BESPOKE TEXAS HOLIDAYS AND TOURS

While the best places to visit in Texas will depend on your interests, we’d recommend combining a few of the state’s iconic cities with some of its smaller towns and scenic regions. A first-time Texas itinerary could include vibrant cities such as Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio and Houston, each offering a distinct blend of culture, history, food and entertainment.

To experience a different side of the Lone Star State, consider adding charming destinations such as Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country or the historic town of Marfa in West Texas. Then enhance your trip with something uniquely Texan, whether that’s a ranch stay, exploring the dramatic landscapes of Big Bend National Park, or discovering the vineyards, wineries and rolling scenery of the Texas Hill Country.

Combining 2-3 major cities, 1-2 smaller towns and a signature Texas experience will give first-time visitors a well-rounded introduction to the state’s diverse landscapes, rich heritage and renowned hospitality.

Definitely. Journeyscape itineraries are designed with comfort, sensible pacing and smooth logistics in mind, making Texas accessible and enjoyable for travellers of all ages. Travel distances can at times be long, but carefully curated routes, considered accommodation choices and balanced activity levels ensure the experience feels rewarding rather than demanding.

Not at all. An average level of basic fitness will easily suffice for a Texas holiday. City and small-town exploration can be taken at a leisurely pace (or with the assistance of a car or public transport) and any trails across the state – should you want to explore them – are generally easy, well-defined and with minimal elevation. You’ll also find a lot of the outdoors in Texas can be explored by horse riding as well.

If you’re looking to experience authentic cowboy culture in Texas, we’d recommend including Fort Worth, Bandera and Graham in your itinerary. Each offers a different perspective on the state’s rich Western heritage.

Known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World”, Bandera is one of the best places in Texas for a traditional ranch experience. Located within easy reach of San Antonio and Austin, visitors can stay on working guest ranches, go horseback riding and immerse themselves in authentic cowboy traditions.

Fort Worth, often referred to as “Where the West Begins”, blends genuine Western heritage with big-city attractions. Highlights include the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, twice-daily cattle drives, rodeos, Western-themed shops and some of Texas’s best barbecue and live country music venues.

For a more off-the-beaten-track experience, Graham in North Texas offers a glimpse into small-town cowboy life. Surrounded by vast ranching country, it’s an ideal base for horse riding, rodeos and experiencing the landscapes and traditions that have shaped Texas for generations.

Combining Bandera, Fort Worth or Graham with a wider Texas road trip is a great way to experience the state’s legendary cowboy culture, whether that’s through a ranch stay, a rodeo, horseback adventures or learning about the history of the American West.

Yes, absolutely. Texas offers a wide variety of ranch stays, from authentic working ranches and traditional dude ranches to luxurious all-inclusive guest ranches. At Journeyscape, we’ve arranged accommodation at several ranches across the state, giving travellers the opportunity to experience a unique side of Texas and its rich cowboy heritage.

Depending on the ranch you choose, you could spend your days horseback riding across open landscapes, watching cattle drives, trying your hand at ranch activities, fishing, hiking or simply relaxing and enjoying wide-open views. Working ranches offer an authentic insight into daily ranch life, while dude ranches are designed specifically for guests, combining Western experiences with comfortable accommodation. Luxury ranches add premium amenities, gourmet dining and spa facilities to the experience.

Ranch stays can easily be incorporated into a wider Texas itinerary and pair particularly well with destinations such as Bandera, Graham, the Texas Hill Country and Big Bend Country. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or a genuine taste of the Old West, a ranch stay is one of the most memorable ways to experience Texas.

If you enjoy the great outdoors and are interested in visiting a designated International Dark Sky Park, then we’d highly recommend including Big Bend National Park in your Texas itinerary. Its remote location and untouched natural beauty make it a truly one-of-a-kind destination.