From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle

Exploring the flavors of Texas Hill Country has never been easier than with the "From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle." This half-day adventure takes guests to three renowned venues, including the iconic Salt Lick BBQ and two exquisite wineries. With comfortable transportation and knowledgeable drivers, guests can enjoy the region’s culinary and winemaking delights, savoring the local specialties and gaining unique insights along the way. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a wine connoisseur, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.

This experience made our article of The Top 5 Austin Wine Tours.

Key Points

• Half-day tour transporting visitors from Austin to experience three venues in the Texas Hill Country: Salt Lick BBQ, Fall Creek Vineyards, and Duchman Family Winery.
• Air-conditioned vehicle with knowledgeable driver, and round-trip transfers with a maximum group size of 10 people.
• Approximately 50 minutes at each venue for BBQ and wine tastings, with alcoholic drinks available for purchase.
• Wheelchair and stroller accessible, but guests must step up into the vehicle, and check-in is required 15 minutes before the start time.
• Tour has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on over 800 reviews, reflecting high quality and popularity.

Overview and Experience

The Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle is a half-day experience that transports visitors from Austin to the Texas Hill Country, where they can explore three renowned venues: Salt Lick BBQ, Fall Creek Vineyards, and Duchman Family Winery.

With round-trip transfers included, the tour accommodates a maximum group size of 10 people. This highly rated experience, awarded a Badge of Excellence, offers a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable driver to guide guests through the scenic routes.

The tour itinerary allows for approximately 50 minutes at each venue, providing ample time to savor the delicious BBQ and wine tastings.

Transportation and Amenities

An air-conditioned vehicle provides comfort for guests throughout the tour.

The driver is knowledgeable about the Austin routes, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey.

Guests will meet at the Austin Visitor Center, 602 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78701, and will return to the same location after the tour.

Parking is available at the Austin Convention Center Garage.

The tour includes the following transportation and amenities:

1. Air-conditioned vehicle for comfort
2. Knowledgeable driver familiar with the Austin area
3. Meeting point at the Austin Visitor Center
4. Return to the meeting point after the tour

Costs and Recommendations

BBQ at Salt Lick is estimated to cost around $35 per person.

Wine tastings at the two vineyards are priced between $10-$25 each. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase during the tour. Gratuities for the driver are not included in the tour price.

Overall, guests should budget accordingly to enjoy the full BBQ and wine experience. This shuttle tour provides a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the highlights of the Texas Hill Country from Austin.

Guests are advised to check the tour details and plan their spending based on their preferences.

Tour Details and Accessibility

How long does the tour last? The total tour duration is around 2.5 hours, including 50 minutes at Salt Lick BBQ and 45 minutes each at the two wineries.

The tour is designed to be accessible to a wide range of guests:

• Wheelchair and stroller accessible, though guests must step up into the vehicle.
• Minimum drinking age is 21 years.
• Guests must check in 15 minutes before the start time, as late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
• The air-conditioned shuttle provides a comfortable experience, with a knowledgeable driver guiding the group through the Austin routes.

Guest Feedback and Highlights

The tour boasts an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on over 800 reviews. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides who engage the group with their expertise.

Many highlight the delicious barbeque and wine tastings as memorable experiences. Travelers also appreciate the comfortable transportation and social atmosphere, with some even celebrating special occasions during the tour.

The Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle provides an enjoyable and well-executed experience that leaves a lasting impression on participants.

The positive feedback and prestigious Badge of Excellence award demonstrate the tour’s consistently high quality and popularity among visitors.

Exploring Salt Lick BBQ

Visitors to the Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle embark on a culinary journey at the renowned Salt Lick BBQ. Known for its mouthwatering smoked meats, the restaurant offers a quintessential Texas BBQ experience.

Guests can expect:

1. A 50-minute stop to savor the signature brisket, ribs, and sausages prepared using traditional wood-fired pits.

2. An opportunity to explore the rustic, ranch-style atmosphere and observe the BBQ masters at work.

3. Options to pair the smoky meats with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, and pinto beans.

4. A chance to indulge in the famous Salt Lick BBQ sauce, a well-guarded family recipe.

Discovering Fall Creek Vineyards

After indulging in the tantalizing flavors of Salt Lick BBQ, the tour participants embark on the next leg of their Hill Country adventure – a visit to Fall Creek Vineyards.

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, this family-owned winery offers a picturesque setting to explore its award-winning wines. Guests enjoy a 45-minute tasting, sampling a selection of the vineyard’s finest offerings, from crisp whites to bold reds.

The knowledgeable staff guides them through the nuances of each varietal, fostering an appreciation for the region’s winemaking traditions. With stunning vistas and a welcoming atmosphere, Fall Creek Vineyards provides a delightful interlude on the tour.

Visiting Duchman Family Winery

Next, the group makes its way to Duchman Family Winery. This family-owned winery offers a unique tasting experience in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.

Upon arrival, guests:

1. Explore the beautiful Mediterranean-style tasting room and grounds.
2. Sample a selection of Duchman’s award-winning wines, including their signature Dolcetto and Vermentino.
3. Learn about the winery’s focus on Italian grape varietals and sustainable farming practices.
4. Enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills.

The visit to Duchman Family Winery provides a fitting finale to the Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich winemaking traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, guests are not permitted to bring their own food or drinks on the tour. The tour provides the BBQ lunch at Salt Lick and wine tastings at the two wineries. Outside food and beverages are not allowed during the experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?

The tour can accommodate guests with dietary restrictions. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available at the venues. Guests should notify the operator in advance of any special dietary needs to ensure appropriate arrangements are made.

Can I Leave the Tour Early and Get a Refund?

Early departure from the tour is generally not recommended, as refunds are not provided. The tour has a set itinerary and schedule that must be followed. Guests are expected to participate in the full duration of the experience.

Do I Need to Make a Reservation for the Wineries?

No, reservations are not required for the wineries on this tour. The shuttle will transport guests to the designated vineyards, where wine tastings can be enjoyed on a first-come, first-served basis at the winery tasting rooms.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour does not offer customizable itineraries. However, guests can inquire about adding or substituting venues prior to booking. The set itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive Hill Country experience with the convenience of round-trip transportation.

The Sum Up

The "From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle" offers a delightful half-day adventure, providing transportation, BBQ, and wine tastings at renowned venues in the heart of Texas Hill Country. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and ample time at each stop, this award-winning tour promises a memorable experience for up to 10 guests seeking to savor the flavors of the region.