2 Best Hotels in Bandera, The Hill Country

Though it's been around since 1946, the Flying L is anything but stuck in the past: guests can horseback ride, go on hayrides, and enjoy roasting nightly s'mores, as is the case with most dude ranches, but this expansive 772-acre property also has an 18-hole golf course, a water park and lounging pool, and an entire kids' activity program. Accommodations range in size from stand-alone villas with room for 13 to smaller condo-like suites that sleep four to six. All have a gas fireplace and cozy bedding.

You can relax the day away by your split-timber and river-stone cabin or join the ranch crew for various activities. These include horseback riding, swimming, fishing and tubing on the Medina River, hayrides, roping lessons, longhorn shows, a walk to the dinosaur tracks, and even Texas two-step lessons. Rates include two horseback rides per day, meals, activities, lodging, and beer and wine. Children's programs are offered during the summer (June to August).