Culture and Adventure in Fredericksburg Texas
History, Food, Wine and Outdoor Sports in Texas Hill Country
Nov 20, 2008
In this quiet little town the quality of life is so exceptional that actresses Madeline Stowe and Sandra Bullock have called it home, and it is often thought of as the unofficial capital of Texas Hill Country.
With hiking/mountain biking trails and fly-fishing streams minutes from downtown, nearly two-dozen wineries in the surrounding countryside, and plenty of places to stay, eat, drink, shop, exercise, and generally blow the dust off of your life, the decision to visit is made even easier when you realize that you can get there in under an hour from both San Antonio and Austin.
A Commitment to Peace
Founded in 1846 by German immigrants, the settlers of Fredericksburg found an abundant land that responded well to their hard work. In an effort to protect themselves and to live responsibly and peacefully alongside the indigenous peoples, these first residents signed a treaty with the Comanche Indians. To this day it remains the only treaty unbroken by Native Americans and settlers.
A further commitment to peace, part of Fredericksburg’s National Museum of the Pacific War, the Japanese Garden of Peace, is a gift from the people of Japan. It serves not just as a peaceful respite for contemplation, but also as the focal point for what may be the museum’s most crucial work. Over the years, the museum has brought together more than two-dozen Japanese and American veterans of World War II.
The Hills Are Alive
When people think of wine country, it’s rarely riddled with cattle guards and mesquite. But Texas Hill Country proves that we can have it all. In fact, more than a few of the nearly two-dozen vineyards and wineries in the Fredericksburg region are well on their way to national acclaim. Bottles from Texas Hill Country vineyards are feature items in cellars statewide and increasingly throughout the country. The relatively cool, moist air and long growing season has helped vintners to develop a surprising range of grapes.
And while the summers do get hot, Hill Country enjoys daytime temperatures significantly lower than you’d expect in Texas and evenings that are high desert cool. These fair temperatures combined with the gentle Texas hills make this the perfect spot not just for vintners, but also for anyone wanting to spend their free time outdoors.
Outdoor Adventure
The gentle rolling hills make for easy to moderate hiking and biking on a wide variety of trails. However, it’s advisable to get a trail guide, or ask for directions to avoid wandering onto private property. Luckily, the crème de la crème of trails is located on public land. For something a bit more strenuous than just rolling hills nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area offers hikers a 6/10-mile trail to the top of the second largest granite dome in North America.
With numerous rivers, creeks and streams within 30 miles of Fredericksburg, guided and unguided rafting, paddling, and fly-fishing trips abound. In this adventure-rich atmosphere, knowledgeable guides include both life-long local fisherman and retired National Geographic photographers. Your one stop shop for guides and gear is Hill Country Outfitters on Main Street in Fredericksburg.
Food and Wine
With nearly 60 restaurants in town and wineries scattered across the hills around town, Fredericksburg makes it easy to slake your thirst and restock your energy after a day in the wilds of Hill Country.
Locals love Rather Sweet for either a great breakfast or a sweet tooth fix. Inspired by her knowledge of fresh regional ingredients, and her ability to whip tried-and-true Texas into something truly unique, cookbook author Rebecca Rather opened this courtyard eatery offering sweets, savories, and positively sublime bacon-cheddar scones.
With live music on Friday & Saturday nights, wi-fi, and bordello decor, Lincoln Street Wine Market has elevated coffeehouse casual to a level that includes terrific food and adult beverages. The 400-item wine list is not just for show. Everything is available by the bottle or by the glass.
At the heart of Fredericksburg lies a genuine sense of living well, and living at peace with the world. You feel it in the Garden of Peace, on the trails around town, in the tasting rooms, and in the friendly greetings you get outside the brewpubs and restaurants on Main Street. It’s a way of life here.
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