Christopher
Communications Mgr
Paso Robles
As a representative of Paso Robles Wine Country, I would be remiss if I did not mention wine, wine country, wineries and/or vineyards throughout my suggested 72 hour itinerary. However, since I do represent the entire area, how could, or would I, do that fairly? That being said, I decided to give my three day sojourn throughout the County without specifics on wine, but rather a disclaimer – that all of Paso Robles Wine Country is there for discovery and can be entwined throughout a 3 day stay in the area. I would highly recommend having a Paso Robles Wine Country tour brochure in hand to navigate your way around. You can get one free in advance by going to http://www.pasowine.com/.
Day One – Friday
Up early, off to the beach. Cambria and San Simeon is a 30-40 minute drive from Paso Robles, and definitely feels like a world away. I go to the beach to surf, but my wife enjoys the solitude of sitting on the beach with a good book. A pre-surf coffee and pastry can be had at the Rainbow coffee house, at the east end of Cambria. The Big Sur roast is perfect on a chilly morning.
The Cambria and San Simeon coastline offers plenty of little nooks and crannies to view the edge of our continent. The beach areas along the north coast of San Luis Obispo County are rugged and beautiful. An alternative exists along Moonstone Beach, where a wooden walkway, recently built by the California Conservation Corps, lines the bluff and offers benches at prime focal points. It is accessible for all and stretches a good distance.
After a surf, there’s nothing like Mexican food for lunch. Medusa’s in Cambria fills the need. My wife prefers their Butternut Squash Enchiladas; I usually go for the Carnitas. That, along with chips & salsa and a cold beer…Heaven. The north coast isn’t just surfing or strolling along the beach, you can go hiking, camping, bird watching, or just stand in awe of the Elephant Seals up Highway 1 near Hearst Castle.
The drive back to Paso Robles along Highway 46 takes you past a number of wineries. A turn down a driveway, or back road can lead you on a little adventure anywhere in Paso Robles Wine Country. Follow the signs, and it won’t lead you astray. For now, I think I am going to go home and have a nap.
Friday evenings are perfect for the movies. Downtown Paso Robles offers an array of excellent dining and entertainment choices, including a few tasting rooms. After a quick bite to eat with our friends at Villa Creek restaurant, we are off to the movies. The movie theatre sits at the south-east corner of the downtown city park. This park is the site of many events throughout the year, including the Paso Robles Wine Festival, the West Coast Kustoms Car Show and the Olive Festival. Its right out of a Norman Rockwell painting, complete with a bandstand and Carnegie Library in the center. It’s also perfect for a stroll after the movies, with confections in one hand and your spouse at the other.
Day Two – Saturday
After I return from the beach, its time to go shopping. First we stop in the town of Templeton, to go to the weekly Farmers Market. Fresh produce, locally raised beef, and lots of great treats. It’s held around two sides of the Templeton square park and I highly recommend it. Seasonal items can always be found here, my favorite are the pistachio nuts from NPO.
Next we head down to Pismo Beach and pull into the Pismo Beach Outlets. Not my favorite thing to do, but my wife seems to like this thing called “Shopping”. It’s amazing how hungry one can get while “Shopping” and it’s a good thing that Giovanni’s pizza is in Pismo. A big slice of cheese pizza seems to reenergize me to go and shop more. Luckily she has had her fill and we head back up to Paso Robles, only a quick 30 minute drive from Pismo Beach.
With friends in town, I would highly recommend going to The WineYard at Steinbeck Vineyards. This is an educational experience where one can learn about farming wine grapes and how it translates into premium wines. This is a one of a kind experience, and trust me, you walk away with a whole new appreciation for wine.
It’s dinner time, and once again we head to downtown Paso Robles. The unique array of dining possibilities can suit any craving. Tonight we head to sushi. Yes, that’s right, sushi in Paso Robles. And it’s great! Sushi wouldn’t be complete without a bunch of friends, so I would recommend making a reservation early. This goes for just about any restaurant in Paso Robles. The weekends tend to be busy with locals heading out for dinner, so once you’ve settled on a restaurant, I would pick up the phone and be sure to get a spot.
Day Three – Sunday
After church, its time to head out for a hearty country breakfast and Hoover’s Beef Palace is perfect to fill up for the day. Hoovers is in Templeton, right next to the livestock auction yard. The absolute best bacon is here, and plates that can satisfy the hunger of any hearty eater.
In the summertime, when temperatures rise in Paso Robles, a perfect retreat is to go to the lake. We are fortunate enough to have two to choose from – Lake Nacimiento and Lake San Antonio. Both located just about 25 – 35 minutes outside of town to the north-west. Since we don’t own a boat, we rent one and meet up with some friends who have a ski boat. A perfect lazy day in the sun, on the water, and away from our busy lives. Remember the sun block!
Hopefully my 3 days in Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo County have inspired you to visit, or has given you some ideas as to how a local may spend a few days vacationing at home. A small piece of advice, if you are coming to the area for an event, plan ahead and make your room reservation early!
