Maybe it's the serene valleys tucked between rolling, cedar-studded hills or the abundant indigo and scarlet wildflowers of spring. Perhaps it's the cypress trees that line meandering river banks or the friendly small towns where time ticks at a slower tock. Then again, it could be the siren song of
Austin's musical melting-pot. Whatever the appeal, the Texas Hill Country captivates fans the world over.
Geographically-and nostalgically-speaking, the region encompasses the heart of Texas, with terrain that varies from hilly to undulating to downright flat. Defined on the east and south by the Balcones Escarpment and bordered on the west and north by plains and prairies, the area incorporates both the geographical center of the state, at
Brady, and the governmental core, in the capital city of Austin.
While fabled hills, clear-running rivers, spacious parks, hike-and-bike trails, and a wealth of lakes feed your fresh-air fantasies, you will find that the Texas hills are intellectually alive as well-with fascinating museums, thrilling theatrical performances, and numerous historical sites.
If you appreciate good wines, there are vineyards and wineries galore to explore, while the shopper in you will relish the multitude of arts-and-crafts shops in the heart of the hills and the clusters of factory-direct discount stores aling Interstate 35. Sportsminded? You can exercise to your heart's content at golf, tennis, swimming, biking, and hiking. Or, you can find a flat rock on a pretty hilltop and just sit and ponder.
Your sojourn in the Hill Country can be as active or relaxing, as up-scale or rustic as you choose. And, if you decide to sample "all of the above," you have come to the right place!