To Pack or Not To Pack...That is the Question...
by Cherie_J
Light luggage...it is a historical town with many intriguing sights to visit. You can also switch to experience various Bed & Breakfasts...therefore, no one wants to lug unnecessary luggage. Therefore, if you are a Bigger Than Life Texas Gal....take it easy on your partner.. Be kind to your feet!! You will be doing a lot of standing and walking so wear comfortable walking shoes.
There is also some nearby hiking opportunities. Some good hiking boots are helpful for protection against snakes and stability during your climb.
Pack light-weight clothing...just accept you will sweat..of course ladies....we only glow! (wink wink) Basic normal supplies. There are many fabulous photo opportunities. All camera's and video's are acceptable...However those who are really into photography...bring your gear! There are numerous beautiful sights...sunrise, sunset, blooming wildflowers, butterflies, your sweethearts, and the list goes on. Remember this is TEXAS....so expect it to be HOT HOT HOT...make sure to have some tasty H2O handy....especially if you are hiking.
Enchanted Rock
by Cherie_J
We have a great picture of me after we hiked Enchanted Rock in 100+ degree weather... I am sprawled out on the top...trying to trick the ole vultures that I am dinner. It is pretty funny to see.
Be sure to take water!!
This trip was a bit of a surprise so I was exactly prepared for all the fun. Without thinking I did not have any water with me....let's just call it a tourist moment. Some very thoughtful fellow tourists gave me their water bottle at the base of the climb as I was drinking a couple of gallons of water at the drinking fountain before starting the climb. I normally wouldn't have accepted some strangers bottle that they had used...but this was a chance for my developed immune system to do its job!
This rock is not only beautiful but it boasts 40% of the best climbing terrain in TEXAS!
The diveristy of its surface also provides some unique challenges...intermingled with leisurely climbs.
In the end your final reward is one of the stupendous views of what is known as the Texas Hill Country.
Facilities around the area include camping, walk-in sites, & also primitive sites reached only by back packing.
There is also rock climbing however no rock damaging equipment allowed.
A German-style Biergarten
by VeronicaG about Altdorf
After visiting many of the shops along Main Street, our friend requested that we find a Biergarten and take a break from browsing. After all, we were in a town promoting it's German roots!
Altdorf Biergarten's colorful sign drew us to that establishment for our brief respite (picture #4). You'll find German and Tex-mex food served here.
Surprisingly, a large graveled area marked the interior casual dining room and bar, but since we opted to dine outdoors we moved through to the patio. Picnic tables with blue and white checked vinyl tablecloths were placed atop gravel here, too.
Our waitress appeared with a welcoming smile, serving us in no time at all! Altdorf specializes in German style cooking. Pictures #1 & 2 show us with our friends; picture #3 gives a peek at the outdoor dining area.
Hours are Mon.-Sat. 11am-9pm; Sun 11am-4pm. Closed on Tuesdays.
Market Square
by Tom_Fields
Here is the town's first museum, opened by the Historical Society in 1935. Here are a number of significant exhibits, which illustrate the colorful history of Texan-German immigrants. It's located inside this restored version of the town's original church, called the Vereinskirche. Be sure to check out the various monuments around the museum. One is dedicated to Texas' very own President Lyndon B. Johnson, who grew up around here.
Enchanted Rock State Park
by Tom_Fields
This huge, 425-foot-high granite rock formation is one of Texas' most impressive natural sights. It was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1970 and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
If you have time, take the hike around the rock. Another good one is up to the summit and back. Both are moderately demanding. Either way, you will be rewarded with some spectacular views.