Texas is good at keeping her secrets. From the mysteries that lie in the depths of Jacob’s Well in Wimberley to the extraterrestrial lights in Marfa. The unique and unusual, captivating and quaint, are all just a roadtrip away. I love living here. I love not knowing what’s waiting for me down that back country road. And when I find a hidden gem, I want to share it.

This week I spent a day exploring one of our great Texas secrets with my good friend Kim, a fellow San Antonio blogger that you should get to know here. She shares my affinity for adventure and she makes having fun look good! We spent the day putting the “gal” in galavanting around Boerne, finding so much to love about the beautiful coexistence of old and new. 

If you’re a local, you’re probably thinking that Boerne, Texas is no secret. It’s only been around forever (make that since 1849 when German Immigrants settled the town). But as with all things, time can change a place a bit. What I love about Boerne, though, is that while you’re visiting the newest boutique on Main Street or sipping some Texas wine at one of the hip new dining establishments, you can still find pieces of the past living proudly among the present in the form of well-preserved historic buildings and landmarks.

Speaking of Texas wine, I think the natural inclination for most central Texas visitors is to head straight to Fredericksburg, a popular destination in Texas’ rapidly growing wine country. I hope that this little glimpse of our Boerne girls’ day will encourage you to take the road a little less traveled. Follow along as we explore Boerne’s Hill Country Mile.

For additional photos and video, check out my Boerne story highlights on my Instagram.

Shopping in Boerne’s Hill Country Mile

Main Street in Boerne, known as The Hill Country Mile, is full of boutiques, antique shops, coffee houses, restaurants and wine bars. You could spend an entire day and not see and do it all. Kim and I checked out a few new shops and an old favorite, and then we topped it off with a fabulous wine lunch. Allow yourself a half day to recreate our itinerary.

Bechants

Bechants is the ultimate hidden gem. Inside this two story department store are thousands of unique finds, including home decor, kitchen, stationery, clothing, jewelry, fine fragrance, and so much more. As Craig Brewer of Bechants explains, it’s a bit like retail heaven.

Bechants transports you back to a time when department stores truly cared about building a relationship with their customers. Everyone at Bechants is like family, and they can’t wait to help you find that “just right” piece for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a gift or something to treat yourself. Excellent customer service is at the heart of everything they do.

I was amazed at the high end and exclusive brands that Bechants carries, but there are plenty of quality goods for everyone’s budget, because everyone is welcome at Bechants. 

Joli Boutique

Joli Boutique has a fun selection of clothing and accessories (including menswear) and is my new favorite spot for unique jewelry and handbags. Their collection of Celestina Trotter jewelry is stunning, especially if you love natural stones. Joli also carries Mary Frances beaded bags. Each bag is hand-crafted and takes 1 week to complete. 

Laurie Saunders, LTD

I believe the words I used when entering the Laurie Saunders shop were, “Take my money.” She has curated some of the finest home decor, dining, clothing, and lifestyle pieces all into one gorgeously appointed store. Whether your taste ranges from bright and colorful to neutral minimalism to French country chic, Laurie Saunders has something for you. A pair of leather fringed cocktail chairs from Africa looked right at home next to a selection of fragrant soaps from Provence. 

The Alley on Main

The Alley on Main is one of my favorite shops, because I always find something I didn’t even know I was looking for and my life is better because of it. The selection of whimsical cocktail finds at the front of the shop always stops me immediately. But go to The Alley not only to dress your bar cart but to dress yourself. Beautiful on-trend fashions and jewelry can be found throughout the store.

Dining in Boerne’s Hill Country Mile

Cypress Grille

The variety of dining options on Main Street can make it difficult to choose. Each presents their own take on Texas fare, but one of my favorites for a nice wine lunch is Cypress Grille.

Just beyond their intimate wine bar is a dining room filtered with natural light, friendly staff who really know their way around the menu, and daily specials. I’m a big fan of wine with lunch (it just feels like you’re celebrating, even if it is only Tuesday), and their unstuffy wine list is nicely diversified. On this trip I tried the only menu item I’ve yet to have, grilled NY strip steak with pasta, and really enjoyed it with a nice Oregon Pinot Noir.

So the next time you’re staring over your steering wheel at the pavement beyond, set a course for Boerne. And take a friend. The Hill Country Mile is best when shared with those you love.

This post is sponsored by The Hill Country Mile. As always, my honest opinions are my own. A very special thank you goes out to Craig Brewer and Bechants for your generous hospitality. 

My outfit details: Dress (similar here) | Hat | Booties (similar here) | Palmgrens Bag | Sunglasses

Thank you for reading! 

xo – Erin

When you shop through my links, I earn a very small commission. This helps me to continue to bring you the fun content you love and makes Cathedrals & Cafes possible. 

Hidden Gems on Boerne’s Hill Country Mile appeared first on CathedralsandCafes.com. If you see this content published anywhere else, please email cathedralsandcafes@gmail.com.

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