Cordillera Ranch: A Complete Guide to Boerne's Premier Luxury Hill Country Community

 

Cordillera Ranch represents the culmination of what luxury Hill Country living can offer. Spanning over 9,100 acres of Texas Hill Country terrain carved by time and the crystal clear waters of the Guadalupe River, this exclusive gated community delivers resort style amenities that few residential developments anywhere can match. From its acclaimed Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course to its seven distinctive clubs, five miles of river frontage, and panoramic Hill Country views, Cordillera Ranch has earned its place among the most exceptional residential communities in the Southwest.

Located off Highway 46 east of Boerne in Kendall County, Cordillera Ranch positions residents approximately 10 minutes from downtown Boerne's charming Hill Country Mile and 45 minutes from San Antonio. For buyers seeking homes for sale in San Antonio at the highest tier of luxury living, Cordillera Ranch offers an unparalleled combination of natural beauty, world class amenities, and distinguished architecture within the acclaimed Boerne Independent School District.

This guide examines what buyers should know about Cordillera Ranch, from its club memberships and custom home options to the schools, lifestyle, and community character that define life in this extraordinary enclave.

Why Does Cordillera Ranch Appeal to Luxury Home Buyers?

Cordillera Ranch attracts discerning buyers for specific reasons tied to its exceptional amenities, natural setting, and community philosophy.

Seven Resort Style Clubs Under One Membership

The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch provide what few residential communities offer: access to seven distinctive clubs through a single membership. This comprehensive approach to amenities creates resort living as a permanent lifestyle rather than a vacation destination.

Golf Club: Access to the acclaimed 18 hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, consistently ranked among Texas's finest courses. The layout winds through hills and valleys dotted with native plants and natural water features, offering both breathtaking scenery and challenging play.

Tennis and Swim Club: Multi level four pool swim complex featuring an infinity edge adult pool, junior Olympic lap pool, baby pool, and waterslide. Five regulation tennis courts with dedicated pickleball space support competitive play and private instruction.

Spa and Athletic Club: World class fitness facility with cardio equipment, cross trainers, circuit training, free weights, and Peloton bikes. The spa offers sauna, steam room, facials, massage, and full service spa packages in separate men's and women's facilities.

Social Club: Access to multiple dining venues, holiday events, monthly wine dinners, and gathering spaces for celebrations of all sizes. The clubhouse serves as the community's social heart.

Equestrian Club: Miles of trail riding through nature trails with access to lighted and covered arenas. Boarding facilities and both English and Western riding programs serve equestrians of all levels.

Rod and Gun Club: 200 acre facility featuring a 10 station sporting clay course, 5 stand field, handgun range, and 3D archery range. Instructors, guides, and equipment rentals support both novices and experienced marksmen.

River Club: Access to the Guadalupe River for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing with equipment rentals and guided tours. Private fishing opportunities for trout and bass, including fly fishing, along miles of river frontage.

Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course

The centerpiece of Cordillera Ranch's amenity package, this championship course has earned consistent recognition among Texas's finest. The Dallas Morning News has ranked it among the top 5 courses in the state, and the layout exemplifies the Jack Nicklaus design philosophy of working with natural terrain rather than against it.

The course spans approximately 7,464 yards from the Bear tees, playing to par 72 across 18 meticulously crafted holes. Fairways and tees use Zeon Zoysia grass, with Bentgrass on the greens. The architecture exploits natural limestone canyons and elevation changes throughout, creating a playing experience that rewards strategic thinking while showcasing the Hill Country's dramatic beauty.

Guadalupe River Access

Few residential communities can claim private access to one of Texas's most celebrated rivers. Cordillera Ranch encompasses five miles of Guadalupe River frontage, lined with towering bald cypress trees whose leaves create a kaleidoscope of fall colors. The spring fed waters have provided recreation for generations, and community members enjoy:

• Kayaking and canoeing
• Tubing during warmer months
• Fishing for trout and bass
• Private riverside camping
• Nature observation and photography

The River Club maintains equipment rentals and offers guided tours, making river recreation accessible to all members regardless of experience level.

