Activities

Wine tasting: The main attraction of Valle de Guadalupe is exploring the Ruta del Vino. Admire the vineyards and stop into the charming tasting rooms that showcase this region’s exciting wines.

Enjoy coffee at Das Cortez: Stop in for a great cup of coffee. Located on the grounds of Finca Altozano, grab yourself a cafe de olla, or a latte and take in the mountain views.

Mezcal tasting at Tahona: A boutique tasting room that specializes in artisanal mezcals. A perfect hidden gem that offers a break from wine tasting and an opportunity to learn about the traditional techniques of mezcal making and the history of this distilled spirit made from agave.

Cuatro Cuatros: Stop here to visit the bar to watch the sunset with stunning ocean views, or stay the night in the luxurious accommodations that provide a serene experience of being in the heart nature.

Museo de la Vid y el Vino: Expand your knowledge of winemaking at the Museo de la Vid y el Vino. This fascinating museum takes you on a journey through the history, culture and techniques behind winemaking in the region. Admire the exhibits and engage in interactive displays that celebrate the art of viticulture.

Cremeria los Globos: Cheese shop featuring locally sourced dairy products and culinary goods. Perfect for loading up to prepare a picnic lunch or bring back local delicacies with you.

Day trips

Ensenada, Tijuana or San Diego which is just 90 miles north.

Valle de Guadalupe is a great vacation on its own or tacked on to a trip to San Diego. It is recommended to hire a driver to take you around the region so you can fully enjoy all the area has to offer. I recommend Wine Eat & Travel for a memorable experience, as well as transportation services.

Some of my favorite wineries to visit

Villa Montefiori: Discover the Tuscan charm of Villa Montefiori, a winery that combines Italian tradition with Baja California's terroir. Enjoy their superb wines crafted from Italian varietals, while strolling through the picturesque vineyards and taking in the Mediterranean-inspired architecture.

Lechuza: Located next to Laja, a popular restaurant in the Valle where the owners dined before purchasing the land for what is now Lechuza. Unveil the secrets of sustainable viticulture at Lechuza, an organic and biodynamic winery. Explore their vineyards and cellar, learning about their holistic approach to winemaking. Sample their exquisite wines and experience the harmonious flavors resulting from their dedication to ecological practices. Owned by the Magnussen family, this family-run spot is focused on giving back to the community that has given them so much.

Finca La Carrodilla: Experience the essence of elegance and sustainability at Finca La Carrodilla, the first certified organic vineyard in the Valle. This family-owned winery produces exceptional wines with a focus on organic and sustainable agriculture. Delight in their beautiful vineyards and the panoramic views from the tasting patio, while enjoying tasting the fruits of their labor, and reveling in the flavors that reflect the valley's unique terroir. Be sure to explore the grounds to see the animals, as well as the seasonally changing vegetable garden.

Not in Valle de Guadalupe, Bichi Wine is a remarkable winery in Tecate, known for its commitment to natural winemaking practices. With a focus on minimal intervention and sustainable viticulture, Bichi Wine produces wines that truly reflect the essence of the region's terroir. Each bottle tells a story, capturing the spirit and character of Baja California in every sip.

Restaurants

Primitivo: “Fuego, leña, fierro” “Fire, firewood, iron” Rustic-yet-stylish ambiance, dine outdoors under giant 300-year-old oak trees. With the ethos that you should use the entire animal, enjoy a multi-course meal with each course focusing on a different part and preparation of your chosen protein. Known for a menu that reflects the richness and diversity of Baja California’s culinary heritage. With a commitment to locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, Primitivo offers a menu that harmonizes traditional Mexican flavors with innovative techniques, delivering a dining experience that is both comforting and exciting.

Finca Altozano: Immerse yourself in a lively and vibrant atmosphere at Finca Altozano. Chef Javier Plascencia’s popular spot offers a delightful mix of traditional and innovative Mexican cuisine, paired with an impressive selection of wines. Enjoy the panoramic views while relishing the culinary delights that epitomize the valley's gastronomic scene. Be sure to walk the grounds, and enjoy a cup of coffee while looking at the farm animals and peek over to the bakery to see the fresh breads being made.

La Cocina de Doña Esthela: Treat yourself to a hearty breakfast at La Cocina de Doña Esthela. What was once a hole in the wall that became famous thanks to Anthony Bourdain, this charming eatery serves up mouthwatering traditional Mexican dishes, including their famous homemade breakfast. Get the elote hot cakes, eggs machaca and beef barrio en su jugo. It's the perfect spot to fuel up for a day of exploration. Since my first visit in 2015, the popularity of this place has increased as well as wait times, so be prepared.

Deckman's En El Mogor: Situated in a rustic setting, Deckman's offers a farm-to-table experience like no other. Head chef Drew Deckman is a one Michel star chef. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients in an ever changing menu, accompanied by a carefully curated wine list. This culinary gem embodies the essence of Valle de Guadalupe's gastronomy, and cooking over an open flame. Other Deckman Group suggestions: Omakase by Deckman's, or Conchas de Piedra.

Fauna: Indulge in a culinary journey at Fauna, a renowned restaurant located on the Bruma luxury hotel grounds, and listed on the 50 Best Restaurants in Latin America 2022. Chef David Castro Hussong and pastry chef Maribel Aldaco Silva highlight the region's local and seasonal ingredients. With a constantly changing menu that showcases Baja California's diverse flavors, each dish is a masterpiece crafted with passion and creativity and served as shared plates, while sitting at a communal table.

Animalón: Experience a farm-to-table feast at Animalón, a culinary gem located in the heart of Valle de Guadalupe. Located on Finca Altozano’s property, Executive Chef Oscar Torres’ menu features organic ingredients sourced from their own garden, offering a delectable taste of the region's bounty, situated under a 200-year-old oak tree during the warmer months and indoors when the weather is cooler.