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Visitors are flocking to Los Olivos to enjoy a luxurious weekend away where they can relax while wine tasting, indulging in local cuisine, and experiencing the outdoors. The picturesque panoramic views of Santa Barbara’s wine country invite travelers to Los Olivos year round. The excellent wine, food, and art entice guests to keep returning to this small town.
There is plenty to do in Los Olivos. So much so that when I recently had a milestone birthday, I opted to spend a luxurious weekend partaking in some of the town’s highlights.
Where is Los Olivos?
Los Olivos, California is a small town in the Santa Ynez Valley and about forty-five minutes northeast of Santa Barbara. The Santa Ynez Valley is also home to several other small communities, including Santa Ynez, Solvang (Dutch community), Buellton (think Anderson Pea Soup), Los Alamos, and Ballard. Each town boasts its own distinct flair.
How do I get to Los Olivos?
For a luxurious weekend away in Los Olivos, visitors can drive or fly non-stop to Santa Barbara Airport from several different cities. Los Olivos is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Los Angeles, making it an easy weekend getaway.
What is Los Olivos known for?
Los Olivos is known for its wine region and the vineyards in Santa Ynez Valley, and oh yeah, it’s where the critically acclaimed movie Sideways was filmed.
Where Should I Stay in Los Olivos?
The two best Los Olivos hotels are Fess Parker Wine Country Inn and the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern. Both are luxurious hotels that are ideal for visiting Los Olivos.
If you are looking for a luxurious weekend away in Los Olivos, the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn is calling your name. A stay at the boutique inn brings a sense of understated country elegance perfect for romance. Each with a cozy fireplace, the warm and inviting rooms instantly set the mood. The Fess Parker Wine Country Inn is within walking distance of several of the best wine-tasting rooms and delicious restaurants in Los Olivos. While staying at the Fess Parker, consider splurging for a suite on your romantic getaway.
The Auberge Resorts Collection recently unveiled the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern. A former stagecoach stop that has been dramatically transformed into an ultra-luxurious Los Olivos getaway. The beautifully reimagined Los Olivos hotel provides a romantic backdrop for an incredible Los Olivos weekend getaway. If your budget allows, spring for a stay in one of the gorgeous cottages with a stunningly designed outdoor patio complete with a fire pit.
If the Fess Parker or the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos are not within your budget, you might consider one of these other hotels in the area.
Your Luxurious Weekend Guide to Los Olivos
Day 1 of Your Luxurious Weekend Guide to Los Olivos
The Best Places for Wine Tasting in Los Olivos
Wine Tasting Rooms in Los Olivos
A trip to Los Olivos usually includes a good deal of wine tasting. The main street in Los Olivos offers an abundance of wine tasting rooms featuring wine from los olivos wineries. Many of the wine tasting rooms are convenient and walkable from the Fess Parker. While in town, you might check out Epiphany Cellars & The Bubble Shack. But there are many worthwhile tasting rooms in Los Olivos. Vistiors can stroll Grand Avenue to find the best tasting rooms and outdoor patios. It is easy to see why wine tasting is one of the best things to do in Los Olivos.
Guided Wine Tours in Los Olivos
However, you are not wedded to the wine tasting rooms, a guided tour of the Los Olivios California wineries is a terrific alternative. In Santa Ynez Valley, there are several options for wine tasting, such as a bike tour or a guided wine tasting tour through the Santa Ynez Valley.
Foxen Canyon Wine Trail
If you are a do-it-yourselfer, you might enjoy the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail in Santa Ynez Valley with 16 wineries and tasting rooms.
Two of the well-known wineries on the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail include Demetria and Fess Parker Winery. Demetria consistently receives high marks for its wines, including 94 points by Wine Enthusiast for the 2014 “Cuvee Sandra” Pinot Noir. Tastings are by appointment only.
