Help in planning girlfriends weekend in and around Santa Barbara, continued
Nov 14th, 2011, 07:14 PM
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Help in planning girlfriends weekend in and around Santa Barbara, continued
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Thank you to all who've weighed in to help our planning for a girlfriends weekend in and around Santa Barbara (Thread: Help us plan a girlfriends weekend in and around Santa Barbara).
I'm beginning this new thread because I now have some specific questions. A little background first, though. We are four mature but quite active women. Two of us are on a very tight budget, so we're trying to keep our weekend to $250 each. Our hotel will cost about $75 each, leaving each of us $175 for a Saturday, Saturday night (hotel taken care of, so that doesn't count), and Sunday before we return to Los Angeles.
We will probably have breakfast along the way from LA to SB and then go directly to Santa Ynez valley for wine tasting and the pure enjoyment of the beautiful countryside.
We would like to do two wineries, and we know that there are tasting fees--hopefully not much more than $10 each. Some $ have been set aside for a bottle or two of our favorites, each deciding on her own.
Our dates are Dec. 10 and 11.
Question: any suggestions for our first winery where we could have a good tasting experience and then enjoy wine which we have purchased and have a picnic on the grounds? If so, where would one pick up picnic items before getting to the winery?
Also, to allow some recovery between the two wineries--we'd probably like some time in Solvang. After that? Activities before getting to the 2nd winery? We've learned of an ostrich farm and, I think, a miniature horse farm. We do like animals, but are one or both of these worth a visit? Any other suggestions?
And, the second winery? Which?
A quesion about the Stagecoach Inn on the San Marco pass. We understand that they have live music for both lunch and dinner on Saturdays and Sundays. Has anyone enjoyed his/her time there? If it's a good thing, we'd like to incorporate that into our time, either for dinner on Saturday or lunch on Sunday before returning home.
As for activities in Santa Barbara---
Are there any good foot massage places that any of you would recommend? I'm not talking about an upscale spa. I'm thinking more about what we have here at home in the San Gabriel valley. Big Asian population. And tons of foot massage places--$20 plus $5 tip. Great bargain. Anything approximating that?
Botanical gardens--even though flowers are not in bloom, would it be pleasant in December? Would it provide a peaceful and lovely walk?
I've looked up the events calendar for Santa Barbara for Saturday night, Dec. 10, and don't find any live theater, etc. Have I missed something for Saturday night?
Any help you locals or other SB enthusiasts can provide regarding SB activites will be very welcome.
Thank you to all who've weighed in to help our planning for a girlfriends weekend in and around Santa Barbara (Thread: Help us plan a girlfriends weekend in and around Santa Barbara).
I'm beginning this new thread because I now have some specific questions. A little background first, though. We are four mature but quite active women. Two of us are on a very tight budget, so we're trying to keep our weekend to $250 each. Our hotel will cost about $75 each, leaving each of us $175 for a Saturday, Saturday night (hotel taken care of, so that doesn't count), and Sunday before we return to Los Angeles.
We will probably have breakfast along the way from LA to SB and then go directly to Santa Ynez valley for wine tasting and the pure enjoyment of the beautiful countryside.
We would like to do two wineries, and we know that there are tasting fees--hopefully not much more than $10 each. Some $ have been set aside for a bottle or two of our favorites, each deciding on her own.
Our dates are Dec. 10 and 11.
Question: any suggestions for our first winery where we could have a good tasting experience and then enjoy wine which we have purchased and have a picnic on the grounds? If so, where would one pick up picnic items before getting to the winery?
Also, to allow some recovery between the two wineries--we'd probably like some time in Solvang. After that? Activities before getting to the 2nd winery? We've learned of an ostrich farm and, I think, a miniature horse farm. We do like animals, but are one or both of these worth a visit? Any other suggestions?
And, the second winery? Which?
A quesion about the Stagecoach Inn on the San Marco pass. We understand that they have live music for both lunch and dinner on Saturdays and Sundays. Has anyone enjoyed his/her time there? If it's a good thing, we'd like to incorporate that into our time, either for dinner on Saturday or lunch on Sunday before returning home.