Award Winning Community Recognition

Cordillera Ranch's excellence has earned recognition from respected publications:

• Architectural Digest: Named Cordillera Ranch's clubhouse the "Most Beautiful Clubhouse in Texas"
• Where to Retire Magazine: Listed among the "50 Best Master-Planned Communities in the U.S."
• San Antonio Magazine: Named one of the best neighborhoods in the area
• Dallas Morning News: Golf course consistently ranked in state's top 5

This consistent recognition from diverse sources confirms that Cordillera Ranch delivers on its promise of exceptional quality.

What Housing Options Does Cordillera Ranch Offer?

Cordillera Ranch provides diverse housing options across multiple neighborhoods, each with distinctive character and features.

Lot Sizes and Neighborhoods

The community encompasses approximately 1,300 home sites across neighborhoods offering:

Di Lusso Villas: Quarter acre villa lots providing convenient lock and leave living near the Clubs area. Ideal for those seeking low maintenance luxury with immediate amenity access.

Clubs Village: 1 to 2 plus acre lots with stunning views of the golf course and panoramic Guadalupe River Valley vistas. Central water, sewer, propane utilities, and GVTC fiber internet with speeds up to 1 Gbps. The only area allowing golf cart access to the clubhouse.

The Springs: Newest addition with home sites ranging from 1 to 7 plus acres, including bluff top estates overlooking spring fed Panther Creek and the Guadalupe River. Features the 5 acre Springs Sports Park and Boerne ISD has purchased a 19 acre site for a future elementary school.

Hawk Canyon: 2 to 4 plus acre estates on 78 acres with premier panoramic views and the most convenient access to the front gate, positioning residents approximately 20 minutes from San Antonio and 10 minutes from downtown Boerne.

Cordillera Ridge: The community's pinnacle estates for those seeking the most exclusive home sites.

Guadalupe River Estates: Rare riverfront properties representing the first new river lots offered in over 15 years. These sprawling estates offer incomparable views with ideal access to the water's edge.

Custom Home Building

Cordillera Ranch operates a Preferred Builder program, and the majority of homes have been constructed by these vetted custom builders:

• Paul Allen Custom Homes (since 1984)
• Stone Creek Custom Homes
• Stadler Custom Homes
• Weston Dean Custom Homes
• Todd Glowka Builder
• Partners in Building
• Garner Custom Homes

Preferred Builders offer highest resale value, proven craftsmanship, experience with design guidelines, and long standing relationships within the community. Selecting a Preferred Builder increases opportunity for a seamless building experience and superior finished product.

Pricing Overview

Cordillera Ranch represents San Antonio area's luxury market:

• Lots: Begin at approximately $100,000 and range well into millions for premium locations
• Homes: Median listing prices approximately $1.4 million with homes ranging from mid $500,000s well into multi millions
• HOA Fees: Generally $2,400 to $2,700 annually depending on neighborhood
• Property Taxes: Kendall County's rate of approximately 1.7% ranks among Texas's lowest

For buyers buying a home in San Antonio at this tier, understanding club membership options and property classifications becomes essential to the purchase decision.

Club Membership Considerations

Three membership levels serve different lifestyle preferences:

Full Golf Membership: Privileges in all seven clubs including unlimited golf course access. Partially refundable.

Limited Golf Membership: Privileges in all seven clubs with restricted golf access (Tuesday through Thursday all day, Friday before noon). Partially refundable.

Ranch Membership: Privileges in all clubs except Golf Club. Ideal for those prioritizing non golf amenities. Non refundable.

Two membership classifications affect transferability:

Master Membership: Attached to specific properties with financial benefits. Transferability is negotiable during property sales.

Conditional Membership: Available to both residents and non residents of Cordillera Ranch.

Understanding membership options before purchasing is critical, as Cordillera Ranch operates as a highly community centric environment.

Where Is Cordillera Ranch Located?

Cordillera Ranch occupies a scenic position in the Texas Hill Country with convenient access to both Boerne and San Antonio.

