Southern California’s wine region is growing so fast, with new wineries popping up in the inland haven of Temecula Valley Wine Country mid-way between Los Angeles and San Diego. With a touch of class and a taste of wine, this is the best kept secret in Southern California for the wine enthusiast. It is becoming the go-to spot for old-world charm, outdoor activities, opulent wine tastings, and an abundance of top-tier accommodations and restaurants.
One of the most outstanding properties is the South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, sporting 63 acres of opulent vineyards and mature landscapes. This is the only full-service spa and winery resort that has emerged as one of the region’s most acclaimed and popular wineries, The crown jewel is the 17,000-square-foot GrapeSeed Spa. Nothing is spared at this romantic retreat, featuring a saltwater pool, two whirlpools, a full fitness center and outdoor patios. The best is indulging in some of the unique treatments with a comprehensive the spa menu, and then chilling out at the top deck overlooking the pool and landscape with a complimentary glass of the award winning still or sparkling wines. This is a destination spa resort that exudes relaxation on the finest level and a retreat that promises to delight all the senses
The resort has 50 guest suites and 82 villas that are the perfect setting for a weekend getaway. This is truly an impressive location for special events such as weddings, and other celebrations with the backdrop of lush rolling vineyards. The upgraded amenities are first class and recognized as a “Couples’ Choice Awards” winner by WeddingWire and The Knot in 2020 with picturesque scenery and picture perfect vignettes.
The piece de la resistance is the elegant, Tuscan-inspired dining room with a relaxing wine bar and terrace, The Vineyard Rose Restaurant serves contemporary California cuisine sourced from the season's freshest, locally-grown ingredients.
The old world charm of the resort extends to a vast array of other activities such as a horse-drawn carriage ride through the vineyards with the Temecula Carriage Company or Sunrise Hot-Air Balloon rides. The CrossCreek Golf Club and Pechanga Resort Casino and golf club are impressive greens for the golf enthusiast.
If you are seeking an escape but don’t want to deal with the hustle of crowds, Temecula is a popular destination with year round activities. The area attractions include more than 40 wineries and tastings of hundreds of award winning wines. The Carter Estate Winery and Resort is a stone’s throw across from the sister property, Southcoast Winery Resort and a little gem in the heart of wine country. The Carter Estate Winery is a family-owned business. Their wines are 100% estate grown, bottled and certified sustainable.
Situated on 112 pristine acres, Carter Estate Winery and Resort offers an unforgettable experience that allows guests direct access to vineyards from their patio. The tasting room is first class, with a high quality collection of wines. if you’re a sparkling wine aficionado, their award-winning selections are the best experience, as the space feels like a private estate club room. While you are able to indulge in both still and sparkling wines, sparkling wine is the only style wine that they produce at Carter Estate Winery and Resort wine production facilities. The luxurious bungalows and suites are spacious and the dramatic panoramic views expand to include the surrounding mountains in the distance. Each bungalow is well-appointed with a pre-selected bottle of wine, complimentary continental breakfast for two and a private patio to watch the sunset or the early morning hot air balloons. And don’t forget to bring your fur baby, where the Happy Hound will receive a Swag Bag of goodies at check-in!
The first-time visitor will be thrilled by the beautiful topography of Temecula and desire to explore the countryside, from the surrounding mountains, to site seeing the real estate, and local stores. The city of 110,000 or so people boasts beautiful ranch estates, vineyards, and farms growing citrus and avocado.
If you enjoy exploring naturally landscaped winding roads with flowering bushes and vineyards, this is a secret hideaway that evokes a sense of timeless beauty and rural charm.
