Historic Hotel Giles Showcased as Cultural Anchor in Texas Hill Country Community

The Building Texas Show has rereleased a 2024 episode featuring Hotel Giles, one of the most cherished heritage hotels in the Texas Hill Country. Hosted by Justin McKenzie, the episode explores how this historic property represents Comfort's enduring character and hospitality traditions while serving as an economic and cultural hub for the community.

Founded in the 1850s by German freethinkers seeking independence and community, Comfort remains a rare unincorporated Texas town with a strong cooperative spirit. In the episode, McKenzie interviews Ernie, the innkeeper of Hotel Giles, about preserving this legacy while building a vibrant future for the Hill Country destination. "We immediately fell in love with the sense of community," Ernie recalls, describing how he and his wife discovered Comfort in 2016. "The history, the independence, and the way everyone supports each other—it just felt like home."

Hotel Giles, designed by legendary architect Alfred Giles, stands as a testament to 19th-century craftsmanship and community pride. The property maintains its historic architecture while accommodating modern travelers seeking authentic experiences. The hotel's Night Sky Certification preserves the pristine Hill Country skies, while its 15 guest rooms, courtyard gazebo, and weekly community events position it as a cultural gathering point for both residents and visitors.

Each Friday evening, the hotel hosts local jam sessions and happy hours, bringing together musicians and guests under the stars. Throughout the year, Hotel Giles organizes songwriter workshops, artist retreats, and car club gatherings—all designed to strengthen Comfort's creative and economic foundation. "We feel a responsibility to help our neighbors and support our community," says Ernie. "When guests come here, we want them to feel like family—and when they explore town, we want them to experience everything that makes Comfort special."

McKenzie describes Comfort as a "step back in time," where visitors can explore more than 20 historic buildings, admire 1880s architecture, and witness ongoing community progress. "Comfort's story is about preserving identity while inspiring new opportunity," he notes. "Hotel Giles embodies that balance perfectly." For travelers seeking relaxation and authentic Texas experiences, Comfort offers a centrally located destination between Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and Boerne while maintaining its distinctive character.

The episode showcasing Hotel Giles and Comfort, Texas is available on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=example. The Building Texas Show, hosted by Justin McKenzie, highlights people, places, and ideas shaping Texas' future, featuring local innovators and community leaders working to strengthen the state's cultural and economic landscape. More information about the show can be found at https://www.buildingtexasshow.com.