The city of Paso Robles is located in San Luis Obispo County in central California. Famous for more than 200 wineries covering more than 40,000 acres of planted vineyards, there is much more to this unique region than bottle-stoppered fermented grapes.
The full name of Paso Robles “El Paso de Robles” in English means “The Passage of the Oaks”… which is the essence of this article… going through the wonders that surround this enchanted enclave.
a bit of background
Paso, as the locals call it, is a relatively small farming/ranching town with a population of about 30,000 and is known for its wineries, almond orchards and olive oil production, topped off with hot springs, which was the attraction. original tourist of Paso. .
Paso Robles has a vibrant downtown area consisting of exceptional dining options and eclectic shopping options with something for every taste and imagination. The “Main Street Association” is a very good source of information (PasoRoblesDowntown.Org) with its motto “Where everyone comes together”… and it’s true.
Therapeutic Hot Springs of Paso
As in most travel experiences, it is the journey and the unexpected that leaves an indelible mark on your memory. In the case of Paso, it’s the pungent smell of sulfur at times that adds a little something extra.
The abundant hot springs are known for their therapeutic and rejuvenating benefits and thus were a major attraction in the early days of the city’s history.
The Salinan Indian Tribe were the original settlers of this area. In the early 1700s, newly arrived Franciscan priests were introduced to the beneficial effects of water. Later, the Franciscans introduced the locals to farming, ranching, and… wait… winemaking and vineyard cultivation.
Sulfur hot springs still flow through Paso Robles and are open to the public at three locations: River Oaks Hot Springs Spa, Franklin Hot Springs, as well as select rooms at the Paso Robles Inn.
A Special Treat – The Paso Robles Amphitheater
Viña Robles Vineyards and Winery has been in the wine business since 1996 and began hosting an annual Summer Concert Series in 2007. The combination of live music and wine under the stars proved so successful that they decided to create the Viña Robles Amphitheater in 2013.
The amphitheater is one of the largest outdoor venues for arts and entertainment in San Luis Obispo County, hosting a concert season that runs from April through November and features top-tier acts from around the world and in all genres. The legendary Tony Bennett performing on a warm, starry summer night… 100 feet away… it was a magical experience.
There’s not a “bad” seat in the house and all at reasonable prices to fit everyone’s budget…general admission lawn seats to VIP boxes…all within 150 feet of the stage.
tin town
When visiting Paso, a must stop is on the east side of Highway 101. A group of entrepreneurs created a collection of industrial buildings known as Tin City.
Their goal is to showcase their unique creations such as small production wineries, breweries, distilleries, cider houses, and an amazing pasta factory and their new restaurant. You can watch them make the pasta while you enjoy eating their excellent main courses.
Parking is plentiful and you can easily walk around the cluster of established buildings within a two or three block radius. Of course, a stop along the way may include a beer garden serenaded by a local band as you partake in a unique tasting experience.
Excellent logistics starting point
Located on US 101 and midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, this area is a great destination for a road trip.
Paso is a strategic jumping-off point with easy access to the scenery that made this part of California famous, including unique towns and villages like Morro Bay, Cambria, Harmony, Cayucos and San Simeon…home to the magnificent Hearst Castle.
A Road Trip Into History – Hearst Castle
The California Department of Parks and Recreation manages more than 280 park units, and this palatial property is considered one of the system’s crown jewels.
In 1919, newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst, along with architect Julia Morgan, began plans to build a hilltop house on their ranch in San Simeon. With vast sums of money at his disposal, the “house” was converted into a Mediterranean Revival estate which he named “La Cuesta Encantada” (The Enchanted Hill).
The story is charming too, but in 1947 the project was still not finished. Unfortunately, Hearst’s health became an issue and he had to leave his house… the 165 rooms on 123 acres of prime coastal property with gardens, terraces and swimming pools… but the house was converted anyway in a full-fledged castle.
In this case, a picture is worth a thousand words or more… for more detailed information and hopefully a trip to The Enchanted Hill… visit hearstcastle.org
A road trip to the Point Piedras Blancas neighborhood
Driving five miles north from Hearst Castle, along one of the most picturesque views in California, brings you to a unique destination and experience… the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Colony.
The colony stretches over 6 miles of coastline with ample parking and easy access, as well as docents to provide information.
The viewing areas are open every day of the year, are wheelchair accessible, and are free. Reservations are not required.
Summary
Paso is known for its wines and exceptional culinary options, but in reality, after a few tasting sessions, your taste buds deflate. To get the most out of your visit, you should explore the many short day trip options and experience a part of California that made the Central Coast famous.
After all, what’s the rush… get inspired…
© 2019 Inspired Travel Itineraries with Bob and Janice Kollar