Arc De Texas

4555 US-281, Johnson City, TX 78636, USA

Address:	4555 US-281, Johnson City, TX 78636, USA
Phone:	+1 830-868-7024
Rating:	4.8
Working:	11AM–7PM 11AM–7PM 11AM–7PM 11AM–7PM 11AM–7PM 11AM–7PM 12–7PM

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 21

s. clark

This is not a sight you will encounter every day in the rolling hills of the Texas hill country. In fact, it is a bit startling to see this limestone monolithic arc towering above the highway in the adjacent hills as you approach Johnson City from the south. The rustic entry to the Arc de Triomphe mimic is quintessential Texas ranch style with a sign and letters made of wrought iron over the gate proclaiming the Arc de Texas entrance. No covered parking lot for this bed (no breakfast) and wine tasting francophilic inn. Just a packed gravel lot and a long inclined walkway up to the breezeway between the arc. Large concrete patios with tables and chairs to enjoy the views border either side of the 4 storied edifice. To the left of the breezeway is the wine tasting room, to the right a nicely appointed (you can still smell the leather of the couches and chairs) foyer and elevator to the rooms and the roof top. The wine tasting room is opulently decorated in hill country chic yet gives off a comfortable vibe. There are some interesting wines from local vintners and from other global sources as well such as Africa and New Zealand. We selected a flight of five wines and enjoyed the wide variety and flavors. The house "sommelier" was only slightly helpful and a little less than voluntary with wine descriptions and tastes. We decided to partake of a full pour of very good Riesling and departed to the right side of the arc to ascend to the roof. It was still a warm summer day and the outside temp and humidity was enough to shorten our visit up top, but not before relaxing our eyes with views of the surrounding country side and distant views of verdant rolling hills and ranches. Just north of the Arc, the Lighthouse Ranch (a sister property) could be seen with its copper roof top pinnacle jutting into the air above the hill it rested upon. The magnificent vistas from all sides of the building roof could not be seen, however if sitting down in one of several tables in the open or under the shade of a small pergola. Downstairs again, we relaxed in the air condition foyer to cool off then finished our glasses of wine outside at one of the shady tables in front. Barely a couple or two during the week, I understand that it can be rather crowded on the weekend. No food is served here, other than some meats and cheeses if they happen to be in stock. You are welcome to bring your own picnic however, and enjoy it on the premises. Staying here would be interesting in such an unusual guest abode seemingly in the middle of nowhere. There is a pool in the back and a bbq grill on the patio for the over-nighters. Trips into Johnson City for eats or to Blanco State Park, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Nature Area and the LBJ Ranch for exploring are certainly entertaining options.

B. Avila

Great selection of wines, fantastic views! It was great to get a seat outside and enjoy the scenery with some wine. Definitely the best view Ive ever seen of the hill country. On the other hand, super inconsistent with their pours on the tastings. They should implement a system where they pour the exact amount in each glass. Also, they should offer a clean glass before pouring your next tasting, or at least wash the glass! It was super weird when I asked for my second pour and the man simply opened up the bottle and just started pouring. The tasting area is also SUPER crowded. Their method of taking orders made us wait about 10 minutes to simply get an order in. And made it awkward to just stand there elbow to elbow with someone whos enjoying their wine. Will be back for the views and wine selection, but I dont plan on getting the wine tasting option. Too time consuming and I felt like I was not getting what I was paying for. A simple glass of wine will do.

Keith Hollar

Nice place to stop, rest, relax, and enjoy friendly folks and a great view. My wife and I stopped here on the way to Wimberley because we saw a sign that talked about wine tasting and great views. The wines are local Texas wines and the view is great. You purchase your wine on the first floor then you can take an elevator to the 4th floor observation deck which allows you a 360 degree view of the surrounding Texas Hill Country, and you can see for miles due to no other tall structure or obstructions in the area. The observation deck has many tables to sit and enjoy the view and visit and drink your wine. There is no time limit or no hurry for you to leave, so you can take your time and enjoy at a leisurely pace. The owners are very friendly and were willing to answer any questions we had about the place and about the art of wine tasting. Highly recommended.

Trey Chambers

10/10 would recommend to a friend. Great recommendations from bacon/coffee South African wine to the finest port Ive ever tasted. The views from the top floor of the tower is worth it enough. Best winery in the Austin/Fredricksburg area we visited

Darrin Hammons

We live not far from there in Canyon Lake. We go there every chance we get because of the wine and craft beer selections are so diverse, AND YOU CANT BEAT THE VIEWS. This is a cant miss when we have friends come and visit from out of town.

Amber Gordon

Just do it! Its so beautiful and unique! The staff is so friendly and the wine selection is delicious! "Views and Wine" pretty much sums it up! Great spot for some cool photos.

Robert Calhoun

Arc De Texas has the best views, nicest people (family owned & operated) and great wine; its a tradition now! The owners daughter made it an extra special occasion today!

Renee Sohmers

This place is a must. The wine is great, Christa was great. Found this place just driving by. I wanna get married on the top floor at sunset. Truely spectacular !!!

Megan Lenz

My family stayed in the Red House, and absolutely loved the facility. Both the exterior and interior were well maintained, making for a lovely stay.

Veronica Velasquez

Thought it was a winery but try really just have a bunch of different wines from different vineyards. Good views and atmosphere.

Summer Wheeler

Beautiful views and wonderful wine. An evening well spent. Will return and recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing night away.

Tamara Dawson

Wonderful views not to be missed. Not many Texas wines. Wish the facade were stuco. Just seems out of place?

Lori Guerrero

Fantastic time with wine tasting and the view from the top is awesome. Hist and hostesses were fabulous

Richard Hudson

Quick detour for scene views! beautiful!! A must see!!! Sitting on our patio and 4th floor ... amazing!