randipellmar

Spending time North of LA in June. Wish to go to vineyards, lodging and some of the sights following the book and movie "Sideways".

dbdurand

Here's a guide, including a map.
http://www.santabarbaraca.com/sideways/

randipellmar

Thanks, have you done this trip?
Any suggestions?

dbdurand

Sorry. I haven't done the trip, although it looks like fun. It was interesting watching the movie because there were so many recognizable landmarks, like freeway signs, etc. We occasionally do some wine tasting and buy a few bottles, but our regular wine selections are from two buck Chuck to whatever is on sale at the market for less than 6 dollars. But no Merlot.

boom_boom

Done much of the trip, but not as a result of the movie. Been going there since long before the movie. Fess Parker is one of the most featured wineries in the movie. Great place to visit, average wines. More stops along Foxen Canyon Road going north from Parker include Foxen, Riverbench, Zaca Mesa and Rancho Sisquoc. Solvang is the lodging/restaurant center for the area, although both Santa Ynez and Los Olivos offer some good eating place. Other wineries I've enjoyed in the area in which the movies is set include Sanford, Brander and Firestone.

onemoneygirl

The Los Olivos Cafe in Los Olivos and The Hitching Post (in Buellton) are both very good and prominent in the movie. You MUST order a bottle of The Hitching Post Highliner!

The hotel in the movie is actually in Buellton...wasn't it the Day's Inn? See if you can find a room at Hadsten House in Solvang... much nicer.

Lastly, tickets for an outdoor performance of PCPA Theatrefest would be a nice addition to your trip! You can get a picnic dinner at El Rancho Market, a couple bottles of wine and walk back to your hotel!

Happy to answer specific questions if you have them.

easytraveler

onemoneygirl would absolutely be your beset resource for this area.

Hi, onemoneygirl! One day I'll be down to see you with those little fishies!

easytraveler

That's "best resource"

onemoneygirl

Hi Easytraveler... yes, you are WAY overdue for your wine tasting trip down this way. Please come visit! Im not sure I can eat the fishies again... lol... that combined with the cocktails we had.. umm... not so sure I can do that again. I am still proud of myself for being so brave that night. Every time I see the Koi Palace recommendation on here I think of you and our wonderful dinner that night! Thanks again!