Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime through Texas?
Imagine a road trip where you get to visit beautiful wineries and explore magical castles, all on the same trip.
Well now you can, as Texas is full of hidden gems that combine the best of both worlds.
From sipping delicious wines in scenic vineyards to wandering through stunning castles, this trip will be unforgettable.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the ultimate Texas wineries and castles road trip.
We’ve even got one stop that is both a castle AND a winery!
Let’s explore!
1. Bernhardt Winery
Bernhardt Winery is the first stop on our road trip and it’s located in Plantersville, just a 50-minute drive northwest of Houston.
This winery is known, in particular, for producing a variety of award-winning wines that you just have to try for yourself.
The winery itself sits on a beautiful piece of land with rolling hills and picturesque views. It’s pretty magical.
You’ll get to taste a variety of the wines and even take a tour of the vineyard.
Bernhardt Winery also hosts many events every single week including live music and festivals.
They even have a cozy tasting room and a lovely outdoor area for picnics.
Hours: Wed – Fri: 12pm – 5pm, Sat: 12pm – 6pm, Sun: 1pm – 6pm, Mon – Tue: Closed.
2. Newman’s Castle
After the winery, the next stop on the road trip is Newman’s Castle which is a unique castle located in Bellville.
Newman’s Castle is approximately a one-hour drive south from Bernhardt Winery.
It is known for its medieval-inspired architecture and beautiful surroundings.
The castle was actually built completely by Mike Newman, who also owns Newman’s Bakery in Bellville.
That’s right y’all, he built the entire thing by himself over two decades.
You can tour the castle and see its moat, working drawbridge and 5 turrets in all their glory.
The castle also has a large banquet hall and even a dungeon!
Newman’s Castle hosts many events throughout the year including weddings, wine tastings and parties.
Hours: Mon – Sat: 10:30am – 1pm, Sun: Closed
3. Bishop’s Palace
The next stop is Bishop’s Palace which is a historic mansion located in Galveston.
Bishop’s Palace is a 2-hour drive southeast from Newman’s Castle.
The palace is known for its stunning Victorian architecture and rich history.
Completed in 1892, it was originally the home of politician Walter Gresham and his family.
The mansion features intricate woodwork, stained glass windows and beautiful furnishings.
You can take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the palace.
It is actually considered to be one of the most significant Victorian homes in the United States.
It even survived the devastating Galveston Hurricane of 1900 unscathed.
Hours: 10am – 5pm
4. Beneath the Oaks Venue & Winery
It’s time for some more wine so our next stop is Beneath the Oaks Venue & Winery.
This beautiful winery is located in Midfield which is a 2 hour drive southwest from Bishop’s Palace.
It is known for its scenic views and charming event spaces.
The winery produces a variety of delicious wines that you can taste and enjoy.
The venue is popular for weddings, parties and special events because of its picturesque setting but you can also visit just to taste the wine.
The property features a lovely outdoor area with large oak trees and a serene pond.
Inside, there is also a cozy tasting room where you can relax and try the wines.
Beneath the Oaks is actually named after the majestic oak trees that surround the property!
Hours: Thur: 4pm – 9pm, Fri – Sat: 12pm – 9pm
5. Victoria County Courthouse
The next stop is Victoria County Courthouse which is a historic courthouse located in Victoria.
It’s a 1 hour drive west from Beneath the Oaks Venue & Winery.
This courthouse, which resembles a castle, is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.
Built in 1892, the courthouse features Romanesque Revival design with impressive stonework and tall clock towers.
Today, it also serves as the center of government for Victoria County.
You can admire its grand exterior and explore the well-preserved interior.
The courthouse is even listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
A fun fact about Victoria County Courthouse is that it has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows.
Hours: Mon – Fri: 8am – 5pm
6. Fall Creek Vineyards
It’s time for more wine so the next stop on our list is Fall Creek Vineyards, one of Texas’ top rated wineries located in Driftwood.
Fall Creek Vineyards is a 2 hour 15 minute drive northwest from Victoria County Courthouse.
It is famous for being one of the oldest wineries in the state, established in 1975.
As it’s situated in the Texas Hill Country, it’s surrounded by rolling hills and scenic views.
The winery offers tastings of a variety of their award-winning wines including Tempranillo, Merlot and Chardonnay.
You can sit back and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and picturesque setting whilst sipping your favorite wine.
The tasting room is super cozy and inviting with friendly staff who are ready to share their knowledge about the wines.
After you’re finished at the winery, head across the road to the world-famous Salt Lick BBQ for something to eat!
Hours: Mon – Sat: 11am – 7pm, Sun: 12pm – 5pm
7. 290 Wine Castle
The next stop on our road trip is the only one on the list that is both a winery AND a castle!
290 Wine Castle is a unique winery located in Johnson City, just a 40 minute drive west of Fall Creek Vineyards.
It is known for its distinctive castle, officially known as the Chateau de Chasse, which makes it stand out among other wineries.
The winery is also situated along the popular Highway 290 wine trail which is a favorite route for wine lovers.
At 290 Wine Castle, you can enjoy wine tastings and explore the castle’s impressive features.
Inside the castle, there are many beautiful rooms for events and gatherings.
The winery produces a variety of wines including red, white and sparkling options so you’ll definitely find something you love.
At certain times of year, 290 Wine Castle even hosts medieval-themed events where you get to dress up in costume!
Hours: Mon – Thur: 12pm – 5pm, Fri: 11:30am – 6pm, Sat: 11am – 7pm, Sun: 11:30am – 6pm
8. Falkenstein Castle
And the final stop on our wineries & castles road trip is Falkenstein Castle, a stunning castle located in Burnet.
Falkenstein Castle is a 50 minute drive from 290 Wine Castle.
It is known for its beautiful architecture that was inspired by Bavarian castles in Germany.
The castle was built by Terry and Kim Young as a romantic tribute to Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria.
Anyone who visits is amazed by the castle’s grand towers and picturesque surroundings.
The castle is a popular venue for weddings and special events as it offers a fairy-tale setting.
Inside, there are elegant rooms with antique furnishings and luxurious decor.
You can even stay overnight here as it’s actually listed on Airbnb meaning you’ll get the entire castle and grounds to yourself for the night!
Hours: The castle doesn’t run tours but you can see it from the road. To view it up close, contact the castle directly or book it on Airbnb.
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