Temecula. Quick Jaunt To Wine Country

A visit to the San Diego area is sure to include stops at the beach, Sea World and Balboa Park but an ever increasing destination lies just a few miles north of the county line: Temecula. Temecula boasts a charming wine country set in rolling hills, a rustic old town with antique shops and galleries, and a high end Indian gambling resort.

Temecula is about an hours drive from downtown San Diego just off of Interstate 15. Visiting the area can be done as either a day trip or you could spend the night at one of Temecula's hotels, bed and breakfasts or resorts.

If wine tasting is on your agenda, consider some of the many touring companies for a package including limo ride, wine tasting and lunch. To reach Temecula wine country, take the Rancho California Road exit off of Interstate 15 and go east about 5 miles. Once you pass Butterfield Stage Road, Thornton Winery on the right and Callaway on the left will greet you.

No matter how you get to Temecula wine country, you’ll delight in the breathtaking views, vine covered hills and unique wineries reminiscent of a Napa Valley tour – southern California style. From high end champagne wineries such as Thornton to smaller, intimate boutique wineries, Temecula wines offer something for everyone. Be sure to stop in at Maurice Carrie’s for their famous brie baked bread. Expect to pay between “Free” to $12 for wine tasting at each winery.

Temecula’s old town district is a fun little place for window shopping, antiquing and lunch. Sit out on the patio of one of the cafes and watch the motorcyclists cruise by on their Harleys or experience the fine dining offered at Baileys. Take in a show at the brand new Old Town Community Theatre or visit the Children’s Museum next door. If you don’t have a chance to go wine tasting in wine country, opt for one of the wine tasting bars located here.

If Las Vegas style gambling is more your speed, head over to Pechanga. The Pechanga Resort and Casino is located in Temecula off of Highway 79 South. The AAA Four Diamond rated resort is a beautiful property with 522 guest rooms and suites. In addition to gaming, Pechanga has become one of southern California’s premiere entertainment venues offering concerts, live championship boxing and Broadway performances.

Anytime of year is a great time to visit Temecula, be sure to add a stop when planning your San Diego vacation.