Paso Robles – Paso Robles – California
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’s much more to this unique region than bottle-corked fermented grapes.
The full name of Paso Robles “El Paso de Robles” in English means “El Paso de los Robles”… which is the essence of this article… going through the wonders that surround this enchanted enclave.
a little background
Paso, as the locals call it, is a relatively small farming/ranching town with a population of about 30,000 people and is known for its wineries, almond orchards and olive oil production, topped off with hot springs that were the tourist attraction. Pass original. .
Paso Robles has a vibrant downtown area comprised 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 their motto “Where everyone comes together”… and it’s true.
Passage Therapeutic Hot Springs
As in most travel experiences, it is the journey and the unexpected that leave an indelible mark on your memory. In the case of Paso, it’s the pungent smell of sulfur at times that adds something extra.
The abundant hot springs are known for their therapeutic and rejuvenating benefits and were therefore 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 the water. Later, the Franciscans introduced the locals to agriculture, ranching and… wait for it… winemaking and vineyard cultivation.
The 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 in select rooms at the Paso Robles Inn.
A Special Treat – 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 featuring 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…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 city
When visiting Paso, a must stop is on the east side of the 101 freeway. 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 its 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 entire cluster of buildings set within a two to three block radius. Of course, a stop along the way might include a beer garden serenaded by a local band while taking part in a unique tasting experience.
Excellent logistics starting point
Located on US 101 and halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, this area is a great road trip destination.
Paso is a strategic launching 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 for the construction of a hilltop home on their ranch in San Simeon. With large sums of money at his disposal, the “house” was converted into a Mediterranean Revival estate which he called “La Cuesta Encantada” (The Enchanted Hill).
The story is also charming, but in 1947 the project was not yet finished. Unfortunately, Hearst’s health became a problem and she had to leave her home…all 165 rooms on 123 acres of prime coastal property with gardens, terraces and pools…but the house was converted nonetheless. 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…visithearstcastle.org
A road trip to the Point Piedras Blancas neighborhood
Driving five miles north from Hearst Castle, along one of California’s most picturesque vistas, leads you to a unique destination and experience…the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Colony.
The colony extends over 6 miles of shoreline 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 really, after a few tasting sessions, your taste buds go flat. 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