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Visitors Guide Visitors Guide San Luis Obispo County San Luis Obispo County Maps • Dining Wine Tasting Attractions • Spas Lodging • Shopping Calendar of Events Access Access Tour art galleries of Morro Bay See monarch butterflies in Pismo Dine at Cielo Mexican Food & Cantina DIRECTIONS INSIDE slopoker.com Paso Robles 805-226-0500 • Grover Beach 805-474-8500 FREE Hat for 1st Time Visitors! *DETAILS AT CASHIERS CAGE. PLAY RESPONSIBLY: 800-GAMBLER * Fall 2011 Visit museums Explore nature Meet winemakers

San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

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A guide to all of San Luis Obispo County, California

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Page 1: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

VisitorsGuide

VisitorsGuide

San Luis Obispo CountySan Luis Obispo County

Maps • Dining Wine TastingAttractions • SpasLodging • ShoppingCalendar of Events

AccessAccess

Tour art galleries of Morro BaySee monarch butterflies in PismoDine at Cielo Mexican Food & Cantina

DIRECTIONS INSIDE

slopoker.com

Paso Robles 805-226-0500 • Grover Beach 805-474-8500FREE Hat for 1st Time Visitors!

*DETAILS AT CASHIERS CAGE. PLAY RESPONSIBLY: 800-GAMBLER

*

Fall2011

Visit museums

Explore nature

Meet winemakers

Page 2: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

2 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

Page 3: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

www.slovisitorsguide.com FALL20113

Page 4: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

4 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

Served Daily7am-11am

Buy One Breakfast, Get One 1/2 OffWith purchase of 2 beverages.One coupon per table. Not good with to-go orders,

any other offer or on holidays. Expires 11/30/11.

Seafood Restaurant1500 W. Branch St., Arroyo Grande • 805.481-FISH (3474)

www.QuarterdeckSeafood.comSummer Hours: June-Sept. Daily 7:00am-10:00pm Fall Hours: Daily 7:00am-9:00pm (‘til 10pm Fri. & Sat.)

Now serving delicious, unique and traditional breakfasts at a

price that can’t be beat!

Where great atmosphere, food and service will bring you back time& time again!

Also join us for lunch or dinner for amazing seafood entrees. Enjoy a tropical drink in our cozy bar.

Voted“BEST SEAFOOD ON

THE CENTRAL COAST”by the locals!

Page 5: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

www.slovisitorsguide.com FALL20115

Ben Hogan & JanKris Wines

Where Memorable Wines Meet Unforgettable Views

Located in the renowned Templeton Gap, we invite you to come enjoy our Garden-themed Vineyard Estate serving award-winning wines, friendly ambiance and stunning views.

Complimentary Tasting

Daily From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1266 N. Bethel Road, Templeton, CA 93465 ph: 805-434-0319 www.veriscellars.com

Page 6: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

6 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

Featuring Over 70 Antique Tractors & Wagons

Pre-Pioneer Day Dinner DancePaso Robles Event Center

Saturday, September 17th, 6 pm

For information about Pioneer Day: www.pasoroblespioneerday.orgWade Taylor 805-550-1078, [email protected]

7:00 am Beans cooked in the Park 7:30 am Antique/Classic Cars Judging — Heritage Oaks Bank 545 12th St. 8:00 am Children’s Pet Show, 14 years and under — City Park Gazebo 8:30 am Little Cowboy/Cowgirl Contest — City Park Gazebo 10:00 am Pioneer Day Parade — Starts at 17th & Spring St. around City Park 12:00 noon Free Bean Feed, — City Park 12:00 noon Carnegie Library/Historical Museum — City Park, Opens 12:30 pm Band Concert — City Park Gazebo 1:00 pm Gymkhana — Paso Robles Event Center 1:00 pm Horseshow Pitching Contest — City Park 1:00 pm Pioneer Museum — Open to Visitors 1:00 pm Old Gas Engine Show — Pioneer Park 1:00 pm Wagon & Tractor Display, Dutch Oven Cookin’, Mule Packing Demonstration — Pioneer Museum

Saturday October 8

2011

81st Annual Paso RoblesPIONEER DAY

Designed by ACCESS Publishing

October 8th Pioneer Day Events

Page 7: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

www.slovisitorsguide.com FALL20117

Published quarterly by:Access Publishing

806 9th St., Suite 2DP.O. Box 631

Paso Robles, CA 93447

To advertise, call:805-226-9890

fax [email protected]

Editor & PublisherScott D. Brennan

AdvertisingBeth Brennan, Karen BattagliaNona Cantalupo, Lori Gardner,

Sally Giordano

Writers & PhotographersKate Joyce, Ruth Ann Angus, Nick Powell,

Scott Loy, Jennifer Brennan, John Crippen, Trisha Butcher

Graphic DesignerJane Johnson

Submissions WelcomeWe welcome your stories and

calendar events. Fax your submission or press release to 805-226-9892 or email [email protected]

Distribution30,000 copies of the visitors guide are distrib-uted quarterly to over 550 hotels and visitor

hot spots. If you would like to distribute copies at your business, call 805-226-9890.

CopyrightAll material, text, stories, photos, maps, graph-

ics, etc. herein are copyrighted by the San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide. No content may be reproduced without the written per-

mission from the publisher.

MembershipsAccess Visitors Guide is a proud

member of the following organizations:Atascadero Chamber of Commerce

Cambria Chamber of CommerceCharles Paddock Zoo

Grover Beach Chamber of CommerceLos Osos Chamber of Commerce

Morro Bay Chamber of CommercePaso Robles Chamber of Commerce

Paso Robles Children’s MuseumSLO County VCB

Templeton Chamber of Commerce

VisitorsGuide

VisitorsGuide

AccessAccess

San Luis Obispo CountySan Luis Obispo County

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MileageChartAppoximate driving miles

slovisitorsguide.com

We’rea

FavoritePlaceVisitors

GuideVisitors

Guide

AccessAccess

Throughout the visitors guide we’ve printed listings recommending our “Favorite Places.”

