Temecula, California offers visitors beautiful views and an affordable alternative to Napa Valley. Conveniently located near Los Angeles and San Diego, this oasis of wineries, scenic views and hot air balloons is the perfect spot to take a new date or rekindle that flame with a loved one. It does not matter whether it is the summer or fall, Temecula’s consistently warm weather and its romantic atmosphere is always an ideal location for lovers.
Temecula has some great options when it comes to wineries and other activities. It really is an ideal spot for that baecation you have been planning this year.
Here are some of our choices for things to do in Temecula.
Best Wineries in Temecula’s Wine Country for a Romantic Visit
Temecula’s wine country has over 40 options to choose from in a 33,000 acre radius. It is the largest viticultural area of Southern California yet and a hidden gem. Here’s a breakdown of the best wineries in Temecula, California for visiting couples wanting to romance their way into a stupor.
Callaway Vineyard & Winery
Callaway was the first winery to open its doors in the Temecula valley area in 1974 and sits on 20 acres of land. The Callaway Vineyard’s wine is only available through tasting rooms at the Temecula Winery or online; visitors will not find it bottled in retail stores. The winery offers different experiences for visitors, with the first option being a wine tour that costs $20 per person and the second a $40 per person wine tour and tasting (that provides tastings of six different wines).
The winery also a restaurant on its premises. The Meritage restaurant sits atop the rolling hills of the vineyard and has a refined and sleek architecture. The restaurant takes reservations and prides itself on providing seasonal and fresh cuisine (with distinguished menu offerings like pan seared scallops, heirloom tomato ratatouille and of course, charcuterie).
Miramonte Winery
Miramonte is known for its casual and relaxed atmosphere. The 13 acre winery is open late (closes between 6-8 p.m. to be exact, which is late night for a winery) and has weekly live entertainment for its guests to enjoy. The Bistro is the winery’s dining option that offers popular menu items like pesto burrata, charcuterie boards and flatbreads. Guests can check out Miramonte’s website to reserve tables or wine tastings (which start at $25).
Wilson Creek Winery
Wilson Creek Winery is a premier venue that hosts weddings and private events on its over 70 acre lands. This winery has a mansion located a short distance from the Wilson Creek Winery that can lodge up to 24 guests. The estate manor has 10 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms, with scenic views overlooking wine country. The Creekside Grille restaurant offers a warm and inviting environment for winery guests that have worked up an appetite during its one hour long tour (that costs $40 per person).
Ponte Winery
The Ponte Winery is a stunning property that is lined with Italian gardens and a one acre pond. The venue is located in the heart of Temecula’s wine country and is known for its laid back country ambiance. With one of the largest vineyards in Temecula, which sits at 300 acres, this winery has plenty to go around. One hour vineyard estate tours cost $60 per person but include wine tastings and ample information regarding the art of winemaking. Ponte Winery has two different dining experiences available for guests, both of which take reservations. The restaurant at Ponte has year long outdoor seating and offers assorted seafood, sandwiches and pizzas. Bouquet Restaurant and Bar, on the other hand, offers brunch and dinner options like chilean sea bass.
Thrilling Activities To Do With Your Partner in the Temecula Area
A Hot Air Balloon Ride for Quality Time
A hot air balloon ride may be the perfect excursion for couples visiting the Temecula area. Whether the heart-racing heights interest you or if popping the question is the next big step, the lofty views will be profound. Fly over lush vineyards and soft hills in what visitors should expect to be a 60-75 minute minute ride.
Try Your Luck at the Pechanga Resort Casino
For the adventurous couple that likes a high energy environment and likes to take chances, the Pechanga Resort and Casino is the perfect getaway. The resort is owned by the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Native Americans. As one of the largest resort/casinos in the country, Pechanga Resort Casino is easily one of the best casinos in the West. It is at the center of the Temecula Valley and is a 200,000 square foot attraction surrounded by Temecula’s mountains. Along with the casino being open 24/7, it offers luxe accommodations, a two level spa, 12 restaurants and a golf course.
Horseback Riding in a Vineyard
Couples can book equestrian tours of the wine country that include leisurely wine testing. For special occasions, guests can order a horse drawn carriage to lead the way on the trail. The Temecula carriage and wine country trails are popular options for couples looking to reconnect.
