Vines & Vibes: Crafting the Perfect Santa Ynez Getaway

Napa Valley may get all the attention, and be seen as a ritzy and picaresque way to go wine tasting, and it is wonderful, but what if we told you there was another place, where the wine is just as good, and the vibes are far less pretentious, with a rustic, small town charm? Let us introduce you to the Santa Ynez Valley. Featured prominently in the fantastic film “Sideways”, Santa Ynez Valley is home to some of the best vineyards in the country, Michelin Star restaurants, and a rustic cowboy aesthetic that at times make it seem an unlikely destination for premium wine tasting. Don’t be fooled though, as Santa Ynez’s mountains and vineyards are just as green, hilly, and gorgeous as anything you’ll see in Napa.

Santa Ynez Valley is made up of 5 tiny little towns (Buellton, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, Solvang, and Los Alamos), all with very distinct vibes, attractions, incredible wine, and really great food. There is everything from zip -lining to horseback riding, to motorcycle museums and waterfalls, and tons of good old-fashioned Saloons. But don’t get worried or feel overwhelmed, because we are here to guide you through each town, and tell you what you can’t miss, and everywhere we love to eat and drink in this incredible valley, so you can plan the perfect getaway!!!

Immerse Yourself In Solvang's Danish Culture

Immerse yourself in the enchanting Danish ambiance of Solvang. Wander through charming streets lined with half-timbered buildings, and of course snap some photos of the Solvang Windmill. Solvang is also home to danish museums like Elverhøj Museum of History & Art, or Wilding Art Museum, you can also go to the gorgeous Spanish Mission Saint Ines, and you absolutely can't go here without having some pancake balls at Solvang Restaurant, which was featured in the film Sideways.

Sample The Wine At Gainey Vineyard... and many more!

Embark on a wine-tasting adventure at Gainey Vineyard. Sample their exceptional selection of wines while enjoying panoramic views of the Santa Ynez Valley. Don't forget to stroll through the lush vineyards for a truly immersive experience.

Unleash Your Inner Cowboy At Maverick Saloon

For a taste of the Old West, head to Maverick Saloon in Santa Ynez. This iconic establishment offers live music, a dance floor, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Shop and Sip in Los Olivos

Los Olivos beckons with its art galleries, boutiques, and wine-tasting rooms. Sip on local wines as you peruse the unique shops, finding treasures and souvenirs to commemorate your Santa Ynez adventure.

Dine at Michelin Star Restaurants

Indulge in culinary excellence at one of Santa Ynez's Michelin-starred restaurants. Let your taste buds dance with exquisite flavors and impeccable service, turning a meal into a memorable experience. Bell's in Los Alamos is one of the coziest and most delicious french spots in California, and offers a Prix fixe menu, they have very specific hours, but it's a one of a kind experience. The Hitching Post 2 in Buellton was featured heavily in the film Sideways, and is a smoke/steakhouse that makes their own wine and has incredible food, getting a table can be tough as it's one of the buzziest spots in town. Finally, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention Coast Range in Solvang, which is a Michelin star restaurant that has a diverse menu but takes great pride in English classics like Beef Wellington.

Hike Nojoqui Falls

Escape to the serenity of Nojoquito Falls. Hike through picturesque trails, revel in the beauty of cascading waterfalls, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. A nature lover's paradise awaits.

Eat And Shop Your Way Through The Farms

Discover the agricultural treasures of Santa Ynez. Tour lavender farms, olive oil groves, and local food producers to gain insight into the region's rich bounty. For lunch and great wine we absolutely love Vega Farms Vineyard or Robley Winery, they have great menus and picaresque settings.

Go Horseback Riding

Experience the beauty of Santa Ynez from a different perspective by embarking on a horseback riding adventure. Traverse scenic trails, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding near Los Olivos offers lots of different tours and riding options.

Hit the Chumash Casino

Feeling lucky? Try your hand at Chumash Casino for a night of entertainment. Whether you're into slots, poker, or live shows, the casino offers a vibrant atmosphere for a thrilling evening.

Drop in at Lake Cahuma and go Kayaking

Head to Lake Cachuma for a kayaking adventure. Paddle along the tranquil waters surrounded by rolling hills, and perhaps spot some wildlife along the way.

See Some Ostriches

Make a pit stop at an ostrich farm for a unique experience. Get up close and personal with these fascinating birds and learn more about their habits and habitats. Ostritchland USA in Solvang is open 7 days a week and has lots of Ostriches and Emus for you to spend some time with.

Buy Cowboy Gear

Embrace the cowboy spirit by visiting Jedlicka's Saddlery. Pick up authentic cowboy gear, from hats to boots, and channel your inner Western enthusiast.

Go Golfing

Tee off at the scenic Alisal Ranch Golf Course. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, this golfing haven offers a relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors, and offers a competitive course as it partners with the PGA.

Be A Daredevil and Try Ziplining

If you've never given Zip-lining a try, there are few places better to start than in Southern California. Highline Adventures in Buellton offers tons of different experiences, for beginners and experts, so you can glide through the incredible mountain range and take in all the beautiful views.

MOST IMPORTANT: Stop at Cold Spring Tavern

If you're coming from Los Angeles or Santa Barbara, you'll pass a little spot called Cold Spring Tavern, somewhat deep in the mountains that has quickly become one of California's best kept secrets. It's a biker bar turned restaurant that is as cozy and rustic as it gets - but serves up some of the best tri tip steak sandwiches you'll have in your life. It's a gorgeous and secluded are brimming with charm and we dream about those sandwiches everyday. So take the 30 minute journey outside of Santa Ynez one day and stop by!