The Beauty of Paso Robles

Moe and I spent the most fabulous weekend in Paso Robles recently.  We were invited on a media trip and were treated like royalty!
I have to say I really could do with more space to write a review on the Allegretto Vineyard Resort –  what an absolute knock-out place this is!  We were so lucky to get a guided tour with our host Linda Parker Sanpei, who graciously took time to explain some of the wonderful features of the resort.
The hotel was built by Ayres Hotels.  The company, owned by the Ayres family has 21 other hotels in Southern California. We were lucky enough to sit down for a glass of wine with family member Doug Ayres.  He told us, after traveling the world, his dream was to create a European-inspired hotel with hand-picked treasures from around the world; that’s what makes this place so special.  You will see: fine marble statues that were imported from Italy; a 12,000-square-foot courtyard; pool and cabanas; an Abbey; walking paths; a bocce ball court; manicured Mediterranean gardens; specially crafted vignettes; and arts and artifacts that invoke the luxury, warmth, and beauty of la dolce vita.
It’s hard to believe that the Allegretto opened its doors in late 2015 because the beautiful architecture evokes a feeling that it has been there for centuries; it truly is a masterpiece and a world unto itself.
Nestled on 20 acres, the 171 European-inspired guestrooms and suites, with optional balconies or patios, open to lush gardens, creating a sanctuary with a harmonious blend of comfort and revitalization. The 14’ European-height ceilings, Allegretto Dream Sleeper pillow-top mattresses and custom linens, plush robes and slippers, and Allegretto-crafted amenities create a heavenly in-room experience.

PLACES TO WINE & DINE:
Vina Robles Winery:
www.vinarobles.com
Try the fabulous six-course wine and food sampling; we highly recommend it.  At this vineyard, you will find an amphitheater, guest house, amazing shop and tasting room and a 14,000-square-foot  hospitality center, founded by Hans Nef of Zurich in the 1990s.

Villa San Juliette:
www.villasanjuliette.com
With an elegant location, tasting room, superb wines and idyllic vineyard views, Villa San Juliette is owned by lifelong friends Ken Warwick and Nigel Lythgoe from Liverpool, England.  Enjoy a picnic lunch on the patio, a private wine tasting and cheese pairing or a guided tour. Offering corporate get-aways and private events. Popular wedding location.

Thomas Hill Organics:
www.thomashillorganics.com
Thomas Hill Organics is a farm-to-table restaurant dedicated to serving creative, fresh food and highlighting unique wines from the Central Coast.  Great ambience and friendly staff make this a great place to visit while you are in Paso Robles.

RN Estates:
www.rnestates.com
RN Estate is by appointment only and has a very personal feel at this vineyard.  We were hosted by Linda, the very lovely wife of proprietor Roger Nicolas. The tasting was at their beautiful home, which you will find atop a very long scenic driveway. It may be difficult to find but well worth the visit.

Cello Ristorante & Bar:
www.allegrettovineyardresort.com/dining
Cello is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, where food, friends and flavors are in harmony. Executive Chef Eric Olson brings his global culinary experience to Cello, where his eclectic seasonal menu is inspired by the gardens, farms and vineyards of the wine country and the spices of his travels. Cello is about fresh ingredients and artisan cookery.

Parrish Family Vineyard:
www.parrishvineyards.com
We were lucky to learn history of Parrish Family Vineyard from family member and general manager Cecily Parrish with a cozy tasting room in downtown Paso Robles, the vineyard features beautiful photographs adorning the walls all taken by Cecily.  Wine was great, friendly atmosphere, well worth the visit.

Allegretto Vineyard Resort www.allegrettovineyardresort.com

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