Award-winning vintages await you in Temecula
If you are seeking an off the beaten path adventure that has something for everyone, look no further. Temecula Wine Country offers earthy sophistication, endless panoramic vistas and side trips that enable you to soar to new heights, capture a glimpse of the Old West and disappear into a wilderness wonderland.

The 35,000 acres of rolling hills and vineyards that encompass Temecula Valley are centrally located in Southern California between San Diego and Palm Springs, just off I-15 near the town of Temecula.

Lush with the ripening promise of prime vintages yet to be plucked, the community is a veritable paradise of rich earth and welcoming smiles. The 30-member wineries that make up the local growers and vintners association are family owned, motivated by friendly competition as well as generations of passion for their brand and pride in their work. The wineries are open daily offering opportunities to sample hundreds of award-winning vintages. Visitors may also schedule tours of the facilities.

To plan your visit and determine your tour itinerary, visit www.temeculawines.org. This collective site lists all member wineries with specific details about each, including location, tour hours, tasting times and costs as well as the award-winning varieties you don’t want to pass up.

TEMECULA SIDE TRIPS

Old Town Temecula

Old Town Temecula
This town-within-a-town began as a railroad station in 1882. The town bank, one of the first additional buildings, hearkens back to that Wild West era. But, though the setting is historic, the atmosphere is a timeless menagerie. Browse boutiques and specialty stores, galleries and antique shops. Enjoy live music at several restaurants in town while you re-energize with fare to fit any appetite and local libations sure to keep a smile on your face. Old Town Temecula is located just off I-15 in Temecula. For more information visit www.oldtowntemecula.com.

California Dreamin’ Aerial Adventure
While most side trips keep your feet planted firmly on the ground, California Dreamin’ wants to give you a bird’s eye view of Temecula Valley’s rich countryside. The sunrise hot air balloon flight includes a complimentary champagne toast while in the air and a Rose Garden brunch at Vindemia Vineyards after you touch down. Each rider also receives a 2-for-1 wine tasting ticket to the award-winning South Coast Winery. For daredevils looking for a little more flash and excitement, California Dreamin’ also offers vintage biplane rides. Don your leather helmet and goggles and you will be transported back into the roaring ‘20s in an authentic 1928 Travel Air biplane. In either aircraft, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the lush vineyards and picturesque mountain valleys of Temecula. To choose your adventure visit www.californiaDreamin.com or call 800.373.3359.

Diamond Valley Lake
Fish, boat and hike in an inviting wilderness that seems specifically crafted for all three. Small watercraft are allowed on the lake, as are kayaks, but a strict speed limit is enforced. Record trout and bass are routinely caught and the Park District is working to add even more hiking trails to those visitors already enjoy. The first trail takes hikers up into the hills overlooking the lake and the second circles the lake. Have your camera ready to capture curious rabbits or deer as they dart out onto the path or fish as they leap from the water ready for a closeup.

Other attractions include the weekly Farmer’s Market, currently held each Thursday, and the seasonal wildflower trails. For more information about Diamond Valley Lake and all special events visit www.dvlake.com. Diamond Valley Lake marina is located at 2615 Angler Avenue, Hemet, CA 92545. For lake times and specific boating questions, call 951.926.7201.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR TEMECULA

Pechanga RV Resort: (www.pechanga.com) About 3 miles from Tehachapi Pass. One of Good Sam’s “Top

The road to Temecula
100 in the U.S.” Large sites with grass on either side. Friendly, helpful staff. 200,000-sqft casino with slots, gaming tables and poker rooms. Shade trees and a pool.

  • 168 sites
  • Full hookups – water, sewer, electric (20, 30, 50 amp)
  • WiFi & Cable TV
  • 25 Pull-thru sites with room for the big rigs
  • Family & Pet friendly

Pechanga RV Resort is located at 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula CA 92592. GPS: 33.455577, -117.1059.

Lake Skinner Recreation Area: (www.riversidecountyparks.org) This pleasant county campground is close to town but feels remote. Recent improvements include a kids’ splash area, an amphitheater and a comfortable, level hiking trail that winds around the park. Large, well-maintained sites. Picnic tables and fire pits. Shade trees and a pool.

  • Full hookups – water, sewer, electric (20, 30, 50 amp)
  • WiFi
  • Pull-thru sites with room for the big rigs
  • Family & Pet friendly

Lake Skinner is located at 37701 Warren Road, Winchester CA 92596. Call 951.926.1541 for reservations and additional information. GPS: 33°35’28’’N 117°04’26’’W.

Tucalota Springs RV Park: (www.tucalotasprings.com) Offers an out of the way “throwback” camping experience with a working ranch feel. The camp offers shady picnic areas, a fishing pond, petting zoo with emus and ostriches and playing fields so kids of all ages are well entertained.

  • Full hookups – water, sewer, electric (20, 30, 50 amp)
  • Pull-thru sites
  • Family & Pet friendly
  • Cable TV

Tucalota Springs is located at 41601 E. Benton Rd., Sage, CA. A 15-minute drive from the nearest fuel station or café, so come prepared. Call 951.767.0604 for reservations and more information. GPS: 33.581025, -116.924744.

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