Does driving all day for hours and hours seem like a nightmare to you? No way Jose. Any chance I get I’m all about the open road, wind in my hair, cheesy music on full blast. Bring it.
Even better when the destination is a high class hotel with a hot tub in the living room.
After an adventure of a day sightseeing, exploring the Pacific Coast Highway and oh, getting engaged, I needed an epic nap to end all naps. Our stop next was Paso Robles, halfway between Monterey and Santa Barbara. La Bellasera, a gorgeous hotel in the heart of town, offered to host us for the evening. As this was my favorite place we stayed at on the trip, we got lucky that it was the night of celebration for us!
Surrounded by California palm trees, La Bellasera boasts the classic adobe design and a massive, welcoming lobby. The front desk got us all situated and up to our suite. Waiting there was a bottle of chilled champagne and a large window fill of sunset colors. Perfection.
I try to keep my inner diva at bay, but when I get spoiled like this it’s hard to imagine traveling any other way. I mean, give me bubbly and an oversized jacuzzi tub – I’m sold. I think anyone would be. Not to mention all the other wonderful amenities – big old bath robes, flat screen TVs, great bath products, the works.
On our way to dinner, we paused in the lobby to indulge a little wine and cheese tasting. La Bellasera offers local wineries, estates and vineyards to give new guests a taste of their libations. It makes it a little easier to have somewhere to start, as there’s more than 300 wineries in town to get lost in for days.
My Bellasera bed called to me as I melted into it back at the room. A great night’s sleep is ideal for road tripping, no one does well being cranky behind the wheel. I’m especially no fun when tired (sorry to my college road trip buddies as we ventured from New York to Florida, yikes).
This time I could indulge the on-site restaurant, with local wine parings, obviously, or the luxurious spa, but definitely give it a try if you visit. I also hear they host incredible weddings, which half makes me want to pack up and have my own on the West Coast.
Be granted exceptional service, beautiful surroundings and the ultimate experience in staying at la Bellasera while sampling wines in Paso Robles.
Every time I travel I also need to have an epic nap to end all naps. Hahah