Not to be outdone, the Fess Parker Winery consistently earns over 90 points for its wine, including the Sanford & Benedict “1971” pinot noir, which received 95 points as the Editor’s Choice from Wine Enthusiast in 2019. In addition to wine tasting at the Fess Parker Winery, you might enjoy going for a horseback ride, playing a round of golf, or relaxing and taking in the view.
Sunstone Vineyards
Another popular winery, although not on the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, is Sunstone Vineyards. Once you step onto the family-owned vineyard, you feel transported to the Provencal countryside. The limestone building and aromas of French lavender set the tone for your tasting experience. There are several wine-tasting options at Sunstone Vineyards. Guests can partake in wine tasting in the tasting room or elevate their experience by booking one of the many private wine-tasting experiences.
Several years ago, I was lucky enough to enjoy an incredible private dinner in the wine cave at Sunstone Vineyards. The evening was fantastic and one I highly recommend.
- Pro Tip
One of my favorite things to do at a winery is to have an afternoon picnic of meats and cheeses paired with a great bottle of wine. Before leaving for your afternoon of wine tasting, stop at Los Olivos Grocery to select your upscale picnic provisions, and then head to Sunstone Vineyards for a dreamy scene while you indulge in a lovely afternoon picnic.
* Remember to drink responsibly and consider hiring a driver.
The Best Places for an Afternoon Snacks and Coffee in Los Olivos
After a day of wine tasting, you might need a nap! But before you head off to your room to relax, stop by Enjoy Cupcakes for a flight of cupcakes or other sweet treats. Enjoy Cupcakes inside the Saarloss & Sons Tasting room. So, you could skip the nap and enjoy an afternoon of delectable desserts and wine or opt for a cupcake and wine tour.
If you need to perk up a bit after wine tasting all day, you might try Corner House Cafe.
The Best Los Olivos Restaurants
Another one of the best things to do in Los Olivos is to try different restaurants. After all, a good meal paired with an incredible bottle of wine is like chocolate and peanut butter, two great tastes.
Petros Brand Winery
There is no shortage of delicious options for dinner in and around Los Olivos. Petros Brand Winery Dinner menu offers a simple yet refined menu that can satisfy any selective palate. I’ve eaten at the Petros in Manhattan Beach too many times to count, and I enjoy the dips, shrimp and chicken skewers, and the Baklava for dessert.
Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Cafe
For a wider variety of menu items, you might try Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café, a true farm to fork concept. Much of the produce served at Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Café is grown at Café Farm, a certified organic farm less than a mile away. The seasonal menu is designed to highlight the freshness of the produce grown on the California Central Coast.
S.Y. Kitchen & Nella Kitchen & Bar
Executive Chef and Owner of the popular S.Y. Kitchen, Luca Crestanelli brings inspiring modern Italian dishes to Santa Ynez Valley. Born and raised in Verona, Italy, he applies his roots to the dishes he serves at Nella Kitchen & Bar and S.Y. Kitchen. Both restaurants get rave reviews.
First & Oak
If you are up for a short drive, you might enjoy First & Oak at the Maribelle Inn. First & Oak emphasizes balanced flavors through its finely curated small plates. The elevated menu at First & Oak has earned the distinguished Michelin Plate honor.
Day 2 of your Luxurious Weekend Guide to Los Olivos
Hot Air Ballooning in Los Olivos
I hope you got a good night’s rest because you will be up early for your first activity. You will find Sky’s the Limit Hot Air Ballooning at the edge of town. You start bright and early, likely before anyone else is up in town. But the ride is worth getting up at the crack of dawn.
I spent the morning high above the Santa Ynez Valley on a recent birthday in a hot air balloon. As you soar high above the trees and vineyards, you can relish the expansive view of the world below. If you are afraid of heights, take the morning to sleep in and skip my suggestion. Hot-air ballooning is NOT for you.
