Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country Road Trip Itinerary The rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and exceptional wines of Santa Ynez Valley make it an ideal destination for a wine country road trip in California.

Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country Road Trip Itinerary

The rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and exceptional wines of Santa Ynez Valley make it an ideal destination for a wine country road trip in California. Located just north of Santa Barbara, this charming region is home to over 100 wineries and tasting rooms, offering visitors the opportunity to sample some of the best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines in the state.

Day 1: Arrival and Wine Tasting

![image: wine-country, santa-ynez-valley, vineyard](Start your day by arriving in Santa Ynez Valley and checking into one of the region's many boutique hotels or bed-and-breakfast inns. Head straight to the Fess Parker Winery, where you can taste some of their award-winning wines on the patio overlooking the vineyards.

After lunch at one of the local eateries, visit the Sanford Winery, which offers a range of wine tastings and tours. Don't miss the stunning views from their hilltop tasting room!

Day 2: Explore the Valley

![image: wine-valley, santa-ynez, horseback-riding](Begin your day with a leisurely horseback ride through the vineyards with a guided tour. This is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the valley and get some exercise at the same time.

Next, stop by the Buttonwood Farm Winery, where you can taste their handcrafted wines and enjoy a picnic lunch on their scenic patio. Be sure to explore the nearby Foxen Canyon Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Day 3: Wine and Food Pairing

![image: wine-tasting, santa-ynez-valley, gourmet](Spend your day sampling some of the region's finest wines paired with exquisite cuisine at one of the local wineries. The Santa Ynez Valley is renowned for its farm-to-table restaurants, which showcase the freshest ingredients from local farmers and ranchers.

Visit the Au Bon Climat Winery, where you can enjoy a wine and food pairing experience in their cozy tasting room. Be sure to ask about their special menus and wine pairings for the day!

Getting Around

The Santa Ynez Valley is easily explored by car, but there are also public transportation options available. The Santa Barbara County Transit Agency offers bus service between Santa Barbara and Solvang, making it easy to get around without a car.

Practical Information

• Best time to visit: October to November for the harvest season, or April to May for the wildflower bloom
• Wine tasting fees: typically $10-$20 per person, depending on the winery
• Tasting room hours: usually 11am-5pm, but check with each winery for specific hours