3 Breathtaking Drives You Must Take in the Texas Hill Country

The Texas Hill Country offers numerous, breathtaking scenic drives. You can enjoy clear blue skies, beautiful views of the countryside, and then stop at one of the quaint, historic towns for a cold drink and relaxing stroll. Check out a few of our favorite routes and plan your next trip soon!

1. Willow City Loop

Photo: Flickr/David

The Willow City Loop is a 13-mile stretch of Hill Country road over hills and valleys, offering stunning views of creeks, meadows, and yucca-filled cliffs. Stop in at Harry’s on the Loop for snacks and a cold beer. It’s one of the most beautiful drives in all of Texas.

To get there from Fredericksburg, head north on State Route 16 for approximately 13 miles to Willow City, go east on Ranch Road 1323 for about 3 miles, then turn left onto Willow City Loop.

2. Swiss Alps of Texas

Photo: Flickr/Blue Moon Studio

This loop spans between 80 and 130 miles, depending on the route and stops you prefer to make. It crosses the Medina and Sabinal Rivers and takes you to the sweeping vistas of the Swiss Alps of Texas in Leakey. The hills’ elevations range from 1,400 to 2,400 feet above sea level and have deep canyons cut by the Frio and Nueces Rivers. In addition to tubing, fishing, and hiking, you can stop and visit a real dude ranch along the way.

Visitors can access Leakey through a couple of different routes. Here’s one: Head North from Bandera on Highway 16 to Medina, then go west on Highway 337 toward Vanderpool to Highway 187. You can then return to Bandera on Highway 470 via Tarpley.

3. Gruene-Fredericksburg-Bandera Loop

Photo: Flickr/James Lavin

This beautiful drive follows scenic roads between Gruene, Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and Bandera. You can take in stunning views of the countryside, farmland, rivers, ponds, orchards, native flora and rolling hills. From country stores to dance halls to museums, this route offers a little something for everyone. This is truly one of the top drives you don’t want to miss!

One route begins in the historic town of Gruene. From here, take Highway 306 northwest, around Canyon Lake, to Highway 484. Then take Highway 32 west to Hwy 281, into Blanco. Turn left on Highway 1623 to Highway 1888, and follow it until it ends at Highway 1376 and make a right. You will pass Luckenback and continue on until you get to Hwy 290, where you will make a left and head into Fredericksburg.

Also, be sure to check out these great Texas Hill Country scenic drives from international photographer Mike Holp! And consider touring the Hill Country in style after a look at limofind.com.