Castroville Texas, like many other small towns in the Lone Star State, celebrates its Old World roots with a Texas flair. Just twenty miles to the west of San Antonio, Henri Castro and a band of settlers from Alsace France founded the town in the 1840. This region along the Rhine River is now a part of France, although it's been a part of Germany during its contested history. Its New World counterpart, nestled in the Medina River Valley also has changed hands over the years. In fact, Castroville was settled when Texas was a Republic, a few years before it became an American state.

Many of the things to do in Castroville Texas reflect its heritage. The Steinbach House, now open for tours, was relocated from the Old World—Wahlbach, France to be exact. First built in 1618, this charming little house cause a splash in Castroville tourism when it arrived in 1998. The people of Alsace donated the authentic furniture you will see on a tour. If you'd like to know more about the town's Alsatian roots, you could sign up for one of the walking tours led by the local garden club and shop the Rio Medina General Store. For generations, locals and visitors have shopped this old-time store for unique food and gifts. A stop into the bakery is always one of the most popular things to do Castroville Texas.

The options for Castroville tourism also include a state historic site—the Landmark Inn. Both a museum and one of the area's bed and breakfasts, the Landmark welcomes visitors for interpretive tours as well as overnight stays. The historic hotel opened its doors in the 1840s when San Antonio was just a frontier outpost. The staff is eager to lead tours and explain the story of those who settled along the Medina River. Many butterflies make a stop at these Castroville Texas gardens during the spring and fall, and special garden tours are offered on the weekends during this time. Overnight stays are a possibility all year. In the morning guests of the ten rooms and suites are invited to join together for European-style breakfast. Afterward, you could ride one of the inn's bicycles or take a stroll to the nearby antique shops.

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In between the shops and restaurants in downtown Castroville Texas, you'll also find several spas where you can take a break and relax. Carrying on the European traditions of massage, salon services, and relaxation treatments, the various spas will have you feeling better than ever before. One of the spas is a part of the Hotel Alsace & Spa Resort, one of the finest Castroville tourism offerings. The hotel's list of amenities is long. Besides the spa, you can find relaxation among the cozy linens, plush robes, and chic guestrooms. A stroll through the garden at this unique choice for Castroville hotels or a meal at the onsite restaurant will also give the chance to chase away those everyday cares.

The list of things to in Castroville Texas also includes the chance to spend time outdoors. The calm waters of Medina Lake are a great place for boating and water skiing, while the nearby Medina River is long be a favorite fishing destination and kayaking hotspot. Alongside of the river, Castroville Regional Park features a lovely flower garden planted in the shape of Alsace, as well as plenty of places for enjoying the great outdoors. A campsite, swimming beach, and hiking trails are a part of this park only a half hour's drive from San Antonio.