If you’ve made it to LOG43 and have time to enjoy some of the great drives on your own, then check these out.
Self Guided Drive #1 – Wimberly and Driftwood
(~2.5hrs RT from Sonesta)
Get ready for a scenic joyride to Wimberley that’s packed with twists, turns, and stunning views! Whether you’re zooming along fast lanes with yellow dividers or taking it easy over cattle guards, this route has a little something for everyone—so sit back and savor the drive.
Starting from the Sonesta Hotel, head west on Bee Cave Parkway for 9 miles, then take a left to head south on Highway 12. After about 7 miles, make a right onto Roger Hanks Parkway. Cruise through the traffic light at Highway 290, and the road magically transforms into Creek Road. In about 2 miles, the road will fork—keep left on Mt. Gainor Road and soak in the scenic vibes. When Mt. Gainor dead-ends at Mt. Sharp, hang a left and continue for 7.5 miles. Then, make another left onto Jacob’s Well Road for a quick jaunt, and take one more left onto Highway 12, heading toward Driftwood, Texas.
Drive north for 5 miles, then turn right onto Elder Hill Road to head west. When the road ends at 150, make a right and head south toward the Hays City Store—perfect for a pit stop. After a quick break, turn right onto Old Kyle Road and enjoy your final approach into Wimberley. Once you reach Highway 12, turn left, then take a right onto 1492, crossing the Blanco River on a charming little bridge. After crossing the river, turn right onto River Road and follow it all the way to The Leaning Pear Restaurant on the right.
Enjoy a fabulous lunch—you’ve earned it!
Note: This could also be turned into an extended drive to/from the Monday HPDE track at Harris Hill, in San Marcos.
Self Guided Drive #2 – Lake Travis and Marble Falls
(~3hrs RT from Sonesta)
Get ready for an exhilarating joyride around Lake Travis and Marble Falls, packed with twists, turns, and jaw-dropping views! Whether you’re flying down fast lanes with yellow dividers or taking it slow over cattle guards, this route keeps you close to town while showcasing some of Austin’s most iconic roads.
Start your adventure from the Sonesta Hotel by heading west on Bee Cave Parkway for a bit, then make a left on 620 toward Lakeway. After 11 miles, take a left on Comanche Trail. Just a mile down, turn right on Oasis Bluff Drive, then left on Bullock Hollow. Keep going until you reach the stop sign—no rolling stops here! Turn left on 2769 and head toward Volente, Texas. In about 4 miles, you’ll find yourself in downtown Volente. Make a right onto Lime Creek Road, but beware—those tight turns are sneaky, and the local deputies have had enough of fishing sports cars out of residents’ backyards!
After nearly 7 miles of blissful driving, Lime Creek Road ends near a fuel station called Coco’s Corner. Take a break, chat with fellow car enthusiasts, stretch your legs, and maybe fill up your Lotus. Once you’re ready to hit the road again, turn left on Anderson Mill Road and head to the stoplight at Whitestone Blvd (1431). When the light turns green, take a left and cruise west on 1431. Enjoy the 11-mile drive to Lago Vista, but don’t get too carried away—the speed limit is closely monitored.
As you pass Lago Vista, the road narrows to one lane each way, and your radar detector can finally relax. After another 5 miles of scenic beauty, it’s time to turn left onto Cow Creek Road, where you’ll be transported back to the Old West. The first 2 miles feels like a spaghetti, but the rest is a rugged cowboy trail—don’t worry, it’s all paved, and the journey is pure magic.
When you’ve made it back to the present, hang a left on FM 1174 and head south to the stop sign. Then, turn right on 1431 and cruise into Marble Falls. At the main traffic light, take a left on Hwy 281, cross the big bridge over the Colorado River, and make a right at the light for 2147. You’re almost there—just turn right on Castlerock Ave, left on Cottonwood Dr., and welcome to Bay View Restaurant, where lunch awaits with stunning lake views.
Enjoy your meal, but don’t rush off just yet—head to Ms. Lollipop’s Parties on Main Street in Marble Falls for a sweet treat and some fantastic 1950s tunes. You’ve earned it!
Self Guided Drive #3 – Willow City Loop and Llano
(~4hrs RT from Sonesta)
Get ready for an epic adventure through some of the most breathtaking roads in the Hill Country! Whether you’re cruising along fast lanes with yellow dividers or taking it easy over cattle guards, this drive has it all—so buckle up and enjoy the ride.
Starting from the Sonesta Hotel, head west on Bee Cave Parkway, which transforms into the scenic Hamilton Pool Road. Follow it for about 30 miles until you cross the Pedernales River. At Hwy 281, make a right, then quickly veer left onto Ranch Rd. 962. Stay on 962 for about 10 miles, then take a left onto 3347. When you hit the first cattle guard, the road magically becomes Althaus-Davis Rd., a stretch of pure scenic bliss—keep an eye out for Betsy the cow and enjoy the views.
At the end of Althaus-Davis Rd., turn right onto 1323 for a short jaunt through Willow City and onto the famous Willow City Loop. This loop will transport you through wild west countryside, where you might spot some curious cows and even an ostrich buddy!
After the loop, take a right onto Highway 16 and head north to Llano, Texas. Once you cross the Llano River, turn left onto Hwy 29 and cruise east toward Lake Buchanan. About 15 miles in, take a left on FM 1431 to head north toward Llano County Park. The park is free and offers stunning views of the lake—perfect for a quick rest stop.
When you’re ready, head back south on 1431 for 9.5 miles to Wakepoint LBJ for a well-deserved lunch. What looks like a gas station is actually a hidden gem with a beautiful courtyard overlooking the Llano River. Don’t miss the two-story loft that serves lunch with a view!
And if you’re in the mood for something sweet after lunch, swing by Ms. Lollipops for dessert. Then, it’s back to the Sonesta—unless the road keeps calling your name!
Note: You can also expand this drive by stopping at one (or more!) state parks nearby. One of the most famous is Enchanted Rock near Willow City Loop.