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Below you will find some of the most recent TexyHills Fan newsletters.

think ahead and keep on planning

If you just get in the car and go for a drive to enjoy the scenery, you may not need to plan much (except for remembering to take your phone, ID and some cash).

But if your plans will include a girls' weekend or full blown wedding, a little thinking ahead is a must. 

I understand your level of planning will vary depending on how elaborate and involved you want your trip.  So, maybe these resources will help you decide what level of planning you want.

  • TexyHills Checklist - A short 1-page list of 10 things to book first, for a smooth weekend.  Yours free when you sign up for the TexyHills Fan Newsletter.
  • TexyHills Planning Guide - An easy quick-reference to help you think about when to visit, getting around, avoiding big crowds, etc.
  • Ultimate Texas Hill Country Guide - A much more comprehensive guide including maps, itineraries, where to stay, etc.  It also has a table of contents for easy navigation.
  • Fredericksburg Wine Weekend - My most complete done-for-you 3-day plan, reservation strategy, and curated drive loops (with a built-in Plan B).  Specifically for first-timers.

What's New?

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  1. The Cabernet Grill: One of Fredericksburg's finest.

    Cabernet Grill is part of the Cotton Gin Village.
    The Cabernet Grill is all about Texas Hill Country cuisine, and Texas focused wine.

    Read More

  2. Boerne Texas is the heart and soul of the Texas Hill Country.

    Main Street in Boerne, Texas
    Boerne Texas is just north of San Antonio but it feels like a whole different world. It's perfect for travelers who want more than just a standard tourist trap.

    Read More

  3. Becker Vineyards, a beautiful estate right off Highway 290 wine trail.

    Becher Vineyards' front entrance
    Becker Vineyards is in a prime location right in the heart of the famous wine trail. Yet, along the driveway, you feel like you're miles away from everything.

    Read More

  4. Barons Creek Vineyards, your next stop in the Texas Hill Country.

    View of Barons Creek from the crows nest
    Barons Creek Vineyards' elegant European architecture and the Texas charm of their on-site lodging will have you wanting to come back again and again... just to relax.

    Read More

  5. Arch Ray Winery may be the perfect Texas Hill Country getaway.

    Arch Ray Resort on the 290 wine road, Fredericksburg
    Arch Ray Winery is just one part of the Arch Ray Resort, which sits right next to Fredericksburg on the 290 wine road. It's more than just a sip of wine.

    Read More

Brought to you courtesy of  jeff slankard

Daughter Ranita with Shane, and me (Jeff) with wife Judy at Wildseed FarmsDaughter Ranita with Shane, and me (Jeff) with wife Judy at Wildseed Farms

Jeff Slankard is a Texas Hill Country writer with a master’s degree in Education and a longtime focus on the region’s wineries, restaurants, and travel experiences. He has lived in the Hill Country for 35 years, explored dozens of towns and even more wineries and restaurants, and documents those experiences at TexyHills.com. Jeff is also a published e-book author on Amazon. His early experience brewing ale and fermenting wine still shapes how he thinks about winemaking and its taste.