Cheers! These are the Top 4 Spots for Affordable Wine Country Vacations

Napa Valley may be the most famous U.S. wine country destination, but it’s no longer the only game in town. Temecula, Mendocino, and Paso Robles are just a few of the emerging hot spots where you can get a great glass of pinot noir for a fraction of the cost of a pricey Napa Valley getaway. Here, we’ve rounded up four of the best wine country vacations for raising your glass without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, hit the road and get ready to savor some of California’s best grapes. All of these resorts are in close proximity to wine tours, vineyards, and tasting rooms. Cheers!

The SummerWood Inn

This nine-room inn is conveniently situated on the grounds of the SummerWood Winery. The Central California hotel features picturesque views of the rolling coastal terrain, vineyards, and majestic oaks. Guests can enjoy a farm-fresh cooked-to-order breakfast, afternoon wine-and-appetizer tastings, and nightly turndown service with handmade caramels. The SummerWood Winery & Inn is also in close proximity to restaurants and shops in downtown Paso Robles and neighboring wineries. Rates start at $300 per night. 

Ponte Vineyard Inn

 

Temecula is one of Southern California’s fastest-growing and affordable wine destinations. This chic 90-room hotel offers stunning views of the Ponte Family Estate vineyards, botanical gardens, and the surrounding mountain range. Stroll through the vineyards, take a dip in the Olympic-sized swimming pool, or learn to blend your own grapes with the inn’s Wine Blending Experience package. Rates start at $176 per night. 

Hotel Corque

This luxury boutique hotel is located in the heart of Solvang, a charming Dutch-inspired village about 45 minutes from Santa Barbara. Hotel Corque offers everything from wine tasting to gaming to horseback riding to golf. It’s also walking distance to local wineries and vineyards, making it the perfect place to settle in for a good night’s rest or a cocktail at the rooftop bar after a long day of visiting some of  Central California’s best wines. Rates start at $240 per night. 

Brewery Gulch Inn

This northern California inn boasts breathtaking views of the Mendocino forest and coastline. The rustic Arts and Crafts-style inn features eco-friendly salvaged redwood furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a cozy fireplace room. Guests at Brewery Gulch Inn will also enjoy the complimentary organic breakfast and wine-tasting happy hour, which showcases some of the innkeeper’s favorite varietals in this quaint seaside town. Rates start at $385 per night. 

We want to hear about your best wine country vacations! Tell us your favorite destinations in the comments!