Much is said about the beauty of Santa Barbara, its mountains and ocean views admired worldwide. But for those of us who live here, Santa Barbara is just the southern gem of a Central Coast full of jewels. I was recently reminded of this fact when I spent a few days enjoying the bucolic charm of Paso Robles.
I made the two-hour drive north on a weekday afternoon, rolling through the hills and valleys through which Highway 101 runs. I arrived at Allegretto Vineyard Resort , a luxury destination hotel boasting 171 rooms, in the late afternoon. After checking in, I went directly to Cello, the hotel restaurant/bar, for a drink and some food. I met Head Chef Justin Picard, who explained that he uses locally sourced ingredients for his Mediterranean-inspired menu. I enjoyed a sampling of salmon with a squash casserole, as well as a delicious charcouterie board. Cello also has a large selection of top-of-the-line wines from area vineyards. I paired a Halter Ranch Rosé from Paso with my smorgasbord. The barkeeps also take advantage of the fruits and herbs grown on the property to make their delicious drinks.
Allegretto Resort sits on 20 acres, eight of which are planted with wine grapes that produce cabernet sauvignon and malbec, among other varietals. Also peppering the property are olive trees — some more than 100 years old — and fruit trees, including Mission figs, pomegranates, lemons, and limes. Inspired by Italian villas, the resort encircles a gorgeous piazza with seating areas, an outdoor fireplace, and fountains all reminiscent of a European estate. My room was lovely and spotless with a view of the Greco-Romanesque saline pool below and the vineyard rising up the hillside. An ode to la dolce vita, Allegretto offers such serenity, fine dining, and imbibing that you may not want to leave.