Visiting Southern California’s Wine Country
If you plan to visit Southern California’s wine country, you’re in for a real treat. This gorgeous stretch of California is ripe for adventure. Not only are there over 50 wineries in the area but the magnificent climate and fantastic things to do make this an amazing place for a getaway. Here, we cover some of the best parts of visiting Southern California’s wine country, from visiting vineyards to basking in the amazing microclimate that makes growing grapes possible in this part of the world.
Southern California’s Climate
Temecula Valley is home to a unique microclimate that sets it apart from the rest of California. Mornings start with a light mist, followed by a warm midday sun and cooling afternoon breezes. The nights are cooler, making for the ideal summer weather almost year-round. Not only does the weather make this a stunning place to visit, but the unique granite-based soil and geography make this a perfect location to grow grapes. No wonder so many different vineyards are set up in Temecula Valley!
Because of the lovely ocean breezes sweeping through the Valley, Temecula has incredible air quality, and the temperature follows a routine pattern throughout the year. Most areas see temperatures as high as 85°F and as low as 39°F in the winter (29°C to 4°C). The climate in the area is best described as “Mediterranean,” with dry summers and winters with very little rain. Temecula Valley is amazing to visit, no matter what time of year.
Best Times to Visit Southern California Wine Country
While Temecula Valley has some of the most beautiful scenery and weather, some key times to visit will take your breath away. The first must-visit time is when the vines are in full bloom. This happens around April, with harvest kicking off in September. If you want to see the grape vines wreathed in flowers, April is the best time to visit various vineyards. This means you can sip wine while you watch new grapes grow on the vine in a beautiful circle of life moment.
Another fantastic time to visit Southern California wine country is in the late fall, right around the end of the harvest season, while the vines are turning beautiful colors. This time of year has some of the best weather, where it’s warmer during the day and cool at night, making it perfect for cuddling up by the fire.
Of course, the best time of year to visit Southern California is whenever you head toward this area. Not only is the weather lovely almost all year, but you can set up wine tastings throughout the year, meaning you can taste the wonderful wines while you watch the seasons change in the Valley.
Where to Stay near Temecula Valley
If you’re looking for places to stay in Southern California wine country, you’re in luck! Not only are there countless hotels and winery resorts, but there are plenty of quaint Air B&Bs to choose from. If you’re looking for a place to stay in the heart of wine country, check out some of the winery resorts that dot the Valley. These resorts usually border the vineyard, allowing you to explore the winery and vineyard on foot while staying in ultimate luxury. While wine might not be included in your stay, there’s plenty to choose from, so you can get the full experience by staying at one of these resorts.
Suppose you’re looking for a more classic place to stay in the Valley. In that case, there are plenty of hotels throughout Old Temecula, so you can enjoy the Mission-style aesthetics of old buildings before returning to your comfortable hotel room. These hotels are usually within walking distance of several restaurants and bars, so you’ll have plenty of places to explore during your visit.
Of course, if you want all the comforts of home while on your trip, you can always check out some of the quaint Air B&B offerings around Southern California wine country. Air B&B gives you more traveling options, allowing you to rent full homes or single rooms. This means you can travel solo or with friends without struggling to find a hotel room.
Top Things to Do in Southern California Wine Country
There are plenty of vineyards in wine country, so why not explore the Valley on horseback? Horse-friendly trails throughout the Valley allow you to see Southern California’s natural beauty from a new angle. Not only can you find countless places offering horseback riding in Temecula, but you may even find a vineyard resort that offers horseback tours, allowing you to get the full wine-country experience.
If you’ve had your fill of exploring the Valley from the ground, how about from a bird’s eye view? Temecula is known for its hot air balloon tours, especially sunrise and sunset tours. These tours take you over vineyards and mountains, allowing you to see the countryside from above. We recommend going on a hot air balloon tour when the vineyards are changing color, as the resulting patchwork of fields is absolutely breathtaking.
Of course, what better way to explore the vineyards in Southern California wine country than with a wine-tasting tour? Best Coast Tours’ wine-tasting tour includes custom pickup and drop-off locations and climate-controlled transportation to and from the vineyards. You get a wonderful tasting at three separate wineries, a vineyard tour, and a fourth stop for lunch (not included). Of course, the tour starts long before you reach the vineyard, with experienced tour guides giving you interesting tidbits along the way. If you’re looking for a fantastic guided tour through the heart of wine country, schedule your spot today.
Whether you’re looking to explore Southern California wine country or want to head to the coast, Best Coast Tours has plenty of offerings for you. Check out our other tours to discover more and experience Southern California like you’ve never seen it before.