Maps and directions

Asher brought up a good point when he mentioned maps and directions. SO, here goes. The major roads that go through Llano are Hwy 16, Hwy 29 and Hwy 71. If you are familiar with Austin you know about Hwy 71. Hwy 29 crosses Hwy 35 north of Austin through Georgetown. Hwy 16 runs down to I10 through Fredericksburg and Kerrville.

From Llano's crossroads, 16 and 29/71 take 29/71 west. Three miles out of town, 29 and 71 part ways. You need to take 71 northwest (the sign says Valley Spring & Brady). Eight miles from the split is CR 408 (just before getting into Valley Spring). Turn right.

The road goes around the side of the house at the intersection in an L shape (not visible on the map). Follow the road as it winds through some pretty cattle country, across dips, round curves, and across 2 cattle guards (which, for you city folk, are a series of metal bars in the road to keep the cows from getting out).

After the second cattle guard, there is a red dirt road to the right. Don't take it, take the next one - Valley Ranch Cir. (Yes, it's marked). From the house on the corner, go two down - you'll see the windmill, it's the only big one on our road. Pull through the gate and park in the gravel parking area or someplace north of the house. It's about 7 miles from the turn-off to our gate.


Here are some maps that might help:

Little House in the Hill Country

Spring has truly been Spring in the Hill Country. Lot's of rain and cool weather extended the wildflower season beyond the usual. Our pond is full and is looking really good. The windmill is now pumping enough water to keep the pond topped off. One of our favorite activities is to kayak around in the pond in the early morning or evening.

Nothing beats lazing around on a hammock. We have three. One has it's own stand. I'll see about finding a nice shady spot by the creek for the other two (but we have to use a weedeater to get there). There's usually a slight to brisk breeze blowing to fan you while you rock. Speaking of breeze, Jonah and Trenton have enjoyed flying the kites in the front "yard". We have 2 kites (and should have a couple more if we can find them!).

In the city, it's hard to imagine what they mean in the song, "the stars at night, are big and bright..." but here, they are beautiful. We have a telescope (need to read the manual) but even looking with the naked eye is beautiful. Night sky and night sounds make for a great nightcap.

The "big" town of Llano is the closest town (being defined, government, hospital, grocery store, hardware, restaurants and hotels). There are antiques shops, museums, the RIVER, parks and activities. There seems to be a festival going on nearly every week.

It's definitely a place where you can play hard or just kick back.