For an authentic experience of what life was like for pioneer families 100 years ago, stay at the hospitable Heritage Farms (10 miles west of Johnson City on Hwy. 290, 210/279-4259, $80–100 nightly). Operated by the same family that’s owned the land since the late 1800s, the property contains two respectfully restored cabins that once housed the family’s ancestors. They’re rustic as opposed to shabby, and pleasant without being too quaint.

The larger of the two, the Homestead, features three antiques-filled rooms with a queen bed, leather sleeper sofa, bathroom with Jacuzzi tub, and kitchen with a stove, microwave, and beverage-stocked refrigerator. The breakfast portion of the package includes fresh fruit, pastries, and cereal.

Those looking for a reliable hotel experience have limited options, and the best among them is the Best Western Johnson City Inn (at the intersection of Highways 281 and 290, 830/868-4044, www.bestwestern.com, $89 d). The hotel offers free Internet access, a complimentary continental breakfast, and an outdoor swimming pool.