A Journey Through Historic Sisterdale, Texas
Sisterdale, Texas, is one of those small towns that if you blink while driving through, you might just miss it. But don’t let its size fool you—this little Hill Country gem, located just 13 miles east of Comfort, is packed with history, charm, and a few delightful surprises. Sisterdale is a place where time seems to stand still, and for good reason. Founded in 1847 by Nicolaus Zink, a German freethinker, this town became a refuge for European dissidents fleeing the failed revolutions of 1848. These “Forty-Eighters,” as they were called, helped shape Sisterdale into a center of German abolitionism and Unionist sentiment during the Civil War. Though its population peaked at just over 100, the town’s influence and historical significance far exceeded its size.
Driving from Hotel Giles in Comfort to Sisterdale is a breathtaking journey through the Texas Hill Country. The route is part of the Old No. 9 Highway, a scenic drive that roughly traces the path of the former San Antonio, Fredericksburg, and Northern Railway. Though only 20 miles long, this historic scenic route has many delightful sights to see along the way, including rolling hills, wildflowers and oak trees that dot the landscape. Start your journey here in Comfort at Ranch Road 473, then continue on to Sisterdale, ultimately winding your way through Grapetown to end at Highway 290. The Old No. 9 Highway also passes through Kerrville and Fredericksburg, where you can stop and explore local shops, restaurants and museums.
Once you arrive in Sisterdale, you’ll quickly realize there’s more to this town than meets the eye. The Sisterdale Valley District is a historic region that includes 15 historic buildings and six other structures. The district has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975 and offers a glimpse into the town’s past. One of the crown jewels of Sisterdale is the Sisterdale Dancehall and Opera House. Built in 1890, the dancehall sits on property that includes an old stone-block fort dating back to the pre-Civil War era. The opera house is the oldest of its kind in Texas and has been featured in several movies, commercials, and music videos. Today, it serves as a rustic, romantic venue for weddings and special events, retaining all the charm of a bygone era.
Of course, no visit to Sisterdale is complete without a stop at Sister Creek Vineyards. Located in the restored 1885 cotton gin, this winery is a must-visit for wine lovers. Sister Creek’s traditional wines, like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, are aged in 60 gallon oak barrels for up to three years. The Italian-style Muscat Canelli Reserve is a crowd favorite, known for its sweet, slightly carbonated citrus flavor. If you prefer reds, their Merlot is rich and full-bodied with hints of vanilla and spice. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just looking to relax with a glass of local wine, Sister Creek is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
But the wine adventures don’t stop there. Just south of Sisterdale, on the way to Boerne, is Saint Tryphon Farm and Vineyards. This boutique winery, founded in 2016, is nestled on an 1890s homestead and named after Saint Tryphon, the patron saint of grape-growers, gardeners, hunters, and horses. What makes Saint Tryphon special is its commitment to using 100% Texas-grown grapes and wild yeast for fermentation. With minimal intervention, their wines are as pure and expressive as possible. Whether you’re sipping on their bold Tempranillo or trying their fruit-forward Mourvèdre, you’ll find that Saint Tryphon’s laid-back atmosphere and charming tasting room make for an unforgettable experience. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the Hill Country views.
If you’re hungry, Sisterdale has you covered with Black Board Bar B Q, revered throughout the Texas Hill Country for its elevated craft barbecue. This tasty local favorite is known for its slow-smoked wagyu brisket, house-ground sausages, and creative sides. But if you’re feeling adventurous, you have to try their wild boar jalapeno-cheddar smoked sausage or the buttermilk-marinated, deep-fried quail lollipops. Black Board Bar B Q doesn’t just serve up classic Texas barbecue—it elevates it to a whole new level.
And while you’re in town, don’t forget to swing by Marlowe Candle Co. This mother-daughter business began as a hobby but quickly turned into something much bigger. Specializing in container candles and melts, Marlowe Candle Co. offers a wide range of scents, from floral to fresh to spicy. All of their candles are hand-mixed, poured, and labeled, using only the finest wax blend, delightful scent oils, and lead-free wicks. It’s the perfect place to pick up a little something to remember your trip to Sisterdale.
Though small in size, Sisterdale is a hidden gem in the Texas Hill Country, offering visitors a unique blend of history, scenic beauty, and local flavor. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historic buildings, sipping local wines, or savoring craft barbecue, Sisterdale is a worthwhile day trip during your next stay with us at Hotel Giles. Slow down, take a turn off the highway, and let Sisterdale surprise you.
