Take a note from Waylon Jennings’ “Luckenbach, Texas” and get back to the basics of love at the Fredericksburg Herb Farm. This tranquil oasis is found in the historic German town of Fredericksburg, Texas, which is just a short drive from San Antonio. The Herb Farm — as it’s known by locals — is the perfect setting for a relaxing or romantic weekend away. The property is tucked just a few blocks away from the hustle and bustle of Main Street, yet it seems secluded and serene. It’s the best of both worlds, really: a moment to relax with an opportunity to explore.
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The Accommodations
The history of Fredericksburg is all but defined by its quaint Sunday houses. These small, one-room buildings dating back to the 1800s were typically erected as second homes for families venturing to town from their area farms for weekend happenings like markets, social gatherings and, most importantly, church services.
Many of these historic buildings are highlighted throughout Fredericksburg, and the Herb Farm is no different. Their new Sunday Haus cottage replicas keep the spirit of the original Sunday House architecture alive while giving guests a private yet comfortable place to lay their heads. There are 14 cottages in all, and each one features a king-sized bed along with a cozy porch complete with rockers and a swing. You’ll also find a mailbox at the entrance of each cottage for the front desk to leave notes or information about your stay. It’s a sweet, welcoming addition to the already charming property.
The Ambiance
Perhaps the most delightful part of the stay at the Herb Farm is the ambiance of the property. No detail is left unturned, and you feel enveloped in nature from the moment you arrive. Take some time to peruse the grounds multiple times throughout your stay. The crushed gravel pathways meander throughout the entire property, showcasing the Sunday Haus cottages as well as the other surrounding buildings.
Stop into the Poet’s Haus Gift Shop. The former canning shed is nestled behind the main house just before the garden. It’s where the Herb Farm stocks their aromatic, formulated on-site lotions and soaps along with other gifts and treasures.
From there, make your way through the garden, pausing to notice the labels of the native plants. You’ll find everything from herbs to “pinks,” small pink flowers used as a garnish for cocktails, omelets and other Herb Farm fare. Should you travel during wildflower season, you’ll also see a quaint bluebonnet field ideal for that quintessential Texas photo opp. A tiny stream flows throughout the garden, and there are several spots to sit, listen to the water and take in your surroundings. Drink it in. Read. Meditate. Enjoy it. After all, how often do you give yourself the time to simply sit in peace?
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The Experience
When describing a stay at the Herb Farm, we’d be remiss to leave out two important details: the spa and the cuisine. Touted as a destination spa, Nature’s Spa at the Herb Farm is a must-do during your stay. The spa is in the middle of the property and is hallmarked by its limestone silo, which stands tall as the center of attention. While a modern addition, architecturally, the spa blends seamlessly into the surrounding structures. The door to the spa is locked at all times, but if you have an appointment, knock gently. You’ll be greeted and escorted to the locker rooms to deposit your belongings (or spend time in the sauna) before sinking into an oversized recliner as you await your treatment.
The meditation room overlooks the grounds, so select a chair closest to the windows to truly feel encircled by the nature around you. While there is a full menu of treatments to choose from, the most popular is Me Thyme, a customized massage utilizing aromatherapy and other soothing products. Spend the day at the spa for the ultimate rejuvenation before catching happy hour and dinner at Farm Haus Bistro, the Herb Farm’s onsite restaurant.
Farm Haus Bistro is located in an original limestone house dating back to 1882. A true farm-to-table experience, guests will often find chefs with shears in the garden snipping herbs and garnishes for dishes. The dining room itself is largely illuminated by the sun and the enormous windows that overlook the surrounding garden. Walls and rafters are decorated with canvases created by local artists, and yes, all of the art is for sale. The Herb Farm does not take a commission on the sales and instead donates their 10% portion to Wounded Warrior Project, so if you find something you can’t live without, know you’re supporting a great cause.
Farm Haus Bistro is open daily for breakfast and lunch as well as for dinner on the weekends. Should you be visiting during the week and seeking dinner options in town, head to Otto’s German Bistro, where restaurateur Evelyn Washburne promises that the “Germanic cuisine is diverse and expansive. It’s not bad schnitzel.”
The Fredericksburg Herb Farm is an absolutely delightful getaway. You’ll feel relaxed from the moment you step foot on the property and will enjoy the close proximity to area wineries, shops and restaurants such as Signor Vineyards, Fischer & Wieser and Tubby’s Ice House. Plan a romantic weekend away in Fredericksburg, Texas at the Herb Farm!
To check rates and availability, or to learn more, visit fredericksburgherbfarm.com. And visit Fredericksburg Convention and Visitor Bureau for even more information about this charming town.
All photos by Nicole Letts unless otherwise noted.
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