The Heart and Hub of the Hill Country

The Heart and Hub of the Hill Country

Blanco, TX - The Heart and Hub of the Hill CountryThe Heart and Hub of the Hill Country’ describes Blanco (Blank-o) perfectly. Warm hospitality and a centralized location provide a fantastic getaway for two or a group of 100! As a result, visitors are met with countless activities, places to eat and drink, as well as many of the comforts of home.

Taking its name from the Blanco river, the city has fully embraced its humble roots and celebrates more than 100 years of continual growth. The white limestone river banks and riverbed were first noticed by Spanish explorers in the early 1700’s. From these features, they named the river Blanco (blanco is Spanish for ‘white’).

Bartlett Sims began surveying the area around 1835, during the ten year period of the Republic of Texas. Settlers began claiming their homesteads along the banks and in 1858, an official Post Office was approved. Farmers and ranchers then began to build a thriving community that continues to this day.

This rich history provides the backdrop to beautiful water features and food options. Residents built their community with visitors in mind. Whether you prefer relaxing by the river or sampling award-winning spirits or brew, Blanco has you covered!

This quick video from ‘The Daytripper‘ with Chet Garner hits this highlights of a visit!


Lavender Festival

Lavender Festival

Artwork by Terri Vogl

Lavender Lizzie

The Blanco Lavender Festival celebrates 15 years of fun, food and fragrance from June 7-9, 2019. Admission is always free and the memories last a lifetime. Local growers offer a variety of packaged products including oils, soaps, fragrance pouches and tips on growing lavender.

With so many experts in one place, visitors can also sample unique food, spirits and deserts with lavender as a key ingredient.

On top of all that – several musicians offer free concerts throughout the event in a family oriented setting. Local distillers, breweries and wineries will also have samples available in the very popular ‘Texas Tent’.

A signature drink is the Lavender Lizzie – a unique drink you have to try. Real Ale Brewing, Save the World Brewing, Rough Diamond Brewery, Falls Creek Vineyards, Red Road Vineyards and Winery and D’Vine Winery always bring their best.

Gillen’s Candies

We have a variety of amazing olive oils and vinegars. Black Truffle, Meyers Lemon, Peppered Bacon and several other olive oils. Strawberry, Barrel Aged Balsamic, and Fig Vinegars just to name a few.

“My grandfather, Frank R Gillen, believed in excellence so I am trying to continue the excellence in the chocolate and the products that I purchase.” 

Chocolates! What else can we say? Dark or milk? Gillens will have just what you want. Jerky more your thing – try Three Jerks Filet Mignon and Lone Mountain Wagyu Jerky. Both are exceptional choices.

In addition to chocolates, Gillen’s has a large variety of amazing olive oils and vinegars. Black Truffle, Meyers Lemon, Peppered Bacon and several other olive oils. Strawberry, Barrel Aged Balsamic, and Fig Vinegars just to name a few.

Gillen’s has wines from Texas, Italy, France and California. A great way to decide on which wine is right for you is with a tasting! Come for a wine tasting and cheese plate. Plus – take 10% off our wine flight when you come see Gillen’s Candies.


Old 300 BBQWe strive to serve the best BBQ around, excel in our service to each other and our customers, and to maintain professional and personal health.

“Come and Eat it!”

The mission of Old 300 BBQ is to promote Texas-style BBQ. The folks share their deep commitment to their teammates, community and customers. The name Old 300 is a reference to the settlers who first received land grants as part of Stephen F. Austin’s first colonial contract in Mexican Texas.

That tradition for being the first and the best continues on as Old 300 BBQ strives to serve the best BBQ around

If you have a private event, consider the Back 40 Event Hall. The folks at Old 300 BBQ will be happy to partner with you to create an event that will make memories that last a lifetime. Either at our location or yours.


The Bean and Biscuit

The Bean and Biscuit restaurantThe Bean and Biscuit, Coffee House and Bakery, is located in the beautiful square of Blanco, TX. It is a great place to grab a delicious coffee, quick breakfast, and refreshing lunch with friends.

Everything is made fresh in the bakery. The delicious homemade salsa pairs perfectly with their tasty breakfast tacos. The barista will fix you up with an excellent latte to keep you going throughout the day. You can get a quick coffee and breakfast to go or sit down and enjoy a nice cappuccino, refreshing chicken salad sandwich, bowl of chili, or delicious pastry with friends.


Comfortable Cottages

A perfect Blanco vacation begins by working with a premier Hill Country Lodging company. A little bit of local knowledge will help you find the perfect place to stay.