 ft / -3140 ft

Day 2: Layover, Willow City Loop and Enchanted Rock 49 miles with up to 2,270 feet of climbing

This day is a layover in Fredericksburg. In the morning, you’ll set off on this region’s signature ride, the Willow City Loop. This scenic route stops at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area , an enormous dome of pink granite covering a full square mile and rising 425 feet above the surrounding countryside. Enjoy a lunch at the park. You’ll also have time to hike the 1-mile trail to the top.

On this day off from the road, explore this old West area. Visit one of the neighboring towns’ famous German biergartens and enjoy a Shiner Bock Lager. Visit The National Museum of the Pacific War , or explore the many stores that downtown has to offer. You’ll be on own to enjoy Fredericksburg’s many dining establishments this evening.

Elevation Profile: +2470 ft / -2535 ft

Day 3: Fredericksburg to Blanco via LBJ Ranch 62 miles with up to 2,320 feet of climbing Optional: 50-mile route 

On this day we will take a meandering southeasterly route to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park , homestead of the 36th U.S. President. A 4-mile paved interpretive bike tour of the working ranch serves as the park’s highlight. During his presidency, Johnson and his wife Ladybird paved nearly every ranching road in the county. As a result, cycling in Hill Country has taken off.

Spend lunch under one of Hill Country’s iconic riverside Live Oak trees. The day ends with pedaling into the town of Blanco and the Tillman Resort . In Blanco outside our cabins, we will enjoy a good-ol’ Texas barbecue alongside the Blanco river with a live band who has played for us for years! Bring your dancing boots, your smile and your appetite.

Elevation Profile: +2520 ft / -2900 ft

Day 4: Blanco to Kendalia 40 miles with up to 2,110 feet of climbing

With a layover in Blanco at the Tillman Resort, this day offers a leisurely route into the heart of the Texas Hill Country first along the Blanco River early in the ride and then tackling some of the namesake “hills” of Hill Country. With lunch in Kendalia, we then meander along the quiet farm roads back to the Tillman Resort.

Elevation Profile: +2110 ft / -2110 ft

Day 5: Blanco to The Salt Lick BBQ 49 miles with up to 2,050 feet of climbing

This day departs from Blanco and meanders along remote Texas Hill Country roads past farms, ranches and pastures and through the near ghost town of Driftwood. This is another great day of riding. But make sure to attack those rolling hills along the way to build up your appetite because we have a world class feast in store at the Texas  Salt Lick barbecue, a Hill Country legend! On this day we’ll arrive at the Salt Lick for an early dinner. So today you can eat as much as you want and not have to worry about getting back on the bike.

After our late afternoon dinner we shuttle to the small town of Gruene, Texas.

Gruene is home to one of the finest, if not the finest, live music venues in the world, Gruene Hall , the oldest continually run dance hall in Texas. Yes, the place looks as if it is about to fall down on your head, yet it’s nothing short of amazing. So after a day of “dancing on the pedals”, save a little for some dancing at this legendary place.

Before heading out to enjoy the music at the Gruene Hall guests check into their charming rooms for a rest and shower before meeting up at the trailer for an evening happy hour with pecan pie and more tasty nibbles prepared by the guides. Yes, there is plenty of great food on this day!

Elevation Profile: +2200 ft / -2505 ft

Day 6: River Road Out & Back 33 miles with up to 1,665 feet of climbing

On the final morning of the Texas Hill Country bike tour, we roll one more time into the heart of Hill Country for our final out and back ride along River Road, a cycling nirvana of 14 miles adjacent to the scenic Guadalupe River Road offering four wide river bridge crossings and beautiful river views along the entire route. Just after the turnaround point there is a short climb up a steep hill that provides a beautiful vista.

Back in Gruene after the ride, we shuttle back to San Antonio to end our tour. If one has the time, it is highly recommended that guests stay Friday night (post tour) in San Antonio to experience the town’s beautiful River Walk. Guests electing to stay in downtown San Antonio arrange for their own shuttle ($20) to the airport upon their departure from San Antonio.

Elevation Profile: +1665 ft / -1665 ft

Texas Hill Country Bike Tour: Logistics & FAQs

Bike shipping.

Lizard Head Cycling recommends shipping with BikeFlights.com . Bikes can be shipped either to our partner bike shop in each meeting town for professional assembly or directly to the meeting hotel for self-assembly. Bike boxes can generally be left at the meeting hotel during the tour. Bikes shipped across the continental US should be shipped 8 days prior to your tour.

Meals on the Texas Hill Country Bike Tour Most meal (aside from two) from lunch on the tour’s first day (Sunday) through lunch on final day are included. The exception is that guests are own their own for dinner on the layover day in Fredericksburg. In total 5 dinners, 6 breakfasts and 6 lunches are included.

