A Romantic Weekend in Temecula, California’s Wine Country

The nearest airports are Ontario International (ONT) and San Diego International (SAN), each a little over an hour away. Hire a car to take you directly to your hotel and settle in. From there, rideshares or hired cars are readily available to take you between destinations in the valley during your weekend stay.

With over 50 wineries, restaurants and tasting rooms in the Temecula Valley, it is difficult to know where to begin. To kick off your romantic weekend, I suggest a delicious dinner at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa’s Vineyard Rose restaurant. Ask your server which of their local wines to enjoy with your meal. I personally recommend one of their Syrahs. Insider tip: The wine-growing region of the Temecula valley is similar in climate to Northern Italy, so some say the local red wines are preferred; however, many of their sweeter white wines are highly recommended. Wilson Creek Winery and South Coast Winery are both known for their whites.

After dinner, head to The Cellar for drinks and live music. This speakeasy is hidden away under the lobby of The Ponte Vineyard Inn and is a perfect spot to wrap up the first evening of your romantic weekend.

The next morning, start slow with a late brunch at Carter Estate Winery & Resort’s poolside cafe, The Vineyard Grill. This quaint eatery is a hidden gem and it is open to the public, not just hotel guests. Its laid-back vibe is an ideal way to ease into your day.

Few things are as romantic as a horseback ride through the vineyards. If the weather is nice, enjoy a leisurely stroll on horseback or hire a horse-drawn carriage for an even more relaxing experience. Try Wine Country Trails by Horseback, Temecula Horse & Carriage or Temecula Carriage Company.

After horseback riding, you will have worked up an appetite. Grab a rideshare and head to lunch at The Barrel Room, Cave Cafe at Oak Mountain Winery. Enjoy a delicious meal at a romantic table for two nestled amongst the wine barrels in their man-made cave or enjoy live music out on their patio. After dinner, take a relaxing walk through the vineyards.

For dinner, enjoy Peltzer Winery’s Food Truck Alley. This farm-style winery is known for its food trucks, live music and inclusive vibe.

Nothing says romance quite like listening to the smooth sounds of the barn out under the stars. For a truly unique experience, finish your day at Baily Vineyards and enjoy a performance of Shakespeare in the Vines in their outdoor theater. This venue holds performances throughout the year, but they reserve their larger plays for the summer months.

For the final morning of your romantic weekend, it is time for an epic adventure. Temecula Valley is famous for its scenic hot air balloon rides and your romantic weekend would not be complete without one. Reserve a spot with The Grape Escape or California Dreamin’ Balloon Adventures for an unforgettable morning.

After your feet are back on solid ground, head to Altisima Winery for a wine-tasting and lunch at Gaspar’s Restaurant. Their terrace offers breathtaking views of the valley and the Spanish-inspired menu has something for everyone.

If you have time, try to squeeze in a tour at Callaway Vineyard & Winery. It boasts the oldest vineyard and tasting room in the valley. Their 45-minute tours, held at 12 and 2 every day, walk you through the entire wine-making process. Grab a bite at their Meritage Restaurant, known for its delicious farm-to-table offerings and one of the most beautiful dining views in the valley. A perfect spot to wrap up your romantic weekend.

Sadly, it is time to leave Temecula’s Wine Country and head home. I can attest, you and your partner will quickly make plans to return!