For Austinites, the beauty and ease of a trip to Fredericksburg and the Hill Country almost counts as a   staycation. The charming small town with a rich German heritage is just an hour and a half drive away from the city. 

Staying at one of Porch Light Hospitality’s properties and guesthouses is the ideal way to settle in for a few days of scenic escape and comfort. They are the experts in the region when it comes to atmosphere, amenities, and offering guests a heartfelt welcome. They are all about the details, and the little touches that make a space feel like home. 

Their properties are surrounded by beautiful settings and the unique shops, restaurants, wineries, and galleries that you can only find in Fredericksburg. We asked the owners to highlight a few of their favorites and the places they love around them.  

Austin Four Twelve is within walking distance to the cutest coffee shop in town, Caliche Roasters. They have an awesome back patio and great breakfast bites too and we actually use their coffee grounds in all of our units. Next door is Frische Juicery, delicious smoothies and juices made from fresh, organic ingredients. Pontotoc Vineyard is also along the same block and is considered a hidden gem winery—a great spot to escape the tourist crowds.

The Gathering is only a mile from all of the Main Street offerings as well, and on that side of town, you are right by Sunset Grill for breakfast and Woerner’s Warehouse for lunch. Sunset used to be a locals’ spot, but now it gets pretty packed on the weekends. Woerner’s is owned by the same people and is located in Carol Hicks Bolton Antique store off of Main Street.

Behrends Family Homestead is in the wine country and a few of them are walkable. We recommend Signor Vineyards and Grape Creek, which has a restaurant at their vineyard called Stout’s Trattoria. Signor has the prettiest grounds—you’ll feel like you’re somewhere in France. There’s also a great cidery just 10 minutes out called Hye Cider Company and they have a Thai food truck on property.

Of course, some of these businesses have been affected by the pandemic, and it won’t hurt to call ahead and confirm hours and safety protocols before you head to “Fred.” But the Hill  Country is a  beautiful place to social distance. Now the good folks at Porch Light Hospitality are offering 365 readers an exclusive discount! Use code 365AUSTIN to get 15% off your booking.