Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bulverde, Texas and Lakeway, Texas

Driving from Bulverde, Texas to Lakeway, Texas is an ideal way to explore the countryside of the Lone Star state. The drive covers roughly 65 miles and could take between 1-1.5 hours, depending on your pace. The route takes you through some historic towns, rolling hills, and lush valleys, where you could enjoy diverse sights and sounds. However, if you're looking to make your drive more interesting and exciting, there are a few unexpected stops you should make. In this article, we'll share five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Bulverde to Lakeway.

Halfway Point: Johnson City, TX

Before we dive into our top stops, we can't help but mention Johnson City, TX, which is the halfway point between the two locations. Johnson City is a small town with lots of history, making it an excellent place to stretch your legs. The town was named after Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th President of the United States, who was born here. You can visit the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park to learn more about the town's history and its famous son.

1. Exotic Zoo Resort

If you want to mix fun and education, you should make a stop at the Exotic Zoo Resort. This destination is a privately-owned sanctuary for exotic animals. Here, you can get up close and personal with a wide variety of creatures, including zebras, camels, kangaroos, and more. You'll learn about each animal's habitat, diet, and natural behavior. One of the highlights of the zoo is the white lions, which are a rare breed that's native to South Africa. You can also take a guided safari tour, where you'll learn about exotic animals and bond with nature.

Favorite food: BBQ Brisket Sandwich

2. Blanco State Park

If you love hiking, swimming, and fishing, then Blanco State Park is a must-visit destination. The park is located on the banks of the Blanco River and covers over 100 acres of lush vegetation. Here, you can take a swim in the river, paddle a canoe, or kayak. You can also enjoy hiking on the park's trails that offer spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The park has several picnic areas where you can enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the scenic beauty.

Favorite food: Fried Chicken

3. Stone House Vineyard

If you're a wine connoisseur, a visit to Stone House Vineyard is a must. The vineyard is located in Spicewood, in the Texas Hill Country and offers a picturesque view of Lake Travis. The vineyard produces several award-winning wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. You can book a wine tasting session by appointment and sample some of their finest blends. During the tour, you'll learn about the vineyard's history, the production process, and the unique terroir that infuses the wine with flavor.

Favorite food: Cheese Platter

4. Pace Bend Park

Pace Bend Park is another state park worth visiting during your drive. The park is spread over 1339 acres and offers breathtaking views of Lake Travis. Here, you can camp, fish, hike, bike, swim, and boat. The park has several amenities, including a playground, picnic tables, and grill pits. The park also has numerous trails that offer scenic views of the hills and valleys. The park is an excellent place to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Favorite food: Grilled Hamburgers

5. Texas Hill Country Olive Company

Visiting the Texas Hill Country Olive Company is not your typical tourist activity, but it's worth the stop. The company sits on 17 acres of farmland and is home to over 2000 olive trees. Here, you can take a guided tour of the farm and learn about the olive oil production process. You'll also get to sample different types of olive oils and balsamic vinegars. After the tour, you can buy some of the olive oil products, including skincare lotions, lip balms, and candles, as souvenirs.

Favorite food: Margherita Pizza

Conclusion

A drive from Bulverde to Lakeway can be a wonderful adventure, thanks to the many unexpected stops along the way. Whether you're looking for a bit of history, adventure, or relaxation, this route has it all. With such unique and diverse destinations, you can make lasting memories that you won't soon forget. So, the next time you're looking for a day trip, remember to take this scenic route and visit the five unexpected places mentioned above.