How To Spend a Day in Wimberley: The Hidden Gem of Texas Hill Country
Named Top 25 Places to Travel in 2024 (in the world) by AFAR Magazine, Texas Hill Country is thriving as the place to get away from it all. Small-town charm, rolling landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, and big-fiery red sunsets are only part of the Texas-sized fun calling to visitors in this gem of the Lone Star State.
When you speak with a Texan, they all agree, “We love Wimberley,” and that a visit to Blue Hole Regional Park (a natural swimming hole with crystal-clear waters fed by the river’s spring) is a must. This place we call home is full of year-round fun. This spring, catch the April 8, 2024 eclipse, or escape to the hill country for its tranquil oasis any time of the year. 45 minutes southwest of Austin awaits the perfect adult playground filled with food, wine, nature, and perfect accommodations.
Rise & Shine
Sip your coffee or tea on your private covered porch or deck at Inn at Sunset Mill Ranch. Take in a majestic sun rising and casting shadows and light over the hills and valleys, creating stunning views of the Texas Hill Country. Rock to and fro in your rocker, observing the changing of the lights and watching the wildlife, cattle, and birds as they wake up and begin to roam the valley. Savor a homemade farm-to-table breakfast baked fresh for you by Diana at the Inn. Choose to dine at the spacious breakfast room filled with picture windows or enjoy the views from the deck while you dine on fresh baked goods and a savory breakfast as you plan your day of adventure.
Take a Walk
Whether to stretch your legs, reflect, or enjoy time with a loved one, Hill Country is perfect for getting outdoors to walk. At the Inn, 25 acres beckon a walking exploration, where you will likely see wildlife, a spring-fed creek, and a big garden of flowers and vegetables. You might want to stop and sit a while along the way, making time to reflect on God’s goodness and the beauty around you, count your blessings, and allow your heart to dream and plan.
More Walking Trails: If you want more exercise, put on your hiking boots and drive five minutes to Blue Hole Park, Jacob’s Well or Old Baldy and choose the trail that meets your level of challenge.
Swing From the Trees on a Zip Line
Experience the thrill of zip-lining in the beautiful Texas Hill Country by booking a tour with Wimberley Zipline.
Boutique Shopping & Local Art
A five-minute drive from the Inn, discover the cute-as-a-button town of Wimberley, filled with unique boutiques and shops. Wimberley is renowned for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, and the best showcase of this creativity is found at Wimberley Market Days. On the first Saturday of each month, from March to December, this sprawling market transforms Wimberley into a bustling bazaar where local artisans and vendors display their wares. You won’t want to miss the largest outdoor market in the Texas Hill Country, with more than 400 booths on 20 acres shaded by old oak trees. While you are shopping in Wimberley’s town square, you will also want to check out all of the amazing art galleries sprinkled among the shops and take home a beautiful painting or other craft created by one of our local artists.
Lunchtime!
After all the shopping and walking, you might be ready for a delicious lunch at one of the many great restaurants in Wimberley. Our local haunts are Wimberley Café, Chills on the Creek, Creekhouse Kitchen & Bar, and Leaning Pear-all of which have great outdoor seating and are within walking distance of the square.
Get Outdoors
Wimberley’s defining feature is undoubtedly the Blanco River, meandering through the town and providing a scenic backdrop for residents and visitors alike. In the warmer months, choose one of the rivers, creeks and watering holes to cool down. In or near Wimberley, make reservations at Blue Hole, Jacob’s Well, or one of the public access points along the Blanco River.
Feel like fishing? Book a float trip or a fly-fishing trip on the sparkling waters of the Guadalupe River at one of the many outfitters on River Road. Or rent a boat on the beautiful blue waters of Canyon Lake-It is the perfect place to ski, swim, or fish.
Take a Scenic Drive-If jumping in the water is not your thing, take a country drive. Any direction you go from the Inn, you will find beautiful drives. You might want to order a picnic basket and take a less traveled road where you will see wildlife, spring-fed creeks, beautiful meadows, hills, flowers, ranches, and more quaint small towns.
Take a Wine Tour
Texas Hill Country wines are growing in popularity, and the expansive rolling hills of vineyards are a sight! Visit one of the many award-winning wineries and distilleries. Local favorites near Wimberley include Driftwood Winery, Wimberley Valley Winery, Fall Creek Winery, and Seventh Son Winery.
Drinks & Entertainment
The places to socialize or pick up a bottle of wine near the Inn at Sunset Mill Ranch include Social on the Square, Hill Country Wine Shop, Ranch Brand Winery & Distillery, The Shady Llama, and Devil’s Backbone Tavern.
Where to Make Dinner Reservations
Wimberley’s restaurants offer a diverse array of culinary delights. From Texas barbecue joints to gourmet bistros, the town’s dining scene mirrors its eclectic spirit, ensuring that every palate is satisfied. Make reservations at one of the amazing restaurants located near the Inn. In addition to those restaurants recommended in Wimberley for lunch, we like Trattoria Lisina, Hays City Store, and Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood. Other good options are Tillie’s at Camp Lucy near Dripping Springs and Palmers in San Marcos.
Hill Country Sunsets
You will want to be back at the Inn at Sunset Mill Ranch to relax in a rocking chair, sipping your favorite beverage from your porch while you view the best sunset you will likely ever see. It will be clear after viewing how the Inn got its name. Don’t forget your camera and be sure to share this 360-degree view experience with your friends.
Sit Under the Stars
The Inn is a perfect place to star-gaze or take in a movie and fire pit at the outdoor theater. Enjoy a romantic comedy or classic movie under the stars while sitting around the fire pit enjoying a drink and s’mores. Or take in the big Texas sky while enjoying a relaxing and soothing soak in one of the Inn’s hot tubs. It is the perfect opportunity to view the moon and stars, putting on a show under our dark skies.
Sleep to the Sounds of Nature
Open your windows and enjoy the fresh air and quiet country sounds of the cows, owls, coyotes, and other wildlife as you drift off to sleep. Each room at Inn at Sunset Mill Ranch has been designed for luxurious comfort with King Beds and ample space. New to the Inn in 2024 is The Glamper, a renovated airstream for your hill country glamping experience with all the Inn amenities included. (View the Inn’s Rooms)
In our picturesque destination, every day is a great day at the Inn at Sunset Mill Ranch and Wimberley, Texas.
Book your getaway to Inn at Sunset Mill Ranch in Texas Hill Country.
