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Thinking of a romantic getaway with your loved one? Perhaps you want to explore another wine country for wine tastings? Need an idea to surprise your loved one? If so, I have an idea for you! The State of California has so many beautiful places to see, the options are endless! Paso Robles is definitely one of California’s best-kept secrets. I’ve officially added this place to my “must-visit-again” list, well I really don’t have the list but if I did this place would be on there! 😛
It is centrally located which makes it less than 4 hours away from Northern and Southern California, bonus! Also, it’s a wine country! Double-bonus!!
Where to stay
Allegretto Vineyard Resort
Located on the east side of Paso Robles surrounded by orchards and vineyards is a beautiful place awarded Four Diamonds by AAA, that transports you to a different country and has all the amenities you need for an amazing romantic weekend getaway! They are also pet friendly so of course, we brought along our fur baby, Sophia. 🙂
Resort Experiences: Bocce Ball, Horseshoe toss, Firepits, Wine Tasting, Art Tour, giant-size chess, labyrinth garden, tandem bikes, Spa, Pool and so much more!
If you choose not to stay here, I would still highly recommend visiting to see the property or stopping by for a romantic intimate dinner at the resort’s, Cello Restaurant and Bar or make reservations for their wine tasting experience. The resort is absolutely stunning with its unique Tuscan-styled architecture, art, sculptures, and labyrinth.
where to eat
Cello Restaurant and Bar
The restaurant on site was soooo good! We had the Italian Sausage Ravioli and the Etto Pasta Carbonara. We came here for dinner twice because the food and service were great. Seating is served only outdoors due to the pandemic but the tables are surrounded with heaters or you can sit by the fire.
Rustic Fire
Rustic Fire Pizza parlor was recommended by a local and it indeed was a recommendation we really appreciated. The artisan brick oven pizza was delicious and just perfect for eating while sitting by the fire in the courtyard of our hotel.
What to do
Wine Tasting
We did three tastings as we were limited for not having made reservations prior. If you are visiting during COVID, most of the wineries now require a reservation. We were lucky enough to do a tasting at our vineyard resort, Allegretto, Halter Ranch, and Tooth & Nail wineries. When you visit, consider the below wineries highly recommended by a Paso Robles local and make your reservations.
Recommended Wineries
- Halter Ranch
- Bodega
- Lone Madrone
- Tablas Creek
- Daou*
- Cass *
* Amazing Views-Must See
Sensorio Art Installation
Sensorio is a must-see ! Their art installation of Field of Lights is absolutely stunning and a place that can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone. Make reservations ahead of time to visit this beauty. They just announced their new art installation Light Towers which I can only imagine is as amazing as their Field of Lights.
Pismo Dunes
After a weekend of relaxation and wine tasting, it was time for some thrill so we headed to Pismo Dunes to try sandboarding! If you enjoy snowboarding you will absolutely love this sport as well! Or if you are not into that upon reopening, you can rent an ATV or sand buggy! We didn’t get to try ATV-ing due to closure but we will definitely be back to try it out.
This beach is very cool and is one of the only California beaches that allow street vehicles to drive on, so bring your 4 wheeler along for the ride!
What to Expect During COVID:
Mask wearing at all indoor and outdoor establishments following suggested CDC guidelines.
Limited seating at restaurants that are doing outdoor dining so make reservations if possible.
Reservations are required for wine tastings or you can request their Wine Tasting To-Go