As for activities in Santa Barbara---
Are there any good foot massage places that any of you would recommend? I'm not talking about an upscale spa. I'm thinking more about what we have here at home in the San Gabriel valley. Big Asian population. And tons of foot massage places--$20 plus $5 tip. Great bargain. Anything approximating that?
Botanical gardens--even though flowers are not in bloom, would it be pleasant in December? Would it provide a peaceful and lovely walk?
I've looked up the events calendar for Santa Barbara for Saturday night, Dec. 10, and don't find any live theater, etc. Have I missed something for Saturday night?
Any help you locals or other SB enthusiasts can provide regarding SB activites will be very welcome.
Nov 15th, 2011, 04:07 AM
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When you get to the Santa Ynez valley - you might want to pic up a picnic lunch (wine, cheese, cold cuts, fruit, etc) and go to the beautiful Lavendar Field by Los Olivas. see: http://www.clairmontfarms.com/
And as for which winery - hey - google away and find several and then take your choice as to the type of wine you like, their tasting programs, etc. The Santa Rita Hills is the "newest" area and is producing some good Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
And you might want to head up early to Solvang, before you go out wine-tasting, and have some of the great Danish pastries for breakfast.
And as for which winery - hey - google away and find several and then take your choice as to the type of wine you like, their tasting programs, etc. The Santa Rita Hills is the "newest" area and is producing some good Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
And you might want to head up early to Solvang, before you go out wine-tasting, and have some of the great Danish pastries for breakfast.
Nov 15th, 2011, 05:37 AM
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Sounds way too ambitious for an overnight trip to me. Are you factoring in that your 36 hour roundtrip includes about 9 hours of time in the car and 10 hours overnight in the hotel? And 5-6 hours of meal and potty break time? That leaves you 11 hours to plan out. When exactly are you going to get these foot massages...in the middle of your ostrich farm tour or will it be during intermission at the theatre?
Nov 15th, 2011, 06:22 AM
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@Tom--Thanks for the Clairmont Farms link. I'm keeping a visit there in mind for the time when the fields are in bloom. And Solvang is in the plans either for breakfast or for just a little time out for browsing.
@tracy--You're right. If we were to try to do all the things I've put out there for possibilities, there would, indeed, be no time.
What we're doing, however, is trying to find out what all is out there and then organize our plans. We're four ladies, not a couple looking for a lazy romantic week-end. Nor are we in a position budget-wise to check into an upscale hotel for a spa experience. We plan to be active.
We're all early risers in general, so it won't be a stretch to be in the SB/Santa Ynez area by 9:00 AM at the latest. So breakfast in Solvang is certainly a possibility. That would leave us the rest of the day for two wineries and incidental visits along the way to where? Maybe the ostrich farm, yes, or if anyone has any other ideas, that's what my inquiry was about. A small stop here or there that would add some extra interest and richness to our day. We would return to SB for the night.
Dinner? That's why I'm asking about Stage Coach Inn. I haven't read anyone's experience there, but they do have live music, and that might be a fun change of pace...or not. That's why my inquiry on the board. If it's nothing to write home about, we'll look elsewhere.
That would leave Sunday for Santa Barbara. And I don't think we'll be spending 10 hours at the hotel since with our budget the hotel won't be a destination in itself.
A foot massage takes about an hour, and if it goes beyond the feet to include a head and neck massage as well some attention to the back, it's a very nice experience. So that would leave us several hours in SB for lunch, for the botanical gardens, perhaps, or a local activity and dinner before starting home.
So once again, I've appreciated all suggestions which have come through, and would welcome anything else.
@tracy--You're right. If we were to try to do all the things I've put out there for possibilities, there would, indeed, be no time.
What we're doing, however, is trying to find out what all is out there and then organize our plans. We're four ladies, not a couple looking for a lazy romantic week-end. Nor are we in a position budget-wise to check into an upscale hotel for a spa experience. We plan to be active.
