Get Inspired | Travel Tips | Montecito Village Travel

Hit The Road to California

Written by Jessica Freeman | June 18, 2020

Ocean views, redwood forests, mountain skylines... California has it all!

Time to hit the road and get back to exploring those off the radar places, staying in unique hotels, and enjoying new experiences and adventures. Whether a weekend getaway with the girls or a week long couples retreat, there is always time to unwind and relax and enjoy the amazing places close to home! Listen to our Spotify Hit The Road playlist on the way to your next getaway. 

Sonoma County, CA

The story of the Farmhouse Inn in Sonoma County, CA, dates back to 1911, and now five generations of winemakers later, siblings Joe and Catherine Bartolomei, who purchased a rundown inn a few miles from their great grandparents ranch in the Russian River Valley, have turned it into one of the highest rated hotels in the world.
 

Sommelier-led wine tours, a Michelin-starred restaurant, farm-to-table spa menu, every room and suite that has its own personality, charm and laid-back warmth, and owners so intimately connected to Sonoma you can feel their story and history at the heart of this Inn. Oversized fireplaces, light linen furnishings, and Sonoma-made bath goodies put a stylish spin on the classic farmhouse vibe, creating vibrant havens that brim with possibilities. 

Family History in A Bottle

Lost & Found Wine furthers the Farmhouse vision, combining the finest qualities of a classic Russian River Valley Pinot Noir with five generations of Bartolomei family winegrowing in western Sonoma County.

Lost & Found Pinot Noir was originally made with grapes harvested exclusively from the Bartolomei Vineyard, a cherished tradition since the early 1900s, when Catherine and Joe’s great-grandfather first planted it. Today, these fresh, bright wines celebrate remarkable vineyard sites and a "lost and found" minimal intervention style of winemaking.

Perfect for:

  • Couples
  • Girls trips 

Virtuoso Amenities

  • Upgrade onf arrival, subject to availability
  • Daily Full breakfast for two guests per bedroom (up to $50 daily breakfast credit)
  • $100 USD Spa Services credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
  • Complimentary hand curated wine tasting itineraries to the top 25 hand selected winery partners in Sonoma with all fees waived, VIP access and membership benefits as a guest of Farmhouse
  • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Napa Valley, CA

Visit the gorgeous vineyards of Napa Valley, California at the Vista Collina resort. The resort is set amidst 80 acres of land where you can enjoy a picnic under their oak trees. The One Bedroom suite includes a full kitchen where you can prepare a private meal or hire a private chef for secluded dining experience. With over 9 tasting rooms at the Village, enjoy a taste of the valley, and the large yard is also home to their food truck on the weekends and live music. 

Discover a taste of the five towns that make up Napa Valley, paired with Napa’s internationally-acclaimed wine. Indulge with locally-inspired treatments offered in the sanctuary of the underground Estate Cave.

Perfect for:

  • Couples
  • Girls trips
  • Visitors with pets

Resort Amenities

  • Nine on-site tasting rooms for featuring a taste of Napa Valley’s best boutique wines and microbrews
  • Food & Wine Center for culinary classes, wine seminars, guest chefs and more
  • Locally-sourced Wine Country market at Fivetown Grocery, led by acclaimed Chef Vincent Lesage
  • Beautiful pool and whirlpool with luxury cabanas ideal for a relaxing Napa Valley getaway
  • Partnership with Hestan Cue for a unique in-suite culinary experience
  • Complimentary use of the Fitness Studio and group wellness classes
  • Pet-friendly amenities for four-legged friends
  • Unique location at the gateway to all the legendary Napa Valley has to offer
  • And more!

La Jolla, CA

The Lodge at Torrey Pines, situated in the beautiful La Jolla, is surrounded by sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and borders the famed Torrey Pines Golf Course. The relaxing and laid-back environment is the perfect weekend spot to unwind. Luxury meets comfort at The Lodge at Torrey Pines. All rooms and suites are furnished with Stickley-style furniture, fabrics and leathers. The generously sized guest rooms range in size from 500 square feet to more than 1,500 square feet, offering views of the golf course or The Lodge's central courtyard.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines is dedicated to being environmentally friendly and have earned the Environmentalist Level for its sustainability practices. Being so close to the natural beauty of the Torrey Pines Golf Course and Torrey Pines State Reserve, The Lodge is dedicated to respecting the environment. Green travelers can rest assured that The Lodge is dedicated to minimizing waste, conserving energy and protecting natural resources. Take advantage of the California sun and views and explore nearby San Diego, or try a breathtaking hike at the world famous Torrey Pines State Reserve. 

Perfect for:

  • Couples
  • Golfers
  • Guys trip

Virtuoso Amenities

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
  • Full breakfast daily in restaurant for two guests per bedroom (up to 60.00 credit per day)
  • $100 USD Spa Services credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full, excluding gratuity and tax)
  • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Big Sur, CA

The ultimate couples retreat. Escape your everyday routine and be surrounded by towering redwoods, majestic mountains and panoramic ocean vistas at the Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, CA. Known for its award-winning organic architecture and nestled high above the cliffs of Big Sur, the acclaimed inn perches 1200 feet above the Pacific Ocean. Explore all that nature has to offer, or take a short drive to the picturesque towns of Monterey and Carmel. This unique stay is definitely one to cross off your bucket list!

With natural architecture embracing the coast’s dramatic beauty, the 39 rooms blend rustic elegance, comfort and privacy with panoramic ocean or mountain views. The Wine Spectator Grand-Award winning Sierra Mar restaurant offers exquisite dining with a menu that changes daily, complimentary daily breakfast and a spectacular setting with endless ocean views.

Perfect for:

  • Couples

Virtuoso Amenities

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
  • Daily full breakfast, for two guests per bedroom
  • $100 USD Resort/Hotel credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
  • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Book with MVT & Receive Our Exclusive Benefits:

  • Best-available rates and exclusive availability
  • Complimentary room upgrades
  • Complimentary daily breakfast for two
  • Early check-in and late checkout
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Exclusive negotiated global air fares and upgrades (including private jet/charter)
  • Worldwide car rental discounts and perks
  • Preferred travel insurance rates and prioritized client services
  • And more!