Geographic Position

The community is located:

• Off Highway 46 east of Boerne near Bergheim
• Approximately 10 minutes from downtown Boerne
• Approximately 45 minutes from San Antonio
• In Kendall County (one of Texas's lowest property tax counties)
• Within Boerne Independent School District

Highway Access

Cordillera Ranch provides convenient connectivity:

• Highway 46: Primary access east to I-35 or west to Boerne
• I-10: Accessible via Boerne for San Antonio commutes
• Highway 281: North corridor access via connection routes

The location balances Hill Country tranquility with practical access to metropolitan amenities.

Community Layout

The gated community encompasses:

• Over 9,100 acres of Hill Country terrain
• 5 miles of Guadalupe River frontage
• 15 plus miles of nature trails
• Multiple distinct neighborhoods
• The 40,000 square foot clubhouse complex
• Guard gated entry with visitor center

The scale creates genuine separation from urban density while maintaining the convenience of Boerne's services within 10 minutes.

What Schools Serve Cordillera Ranch Residents?

Cordillera Ranch falls within Boerne Independent School District, consistently ranked among Texas's highest performing districts.

District Excellence

Boerne ISD has earned exceptional recognition:

• Texas Education Agency: "A" rating (achieved in 2017-18, 2018-19, and 2021-22, placing it among only 1% of districts earning A ratings in all grading periods)
• HEB Excellence in Education: Named Best Small School District in Texas (2020)
• International Center for Leadership in Education: Named one of eight Innovative Districts in the United States (2022)
• Newsweek: Ranked both Boerne ISD high schools among the top 3% nationally (2014)
• U.S. News and World Report: All 10 elementary and middle schools ranked among top 40% in Texas

The district operates 14 schools with graduation rates exceeding 97% and dropout rates below 0.2%.

Cordillera Ranch School Assignments

Students in Cordillera Ranch typically attend:

Elementary Schools: Various Boerne ISD elementary campuses serve community residents. Notably, Boerne ISD has purchased a 19 acre site at the Springs entrance for long range planning of a new elementary school.

Voss Middle School (Grades 6 through 8): Named for Captain Mark Tyler Voss, this campus earned an "A" rating from TEA with scores of 91 in student achievement and 91 overall in post secondary readiness. U.S. News ranked Voss as the 119th best middle school in Texas.

Samuel V. Champion High School (Grades 9 through 12): Ranked among the top 15% of Texas high schools by SchoolDigger and consistently recognized by U.S. News and World Report and Niche. Ranked 6th among San Antonio area public high schools.

Boerne High School (Grades 9 through 12): Also serves portions of the district with similar academic excellence, ranking in the top 20% of Texas high schools.

The district's commitment to military families includes dedicated support for students facing deployment and relocation challenges.

Buyers should verify current school assignments directly with Boerne ISD, as boundaries can change with district growth.

What Amenities Does Cordillera Ranch Offer?

Beyond the seven clubs, Cordillera Ranch provides extensive amenities throughout the community.

The Clubhouse

The 40,000 square foot clubhouse, named Most Beautiful Clubhouse in Texas by Architectural Digest, serves as the community's social center:

• Four distinct dining venues
• Stone patios and terraces with panoramic views
• Tiered resort style pool with natural stonework
• Men's and women's locker rooms with private balconies
• Event spaces for gatherings of all sizes
• Pro shop and performance center

The clubhouse is constructed from native limestone and imported timbers, creating architecture that honors the Hill Country setting.

Outdoor Recreation

Beyond the clubs, residents access:

• 15 plus miles of nature trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding
• Community parks with playground, basketball, and volleyball courts
• Pavilion with BBQ areas
• Multiple access points to connected trail systems
• Wildlife observation throughout the community

Native whitetail deer and wild turkey are commonly seen crossing roads and visiting community green spaces.

The Springs Sports Park

The newest amenity in the Springs neighborhood includes:

• Soccer and baseball fields
• Basketball court
• Connected trail systems
• Premier hike and bike trails

This 5 acre facility expands recreational options beyond the clubs.