Breakfasts and dinners are in restaurants where clients either order off the menu or choose from a buffet. Fresh lunches that include salads, local fruit, vegetables and meats are served in roadside parks by the Lizard Head Cycling Guides. Any dietary preferences or allergies should be noted on the registration form. Each of Lizard Head Cycling’s lunches contains gluten free options.

If on any given night a guest is tired or not feeling particularly social, they can choose to eat early and retire. Lizard Head Cycling enjoys hosting its guests for meals each evening, but understands some of us may just need to lie down after a day in the saddle. A meal should not feel like marathon after a big day on the bike.

Ride Difficulty The Texas Hill Country Bike Tour is designed for intermediate to advanced cyclists with various levels of fitness. Each day there are additional mileage options for advanced riders. With the rolling terrain and only a few steep & long climbs, the Texas Hill Country Bike Tour is a good tour for early season conditioning.

NOTE: The many small hills on this tour can offer a sprint workout for cyclists looking to gain fitness. If one sprints up each hill they come across, the fitness gains can be remarkable.

Tour Support A 15-passenger van and trailer that carries luggage, food and equipment supports Lizard Head Cycling’s Texas Hill Country bike tour. Cyclists keep a day bag that is accessible within the support vehicle.

The vehicle will sag and then pass riders to set up aid stations every 20 to 25 miles. This allows cyclists to linger at the back and then take a ten-mile, fifteen-mile or whatever mile “bump” forward to catch-up or get ahead of the group. Energy food, drink mixes, and fresh fruit are available throughout each stage.

The Daily Schedule Cyclists ride their own pace. Lizard Head Cycling does its best to support riders in their varying desires and efforts. Cyclists can either use our tours to simply support their tour experience or to engage in a guided experience along the route.

Cue sheets with directions, profiles and locations of aid stations are given out for each stage.

General Tour & Cancellation Policies

Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with all of our tour and cancellation policies, which can be found by clicking here .

Travel Insurance

If you have not already, now would be a great time to consider adding travel insurance to your tour. You are welcome to use any travel insurance company you would like. We recommend Generali/Trip Mate.

Generally, if contracting COVID causes clients to cancel or interrupt their tour, trip insurance companies would treat it as any other illness as long as it is contracted after the insurance was purchased. Please check your individual plan documentation for details. Please note that quarantine is usually only covered if clients are actually sick with COVID. If a state requires quarantine upon arrival because of standardized state law, coverage is generally not covered. Again, check your individual plan documentation for details.

American Guests - use this link: http://www.generalitravelinsurance.com/get-a-quote.html?partner=LIZA0855

• The Premium Plan is the only plan which offers Pre-Existing coverage so long as the plan is purchased prior to Final Payment.
• The Premium Plan is the only plan that offers an optional Cancel For Any Reason - the policy must be purchased within 24 hours of initial trip deposit, the full trip cost must be insured, and if they cancel for Any Reason, it must be 48 hours prior to departure, and the reimbursement for an Any Reason claim is 60% of pre-paid, insured, non-refundable trip cost.
• Customer Service can be reached at 1-800-874-2442 for coverage questions and policy modifications or to purchase by phone. Agency Code: LIZA0855

Canadian Guests - use this link: https://tripmate.catravelins.ca/?utm_source=lizardhead

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Trek travel unveils all-new bike trips for 2024, allowing travelers to explore more of the world by bike.

Trek Travel encourages traveler's to explore more in 2024 with new trips in the Loire Valley, Switzerland , Tuscany , and more!

MADISON, Wis. , Aug. 7, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Trek Travel, recently named a 2023 world's best cycling tour operator by Travel & Leisure, is thrilled to announce its exciting new lineup of new trips for 2024. Targeting cycling enthusiasts of all skill levels, these new itineraries promise to deliver unforgettable experiences in some of the world's most popular cycling and cultural destinations.

Loire Valley Bike Tour - Indulge in French Royalty's Lifestyle In 2024 Trek Travel guests will get the opportunity to journey through France's Loire Valley, known for its fairytale chateaux and medieval charm. Cyclists will pedal through picturesque vineyards and countryside, savoring world-class wines and indulging in Michelin-starred feasts. The highlight of this luxury tour is an exclusive private visit to the illustrious Château de Chambord, where hidden rooms reveal captivating secrets from history. Guests will experience the beauty of Château de Chenonceau and Château de Villandry's exquisite gardens, all while relishing the enchanting tale of French royalty from the best vantage point: the seat of a bike. Learn More: Loire Valley Bike Tour