What to expect when up, up, and away
A small group filled the basket, and then we were flying high above the clouds. The air is quiet (except for the sound of the flame). Our ride was calm and tranquil. Due to the fast-paced winds, our experience was a little shorter than the typical 45-minute ride. However, we still had plenty of time in the air. Our descent was smooth and seemed effortless for our highly experienced pilot. We finished the morning with champagne and muffins in a flowering field while we waited for the chase car to take us back to Los Olivos. Our hot-air balloon ride over the Santa Ynez Valley was a terrific experience!
- Pro Tips
Guests can book a private balloon ride and skip the shared experience.
The morning can be rather chilly but it does get warm in the hot air balloon. You may want to dress in layers on your hot air balloon adventure.
The Best Places for Brunch in Los Olivos
When you arrive back in Los Olivos, or you are just starting your day, brunch is probably top of mind. You might pop over to the popular Bob’s Well Bread for a pastry or quick sandwich. However, for a sit-down brunch restaurant, you might like the Corner House Cafe.
The Best Afternoon Activities in Los Olivos
After brunch, it’s time to get out and explore the Santa Ynez Valley. You can continue wine tasting this afternoon or mix it up and go for a bike ride.
Bike Riding in Los Olivos
Several different bike rides are available such as a self-guided tour, a bike tour with wine tasting, or even an electric bike tour.
Shopping in Los Olivos
Save some time to stroll around Los Olivos to explore local shops and galleries. As with many small towns, there are a couple of cute stores to check out while visiting Los Olivos.
A fun stop is J. Woeste in Los Olivos. The whimsical garden store meanders along an outdoor path that leads to a charming cottage filled with cute and unique gifts. You will find interesting fountains, garden accessories, and plants as you walk the paths. It’s still worth checking out, even if you are not a plant enthusiast.
For those who like to shop local, Los Olivos General Store is calling your name. Los Olivos General Store stocks locally sourced artisan lifestyle items. Stop by and peruse the home décor, beauty, jewelry items, and more!
Olive Oil and Balsamic Tasting in Los Olivos
For those who still want a tasting experience but have had their fill of wine, head over to Olive Hill Farm in Downtown Los Olivos. At Olive Hill Farm, you can taste olive oils, premium balsamic vinegar, and even flavored oils for a nominal fee.
Horseback Riding in Los Olivos
Explore the beautiful rolling hills in the Santa Ynez Valley on horseback. Contact the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn to learn more about its horseback riding wine tour!
Enjoy Dinner in Los Olivos
Try one of the best restaurants in Los Olivos mentioned above.
Day 3 of your Luxurious Weekend Guide to Los Olivos
Explore Solvang
Now that you have had a chance to explore Los Olivos, you might want to see more of the Santa Ynez Valley before heading home. You can spend the rest of the day in Solvang, “The Danish Capital of America.” The Dutch-inspired community, founded in 1911, gives visitors a glimpse into life in a Dutch city. When you arrive in Solvang, you will quickly feel like you left California for the afternoon.
The Best Places for Breakfast in Solvang
Start your morning off with a hearty breakfast at Paula’s Pancake House. Opt for traditional American or Danish breakfast delights like Danish pancakes, Solvang Danish-style sausage, or Belgian waffles. If you prefer something on the lighter side, you might enjoy one of the many Danish pastry shops in town.
The Best Things to do in Solvang
Solvang offers cultural, active, and leisure activities – a little something for everyone. Potential activities include getting in one more tasting at a wine tasting room before you leave, stopping in one of the local museums to learn about the local culture, or shopping in one of the 150 boutiques in town to find the perfect souvenir.
After breakfast, you might be full and need to walk off the wonderful yet heavy breakfast. Visitors can stay outside and bask in the California sun while horseback riding, taking a trolley ride, going on a hike, or playing a round of golf at one of the four courses in the area.
Solvang’s Tasting Rooms
While visiting you may also want to visit one of Solvang’s tasting rooms. Being so close to the San Ynez wine country, there are numerous options for tasting wine from some of the best Los Olivos wineries.