Technology Infrastructure

Cordillera Ranch has invested in connectivity:

• GVTC Fiber to the Home internet with speeds up to 1 Gbps
• Underground utilities in newer neighborhoods
• Centralized propane systems

What Shopping and Services Exist Near Cordillera Ranch?

Downtown Boerne and surrounding areas provide diverse retail and dining options.

Downtown Boerne Hill Country Mile

Country Living Magazine named the Hill Country Mile one of the "Top 25 Small Town Main Streets in America." This charming stretch of Main Street features:

• Over 80 shops and restaurants
• Boutique clothing and jewelry stores
• Antique shops and galleries
• German bakeries and cafes
• Craft breweries
• Fine dining options

Historic buildings dating to the mid 1800s house many businesses, preserving Boerne's German heritage while offering contemporary experiences. The Dienger Trading Co., Bear Moon Bakery, and The Kendall (dating to 1859) represent the district's blend of history and hospitality.

Community Events

Boerne hosts regular events celebrating its heritage:

• Market Days: Second weekend of each month featuring over 100 vendors
• Dickens on Main: Weekend after Thanksgiving with snow, ice skating, and holiday festivities
• Keys to the Hills Rod Run: One of the country's largest hot rod shows
• Boerne Village Band Concerts: The oldest continuously running German band outside Germany, organized in 1860

Everyday Retail

For daily needs, Boerne offers:

• H-E-B Plus grocery
• Walmart Supercenter
• Home Depot
• Various medical and professional services

For upscale shopping, The Rim and The Shops at La Cantera are approximately 16 miles south near Loop 1604.

What Recreation Opportunities Exist Near Cordillera Ranch?

Beyond community amenities, the Hill Country offers abundant recreation.

Cibolo Center for Conservation

Previously named Cibolo Nature Center, this preserve offers:

• Over 6 miles of trails
• Four distinct ecosystems: marshland, grassland, river bottom, and woodland
• Cypress lined banks of Cibolo Creek
• Nature education programs
• Herff Farm with community gardens and Saturday farmers market

Cascade Caverns

Boerne's oldest attraction offers guided tours exploring:

• Living limestone cave formations
• High ceiling Cathedral Room
• Prehistoric bones including saber toothed tiger remains

Hill Country Wineries

The region has developed a thriving wine scene:

• Sister Creek Vineyards
• Saint Tryphon Farm and Vineyard
• Bending Branch Winery

Boerne serves as an excellent hub for Hill Country wine touring.

Regional Attractions

Within easy driving distance:

• Guadalupe River State Park: Scenic hiking and river access
• San Antonio attractions: Six Flags Fiesta Texas (18 miles), SeaWorld, River Walk, The Alamo
• Fredericksburg: German heritage town with shopping and wineries
• New Braunfels: Historic German community with Schlitterbahn and tubing

What Employment Centers Serve Cordillera Ranch Residents?

While many Cordillera Ranch residents are retired or work remotely, the location provides access to major employment centers.

San Antonio Metropolitan

The 45 minute commute reaches:

• Medical Center employment (Methodist, Baptist, University Health)
• Financial services (USAA, Frost Bank)
• Government and military installations
• Energy sector companies
• Higher education (UTSA, Trinity, UIW)

Boerne and Kendall County

The growing local economy offers:

• Healthcare services
• Professional services
• Retail and hospitality
• Small business opportunities

The area has become increasingly attractive to remote workers and business owners seeking Hill Country lifestyle with professional connectivity.

Highway 46 and I-10 Corridor

The corridor between Boerne and San Antonio continues developing with:

• Commercial services
• Technology companies
• Distribution facilities

How Has Cordillera Ranch Developed Over Time?

Understanding Cordillera Ranch's development provides context for its exceptional status.

Community Origins

DH Investment Company, a Texas based development firm, created Cordillera Ranch as a luxury master planned community designed around the natural features of the property, particularly the Guadalupe River and dramatic Hill Country topography.

