historic Gruene, TX

A stroll down to the historic core of Gruene was well worth it. Gruene Hall (below) is the oldest dance hall in Texas, opened in 1878 and still a popular music venue.

Gruene River Inn, part 2

 

The trail down to the Guadalupe River was as enchanting as it was steep, and once there we encountered a family of deer and what looked like cormorants sunning on a log.

Gruene River Inn

I must say that our lodging, the Gruene River Inn, had a certain "wow factor". Perched high above the Guadalupe River, the panoramic Hill Country views were breathtaking. The building itself was nice too - built not that long ago but possessing the feel and character of an older wooden structure. A steep walkway allowed access to the river.

Kora Kora Coffee

After lunch, and after a stroll, we dropped into Kora Kora Coffee. I wasn't expecting a surfing-themed coffee house, but Gruene being so far from the ocean I suppose it's an appealing motif. To be fair, there are plenty of surfing spots along the Gulf Coast, just a few hours away.

Naturally Café

To me this pleasant health food restaurant in Gruene Lake Village produced what was quite possibly the best meal of the trip. Everything was in equal parts tasty and healthy. Evidently I had a grilled cheese sandwich, salad and soup - and the sum was somehow greater than the parts. The sober, daylight atmosphere was a plus.

Gruene, TX

No sooner had we arrived in Gruene, TX than I found myself seated in the Naturally Café in Gruene Lake Village. I liked the view out the window, which formed part of my first impression. It seemed like all the best elements of the Texas Hill Country were present. Gruene is a sub-section of New Braunfels, and Gruene Lake Village is a sub-section of Gruene.

Beaumont stopover

A controversial stop in Beaumont, TX since various family members seemed to have various undetermined contagious illnesses. It was good to see them but perhaps we could have been more careful at a time when various contagious illnesses were sweeping the country. On the other hand, if we hadn't stopped, I wouldn't have gotten the above photo.