Wimberley has long been known, and rightly so, for its thriving arts community. Those who aren't very familiar with the town might assume that the "arts community" is composed mostly of painters and sculptors (There are some excellent painters and sculptors in Wimberley!), but in fact, Wimberley has a wide range of artistic talent, with something to appeal to all of us.

Just south of town, a group of diverse establishments sometimes known as the "South Wimberley Arts District" will broaden your understanding of the word "art," and allow you a delightful weekend at the same time.

Wimberley, Texas

The headquarters for such an excursion has got to be the Blair House, which has found its way on to several distinguished lists of the best bed-and-breakfasts in Texas and beyond. Not only does the hilltop location display God's own artistic handiwork to great advantage, but the walls of the charming inn are decorated with works by accomplished local artists. Even the steel bed in our luxuriously appointed room was a work of art by native Texan Jimmy Harwell!

But, and I almost hate to admit it, the highlight of our stay was the Saturday evening meal. Chef Christopher Stonesifer has definitely raised cooking to an art form, and that five-course dinner was probably the best meal I've ever had. (I've eaten pretty well in my time, too!)

My wife and I are not the only ones to notice Stonesifer's culinary abilities; he has won numerous awards, most recently "Chef of the Year" from the San Antonio chapter of the Texas Chef's Association. And the Blair House has been recognized by Inntraveler magazine for "best evening cuisine" two years in a row.

Now, don't let my emphasis on the food take away from the other attributes of the Blair House! Owners Mike and Vickie Schneider, who purchased the inn three years ago after successful careers with some prestigious hotel chains, are very gracious hosts, and their friendly (but not intrusive) mingling made the atmosphere most comfortab ...

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