A Three Day Trip Filled With Fun, Sun, and Romance
The hills of the Temecula Valley are a flawless backdrop for a romantic getaway. Plus, with so much to do and see, you’ll have the chance for a little excitement and plenty of relaxation. It’s the perfect combination to create an amazing trip.
From wineries to breweries, you will taste your way through the valley and learn from expert beverage crafters. You’ll enjoy delicious food, great shopping, and the incredible outdoors. The weather is stunning, the scenery beautiful, and you’ll be with the one you adore. What’s not to love?
This itinerary will take you through the best of the best in and around Temecula. You’ll have a memorable getaway and create an even closer bond! So pack your bags and get ready for your romantic rendezvous. You’ll have an amazing time during these three days of fun in the SoCal sun!
Day One on Your Romantic Getaway in Temecula Valley
Adventure Upon Arrival
Whether you get there by plane, bus, car, or train, you’ve likely been cramped up while on your way to the area. Getting a chance to stretch your legs and move about will likely be welcomed relief. Plus, a few physical activities are the perfect way to kick off your getaway!
Hiking the Vail Lake Trail Near Temecula Valley
The Vail Lake Trail is the perfect opportunity to take in the area’s impressive landscape. The stunning mountain and lake views are incredibly romantic. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy the sunny weather and each other’s company.
The peaceful area is full of gorgeous plant and animal life. Keep your eyes peeled for feathered and furry friends along the way. Plus, the vibrant wildflowers are a beautiful contrast to the desert backdrop.
Don’t forget to take lots of photos while you explore. This is a hike you won’t want to soon forget. You can either go as far as you feel up to or take on the entire seven-mile loop. Either way, when you’re done, you’ll be ready to refuel.
Lunch and wine Tasting at Leoness Cellars in the Temecula Valley
After your excursion, it’s time for a delicious and well-deserved lunch. Head to Leoness Cellars for the perfect meal on the patio. This beautiful eatery has one of the most picturesque patios in the area. The dining room is also spacious and stunningly decorated.
Start in the tasting room with an amazing selection of the best vino from this family of expert winemakers. Enjoy the awe-inspiring view as you work your way through their red and white choices. Their sustainable farming practices let you know that you are sipping some of the highest quality wine that Temecula has to offer.
Then, get your taste buds ready for lunch from the seasonally rotating menu. You go opt for a light meal of crisp salad bursting with colorful produce. Maybe your hike revved up your appetite and you need something more satisfying like fish or pasta. Either way, the scratch kitchen ensures that you’ll get the freshest meal around.
If you have extra time, you can take a guided tour of the property. Learn about the history of the estate as you stroll through the sprawling rows of grapevines. You’ll get insight into everything from the farming practices at Leoness to their specific way of expertly barreling their wine.
Horseback Riding at Green Acres Ranch
The excitement isn’t over yet! Head over to Green Acres Ranch for a unique equine experience. Here, you’ll get to ride one of their sweet horses as you explore their fifty-acre ranch.
Your expert guide will teach you everything you need to know to have a safe and fun ride. You’ll learn all about the family-owned property, with a history dating back to 1957. Plus, you’ll have the chance to enjoy stunning views of the valley on horseback.
Learn from the experienced trainers as they introduce you to champion horses. Your hour-long ride will be full of memory-making fun. By the time you’re done, you will have more than earned an evening of relaxation.
Staying at South Coast Resort
It’s time to retreat to the resort and check-in. South Coast Winery Resort and Spa is the ideal place to stay in Temecula. With beautiful accommodations and amazing amenities, you simply won’t want to leave.
The hotel houses amazing suites that look out over the vineyard. They are well-appointed with a fireplace and the finest finishes. These spacious rooms are the perfect size for a couple to stay in comfortably.
You can also spring for a villa for the ultimate in romantic relaxation. These private accommodations feature secluded patios and stunning views. They also have hot tubs for the perfect bubble bath.
Whichever room you choose, you’ll have access to the resort’s luxurious amenities. Relax in the crystal clear saltwater pool, surrounded by towering palm trees and lush tropical foliage. You can even rent a cabana for some poolside privacy.
Dinner at the Vineyard Rose on Your Romantic Getaway in Temecula
You’ll end your day with dinner at the Vineyard Rose Restaurant. Luckily, you won’t have to go far. This delectable eatery is conveniently located right on the resort grounds.
This cozy dining area is perfect for a romantic dinner. The ambiance here is second to none. With warm lighting, wood beams, and opulent seating, you’ll settle in for an amazing meal.
Enjoy a menu full of locally grown ingredients. Choose from fresh salads to an abundance of meat and seafood options. You can even enjoy a charcuterie board at your table with a glass from the impressive wine list. Then, head back to your nearby room and rest up for the second day of your getaway.
Day Two On Your Romantic Getaway
Rejuvenation and Relaxation
Day two of your trip is all about rejuvenation and relaxation. This is your chance to kick back and enjoy everything that the Temecula Valley has to offer. Luckily, there are some great options to take it all in and reenergize.