Switzerland Bike Tour - Awe-Inspiring Alpine Adventure On the Trek Travel Switzerland Bike Tour, guests will experience the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps on a cycling vacation from Lucerne to Montreux. Pedal through pristine lakes, awe-inspiring vistas, and iconic destinations such as Lucerne, the Jungfrau region, Gruyères, and Montreux. Guests will be treated to world-renowned Swiss cheese and exquisite chocolate, as well as the melodic sound of cowbells echoing through the mountains. With options for both active and recreational riders, this signature trip promises a truly immersive experience in the heart of Switzerland . Learn More: Switzerland Bike Tour

Tuscany Countryside Bike Tour - Unveil Italy's "Green Heart" After 20+ years in Tuscany , Trek Travel is excited to introduce a brand-new itinerary that makes this famous Italian region accessible for all cyclists and travelers. The Tuscany Countryside Bike Tour starts with an unbeatable price and offers guests the opportunity to experience all the charm and beauty of Italy's "Green Heart," without breaking the bank. Guests will get to experience the rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves of Umbria , while also discovering the vibrant culture and artistic heritage of hilltop towns like Bevagna, Montefalco, and Assisi. This itinerary will take guests into southern Tuscany where landscapes adorned with cypress trees and elegant farmhouses are scattered throughout each day's ride. Starting from Montepulciano, a renowned wine region, guests will discover captivating hilltop towns and witness the ancient tradition of winemaking. Learn More: Tuscany Countryside Bike Tour

In 2024, Trek Travel also plans to release a host of new self-guided destinations for cycling enthusiasts that like to explore the world's best cycling destinations at their own pace, and after a successful launch of gravel adventures in 2023, Trek Travel is also excited to announce additional gravel destinations that will be released in October. Additionally, Trek Travel will also be launching new ride camp destinations, gravel tours, and classic guided trips in Australia , allowing guests around the world to experience the wonders down under by bike.

We at Trek Travel are committed to curating unforgettable cycling experiences and providing world class hospitality" Tania Burke , President of Trek Travel. "Our new trips in the Loire Valley, Switzerland , Tuscany , as well as the introduction of new self-guided, gravel, and Australia trips, offer even more unique and exciting ways for our guest to see the world by bike. About Trek Travel:

Trek Travel, a 2023 World's Best Tour Operator, has been curating extraordinary cycling vacations around the globe for over the past 20 years. Featuring luxury accommodations, award-winning guides, and the best bikes from Trek in the industry – Trek Travel vacations are sure to delight riders of every level. Our team is made up of bike-lovers, fellow travelers, and are extremely passionate about our world-renowned hospitality.

For more information and to book your next cycling adventure, visit https://trektravel.com/ Note: Pricing, trip style, rider levels, and other details are subject to change. Please refer to Trek Travel's website for the most up-to-date information.

Media Contact

Jake Fergus , Trek Travel, 760-681-6651, [email protected]

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SOURCE Trek Travel

Tuesday Travels: Trek Travel Family and Custom Family Trips

Are you a cycling enthusiast interested in cruising the coasts of the San Juan Islands? Maybe you and your spouse are looking to pack up your bikes and ride the streets of Vienna. Your kids might even be interested in a cycling adventure too, as long as there are other activities along the way. With summertime drawing near, it’s time to cash in those saved up vacation days and take the family on a fun-filled trip that everyone will enjoy.

Trek Travel , more commonly known for its association with one of the world’s largest bike manufacturers Trek , is a luxury bike touring company specializing in cycling vacations. For over 12 years, Trek Travel has offered luxury, explorer, race, and personalized cycling vacations around the world, as well as  Family Custom Trips .

Whether you’re looking for the royal treatment at a five-star hotel or you’re more interested in a relaxing getaway camping out under the stars, your trip is your own. You can choose a trip that is already established with a set departure date, choose a ready-to-book itinerary or you can build your ideal trip. You choose the destination, the dates, the activities and the Trek Travel trip designers plan the vacation of a lifetime that compliments the tastes of your family. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Trek Travel Outside Sales Representative and Guide Marquette Edwards (a.k.a Mom to me) took the time to share the ins and outs of the Family trips with me in a special Q&A:

Why choose a cycling vacation? What do guests get out of these trips that they wouldn’t experience from a trip they planned themselves?

They’re a wonderful way to become closer as a family and have fun. A cycling vacation is a more intimate way to experience a region, where you can touch, taste, smell and interact with the environment. Trek Travel can tweak an existing itinerary, choose a ready-to-book itinerary listed on our webpage, or assist you in creating your own custom trip! All your excursions are built into the trip, not something you have to set up yourself. Plus, they’re fully guided and supported, so you can sit back and relax while someone else does all the work. Not to mention the family that swims with elephants, ziplines, camps, hikes and rides together, stays together.

How many established family trips are there to choose from?

