Castroville, Texas

"The Little Alsace of Texas" is rich in European appearance and traditions. Castroville was founded in 1844 by Henri Castro, an impresario of the Texas Republic who brought a group of Alsatian settlers. Today in this quaint Texas village, the past and present intermingle within a curve of the Medina River. Watch especially for examples of German-style country cottages, whose roofs are unequally pitched (usually on the back side) in a manner similar to a lean-to design. Some buildings and houses are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Castroville Regional Park on the Medina River has picnicking, a swimming pool, fishing, athletic courts, and camping with hookups (fee).