Things to Do

Startzville, Texas: A Tiny Taste of Hill Country Paradise

By  | 
Tony Maples Photography

 

Imagine yourself with family and friends all piled in the car for a road trip. Perhaps you are heading to one of the many beautiful lakes in the Hill Country. Let’s say you are heading west of New Braunfels to the pretty area of Canyon Lake. The temptation to just drive on by and not stop in might come up. But if you do just drive on by, you would be missing out on a unique little Hill Country gem. So the next time you are on your way to Canyon Lake, make sure to stop in and visit the unincorporated little community of Startzville, Texas. You will be sure to find great food, great service, and fun things to do in this little area just south of Canyon Lake.

Back in 1964, after the Canyon Lake Dam was completed, this area grew into a prosperous little area dubbed “Paradise Valley of Comal County.” Numerous areas to camp, swim, boat, and picnic surround the lake. There are also some wonderful little out of the way places to grab a quick bite or a cold drink. One such place is the Startz Cafe. Here you will find great home cooking, yummy burgers, and friendly service. This little cafe has been a Texas family tradition since 1946, serving up breakfast lunch and dinners. Stop in sometime and say “hi” to the owners on a Thursday night for their steak dinners or Friday nights for the catfish special.

Another place that you may want to make time for is the highly rated Italian restaurant, Gennaro’s Trattoria. Gennaro’s Trattoria’s motto is “che mangia bene, vive bene” or, “who eats well, lives well.” With its authentic family owned atmosphere and amazing Hill Country views, it will be the perfect stop after a long day exploring the area.

And speaking of exploring, make sure you leave time in your day to explore the gorge-ous area of Canyon Gorge.  Plan ahead and be sure to reserve a tour. You will learn from the knowledgeable tour guide all about this beautiful area just below the Canyon Lake Dam. A few things to that are sure to interest just about anyone are the building of the dam and the reason for it, and the powerful flood of 2002. Learn how the water is used today not just for recreation. Study the amazing geology of the area and the simple pleasure of being in this stunning natural area.

Of course, if you prefer a more relaxed appreciation of the area, they have that too. There are numerous bed and breakfast lodging that will help you relax and unwind from the stress of a long week. One such place is the Biscuit Hill B&B. Since 1999, they have been welcoming guests into the 1800’s inspired home with luxurious accommodations. Start your day with a four to five-course breakfast that will sure to fill you up and get you ready to explore the area. Book a culinary class or photography session and make it a getaway to remember.

One last place to add to the list of things to do in Startzville, Texas is a visit to the Silly Rabbit Saloon. After a long day on the lake or hiking through the Hill Country, stop in for a cold beer (if you are of age). Catch a band playing or join in on an impromptu chicken dance. You just never know what’s going to happen at a place called the Silly Rabbit Saloon.

So load up the picnic blanket and basket full of refreshments. Grab some friends and family. Put on some hiking boots. Load up the kayak and venture on out to Canyon Lake. Just make sure to stop in at Startzville. It will be worth the trip.