We have four regular Family trips open to all families. Prague to Vienna, San Juan Island, Vermont and Bryce Zion long weekend. The great thing about a Trek Travel Family trip is that you get the chance to meet other families and enjoy the experience with new friends. It’s like the whole family going to camp together and everyone going home with a new pen pal. We have families that meet on a trip and have such a good time, they plan a trip for the following year so they can all get together again. It’s exciting to meet new people and explore a destination together.

How long are the trips?

The trips are usually 6 days, but we do have a long weekend trip as well. If you choose to do a custom trip, it can be as many days as you wish.

What if a family wanted to make one of the Family trips private?

It’s very easy to make a Family trip private. We just find a date that has no other families signed up and we close that date down just for your family–that’s if you want to go on one of our regular trips. Any custom trip can be private for your family.

What is the appeal of the Trek Travel Family Custom Trips?

A Trek Travel Family Custom Trip provides you with the opportunity to go to more destinations and gives you the freedom to add your own options such as, dinner at a restaurant you’ve read about in the region or visit a specific museum. If your family has a favorite activity like paddle boarding or soccer, we can make sure that is included in your custom trip. Think of it as a family wish list trip designed just for you. When you build a custom bike trip with us, each and every moment is artfully crafted to a blueprint of your choosing; it’s personalized and tailored to fit your schedule, interests, curiosities, needs and budget.

Do you and your family have to be avid cyclists to enjoy a Trek Travel cycling vacation?

No. Our family trips are designed as multi-sport trips with a variety of activities outside of biking. On a Family trip, your biking is a means of sightseeing, so it’s an enjoyable activity for everyone–even a little one hanging out in a tag-a-long.

Are bikes provided for each family member? All ages?

Yes. We provide adult and children’s bikes, as well as tag-a-longs for toddlers. We even have an electric assist bike for any adult who wants a little extra help.

What does Trek Travel do to go above and beyond for their guests?

First off, the guides are incredible. They bring your trip to life. They’re experts in the regions they work in, and are a wealth of information and fun. They even take the kids for a night so the adults can have a night to themselves. With Trek Travel, every detail is thought out and taken care of. From acquiring special meals for those with dietary restrictions to making sure guests have amazing support while riding. We make sure the Trek Travel van is ready to supply you with food, water or even a lift up that hill you might not be able to climb. We’re there to make your vacation a trip of a lifetime.

Having witnessed first hand the diligence and time put into customizing these spectacular trips by the first-class team at Trek Travel, I can honestly say you’re in good hands. You’ll never regret taking a Trek Travel trip.

For more information about Trek Travel’s Family Trips, Family Private Trips and Family Custom Trips, contact  1-866-464-8735  or visit  http://trektravel.com/ .

by Paxton Kelly

Photo Credits: Trek Travel; Guide Image by Dave Edwards

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Schools • churches • senior adult groups • bank travel clubs • friends.

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Give us a call or send an email.  Let’s talk about the details of your next adventure.  We look forward to answering all your questions!

TREK DOES THE HARD PART

TREK specializes in planning all the details of your group trip and ensures that all logistics are in place for a memorable experience.

HAVE A GREAT TIME

All you have to do is show up and ENJOY!

The details and logistics of planning and operating a group trip can be overwhelming.  With TREK’s years of experience, knowledge in arranging group travel and industry contacts, we will provide your group the safe, reliable experience of a lifetime.

Since 2001, TREK has helped thousands of groups experience the joy of hassle-free group travel.  For any destination, we know the best places to stay, to eat, and to visit.  And, we have access to wholesale rates that will save your group money! 

Call us now, and let us begin working on your next adventure.

Cathy Haynie

Head of school, christ covenant.

We had a wonderful trip and thank you for everything. There was an article in our local newspaper about our Wreath Laying at Arlington National Cemetery. We are proud to work with TREK Travel.

Alan Arendale

Warren central, band director.

We couldn't have enjoyed our trip more. Your services were superb! Can't wait to plan our next adventure.

Jeanie Easterling

Community bank, golden advantage officer.

I can’t say enough about Trek Travel !  We are always in safe and reliable luxury motor coaches that are well equipped, and when we step off the coach, we are always in first class hotels and have very knowledgeable  guides.  In addition to providing the best travel and accommodations, it means so much to me that I can contact a staff member at any time while we are on tour.

History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

The Perfect Texas Gulf Coast Road Trip Itinerary: See the Coast of Texas in 10 Days!

Last Updated on: 28th January 2022, 03:24 am

I grew up spending family vacations on Texas’s Gulf Coast, and there really is nothing better than a Texas Gulf Coast road trip! Here’s my recommendations for the perfect Gulf Coast itinerary that goes from Corpus Christi to Galveston.

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

When you think of Texas you probably conjure up images of Stetson-toting cowboys, dry desert landscapes, and epic BBQs. The popular image of the Lone Star State doesn’t often include much in the way of water.

