Discover Paso Robles: A Vibrant Wine Region in California
Editor’s Note: Although travel may present challenges currently, consider these inspirational trip ideas to plan for your future adventures.
The Culinary Scene at Niner Estates
The lunch menu at the solar-powered Niner Estates in Paso Robles is filled with fresh offerings sourced from nearby fields and farms. Guests can enjoy greens from Windrose Farm, lentils and grains from Kandarian Organic Farms, and goat cheese from Central Coast Creamery. Additionally, the estate features its own edible garden, chicken coop, and olive groves. While Niner is renowned for its crisp Bruts and fruit-forward Pinots, the onsite restaurant stands out for its farm-to-table approach.
The Heart of California’s Wine Country
Paso Robles is home to approximately 200 wineries, many of which are celebrated for their experimental styles that distinguish them from the more famous regions of Napa and Sonoma. At Kukkula, owner and winemaker Kevin Jussila manages 50 acres of grapevines and emphasizes a hands-off approach to wine production that prioritizes quality. Not far from there, Kiler Ridge Olive Farm offers tours of their 2,700 olive trees, providing visitors with exquisite tastings, including olive oil-drizzled ice cream—a unique culinary experience inspired by a trip to Tuscany.
Paso Robles’ Unique Tasting Experiences
For those seeking more eclectic wine and food offerings, Tin City features a collection of tasting rooms in a repurposed industrial facility. Here, visitors can sample Chenin Blanc at Desparada, enjoy Bourbon barrel-aged cider at Tin City Cider, or indulge in sheep-milk ice cream cones from Negranti Creamery. Moreover, the Six Test Kitchen—an exclusive 12-seat eatery—offers innovative tasting menus that highlight seasonal ingredients.
Where to Stay in Paso Robles
Paso’s hospitality sector is thriving, with new offerings enhancing the visitor experience. The newly opened Piccolo hotel features 24 rooms in downtown Paso, complete with a rooftop bar. Meanwhile, the beloved Hotel Cheval has expanded, adding 20 more rooms near the town square. Even if you don’t stay at the stunning Allegretto Vineyard Resort, its on-site restaurant, Cello, is perfect for enjoying brunch with local flavors like huevos rancheros.
Exploring San Luis Obispo
Just a short drive from Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, affectionately referred to as SLO, is recognized as one of the happiest cities in the U.S. Surrounded by scenic beaches and majestic mountains, SLO has recently welcomed transformative properties like Hotel San Luis Obispo and Hotel Cerro. These hotels offer contemporary amenities with a focus on comfort and sustainability.
The Charming Edna Valley Wine Region
SLO also acts as a gateway to the Edna Valley wine region, home to over a dozen wineries established since the 1980s. Wolff Vineyards is celebrated for its exceptional Rieslings, while Edna Valley Vineyard offers a bright tasting room showcasing their Chardonnays and Pinots. Families can enjoy picnic areas and lawn games at Malene Wines, which creatively serves its rosés from a mobile Airstream trailer.
Experiencing the Pacific Coast Highway
The iconic Pacific Coast Highway offers breathtaking coastal views and access to charming beach towns. In Pismo Beach, the new 124-room Vespera on Ocean serves as a perfect family getaway near butterfly groves. In nearby Cayucos, the Brown Butter Cookie Company, run by two sisters, delights visitors with their gourmet cookies infused with sea salt and rich flavors.
Historical and Culinary Landmarks
Cambria’s vibrant culture includes galleries and top-tier dining, with notable spots like the gluten-free Hidden Kitchen and Robin’s, known for its vegetable-centric cuisine. Linn’s is a must-visit for its signature Olallieberry pie, a Central Coast classic that has been a local favorite for over 30 years.
The PCH’s crowning jewel is Hearst Castle in San Simeon, which is celebrating its centennial. Architect Julia Morgan designed the opulent estate that boasts stunning gardens and pools, including the iconic Neptune Pool. A visit to the estate also allows guests to explore the Hearst Ranch Winery, which offers exquisite Chardonnays with ocean views.
A version of this story first appeared in the June 2020 issue of iBestTravel under the headline A Place in the Sun. Vespera on Ocean provided support for the reporting of this story.