We're all early risers in general, so it won't be a stretch to be in the SB/Santa Ynez area by 9:00 AM at the latest. So breakfast in Solvang is certainly a possibility. That would leave us the rest of the day for two wineries and incidental visits along the way to where? Maybe the ostrich farm, yes, or if anyone has any other ideas, that's what my inquiry was about. A small stop here or there that would add some extra interest and richness to our day. We would return to SB for the night.
Dinner? That's why I'm asking about Stage Coach Inn. I haven't read anyone's experience there, but they do have live music, and that might be a fun change of pace...or not. That's why my inquiry on the board. If it's nothing to write home about, we'll look elsewhere.
That would leave Sunday for Santa Barbara. And I don't think we'll be spending 10 hours at the hotel since with our budget the hotel won't be a destination in itself.
A foot massage takes about an hour, and if it goes beyond the feet to include a head and neck massage as well some attention to the back, it's a very nice experience. So that would leave us several hours in SB for lunch, for the botanical gardens, perhaps, or a local activity and dinner before starting home.
So once again, I've appreciated all suggestions which have come through, and would welcome anything else.
Nov 15th, 2011, 06:45 AM
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***A quesion about the Stagecoach Inn on the San Marco pass.***
Do you mean Cold Spring Tavern? If so, yes it's worth a stop. It's packed on the weekends and with your budget you'll need to go for breakfast or lunch. Tri-tip sandwiches are excellent. I'd also suggest you stop on your way to/back from Santa Ynez Valley with your limited time.
As for wineries, for a whirlwind trip some of the more commercialized wineries are:
Gainey Vineyards- you'll hit this on your way into the valley off 246. There are picnic grounds on site.
Fess Parker- picnic sites
Firestone Vineyard- picnic sites
Lincourt-(old Foley Estate)least commercial ambiance with picnic sites
There are also tasting rooms in Solvang, Los Olivos and Santa Barbara if you run out of time. Wine tasting IS time consuming.
The botanical gardens are beautiful because they are native plants. Don't expect manicured estate gardens.
I'd skip the pedicure for the Mission.
Have fun!
Do you mean Cold Spring Tavern? If so, yes it's worth a stop. It's packed on the weekends and with your budget you'll need to go for breakfast or lunch. Tri-tip sandwiches are excellent. I'd also suggest you stop on your way to/back from Santa Ynez Valley with your limited time.
As for wineries, for a whirlwind trip some of the more commercialized wineries are:
Gainey Vineyards- you'll hit this on your way into the valley off 246. There are picnic grounds on site.
Fess Parker- picnic sites
Firestone Vineyard- picnic sites
Lincourt-(old Foley Estate)least commercial ambiance with picnic sites
There are also tasting rooms in Solvang, Los Olivos and Santa Barbara if you run out of time. Wine tasting IS time consuming.
The botanical gardens are beautiful because they are native plants. Don't expect manicured estate gardens.
I'd skip the pedicure for the Mission.
Have fun!
Nov 15th, 2011, 07:19 AM
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Hi, SoCal--
Thanks for the input re the gardens. And, yes, It is the Cold Spring Tavern, not the Stagecoach Inn. That's what I get for writing off the top of my head.
We would certainly be in time for breakfast there, but if it's worth a stop in any case and since they have live music from lunchtime on, if it's ok with the other three, I think we'll make reservations for Saturday evening as we would be on our way to SB for the night. Their website shows dinner entrees ranging from around $20 to a bit over $30, and since we aren't splurging on much of anything, that would be doable for us.
And thanks, too, for your list of wineries with picnic facilities. If the weather is mild enough, we'd like to have our lunch outside, enjoying some deli type things along with a bottle of wine. If it's rainy, then that will be another story.
I appreciate the time you've taken to reply.
Thanks for the input re the gardens. And, yes, It is the Cold Spring Tavern, not the Stagecoach Inn. That's what I get for writing off the top of my head.
We would certainly be in time for breakfast there, but if it's worth a stop in any case and since they have live music from lunchtime on, if it's ok with the other three, I think we'll make reservations for Saturday evening as we would be on our way to SB for the night. Their website shows dinner entrees ranging from around $20 to a bit over $30, and since we aren't splurging on much of anything, that would be doable for us.