But Texas has an absolutely awesome coastline, 367 miles stretching all the way from the bayous of Louisiana to Matamoros in Mexico. Without a shadow of a doubt, the best way to explore this beautiful corner of Texas is by hitting the road on a Texas beach road trip!

Where to Start Your Texas Beach Road Trip?

Exploring the Gulf Coast in Texas offers magnificent beaches, stunning landscapes, and adventure at every turn. You really can’t go wrong no matter which city you choose to start from.

Coming down from Oklahoma, you might want to start in the north. In that case, you can follow this itinerary backward. I started in the south because I usually drive down to Corpus to stay with family before heading to the beach.

  If you are planning a cruise  from New Orleans, or just looking for somewhere new to explore, a Texas Coast road trip is a brilliant way to start out. You can keep going around the gulf til you hit NOLA. Of course, going from Corpus Christi to New Orleans will tack on a few extra days?

Check out this itinerary for some inspiration, and  start planning your next adventure today and check out this great Texas road trip playlist.

Texas Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Here’s my idea of a fabulous Texas beach road trip.

Day One and Two: Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is a pretty city, well worth exploring before you set off. Sitting on the edge of a wide bay, its beaches are nicely sheltered, and the Texas State Aquarium is also worth a look.

While here, visit the USS Lexington, an Essex-class aircraft carrier built during World War II for the United States Navy which is now a fabulous naval museum right on the water.

5 More Things to Do in Corpus Christi

Besides the aquarium and the Lexington, don’t miss:

• Selena Museum
• South Texas Botanical Gardens
• North Beach
• The Art Museum of South Texas
• Hurricane Alley Water Park

Where to Stay in Corpus Christi

Here are recommendations for each budget category and an Airbnb option. These options are near North Beach which is conveniently located near most of the best things to do in Corpus.

Budget: Motel 6 Corpus Christi

Mid-Range: Hotel DeVille

Luxury: Omni Corpus Christi Hotel

Airbnb: Surfer’s Dream Private Beachfront Condo

Day Three and Four: Port Aransas (Mustang Island)

From Corpus Christi, head south to Mustang and Padre Islands, where you can see huge flocks of migratory birds, and if you are lucky, endangered kemp’s ridley sea turtles!

I like to keep my time in Port Aransas loose, bouncing between the islands based on weather and what I want to do that day. My primary goal out here is to just relax, but if you’re more into fishing than sunbathing, check out my cousin Stanley Orchard’s YouTube channel about fishing in the area.

Where to Stay in Port Aransas

Budget: Alister Square Inn

Mid-Range: The Place at Port Aransas

Luxury: Plantation Suites

Airbnb: Beautiful Beachfront Condo

Day Five: Surfside Beach

After exploring Mustang State Park and the gorgeous beaches of South Padre, head north through Port Aransas, Fulton, and Rockport to Surfside, keeping an eye out for Aransas National Wildlife Reserve on your way.

In Surfside Beach, you can bask in nature at the nearby Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge or soak up the beach atmosphere in town.

Where to Stay in Surfside

Budget: Anchor Motel

Mid-Range: Beach House with Sunset Views

Luxury: Ocean Village Hotel

Airbnb: 3BR with Ocean and Bay Views

Day Six through Eight: Galveston

After a night in Surfside, head back up the coast and meander your way along the gorgeous Matagorda Bay coast. Find your way down to Matagorda itself, and spend a while exploring the splendid isolation of Matagorda Island and Matagorda Bay Nature Park.

Moving on, you’ll have to head inland until you reach Angleton when you can dive back down to the Gulf and drive along Galveston Island until you reach Galveston itself.

Check out the Historic Pleasure Pier on the south shore, and the bizarre glass pyramids of Moody Gardens, home to all manner of exotic creatures including sharks, monkeys, and animatronic dinosaurs!

This itinerary sets aside time to really enjoy this coastal gem, so slather on that sunscreen and hit the beach!

5 More Things to Do in Galveston

Besides the pier and the beach, don’t miss:

• 1892 Bishop’s Palace
• Strand Historic District
• Moody Gardens
• Galveston Historic Seaport
• Moody Mansion

Where to Stay in Galveston

Budget: Beachtree Motel

Mid-Range: Knights Inn Galveston

Luxury: Four Seasons on the Gulf

Airbnb: Galveston Beach Front Condo

Day Nine and Ten: Houston

Galveston to Houston is a breezy fifty mile-drive, and won’t take you more than an hour. This is a great way to end your trip, as Houston is one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the US.

It’s also a great way to spend the last few days of your trip if you’ll be flying out of Texas since Houston has a large airport.

