Have you seen the news? Your idyllic European vacation may now be getting a little crowded. Europe is experiencing record-high summer tourism, so much that European residents and industry employees are even beginning to push back on the 1.5 billion international tourists breezing through the continent each year.

Stucco villas with terracotta roofs, idyllic vineyard views, balmy days followed by colorful sunsets—all are the classic hallmarks of a vacation to Tuscany. But for those who want to experience the romance of an Italian retreat without the price tags of a European vacation, there’s a city in southern California that’s calling your name.

Our second stop in our three-part SoCal Guide series (after Santa Monica) takes us to Temecula, California. Known as SoCal’s wine country, it boasts over 50 wineries, a historic Old Town with 1800s charm, a thriving arts and dining scene, and plenty of outdoor activities such as horseback riding, hot air balloon riding, mountain biking, and golfing.

For the ultimate romantic gesture, take your proposal to new heights, literally. Imagine proposing as you float above rolling vineyards and lush hills at sunrise, with the entire Temecula Valley spread out beneath you. Companies like Grape Escape offer private hot air balloon experiences, and some wineries like Europa Village even offer exclusive packages that include balloon rides with sparkling wine.

When you’re willing to splurge, the sky’s the limit for things to do in Temecula. Soar above the rolling hills and vineyards during a private flight with A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure ($799–$1,999 per couple, $1,399–$3,499 for up to 16 passengers). After a 60-minute scenic sunrise tour, sip a glass of chilled sparkling wine back on terra firma.

Temecula Valley, in California, has a lot to offer visitors, from scenery to lodging to dining and experiences. Real Food Traveler’s Hospitality Editor, Ron Stern, visited and managed to narrow down the offerings to nine great reasons to go.

Looking to do something different on vacation? Kim Orlando from shebuystravel.com stopped by with some unique ideas, including a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Grape Escape Balloon Adventure in Temecula!

Discover the perfect blend of food, wine, and picturesque settings in Temecula’s wine country, where Oak Mountain Winery offers intimate meeting spaces in its underground wine cave and Wilson Creek Winery hosts events amidst the oldest cabernet vines in America. Delight in gourmet Sicilian cuisine by acclaimed chefs Alex & Charity Prestifilippo, and
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Less than an hour north of San Diego, historic Old Town Temecula thrives with over 100,000 residents and 47 wineries across 33,000 acres. The recently purchased Swing Inn by Dean Norris adds to the town’s charm, while the upcoming Europa Village Wineries promises a grand fusion of Spanish, French, and Italian villages, expanding Temecula Valley’s allure beyond wine country with diverse experiences like horseback riding at California Ranch Company.

Nestled in the scenic mountain foothills of Temecula, Temecula Creek Inn offers a tranquil retreat just a short drive from San Diego, boasting picturesque views of its 27-hole golf course and locally sourced cuisine at Corkfire Kitchen. With luxurious accommodations, onsite dining, and nearby activities like wine tasting and hot air balloon rides, it’s the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway or a golfer’s dream vacation in Southern California.

Explore the stunning Great Outdoors of Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country, where visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, golfing, horseback riding, and even hot air balloon rides over the valley’s picturesque landscape. With its mild year-round climate and proximity to major cities like San Diego and Los Angeles, Temecula offers outdoor adventures for every taste, from wildlife spotting at the

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Temecula offers an array of outdoor adventures amidst its picturesque wine country, complemented by luxurious accommodations like Domaine Chardonnay Winery Estate & Luxury Guest Suites, where guests can partake in exclusive experiences like the Winemaker for a Day program. From exhilarating hot air balloon rides with Grape Escape Balloon Adventures to indulgent spa treatments at South Coast Winery’s

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Embark on an unforgettable journey through Temecula, where rich history blends seamlessly with vibrant hospitality and stunning natural beauty. From award-winning wineries like Leoness Cellars to cozy accommodations at The Vine House Bed & Breakfast, and thrilling adventures like hot air balloon rides and horseback trails, Temecula offers an enchanting escape that exceeds expectations, leaving visitors longing for more.