Three days in Paso Robles wine country on California’s central coast begs the question – why have I waited so long to see the rolling hills, the patch-work land patterns, and the diversity of wines? With over 250 wineries opening their doors and 33,000 vineyard acres planted, the choices are yours to make. Just get there, soon.
Paso Robles, situated in San Luis Obispo county is beautiful country, with farm-to-table fare, a laid-back pace, and down-to-earth people, inviting you to pull up a chair and stay awhile. We did!
Getting there from LAX
Driving North from Los Angeles (approximately 3.5 hours with a stop for lunch) to swirl, smell, sip and spit in Paso Robles, just take US 101 North. Downtown Paso Robles is off of the Spring Street exit and welcomes you to the historic downtown square. Our home-away-from-home while in Paso Robles was the Hotel Cheval. Hotel Cheval is a 16-room, 4-star boutique hotel located in downtown Paso Robles, California. The hotel was established in the spring of 2007 by its owners, Robert and Sherry Gilson, after spending two and a half years meticulously developing the concept and location. Their interest in hospitality, real estate, and design led them to open this hotel, which seamlessly blends together the town’s equestrian roots with European elegance. The name of the hotel, “Hotel Cheval,” is French for “Horse Hotel.” The hotel’s 16 rooms are named after renowned racehorses and are adorned with equine memorabilia. Additionally, the hotel features a Parisian-inspired wine bar, the Pony Club, where guests can savor their favorite wines. Conveniently located half a block from the main square, Hotel Cheval is in close proximity to some of Paso Robles’ best restaurants, making it a great choice for those who want to experience the town’s culinary delights.
Settle in and then call Kenny Clark, our driver/tour guide for the next three days. Kenny knows Paso! He is the best – he knows the history of the wineries and Paso geography. Oh, did I forget to say, he brought us wonderful goodies to keep us nourished during our daily outings. Kenny’s phone number is 805-610-4990.
Where to Stay
Accommodations in the Paso Robles area range from vineyard inns, resorts with all the amenities, a vintage trailer, or Hotel Cheval, a luxury boutique hotel.
Hotel Cheval delighted us. Our original plan included a short stay in Los Olivos at the Fess Parker Inn. Nature interrupted our plans with a fire raging in the neighboring town of Buellton, California. Long story short – change of plans. We headed to Paso Robles a day early. Cheval accommodated us, graciously.
Hotel Cheval is perfectly located in the downtown area. Shopping, dining and tasing rooms complete the village square and are within walking distance from the hotel. Luxury and Cheval go hand-in-hand. Our rooms were well-appointed, service outstanding, and candy jars in the library made this destination just perfect. The Pony Club Wine bar has a charming outdoor patio. Make sure to enjoy small bites or a wine flight while in downtown Paso.
Vineyards Explored
Day One:
- majestic views (featured photo on this blog article is DAOU)
- culinary pairings
- great wine
- NOT TO BE MISSED – make it your first winery
- interesting history of the DAOU brothers
- organic vineyard
- biodynamic animal program (animals live on the soil and fertilize it)
- top wines: CÔTES DE TABLAS Blanc and Picpoul Blanc
- certified organic vineyards, or in-process of being so
- emphasis on Zinfandel and Petite Syrah.
- fabulous 2017 Pesenti Vineyard Grenche Blanc
- Fell in love with the Grenache and enjoying at home.
Day Two:
- dynamite grenache blanc wine
- lunch on outdoor patio
- small-lot wines
- nine room luxury inn
- Michele Conors – you made our day
- fruit forward wines
- sustainable agricultural practices
- Eric Ogorsolka, winemaker
- sustainable Bordeaux and Rhône style wines
- MUST see covered bridge leads (set the table please)
Day Three:
- educational and exciting wine tour
- lunch on the patio (farm-to-table)
- Isosceles – put Paso Robles on the map
- gorgeous wines
Cheese Plates to go
Vivant Fine Cheese – the best cheese plate in Paso Robles!! Marcona almonds, dried fruit, fresh local bread and salami.
Looking for an excellent masseuse while in Paso Robles? Three minutes from Hotel Cheval, call Ellen at Plus Massage, Paso Robles
803-835-9798. Ellen rocks!
Here is hoping that the celebrated vineyards we visited, sipped, and purchased from while spending time in Paso Robles, California helps you fine-tune your own itinerary. Paso Wine