FAQ About a Luxurious Weekend in Los Olivos
Is Los Olivos worth visiting?
Los Olivos is absolutely worth visiting. The small, charming town offers guests an inviting experience. Visitors can go wine tasting at vineyards or tasting rooms, dine at fine restaurants, and participate in unique experiences like a private horseback ride accompanied by a picnic and wine tasting.
What do you wear in Los Olivos?
Your itinerary might include visiting vineyards, riding a bike, and/or horseback riding, so your attire might vary. In general, women might wear sundresses with cute tennis shoes while wine tasting, while men might wear a pair of nice shorts or jeans paired with a short-sleeve collared shirt. The style is comfortable yet stylish.
What towns are near Los Olivos?
Towns near Los Olivos include Solvang, Santa Ynez, Buellton, Los Alamos, Ballard.
Can I take a day trip from Santa Barbara to Los Olivos?
Yes! Los Olivos is in Santa Ynez Valley and part of Santa Barbara County. Santa Barbara County is part of the California Central Coast region. Although not on the coast, Los Olivos is only a forty-five-minute drive from Santa Barbara.
How long does it take to get from Los Angeles to Los Olivos?
On average, the drive from Los Angeles to Olivos takes about two and half hours.
You can pair a trip to Los Olivos with a trip up or down the coast. Click here to learn more about my road trip from Half Moon Bay to Santa Barbara or some of California’s most romantic hotels.
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What an amazing place to go on a weekend vacation! I hadn’t heard about it before, so I really enjoyed learning more about the area.
I absolutely love to visit places such as Lost Olivos. With its picturesque panoramic views of wine country and to make a relaxing day of sampling some good wine and food, and admiring some art. That’s a perfect day for me.
This sounds like a fabulous place for a very chilled weekend. I’d love to follow the wine trail and would have to do the hot air balloon ride!
What an incredible place to go to! I have to say that my favorite activity would probably be riding in a hot air balloon! Well, and also drinking as much wine as possible! Thanks for sharing.
Great Post ! I have read your other posts which are really informative for any traveler before arriving on Los Olivos. Thanks for sharing such a beautiful informative information on the blog.
Thank you! I am so happy to read that you enjoy my posts and find them informative! 🙂
What an incredible weekend itinerary! Hot air ballooning looks like such an incredible experience, and with all the wine tasting, definitely an interesting mix 😉 And Solvang looks like something straight out of a cartoon, which I LOVE! Love the tips on brunch, it’s a must do for any weekend trip <3
Wow, this looks so fun and relaxing! I have never been to Los Olivos, and I would love to stay near the vineyards too!
Beautiful!! I live in California and have never been to the Santa Barbara area before. I’ve always wanted to go, especially to Solvang. I hope I can go there someday. The area looks gorgeous!
Sounds like a fab weekend away, somewhere else to add to my road trip list 🙂
This is the perfect itinerary to relax and visit a beautiful place! a lot of cool experiences to make and landscapes are so dreamy! excellent guide!
What a fun sounding trip! The wine tasting, hot air balloon and seeing the horses all make this look like a fabulous vacation. Solvang is super cute too – it is so strange to see a slice of Holland in the USA!
We visited Los Olivos only for the day and found it charming. But we would surely like to go back for a longer stay and much more wine tasting. The Foxen Canyon Wine Trail sounds like the perfect path to follow. We are sure to find a winery or two we love.
I absolutely love Los Olivos but have only spent a little time there. Looks like I have some new wineries to add to my list next time I’m up there! Thanks for sharing!
Terrific! I love that there are new places drawing you back to Los Olivos!
Wow this looks like a magical weekend! I haven’t been to Santa Barbara but between the wine, bike riding and horseback riding, I will definitely be adding this to my list! Thank you for sharing all your tips.
It truly is a great weekned!