If you can’t even remotely remember the last time you had a little time just for the two of you, perhaps you’re ready for a romance intervention. No need to fuss with fancy candles, hard-to-pin-down dinner reservations or far-flung locations. Simply head to passionate Paso Robles Wine Country (located in the midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, it’s closer than you think). Try these 5 romantic date night ideas for a quick reboot of the heart. Yes, when you’re in Paso Robles, rekindling the fire can be as easy as popping a cork and swirling a glass. Ooh la la!
1. Bring Back that First Date Feeling
When the quaint street lights flicker to life in historic downtown Paso Robles, the twilight takes on a magical hue. Recapture the whimsy of your first date as you stroll with your darling downtown, where more than a dozen tasting rooms and even more dining haunts offer up tantalizing tasting adventures. Indulge your senses—and try hundreds of varietials all without leaving Paso’s dynamic epicenter. That leaves more time for you and your lovey to swirl and smooch! Thomas Hill Organics is legendary for its local (and worldly) wines as is their amazing dessert bar featuring locally-made desserts and inspired by the “dessert rooms” Debbie, the owner, encountered while traveling throughout Spain. Stop in for small plates laden with locally sourced goodness, a wine flight and a tasty dessert you’ll remember for years to come.
For quick, easy mapping and directions to Thomas Hill Organics including a one click to hail UBER or Lyft click here
2. Paso Wine and Chill
Netflix and chill? This modern pairing is far better when accompanied by a bold bottle of Paso Robles wine, don’t you think? We suggest you press pause on the latest episode of your favorite show and draw up a bubble bath. A little intermission is incomplete without a beverage, of course. A glass of sumptuous red has a way of slowing down the moment so it’s just you, your true love and sweetness on your lips. Seven Oxen’s 2015 Cassidy, Rhone Blend is sensual and fruity, with notes of red cherry and flirty spice. Do not disturb!
For quick, easy mapping and directions to Seven Oxen including a one click to hail UBER or Lyft click here
3. Star in your own rom-com
You’ll feel like you’re in one of those over the top romantic comedies (and your Instagram pics will corroborate that story). In Paso, hundreds of acres of verdant vineyards stretch on into the blue horizon, sending any couple into a dreamy kind of mood. Pack a picnic and feel the Paso Robles sun on your skin (with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Paso Robles is the perfect place to cozy up with your love this fall). Take a tour of Lusso Della Terra winery and you may just decide to retire in Paso Robles in a few years. Thinking of a proposal? Pop the question and you can even plan your wedding at the winery, surrounded by San Miguel’s majestic rolling hills. Happily ever after may just be in the cards.
For quick, easy mapping and directions to Lusso Della Terra including a one click to hail UBER or Lyft click here
4. Forget the Reservations
Enjoy all the romance of a fancy date lunch without the snarled traffic, hard-to-snag reservations or snooty servers. In Paso Robles, casual is key. Here, you’ll find spectacular fine dining options that celebrate the seasonal bounty without requiring a sport coat. Whether you wear flip flops, cowboy boots or stilettos, you’ll receive a top notch menu at Parrish Family Vineyard, where you can savor and lounge to your heart’s content. Think walnut and lentil paté served with house made cabernet sauvignon sourdough or baked ricotta with choice of local olive oil poached tomatoes or truffle honey served with multigrain bread. Yes, you’ll get this immersive epicurean experience among the vineyards on the patio or inside with views that go on forever. No white table cloth required.
For quick, easy mapping and directions to Parrish Family Vineyard including a one click to hail UBER or Lyft click here
5. Tease your Senses
Delight your sweetheart with a night of playful tasting. Select a few bottles of Paso Robles wine—from lightest to darkest—and pair with a platter of sweets, cheeses, and fruit. Spice it up even further with a few blindfolds. Take turns guessing which wine is what. You’ll most likely end up laughing and cheering each other on! Funny how the little things become so much more delicious when you take the time out of our busy schedule to really savor. Make sure to pick up a few sweet options too (variety is the spice of life—and any relationship). We suggest Hearst Ranch Winery 2016 Muscat of Alexandria replete with enticing flavors of tropical fruits layered harmoniously with zesty citrus undertones. OR Hearst Ranch Winery 2014 Enchantment Late Harvest Zinfandel. This Zin has the power to warm the soul on cold evenings or rainy days. Herbaceous red fruit and chocolate kick off the flavor profile and are supported with a nice raspberry mid palate that fades to lengthy finish dominated by oak, cinnamon, and maple flavors beneath the beautiful dried fruit. Sweet! That’s just the start of it.