While you can make the trip in under an hour, a more scenic route is to jump on a ferry from Galveston to Port Bolivar, and drive up the Bolivar Peninsula until you reach the Anahuac National Wildlife Reserve.

Grab a lunch of freshly-caught fish at Crystal Beach, then take a big loop around Trinity Bay before heading into Houston along the I-10. You’ll get a taste of the bayous spilling over from Louisiana, before enjoying the cultural delights of Texas’s biggest city, and your final destination! 

During your last few days in Texas, soak up Houston’s history at the Space Center Houston and learn all about Houston’s role in America’s space exploration.

A Texas coastal road trip is a brilliant adventure and offers an alternative perspective on the Lone Star State. An underrated gem, the Texas Gulf Coast has loads to offer, and this adventure is the best way to experience it!

5 More Things to Do in Houston

Besides Space Center Houston, don’t miss:

• The Museum of Fine Art
• Kemah Boardwalk
• Battleship Texas State Historic Site
• Market Square Park
• Buffalo Soldiers National Museum

Where to Stay in Houston

Budget: DoubleTree by Hilton

Mid-Range: Aloft Houston Downtown

Luxury: The St. Regis Houston

Airbnb: Pool House Pied-A-Terre Suite

Pin this 10 Day Texas Coastal Itinerary for Your Travels!

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Join us in Fort Worth, TX for the Trek 100 Saturday, September 14, 2024

• REGISTER NOW

The Trek 100 began as a humble charity bike ride to raise funds for childhood cancer, and this year it’s taking fundraising to new levels with the first-ever Trek 100 Texas. Join us to support Cook Children’s fight against pediatric cancer on September 14. We'll gather at The Heart of the Ranch to ride, party, and support this crucial cause. Consider this our open invitation for you to join the best group ride ever!

Incredible routes

Ready to ride? Four incredible routes take you through the heart of Cowtown and roll right back to The Heart of the Ranch for a party at the end. Explore the rides and join us for a delightful adventure that supports an amazing cause.

Mind-blowing stops

Bet you can’t guess what we’ll surprise you with for your first Trek 100 Texas experience! Our world-famous rest stops are decked out, stocked, and ready with incredible snacks and a non-stop party with plenty of family-friendly fun.

Life changing cause

Every child’s journey with pediatric cancer is unique, and there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all course of treatment. Funds raised through Trek 100 Texas will help Cook Children’s provide more world-class treatments, clinical trials and research to kids battling cancer in North Texas.

Pedal. Party. Repeat.

There's nothing better than a tasty treat during a looooong bike ride. At the Trek 100 Texas, you'll enjoy rest stops stocked with snacks that make your mouth water — complete with music, free gear, and a few surprises along the way.

1 – Malibu Beach Party

Life in spandex! It’s fantastic! Stop by for pastries, dance parties, and temporary tattoos!

2 – Rainbow Road

Race over to Rainbow Road for great food and refreshments

3 – Trek Cycling Circus

Stop by the spectacular cycling circus for snacks and a show.

4 – Far-Out Rest Fest

Where pedal power meets petal power. Get groovy with brownies, socks, and face painting.

Unmatched ride support

Ride easy knowing technical support is always minutes away during the Trek 100 Texas. We’ll have an amazing crew of Trek Certified Technicians on hand to take care of any issues you might encounter along the way. Questions? Contact us at [email protected]

Bring your friends! And your friend’s friends!

Put the FUN in fundraising! Whether you want to cruise across the 15-miler or take on the challenge of a full century, the Trek 100 Texas is sure to be a party. Costumes optional. Fun guaranteed.

A special thanks to our sponsors

Unique experiences through West Texas and Hill Country

Sponsored by

Jul 14, 2024 • 10 min read

Snail Creek Hat Company in Luckenbach. A Texas road trip can create memories that last a lifetime. Harmon Li for Lonely Planet

A Texas road trip can create memories that last a lifetime. In between Austin and El Paso are hundreds of miles that weave through vast landscapes under that iconic expansive sky. Starting in the “Live Music Capital of the World” this trip will have you wine tasting in the Hill Country , horseback riding on dude ranches and stargazing in the dark skies of West Texas .

Start your ultimate Texas road trip in the heart of the state. Not long ago the capital city was a laid-back college town known for bohemian cowboy music, an easygoing lifestyle, and a spirited counterculture. Now it’s a metropolis, full of tech startups, avant-garde restaurants, and luxury hotels with swanky rooftop cocktail bars.

While the food scene has diversified, barbecue remains king in Central Texas. Arrive early to Franklin Barbecue and you’ll be rewarded with what might be the best brisket in the state. For another take on traditional Texas barbeque, head to Terry Black’s BBQ for beef ribs. Other restaurants are reimagining the art of barbecue too. Loro infuses its barbecue with Asian smokehouse flavors and KG BBQ mixes in Egyptian spices like coriander, sumac and thyme.

