For those seeking to explore the acclaimed barbecue and wine scene of the Texas Hill Country, the Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle from Austin offers a tempting opportunity. This 4.5-hour small group tour promises an intimate and informative experience, with visits to the iconic Salt Lick BBQ and two award-winning local wineries. While the cost of lunch and tastings is not included, the tour provides the convenience of shuttle service and a professional guide, ensuring a seamless journey through this renowned culinary and oenological destination. With limited availability, those interested should act quickly to secure their spot on this popular excursion.
Key Points
- A 4.5-hour small group tour from Austin that explores the Hill Country’s renowned BBQ and wine scene.
- Highlights include a visit to Salt Lick BBQ, Austin’s most famous BBQ joint, and stops at two award-winning Texas wineries.
- Tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned sprinter van and a professional guide, but the cost of lunch and wine tastings is not included.
- Participants meet at the Austin Visitor Center at 10:30 AM and return by 3:00 PM, making it a convenient and punctual experience.
- Travelers can expect a personalized and informative journey, with a small group size of up to 10 participants.
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Overview of the Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle
This 4.5-hour small group tour from Austin takes visitors on a journey through the Hill Country’s renowned BBQ and wine scene.
The tour is limited to just 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
The highlight is a visit to Salt Lick BBQ, Austin’s most famous BBQ joint, where guests can savor the region’s legendary smoked meats.
The tour also includes stops at two award-winning Texas wineries, giving participants a chance to sample the state’s finest vintages.
With transportation provided in an air-conditioned sprinter van and a professional guide to lead the way, this tour offers a seamless and enjoyable exploration of the Hill Country’s culinary and vinous delights.
Visiting Salt Lick BBQ
The tour begins with a visit to Salt Lick BBQ, Austin’s most renowned BBQ hotel. Guests have the chance to savor the region’s legendary smoked meats and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic eatery.
Situated in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Salt Lick has been serving up mouthwatering barbecue for decades, earning it a reputation as one of the best BBQ joints in the state. Visitors can indulge in a variety of smoked meats, from brisket and sausage to ribs and chicken, all prepared using traditional pit-smoking techniques.
With its rustic ambiance and laidback vibe, Salt Lick offers an authentic taste of Texas barbecue culture that’s sure to delight the senses.
Two Award-winning Texas Wineries
After visiting the renowned Salt Lick BBQ, the tour takes guests to two award-winning Texas wineries, where they can sample the region’s finest vino. At the first winery, guests will have the opportunity to taste a selection of premium red and white wines, including the winery’s flagship Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The second winery boasts a stunning setting in the heart of the Hill Country, offering visitors a chance to sip on their acclaimed Tempranillo and Viognier. The tour’s small group size ensures a personalized experience, allowing guests to engage with the knowledgeable winery staff and learn about the unique terroir that produces these exceptional Texas wines.
| Winery | Signature Wines |
|---|---|
| Winery #1 | Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay |
| Winery #2 | Tempranillo, Viognier |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The shuttle tour includes transportation from Austin to the renowned Salt Lick BBQ and visits to two award-winning Texas wineries, all in an air-conditioned sprinter van led by a professional guide.
The cost of the lunch at Salt Lick BBQ isn’t included, so you will need to cover that expense.
Similarly, the cost of the wine tastings at the two wineries isn’t included in the tour price. However, participants can choose to purchase wines and other souvenirs at their own discretion.
The tour excludes tips for the guide, which are appreciated but not mandatory.
Meeting Point and Timing
Participants meet at the Austin Visitor Center (602 E 4th Street) at 10:30 AM for the start of the Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle tour.
The tour then returns to the Austin Visitor Center by 3:00 PM, completing the 4.5-hour experience.
The tour’s meeting point and timing offer several benefits:
- Convenient downtown Austin location for easy access
- Punctual schedule ensures participants make the most of their day
- Ample time to visit the two award-winning Texas wineries and enjoy the famous Salt Lick BBQ
With the tour’s efficient itinerary and reliable pickup and drop-off points, participants can fully enjoy the flavors and sights of the Hill Country without worrying about transportation or timing.
Getting to the Departure Location
For those making their way to the tour’s departure point at the Austin Visitor Center, the downtown location offers convenient access from various parts of the city.
The center sits along East 4th Street, just a short walk from popular landmarks and public transportation options.
Whether you’re coming from your hotel, a local restaurant, or another attraction, it’s easy to get to the meeting spot on time.
Rideshare services, the metro rail, and city buses all provide efficient ways to reach the starting point.
With the center’s central positioning, you won’t have to go out of your way to join the Hill Country BBQ and Wine Shuttle at the scheduled departure time of 10:30 AM.
What to Expect on the Tour
Travelers embark on a delightful BBQ and wine-tasting adventure, kicking off the 4.5-hour experience aboard a comfortable air-conditioned sprinter van.
The small group tour, limited to 10 participants, offers a chance to visit iconic spots, including:
- Salt Lick BBQ, Austin’s most famous BBQ joint
- Two award-winning Texas wineries for tastings
The tour is led by a professional guide, ensuring an informative and enjoyable journey through the Hill Country.
While the cost of lunch at Salt Lick BBQ and wine tastings aren’t included, the shuttle transportation and winery visits are covered, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the flavors and scenery of this delectable tour.
Planning Your Hill Country Experience
With the BBQ and wine-tasting adventure taken care of, planning the rest of the Hill Country experience is key to making the most of one’s time in the region.
Visitors can explore the charming towns of Wimberley and Fredericksburg, known for their quaint shops, galleries, and historic sites.
Outdoor enthusiasts can hike through scenic state parks or enjoy water activities on the Guadalupe River.
Those seeking a more relaxed pace can simply stroll through the picturesque countryside, stopping to savor local cuisine and admire the rolling hills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Shuttle?
No, passengers cannot bring their own food and drinks on the shuttle. The tour includes visits to a BBQ restaurant and wineries, where participants can purchase food and drinks as part of the experience.
Is There an Option for a Vegetarian or Vegan Lunch at Salt Lick Bbq?
The Salt Lick BBQ primarily serves meat-based dishes, but they do offer some vegetarian and vegan options, such as their vegetable plate. Guests with dietary restrictions should inquire about available alternatives when making their reservations.
Can I Purchase Wine and Have It Shipped Back Home?
Participants can typically purchase wine at the wineries visited and have it shipped back home. However, the tour details do not specify if this option is available, so it’s best to check with the tour provider for more information.
Do the Wineries Offer Non-Alcoholic Beverages for Non-Drinkers?
The wineries typically offer a selection of non-alcoholic options, such as water, soda, and juice, for non-drinkers on their tastings and tours. These beverages allow everyone to enjoy the winery experience.
Is There Any Flexibility in the Tour Schedule to Spend More Time at Certain Stops?
The tour schedule is generally fixed, but the guide may be able to provide some flexibility to spend more time at specific stops if the group requests it and the overall timing allows.
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Recap
The Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for visitors to explore the renowned barbecue and wine scene of the Texas Hill Country.
With a visit to the iconic Salt Lick BBQ and stops at two award-winning local wineries, the tour provides an intimate and informative journey, catering to a small group of up to 10 participants.