For quick, easy mapping and directions to Hearst Ranch Winery including a one click to hail UBER or Lyft click here
This blog is written by flavor fiend Hayley Cain. Follow her @flavorslo on Instagram or at astoldbyhayley.com.
Looking for a place to stay in Paso Robles?
The Adelaide Inn is an iconic, lo
cally owned hotel known for its friendly staff and lush landscaping. With spacious rooms and a convenient location close to highway 101 and the event center – home of the California Mid-State Fair – this hotel is a great choice for most travelers. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/AdelaideInn
Majestically set among vineyards, olive groves and fruit baring orchards, the 20-acre Allegretto Vineyard Resort is a world unto itself, offering breathtaking settings that inspire and bring joy to all who choose this memorable wine country haven. Featuring 171 rooms and suites, on-site spa, grand ballroom, wine tasting room, and inspired culinary creations at Cello, the resort’s full service restaurant.
Directions: speedfind.com/Allegretto
Wouldn’t you love to wake up among the vines? Eden House at Carriage Vineyards Bed & Breakfast is on a real working vineyard and longhorn ranch in the Paso Robles Wine Region. Our rooms overlook vineyards, creeks and oaks, right in the Paso Robles Wine Country of Central California.
Directions: speedfind.com/edenhouse
Spend an idyllic getaway at Briarwood Cottage at ONX Estate Vineyards in an English-cottage inspired vineyard-side home. Guests may rent rooms in the main cottage, reserve the entire main cottage for a large group, or book the fully equipped apartment. Wake up to peaceful vineyard views and spend twilight hours sipping wine on the back porch of the cottage. It’s a time you won’t quickly forget. Contact us for pricing and availability (see form below). Case, 6 Bottle, and 4 Bottle Collective Members receive preferred pricing.
Directions: speedfind.com/BriarCottage
Hampton Inn & Suites Paso Robles is nestled in the Central Coast wine region, home to over 200 wineries, beautiful beaches, mountains and diverse attractions. Relax and revive in a comfortable guest room with all you need for a successful stay. You can count on Hampton to deliver value, consistency and service with a smile. We love having you here®
Directions: speedfind.com/PRWine.HamptonInn
Treat yourself to the ultimate Paso Robles wine country experience by booking your stay at The Inn at Opolo Vineyards. Guests enjoy our luxurious, spacious rooms and all of the sensory pleasures of Paso Robles in one destination. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/oploVineyards
Enjoy the elegance, style and natural beauty of California’s Central Coast at the JUST Inn®. Surrounded by vineyards, our JUST Inn Suites offer luxurious appointments like fireplaces, Tempur-Pedic®mattresses, Frette linens, hydro-spa tubs, and range in size from 600–1,200 square feet. An overnight stay includes breakfast and a tour of the winery and caves. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
La Bellasera Hotel & Suites is an elegant boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Central Coast Wine Country. Influenced by Mediterranean and Italian architecture, the luxurious accommodations reflect the aged sophistication of the Central Coast region and the relaxed nature of the California countryside.
Directions: speedfind.com/LaBellasera
Experience the pristine countryside of Paso Robles Wine Country at Lekai Ranch. Lounge on the porch of your private suite and lose yourself in the tranquility and stunning views of the vineyards and oak studded hills beyond. This vacation rental is located just minutes from some of the most distinguished wineries and a premier olive oil estate, and only 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles’ restaurants, wineries and shopping. TAKE AN AERIAL TOUR
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
Paso Robles Vacation Rentals, also known as PasoStay.com assists guests in creating memories and wonderful experiences by providing quality privately owned vacation home rentals in Paso Robles Wine Country. With over 90 vacation homes to choose from, small enough for a couple’s romantic getaway to large homes amongst local vineyards and olive orchards, PasoStay.com has the perfect option for you. Feel free to call 805-423-9174 to talk with a local expert or book online at PasoStay.com.
Directions: speedfind.com/PasoRoblesVacationRentals