To truly embrace the heart of the city, park the car and explore on foot. South Congress is a pedestrian's paradise. Settle into the Hotel San Jose – a garden oasis transformed from a 1930s motor court into a chic boutique retreat – before venturing out. South Congress is also the perfect place to find locally owned Old Austin treasures. Step into Allens Boots or Heritage Boot Co . for authentic Western wear, wander through Parts and Labour for locally crafted art, clothes and jewelry, or add a vintage touch to your wardrobe at Stag Provisions for Men with its curated selection of Americana.

When the sun goes down, stop by Guero's Taco Bar for mole enchiladas and a margarita before heading across the street to Continental Club . The legendary indie rock and blues bar has been at the heart of Austin’s music scene for almost half-a-century. Cap off your night with two-stepping at classic honky-tonks like Donn's Depot , Broken Spoke or The White Horse .

For a natural escape, take a 40-minute journey south of the city to float on the gentle currents of the Guadalupe River. The four- to five-hour float trip meanders through the captivating beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

The drive: Make your way to Fredericksburg heading west on US-290 W. The 80 miles should only take you about an hour and a half.

Fredericksburg

What started out as a small German-influenced town in the heart of the Texas Hill Country is now a wine-lovers destination. With more than 60 wineries, Fredericksburg is the second most popular wine region in the states after Napa Valley. The rolling vineyards along US-290 offer a scenic route that leads directly into the heart of town.

Provided you have a designated driver, you can start wine tasting before even reaching Fredericksburg in the 200-person town of Hye at William Chris Vineyards . As you continue to make your way east to town, stop off at Becker Vineyards , Texas Heritage Vineyard and Innovation Vineyards for a variety of wine styles. For an even more immersive winery experience, stay overnight at cottages on the Messina Hof winery.

Once in town embrace the German heritage of Fredericksburg. Grab a freshly made German-style Kolsch at the Alstad Brewery , a German-style pancake made from scratch at the Old German Bakery and Restaurant and a schnitzel or two at Der Lindenbaum restaurant. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure to burn off all that potato-based food, climb the enormous pink granite dome at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area or stroll through the 200 acres of wildflowers at Wildseed Farms.

While in the Hill Country don’t miss a detour to Luckenbach , made famous in a song by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. With nothing more than a post office, a bar and one of the oldest dance halls in the state, this tiny town just outside Fredericksburg offers a glimpse of a bygone era of Texas history. The town is known for impromptu jam sessions where musicians play country, blues and folk music together.

The Drive: Head out on US-290 toward Kerrville. You'll be on this route for a short stretch before making a slight right turn onto TX-16 S. Continue on TX-16 S until you hit Kerrville where you will take TX-173 S. The hour-long drive will lead you through rolling landscapes, winding roads and sprawling Live Oak trees.

As you approach Bandera, known as the "Cowboy Capital of the World," the landscape becomes dotted with horse ranches. The town was the last staging area for the great cattle drives of the 1800s and proudly embraces its cowboy heritage. While in town, stroll down Main Street to check out the Western shops, saloons and historic Bandera County Courthouse that line the street. Grab a Chicken Fried Steak at the 100-year-old Old Spanish Trails Restaurant, taste Texas-made liquors at Spirits of Texas and learn about the history of the area at the Frontier Times Museum .

 A stay at the Mayan Dude Ranch is highly recommended to truly embrace the spirt of the Old West. Here you can spend afternoons on horseback and evenings roasting marshmallows around a campfire.

The Drive: Queue up your favorite Texas playlist for this next segment. Take TX-16 north to Kerrville where it meets up with I-10. Take the interstate west for three and a half hours. Just past Fort Stockton, switch to US-67 south towards Alpine for 68 miles, then take TX-118 for the last 77 miles to reach Terlingua.

Terlingua is an historic mining town near the eastern entrance of Big Bend National Park . While the proximity to the park has always been its draw, nowadays visitors are spending as much time in the frontier outpost as they are in the park.

The ghost town consists of a handful of rustic relics of times past including a humble cemetery, the old Chisos Mining Company store and a saloon. At sunset the wide porch of the Terlingua Trading Company turns into the local gathering spot. Here you can grab a beer from the general store and watch the sunset over the far-off Santa Fe de Los Pinos range all while enjoying the easy-going chatter of residents. After the sunset show, swing by the Starlight Theatre for a bite to eat or make your way to the Boathouse to listen to some live music. It’s a perfect spot to unwind before heading back to your room at the Big Bend Holiday Inn .

The Drive: Head north on TX-118 to Alpine. For the best tacos in the Big Bend area, stop at El Gordo’s Grill for a birra taco. It’s the little food truck in the Wright Hardware parking lot near Study Butte. From there continue north to Alpine, then take US-90 West directly to Marfa.

