Recently my husband and I were invited to a wedding in Temecula, California. Since we live nearby in Newport Beach, we could easily have made the roundtrip drive in one day. Instead we decided to stay a few nights and thoroughly explore Southern California’s premier wine region.

While there are numerous upscale resorts to choose from in Temecula, I knew I wanted to check out Europa Village. I read about it a few years ago while it was under construction, so I was eager to see it up close and in person. 

Europa Village is divided into Bolero, Vienza, and C’est la vie, each with the style and charms of  Spain, Italy, and France. Bolero is the most complete and includes accommodations, a restaurant, tasting room, boutique, and vineyard. So it was here that we checked in for a two night stay in a casita.

Bolero at Europa Village

With just ten casitas at Bolero, everything feels intimate, even the check-in process. The lobby feels warm and cozy, complete with a fireplace. Guests are offered a glass of sangria to enjoy as they complete the check-in paperwork.  

The casitas are spacious and feature a private and enclosed patio, four poster beds, Spanish inspired wood furniture, and warm colors. Our large bathroom had both a shower and a soaking tub. The bed was very comfortable, and thanks to the blackout curtains we slept like a log.

In the morning we headed to Bolero Restaurante to enjoy the included breakfast ($20 per person per day credit). The breakfast menu is extensive and includes everything from lemon pancakes with strawberries to tortilla Espanola. Bolero is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and specializes in Spanish inspired cuisine.

You can’t visit Temecula without wine tasting, and fortunately the tasting room at Bolero is just steps away from either the restaurant or casitas. A tasting of five wines is currently $25 per person. If you have more time a tour of the vineyard combined with tasting is available.

I really appreciated that there were no resort or parking fees at Bolero. For the price of a room night and tax, everything is included, even breakfast. 

C’est La Vie at Europa Village

We had some free time in the afternoon, so we decided to check out the French portion of the resort, C’est La Vie. The centerpiece is a large garden and covered seating area where guests can taste wines and enjoy small bites. It was here that I discovered the C’est La Vie Chardonnay. I’ve had several good Chardonnays in Temecula, but this is my new favorite and I took home a few bottles. This is a great destination to enjoy a quick glass of wine or relax for a few hours with friends. Depending on the time of year there may even be live music.

Eventually there will be a restaurant in this portion of the resort, so stay tuned.

Vienza at Europa Village

Perched on a hillside above Bolero and C’est La Vie is Vienza, the Italian portion of the resort. While currently under construction this will eventually be home to a new winery, restaurant, and spa. I’ll look forward to returning and checking out these new spaces.

What To Do Near Europa Village

While you could easily spend the day enjoying the lovely grounds, sampling good wines, and eating, you will probably want to head out to explore more of Temecula. Here are just a few of the things we recommend.

Take A Hot Air Balloon Ride

Wake up early in the morning in Temecula and you’ll see brightly colored hot air balloons floating through the sky. You’ll likely want to book your own ride and enjoy the views of vineyards below. Choose from a private, semi-private, or shared ride with Magical Adventure Balloon Rides. You’ll spend an hour in the sky and afterwards enjoy a champagne toast and light breakfast. The price also includes digital photos and celebratory banners. California Dreamin’ offers one-hour balloon rides followed by breakfast in the rose garden of Vindemia’s Winery. 

Visit Old Town Temecula

Visitors may feel like they are part of an Old Western movie set as they stroll the boardwalk past rustic buildings In Old Town Temecula. Antique lovers won’t want to miss Old Town Antiques where seventy different dealers are housed. Here you’ll find everything from furniture to glassware and jewelry to comics. 

When you’re ready to eat, head to Baily’s for delicious food and an extensive wine list. If you’re here on Friday or Saturday night there’ll be live music too. If you’re in the mood for an excellent burger you’ll want to try 1909. This used to be the location of the Long Branch Saloon, one of the roughest places in town to get a drink, but today it’s a lively and fun restaurant. 

Explore On Horseback

Whether you’re looking for unique ways to visit wineries, or just want to get on horseback for a trail ride, there are great options for both in Temecula. Atop a horse is a lovely way to experience the rolling hills and vineyards. Wine Country Trails by Horseback offers ninety minute rides near the Maurice Car’rie Winery and no riding experience is necessary. For something especially romantic try a sunset ride. 

Just like you shouldn’t drink and drive, you can’t drink and ride either. However, the Temecula Carriage Company found a creative solution–a private horse-drawn vehicle to take you to four wineries over the course of three hours. Couples may prefer to book a private, one-hour carriage that includes a bottle of wine. 

Sample Locally Produced Olive Oil

Thom Curry, owner of Temecula Olive Oil Company takes olives very seriously. On his 26 acres  ranch in Aguanga he grows 50 varieties of olives in order to produce some seriously good olive oil and dips. If you’re short on time, try visiting one of his tasting rooms around the Temecula Valley. However, if you have more time it’s worth the trip out of town to see the ranch and learn more about olive oil production.