The community was designed to offer resort style living as a permanent lifestyle rather than a vacation destination, with the seven club concept central from the beginning.

Golf Course Development

The Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course opened to immediate acclaim. Jack Nicklaus and his design team worked with the natural terrain to create a course that Dallas Morning News ranked among Texas's best. The course established Cordillera Ranch's reputation for world class amenities.

Continued Growth

The community has maintained consistent growth with notable milestones:

• Over 650 homes built
• 44 homes under construction with 33 more in architectural review (recent data)
• $106 million in real estate transactions in 2018, the fourth straight year exceeding $100 million
• New neighborhoods including The Springs and Hawk Canyon expanding inventory

Recent Developments

The Vista Offices and Visitors Center designed by architect Jim Terrian provides state of the art facilities for community administration, real estate sales, and property owner services. Fitness center renovations and continued amenity improvements demonstrate ongoing investment in member experience.

Boerne ISD's purchase of land for a future elementary school at The Springs indicates long term planning for community growth.

Who Does Cordillera Ranch Appeal To?

Cordillera Ranch attracts specific buyer profiles drawn to its exceptional features.

Golf Enthusiasts

The Jack Nicklaus Signature course and full golf membership represent compelling value for serious golfers seeking:

• Championship caliber play
• Pristine conditions
• Practice facilities and instruction
• Like minded community members

Active Retirees

The comprehensive club structure appeals to retirees seeking:

• Resort amenities without resort crowds
• Year round activity options
• Social connections through clubs and events
• High quality healthcare access in San Antonio

Equestrians

The Equestrian Club's facilities attract horse owners and riders:

• Miles of maintained trails
• Lighted and covered arenas
• Boarding facilities
• Both English and Western programs

Outdoor Enthusiasts

River access, trails, and Rod and Gun Club amenities serve those who value:

• Kayaking, canoeing, and tubing
• Fishing including fly fishing
• Sporting clays and archery
• Nature observation and hiking

Families Seeking Premium Schools

Boerne ISD's consistent "A" ratings and national recognition attract families prioritizing:

• Academic excellence
• Small district attention
• Athletic and arts programs
• Strong graduation outcomes

Privacy Seekers

The gated community with guard house appeals to those valuing:

• Security and exclusivity
• Separation from urban density
• Privacy on multi acre estates
• Like minded neighbors

Expert Insight from Tami Price

"Cordillera Ranch occupies a unique position in the San Antonio luxury market. This isn't simply a neighborhood with nice amenities; it's a comprehensive lifestyle offering seven world class clubs, private Guadalupe River access, and some of the most dramatic Hill Country views anywhere in Texas," says Tami Price, REALTOR® and Broker Associate. "Understanding the membership structure and how it relates to specific properties is essential before making an offer. The combination of Boerne ISD's academic excellence, the Jack Nicklaus golf course, and the resort caliber amenities creates value that discerning buyers recognize immediately."

With over 650 five star reviews across Google, Zillow, Realtor.com, FastExpert, and Real Satisfied, Tami provides expert guidance for buyers considering Hill Country luxury properties.

Three Key Takeaways

• Seven resort style clubs under one membership: Golf, Tennis and Swim, Spa and Athletic, Social, Equestrian, Rod and Gun, and River clubs provide comprehensive amenities including a Jack Nicklaus Signature course, four pool complex, 200 acre gun club, and 5 miles of Guadalupe River frontage
• Diverse custom home options: Homesites range from quarter acre villas to 12 plus acre ranch estates across distinct neighborhoods, with Preferred Builders offering proven quality and highest resale values in the community
• Top tier Boerne ISD schools: Texas Education Agency "A" rated district with both high schools ranked among top 3% nationally by Newsweek and all 10 elementary and middle schools in top 40% statewide

Frequently Asked Questions About Cordillera Ranch

Q: What school district serves Cordillera Ranch?

A: Cordillera Ranch falls within Boerne Independent School District, which has earned "A" ratings from the Texas Education Agency and recognition as one of only eight Innovative Districts in the United States. Students typically attend Voss Middle School and Samuel V. Champion High School.