Big Bend National Park

The beauty of Big Bend National Park lies in its versatility. You can make your adventures as vigorous or as relaxed as you like. If you want an all-out multiple-day adventure, hike the Outer Mountain Loop, a 30-mile circuit that makes its way up, down and around the Chisos Mountains and the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert. 

If you’d rather take a nice leisurely drive with amazing views, head for the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. The thirty-mile drive weaves through the park with easily accessible pull-offs that show off the beauty of the land. Highlights of the route include the Sotol Vista Overlook where you can see the expansive western half of the park, the Mule Ears Viewpoint where you can see the famous Mule Ears Peak and the Santa Elena Canyon which is arguably the most beautiful spot in the entire park.

If you would rather be on the water, book a canoe trip down the Rio Grande. Local tour operators like Wild Adventure Outfitters or Far Flung Outdoor Center offer everything from half-day paddling excursion to immersive multi-day journeys.

Located in the high desert of the Trans-Pecos in far West Texas, Marfa has gained a reputation as one of America's coolest art towns. The town is known in equal parts for its modern art scene and remote desert landscape. Possibly no other place in town encapsulates this more than Ballroom Marfa – a contemporary cultural arts space that promotes the visual, performing and musical arts while fostering community engagement.

Plan on dinner at Jett’s Grill for a taste of nostalgic Old Marfa. Named after James Dean’s character in Giant, the restaurant is located in the historic Hotel Paisano first made famous in the 1950s when  Dean, Elizabeth Taylor and Rock Hudson stayed there during filming of the classic Western saga.

Marfa’s local newspaper doubles as a cafe reflecting the town’s quirky nature. The Sentinel serves as a gathering place for coffee and cocktails complete with Marfa’s signature desert-minimalist interior design. You cannot leave town without grabbing a homemade burrito from Marfa Burrito. 

Book an evening at El Cosmico if you want to live out your childhood dream of sleeping in a teepee. If you are more into mid century modern motels complete with vintage typewriters to peck out your travel memoir, book a room at Thunderbird Marfa .

The Drive: Fort Davis is a short 20-minute jaunt north of Marfa on TX-17.

The Big Bend region holds a distinction for having some of the darkest skies in the continental United States. The wide-open spaces and pristine sky attracts would-be stargazers from all over the world to this slice of Texas to get a glimpse of the Milky Way. The McDonald Observatory atop Mount Locke and Mount Fowlkes is the ideal location for stargazers. The observatory plays host to weekly two-hour star parties where visitors can use high-powered telescopes to glimpse the stars, plants and constellations that make up our night sky.

To make your own star party, go camping at Davis Mountains State Park , spread out a cozy blanket and gaze upwards. If you can, plan your trip around a moonless night when the stars shine at their brightest.

The Drive: The final leg of your road trip will take about three hours. From Fort Davis take TX-17 north until it hits I-10. If you want to jump into a natural pool of refreshing spring-fed water along the way, take a detour to Balmorhea State Park near the intersection of I-10 and TX-17. After that take I-10 west for 190 until you hit El Paso.

El Paso is a lively border city that combines the rugged natural beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert with the colorful charms of the American Southwest and sprinkles in cultural traits of Mexico. Whether you want to explore the 100 miles of trails at the Franklin Mountains , shop for handmade, custom cowboy boots at Rocketbuster Boots or explore the three historic churches that make up the El Paso Mission Trail , Texas’ westernmost city has something for everyone.

Hueco Tanks State Park is a rock climber’s dream. The volcanic rock peppered with hand gripping hollows or ‘ huecos ’ at the park makes it the No. 1 bouldering destination in America. Non-climbers can spend a day at the park learning the history behind the ancient rock art left behind by the various people who used the rock formations as a place of shelter over the centuries.

Refuel after a day spent outdoors with a hearty T-bone steak at Cattleman’s Steakhouse or an overflowing plate of enchiladas at L&J Cafe . End the evening at the Hotel Paso del Norte’s Dome Bar. For more than 100 years, the who’s-who of El Paso have sipped cocktails under the 25-foot Tiffany stained-glass dome. The spot is an ideal location to toast your travel companions to another epic trip in the books.

Sponsored by Travel Texas

As a travel entertainment and inspirational media outlet, we sometimes incorporate brand sponsors into our efforts. This activity is clearly labeled across our platforms.

This story was crafted collaboratively between Travel Texas and Lonely Planet. Both parties provided research and curated content to produce this story. We disclose when information isn’t ours.

With sponsored content, both Lonely Planet and our brand partners have specific responsibilities:

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Determines the concept, provides briefing, research material, and may provide feedback.

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