Curator’s statement
Temecula is only an hour drive from San Diego and around two-to three hours from Orange County or Los Angeles, but it will teleport you to Italy for much less than a trip to Napa! With nearly 50 wineries across the rolling hills and lush valleys of Temecula, there's something to suit everyone's tastes. From child-friendly options with playgrounds on site, to adults-only, ranch style and modern luxe, you'll find a commodity that will perfectly suit your desires. With all of the wineries so close together, there are a couple great local winery hotels that you can make your home base without having to venture far.
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Temecula Creek Inn is set on a golf course tucked away in the hills of Southern Temecula. You'll feel like you've escaped to the country and are greeted with small-town charm and luxury service. Corkfire Kitchen has one of the best breakfasts with a view in all of the valley and the golf course is one of the top-rated as well. You're only about 10 minutes away from all the wineries at this location and right around the corner from Pechanga Casino if you want to do some gambling!
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa is one of the best spas in town. One of the first winery spa hotel resorts in the valley, it sits right in the center of wine country, so you're stumbling distance from any of the wineries. Especially the incredible one right on the property! Depending on the time of year, they also host concerts right in the pavilion.
Ponte Vineyard Inn is one of the most luxurious hotels in wine country. They also have The Cellar Bar, the only bar open into the wee hours of the night for that evening nightcap. Most of the wineries close by 5:00 pm, but between the breakfast restaurant, amazing onsite lunch and dinner restaurant, tasting room and cellar bar, there are options all day long. Try the Vernaccia Nera sparkling red if you can. It's so unique!
Europa Winery & Resort boasts an amazing restaurant and a truly immersive experience. You'll feel like you've teleported to the hills of Tuscany with the food and wine but still have the perfect southern California weather! Europa is known for its bold reds and the hotel fully embraces the European charm of the entire winery.
Need to know
The weekends are busy and the summers can be hot! Whether you want a private guided wine tour (in a sidecar motorcycle, trolley or even a VW bus), a chauffeured limo or a bus for a large group, tours sell out early! Temecula is the perfect romantic weekend away for a couples trip or girls weekend. Reach out so we can plan your perfect southern California wine country trip. Pro-tip: I'm a wine club member at multiple Temecula wineries so I'll definitely point you in the right direction!
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to California. In need of further inspiration? Check out Kristyne Wada’s guide, Discover California Wine Country: Sonoma's Hidden Gems.
Travel Advisor
Brittany Abeyta
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