Treatment at the Romantic Grapeseed Spa and Brunch in the Temecula Valley
What better way to begin your day than with a spa treatment? Awake and head straight to the on-site GrapeSeed Spa. You can create a couple’s experience to share in an amazing time.
You can opt for a cleansing facial to prep your skin for a day in the California sun. Or enjoy a healing massage to renew your muscles from the fun from day one. Either way, the stunning views, and expert care will guarantee a great experience.
Then, head back to The Vineyard Rose Restaurant for brunch on the sun-filled patio. You can also have your meal delivered to your room. The Bananas Foster Pancakes or Avocado Toast are delicious ways to fuel up for the day.
Take a Romantic Cable Car Tour in The Temecula Valley
Now it’s time to really dive into the wine offerings in the area. But driving to and from wineries isn’t exactly relaxing. It’s also not the safest option either. Luckily, a cable car can pick you up right in front of the resort and take the guesswork out of visiting the wineries for you.
You’ll spend five hours riding around on an adorable cable car touring the valley. Stopping at three carefully selected wineries, you’ll meet expert winemakers and learn about their practices. Together, you’ll taste a variety of wines, discovering new favorites.
This relaxing trip will allow you to enjoy the beautiful scenery as you move about the valley. Your expert guide will share fun facts and historical information about the area. The open-air cable car will allow you to relish in the beautiful Southern California weather.
Enjoy a stop for your included lunch during the tour. Your selection of healthy sandwich options and a fresh side is the best way to keep your energy up. Then, head back to the resort to freshen up for dinner.
Dinner at Il Tramonto Ristorante
It doesn’t get much more romantic than dim lighting and a cozy Italian eatery. Il Tramonto has the ideal atmosphere for a dreamy dinner. It’s exposed brick and charming lanterns give it tons of character. You can also choose to eat on the patio under the romantic twinkling lights.
Reminiscent of old Italy, the menu reflects the eatery’s authentic vibe. The classic family-owned restaurant is welcoming and ready to provide top-notch service. The food doesn’t disappoint either. With recipes handed down for generations, you’re sure to get an incredible meal.
Start your dinner with fresh bruschetta or savory calamari. The specialty pizzas choices and scratch-made pasta make delicious entrees. The handcrafted sauce is full of flavor and only the freshest ingredients.
As expected, Il Tramonto’s wine list is super extensive and diverse. Full of unique choices, you can toast with an organic Primitivo or a crisp Pinot Grigio. End your meal with one of the restaurant’s dessert wines or a glass of fizzy Prosecco.
You simply can’t leave without trying the chef’s family recipe tiramisu. Are you a cannoli fan? The restaurant’s house-made version is to die for. You can also order a half dozen of the almond cookies to take back to your hotel for a late-night snack.
NightCap at Refuge Brewery
The night’s not over yet. Head over to Refuge Brewery for a refreshing change from the wine tasting pace. Grab a table in the taproom to enjoy one of the craft brewery’s great beers. You can also order a flight and check out more offerings.
Refuge Brewery’s open taproom allows you to be part of the action. With twenty beers on tap, you can find your next fave brew. Will you try the award-winning Blood Orange Wit? Maybe you want something a little hoppier and will opt for the West Coast Red or Grapefruit IPA. Either way, you’re sure to find something you love among the brewery’s diverse offerings.
Day Three on Your Romantic Getaway in Temecula
Making Memories
Day three of your trip is all about making memories. A romantic getaway is a perfect time to experience amazing and unforgettable things together. Creating these memories will only tighten your bond as you enjoy each other’s company.
A Hot Air Balloon Flight is Very Romantic
Hot air balloon rides are super popular in Temecula and for good reason. The views of the valley from the sky above are unrivaled. Plus, this once in a lifetime experience is peaceful and exhilarating all at once.
Waking up early is well worth the stunning sights you’ll see as you soar through the sky. Arrive at A Grape Escape Hot Air Balloon Adventure in time to watch the sunrise. You can even help prep the balloon for take-off!
The Private Flight Package allows you to have your basket all to yourselves aside from your pilot. For about an hour, you’ll coast over the vineyards and mountains, taking in an amazing 360-degree view. Then, when you land, you can toast each other with mimosas or champagne. You’ll also get a souvenir certificate of your flight to remember your amazing time.
Brunch at Small Barn in Temecula
As you finish your flight, it will be the perfect time for brunch. Head over the Small Barn for a truly unique experience. A refurbished building from the early 1900s, the now-modern eatery has the perfect ambiance. Enjoy a cup of coffee on the charming porch swings as you wait for your table.
Snag a table on the covered patio or in the lounge by the fire. Settle in and check out the impressive menu. Top Chef star Angelo Sosa has focused on local ingredients to craft a creative menu full of diverse options.
Here, you can opt for a classic dish like Eggs Benedict or the Small Barn Burger. Wanting something a little more adventurous? Check out the Latin-inspired Steak Fries with Chimichurri or Grilled Broccolini with Dates and Capers.