Q: How much do homes cost in Cordillera Ranch?

A: Homes range from mid $500,000s to multi millions, with median listing prices approximately $1.4 million. Lots begin around $100,000 and range well into millions for premium golf course, river, or view properties.

Q: What are the club membership options?

A: Three membership levels exist: Full Golf (all seven clubs with unlimited golf), Limited Golf (all clubs with restricted golf hours), and Ranch (all clubs except golf). Master memberships attach to specific properties while Conditional memberships are available more broadly.

Q: How far is Cordillera Ranch from San Antonio?

A: The community is approximately 45 minutes from downtown San Antonio and 10 minutes from downtown Boerne. The gated entry provides security while maintaining practical access to metropolitan amenities.

Q: What lot sizes are available?

A: Homesites range from quarter acre villa lots in Di Lusso Villas to 12 plus acre ranch estate lots. The Springs offers 1 to 7 plus acres, Clubs Village features 1 to 2 plus acres, and Hawk Canyon provides 2 to 4 plus acres.

Q: What amenities does the community offer?

A: Seven clubs provide: Jack Nicklaus golf course, 4 pool swim complex, tennis and pickleball courts, spa and fitness center, equestrian trails and arenas, 200 acre rod and gun club, and 5 miles of Guadalupe River access. The 40,000 square foot clubhouse includes four dining venues and event spaces.

Q: Are there HOA fees?

A: Yes, HOA fees generally range from $2,400 to $2,700 annually depending on neighborhood. Club membership dues are separate from HOA fees.

Q: Who are the Preferred Builders in Cordillera Ranch?

A: Preferred Builders include Paul Allen Custom Homes, Stone Creek Custom Homes, Stadler Custom Homes, Partners in Building, Garner Custom Homes, and others. These vetted builders have constructed the majority of homes in the community and offer highest resale values.

The Bottom Line on Cordillera Ranch

Cordillera Ranch delivers on its promise of resort style living as a permanent lifestyle. The combination of a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, seven distinctive clubs, private Guadalupe River access, and dramatic Hill Country setting creates an experience few residential communities can match. The commitment to quality, from Preferred Builders to meticulous amenity maintenance, justifies the community's position among Texas's most acclaimed luxury developments.

The community suits those who value comprehensive amenities, natural beauty, and a close knit environment of like minded residents. Its position within Boerne ISD provides families access to some of Texas's highest performing schools while maintaining reasonable proximity to San Antonio's metropolitan resources.

Understanding how Cordillera Ranch compares to other San Antonio neighborhoods and communities helps buyers determine whether its luxury positioning and Hill Country location align with their priorities.

For buyers considering custom home construction, understanding what buyers should know about new construction provides valuable context for working with Preferred Builders in exclusive communities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Tami Price, REALTOR®

Tami Price brings nearly two decades of San Antonio real estate experience and approximately 1,000 closed transactions to buyers exploring luxury Hill Country communities like Cordillera Ranch. As a Broker Associate, USAF Veteran, and Military Relocation Professional (MRP), Tami provides specialized expertise for buyers navigating high tier properties and unique community structures.

Whether evaluating club membership options or coordinating with Preferred Builders, Tami delivers professional representation backed by local knowledge and RealTrends Verified recognition as a top San Antonio agent.

Tami Price, REALTOR®, Broker Associate

📞 210 620 6681

✉️ tami@tamiprice.com

🌐 TamiPrice.com

📅 Book a Consultation

Disclaimer

This blog provides general information about Cordillera Ranch and should not replace professional real estate, legal, or financial advice. Club memberships, builder options, pricing, HOA fees, amenities, and school assignments change over time. Buyers should verify all information independently with appropriate professionals, including confirming school assignments directly with Boerne Independent School District, club membership details with The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch, and builder options with Cordillera Ranch Development. Tami Price, REALTOR®, is committed to providing accurate information but cannot guarantee the completeness or current accuracy of all details presented.