And thanks, too, for your list of wineries with picnic facilities. If the weather is mild enough, we'd like to have our lunch outside, enjoying some deli type things along with a bottle of wine. If it's rainy, then that will be another story.
I appreciate the time you've taken to reply.
Nov 15th, 2011, 07:57 AM
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You're very welcome bo.
One way to save money for your picnic would be to stop off at at Trader Joe's right off the Milpas exit in Santa Barbara. I believe there is also one up on upper State St. There is also a small grocery store in Los Olivios. Some of the wineries will sell picnic goodies but the prices will reflect they came from a winery. But it's always fun to try a special mustard, vinegar, oil, cheese etc.
Sorry about the opinionated comment having dinner at Cold Spring Tavern. I was thinking all of the activities would add up pretty fast. Dinner on your way back to SB sounds perfect!
We've been in wine country when it has poured. I think it adds to the ambiance. If it does rain, the picnic area at Lincourt is fully covered and so are some of the others!
Whatever you choose- I'm sure you'll have a great time and there are plenty of options!
One way to save money for your picnic would be to stop off at at Trader Joe's right off the Milpas exit in Santa Barbara. I believe there is also one up on upper State St. There is also a small grocery store in Los Olivios. Some of the wineries will sell picnic goodies but the prices will reflect they came from a winery. But it's always fun to try a special mustard, vinegar, oil, cheese etc.
Sorry about the opinionated comment having dinner at Cold Spring Tavern. I was thinking all of the activities would add up pretty fast. Dinner on your way back to SB sounds perfect!
We've been in wine country when it has poured. I think it adds to the ambiance. If it does rain, the picnic area at Lincourt is fully covered and so are some of the others!
Whatever you choose- I'm sure you'll have a great time and there are plenty of options!
Nov 15th, 2011, 10:05 AM
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There is also a good wine shop right on the main st in Solvang, and he had some great wines by the glass, and could also provide you with info about the different wineries. He's up a couple blocks from Olson's Bakery - on the same side of the street.
If you can't find that one - (a small place) - here is a list of others in Solvang: http://www.solvangusa.com/explore-so...tasting-rooms/
If you can't find that one - (a small place) - here is a list of others in Solvang: http://www.solvangusa.com/explore-so...tasting-rooms/
Nov 15th, 2011, 12:58 PM
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You've all been so forthcoming and very patient, and I think we have some great concrete recommendations for our weekend. With so many wineries (and wineshops) to sift through on the on the internet, it's nice to have specific recommendations from fellow Fodorites. I'm especially glad to know about the wineries with picnic facilities--and Lincourt if it rains.
@SoCal--Your idea about Trader Joe's, the one off the Milpas exit, is a good one. I'm thinking, though, that we might be passing by too early in the morning, but with that prompt, we'll gather our stuff together from our own TJs here at home and bring it with us. Anyone still reading this thread, though, will benefit from the specific information if the timing is right.
BTW, I in no way considered what you call your "opinionated comment" about the Cold Spring Tavern as a negative. I've emphasized that a couple of us are on a tight budget and I appreciate your consideration of that. Bottom line, I was glad to hear that it truly is a good place, and I do think that that will be where we will be having dinner on Saturday night.
I've been on these boards for years, sometimes offering advice, sometimes seeking information. It always blows me away to see the time and thought so many of you are willing to put in to help others plan for a quality time away.
@SoCal--Your idea about Trader Joe's, the one off the Milpas exit, is a good one. I'm thinking, though, that we might be passing by too early in the morning, but with that prompt, we'll gather our stuff together from our own TJs here at home and bring it with us. Anyone still reading this thread, though, will benefit from the specific information if the timing is right.
BTW, I in no way considered what you call your "opinionated comment" about the Cold Spring Tavern as a negative. I've emphasized that a couple of us are on a tight budget and I appreciate your consideration of that. Bottom line, I was glad to hear that it truly is a good place, and I do think that that will be where we will be having dinner on Saturday night.
I've been on these boards for years, sometimes offering advice, sometimes seeking information. It always blows me away to see the time and thought so many of you are willing to put in to help others plan for a quality time away.
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