Of course, the drink options here are delicious. The brunch standby Bloody Mary features roasted tomatoes and a spicy kick from chipotle. Need a little pick me up? Order the Irish Coffee with a touch of Jameson Whiskey stirred in.
Old Town Shopping
Since you’re already in the Old Town area, it’s the perfect opportunity for a little shopping. The unique stores in the area have some awesome items to commemorate your trip. A souvenir is the best way to cement the awesome memories you’ve made.
The charming streets are super fun to explore. Stop into The Old Town Sweet Shop for a touch of nostalgia. Here, you can get your favorite candy from the past and unique chocolates and gifts. They also have over twenty flavors of ice cream so the two of you can share a cone of your fave.
The Gardener’s Cottage is the perfect place to purchase a gift for yourselves or family and friends back home. Full of unique items, you’re sure to find something that you love. They will even gift wrap it for you so you can open your special item when you return home.
Head down to the Nifty Gift to purchase a one of a kind item created by a local artist. This cozy shop has truly unusual inventory and special souvenirs. It’s a perfect opportunity to take a little bit of Temecula home with you.
Dinner at Baily’s Old Town in Temecula
After your fun day exploring Old Town, you are sure to be starving. Head to hotspot Baily’s for a delicious meal, and hopefully some live music.
If your visit happens to land on the weekend, you might be treated to a concert. Baily’s is known for its live music from various local artists. These shows are sure to create a great backdrop to your meal.
The menu at Baily’s truly has something for everyone. From the Classic Cheeseburger to the Tri-Tip Bahn Mi, there’s a sandwich for every taste. Salads topped with salmon, chicken, or steak provide satisfying and healthy choices. There are also delicious pasta, seafood, and steak dishes to choose from.
The eatery also has a great beer and wine menu with tons of choices. Also, don’t forget dessert! Baily’s offers the classics like a brownie sundae and cheesecake for the perfect ending to your meal.
Take a Ghost Tour
The evening isn’t over yet! There are still more memories to be made! And few things are as memorable as a creepy encounter and stories that make your hair stand on end.
Board a ghost tour to learn all about the history of the Old Town area. You’ll ride along on an open-air tour, learning all about Front Street from your local guide. Hear spooky stories of the past as you take some great photos at the historical and spiritual hotspots.
This unforgettable experience is truly unique. You won’t soon forget the stories of the Wild West and the unexplainable things that have happened on the streets of Old Town Temecula. Your tour will end at Black Market Brewing where the two of you can discuss your experience over a flight of their delicious craft beer.
Return to your room at The South Coast Resort to relax for your journey home. Enjoy your last evening relaxing at the lush in and reflecting on the memories you’ve made.
Other Optional Activities
You might find that three days just isn’t enough to explore the Temecula Valley. Maybe you have a little additional time to extend your getaway. There are some other great things to do that you can tack on to your itinerary. While they might not be your typical romantic activities, they are still some great ways to spend time together.
Play a Round of Golf
Temecula has some of the best golfing around. With the backdrop of rolling hills and stunning weather, it’s the perfect locale to play a round or two.
Temecula Creek Golf Club has options for every level of golfer. The award-winning course features The Creek Course, ideal for those just starting out. The Stone House Course is more difficult, giving more avid golfers a tougher challenge.
The 72-par course at Journey at Pechanga is another awesome option. With immaculate greens and beautiful landscaping, it’s a fun course to enjoy. Plus, the views surrounding the grounds just can’t be beat.
Visit a Distillery or Brewery
Wine isn’t the only beverage flowing in the Temecula Valley. The area is home to some great high-quality beer and spirit makers. A visit and tour is a fun way to spend an afternoon.
Galway Spirits is committed to producing some great liquor. Schedule a tour of their facility and a tasting for the ultimate experience. They offer classics like whiskey, bourbon, and gin. However, you might enjoy their more unique options like dragonfruit or coffee-flavored vodka.
Aftershock Brewery is another popular hangout spot, and for good reason. The atmosphere is great and the beer is delicious. With a ton of taps, they have a brew to fit every taste. Try the Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Ale or Malbec Jess Y James, a stout aged in wine barrels.
Hit the Casino
The Pechanga Resort Casino is massive with an absolute ton to do! This beautiful casino is full of excitement and a game for everyone. It’s one of America’s favorite casinos and for good reason!
The largest casino in the state of California, it boasts over 5,000 slot machines and over 150 gaming tables. There’s even a huge bingo room. Not only that, but this casino is known for its winners. In fact, eleven people have walked out of their doors as millionaires.
Is gambling not your thing? No worries! There is a ton to do at this property. Live entertainment is scattered about the venue. Plus, it attracts some big names for its concert series. Check out the schedule and spring for tickets before your visit.
Your Romantic Getaway in the Temecula Valley
A romantic getaway is a perfect way to unplug and reconnect. Whether you’ve been together for fifty years or just began dating, a great vacation will strengthen your connection. Plus, you’ll have an incredible time in the process.
Just remember to focus on each other and enjoy your time together. Take in all that the Temecula Valley has to offer and explore the area side by side. You’ll have unforgettable experiences and create memories that will last forever.