The Guadalupe River flowing through green Hill Country bluffs with trees on both sides and Texas Hill Country rolling hills in the background under a cloudy sky.

fernweh (German):

  1. Wanderlust (desire to travel, a longing for far-off places, especially those you’ve not yet visited).

  2. A strong innate desire to rove or travel about

Or as we like to think of it: longing for a place you’ve never been. 

Welcome to Fernweh, a collection of comfortable cottages where everything you need for a perfect vacation awaits. 

Whether you’re exploring downtown Gruene, attending a show at Whitewater Amphitheatre or Gruene Hall, tubing the Guadalupe, or immersing yourself in our natural surroundings, you can always count on Fernweh’s comfort and familiarity. 

Fernweh provides a warm and inviting experience with a variety of lodging options while providing hotel-like standards and amenities.

Fernweh is a special place for shared experiences and cherished moments that you will treasure for years to come. 

Click here to see our cottages

Charming cluster of modern white New Braunfels Vacation Rental with wooden stairs, nestled among trees on a gravel lot at sunset, creating a peaceful rental retreat.

our story

Fernweh was created by a group of New Braunfels - loving people to provide guests with an approachable and comfortable way to escape city life and experience the beauty of nature. 

values

TRADITION

Whether your family has been visiting New Braunfels for generations or you’re creating a new tradition, at Fernweh, we cultivate unplugged, quality time for our guests to carry on traditions and create cherished memories.

COMFORT

We believe escaping to the outdoors doesn’t have to mean giving up on your familiar comforts and modern amenities. Fernweh makes exploring easy. 

PLAY

Ultimately, it all comes down to fostering fun! Every choice at Fernweh is made to allow you to embrace your playful side, be spontaneous, and enjoy yourself. 

FAQs

About us

  • Fernweh was born from a feeling — that deep, stirring sense of wanderlust the Germans call Fernweh: a longing for places you’ve never been.

    For years, our families escaped to the Hill Country to float the river, share long meals under the stars, and slow down. We wanted to create a place where others could do the same — a retreat that feels both far away and right at home.

    We found it along River Road in New Braunfels, surrounded by towering cypress trees and the steady flow of the Guadalupe. Here, Fernweh became more than a name; it became a way of welcoming travelers into a story they’ll make their own.

  • We believe the best escapes bring you closer… to nature, to each other, and to yourself.

    Fernweh isn’t just a collection of cottages. It’s a place designed for connection: where mornings are slow, days are full of Hill Country adventures, and evenings end gathered around a table or a fire pit, making memories you’ll return to year after year.

    Our promise is simple: comfortable retreats, unforgettable memories. We create spaces where traditions are honored, new ones are born, and every guest feels a sense of belonging from the moment they arrive.

  • When we designed Fernweh, we wanted it to reflect both modern comfort and timeless Hill Country character.

    Our cottages are newly built, thoughtfully furnished, and crafted to feel effortless — bright interiors, full kitchens, king beds, and spaces that open naturally to the outdoors. Resort-style amenities like the pool, pickleball court, and private river access are balanced by quiet corners to unwind.

    We preserved the natural landscape and built with community in mind, creating shared spaces that invite conversation and connection. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a long stay, every detail is meant to make you feel at ease.

  • Fernweh is deeply connected to the community that surrounds it. New Braunfels and the Texas Hill Country have a rhythm all their own — live music at Gruene Hall, tubing on the Guadalupe, local wineries, and star-filled skies.

    We partner with nearby businesses, outfitters, and guides to share authentic local experiences with our guests. From tubing trips to fishing adventures to restaurant recommendations, we love helping you discover the Hill Country like a local.

    We’re also mindful stewards of the land. Located in the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone, Fernweh takes conservation seriously, encouraging responsible water use and preserving the beauty that drew us here in the first place.

EXPERIENCE IT

The Fernweh Experience

See what our guests have to say about their time at Fernweh. 

  • This place has the feel of seclusion and charm yet everything was close to everything to relax . It was a delightful getaway that also provided us with valuable insights into the potential of establishing a long-term renting arrangement. I envision becoming regular guests at your property for years to come. We are confident that the unique qualities of your rental property align perfectly with our desire for a secluded and tranquil retreat for the entire group.

    Erica S

  • We absolutely loved the back patio with the TV (to watch football!!) facing the pool, and we took full advantage of playing pickleball! We are already talking about when we are coming back and staying in the same place!!!

    Nora

  • We felt right at home from the beginning. The house was beautiful and had everything we needed. I would highly recommend The Fernweh Hillside and I look forward to our next stay.

    Wendy

  • It’s seconds away from the river but still feels secluded from the hustle and bustle of it. One of my favorite amenities was the pool! It was a great place to unwind after the long day and listen to the bands in the distance coming from Koozies.

    Marena

  • What a beautiful place to be. The hosts were amazing and made sure we were comfortable. The cabins are beautifully done with just the right touches. We wanted a peaceful and beautiful getaway and that we had for sure. I would recommend to anyone. We will be back for sure and can’t wait to show the kids this place. We are excited to return soon and make even more memories!

    Kate

  • My wife and I booked a tiny home here the week of our anniversary with the hope of escaping the hustle of life to enjoy a quiet, relaxing, and rejuvenating weekend. We got exactly what we were looking for! My wife and I would definitely stay here again and probably will! We’ve already been talking about inviting friends or family out to do another weekend trip there. If you’re looking for an amazing getaway, you don’t have to look further! :)

    Jay

  • We have a lovely stay! We were in town for a wedding and it was great because it was walkable to the venue (Koozie’s). It was spacious. We loved the deck and enjoyed sitting outside.

    Kate