Look for restaurants, attractions, shops, muse-

FavoritePlaces

Gomobile!From your cell

phone, iPad or mobile device you can use an app to scan the QR code below and browse the Visitors Guide online. Or visit slovisitorsguide.com

ums, spas, golf courses, out-door activities, galleries and other places and services that cater to you, the visitor.

We’ve also highlighted wineries on our maps that are our “Favorite Places.”

I’d like to welcome you to San Luis Obispo County! There are so many exciting things to do and see here.

Enjoy your time here!

Scott D, Brennan, Publisher

Look for this sticker in the windows of places serving visitors like you.

Page 8: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

8 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

CHO

LAME VALLEY RD.

Lake Nacimiento

Lake San Antonio

Hearst Castle

Piedras Blancas Lighthouse

Morro Rock

Point San Luis Lighthouse

W.R. HEARST STATE BEACH

SAN SIMEON BEACH STATE PARK

LOS PADRES NATIONAL FOREST

MORRO BAY STATE PARK

MORRO STRAND STATE

BEACH

CAYUCOS STATE BEACH

PISMO STATE BEACH

OCEANO DUNES

MONTANA DE ORO STATE PARK

Whale Rock Res.

Santa Margarita

LakeCal Poly

Lopez Lake

LO

PEZ DR.

HUASNA RD.

Avila Beach

Santa Margarita

Creston

Shandon

Parkeld

Harmony

AdelaidaSan Simeon

San Miguel

Los Osos

Baywood Park

Baywood Park

Shell Beach

Pismo BeachPismo Beach

Morro Bay

Paso Robles

Templeton

Atascadero

San Luis Obispo

Cayucos

Cambria

BeachGrover Beach

OceanoOceano

Nipomo

Huasna

Arroyo Grande

OLD CREEK RD

.

VINEYARD DR.

ADELAIDA RD.

NACIM

IENTO LAKE DR.

SAN MARCOS RD

.

E S T R E LLA RD.

N. RIVER RD

.

To Fresno& Bakers�eld

To California Valley & Carrizo PlainNational Monument

To Santa Barbara & Los

To Monterey & San Francisco

Mission

Airport

To Big Sur

POZO RD.LOS OSOS VALLEY RD.

Welcome to

Find a mapof things to do and see!

Arroyo Grande

Atascadero

Cambria

Cayucos

Los Osos/Baywood Park

Morro Bay

Paso Robles

Pismo Beach/Avila Beach/Shell Beach/Grover Beach/Oceano

San Luis Obispo

CITY ACTIVITIESPAGE

Bike trails

Fishing charters

Whale watching

Horsetrails

N

S

EW

MILES

0 1 2 3 4 5

Mission

Sur�ngGolf Camping O�-road recreation

Canoe & kayak

Pier Marina Picnic areas

Wine tasting

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Airport

1

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46

46

58

101

1

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101

101

227

229

166

31

45

52

36

62

11

21

43

41

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www.slovisitorsguide.com FALL20119

So Much to See...Table of Contents

REVIEW BY AREA ArroyoGrande 30

Atascadero 51

AvilaBeach 24

Cambria 44

Cayucos 42

GroverBeach 28

LosOsos 41

MorroBay 35

Nipomo 34

PasoRobles 61

PasoWineCountry 79

PismoBeach 20

SanLuisObispo 10

SanMiguel 75

SanSimeon 47

SantaMargarita 50

Templeton 58

FIND A MAP CityMapIndex 8

PasoWineCountry 80

SLOCounty 8

SLOWineCountry 19

HIGHLIGHTS

Calendar of Events

RecommendedInns & Hotels

113 114

See monarch butterflys

22

65Experience Pioneer Day

33Explore Lopez Lake

Tour Point San Luis Lighthouse

25Take a Food Tour

14

Taste local olive oil

76

Visit a Goat Farm

59Tour Hearst Castle

47

Wine Tasting in North County

79

Take a Guided Hunt

54Tour Art Galleries

37

Play and learn at a museum

66

Page 10: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

10 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

The city of San Luis Obispo has many faces. It is the seat of

county government, a business and shopping center, and a traditional college town.

To sample the SLO life, as locals refer to their environment, put on your walking shoes and start at the San Luis Obispo de Tolosa mission, the fifth in the mission chain in California.

San Luis Obispo is alive with history and a walk around down-town will expose you to many structures from the early days.

Some must sees are the Ah Louis Store at 800 Palm Street. Constructed in 1874, it was the supply station for Chinese labor-ers who built the railroad tunnels through the mountains of the Cuesta Grade. Sinsheimer store with an iron front, built in 1884, is at 849 Monterey Street. The Jack House at 536 Marsh Street was built in 1875 and is often open for tours. State Historical Landmark Dallidet Adobe at 1185 Pacific Street is open Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Visit the San Luis Obispo County Historical Society Museum on Mon-terey Street where an extensive col-lection of area artifacts are displayed.

The museum is housed in the original Carnegie Library built in 1905 with granite from Bishop Peak, one of the legendary seven sisters. The sisters are a chain of volcanic peaks stretching from the city to the ocean at Morro Bay along Highway 1.

Drive across town to visit an architectural wonder, the Madonna Inn. Built by the late rancher, Alex Madonna and his wife, Phyllis, it sits in pink splendor by the side of Highway 101, exit Madonna Road.

Horses graze in the white-fenced fields on the property. A quality restaurant is on site and touring the public rooms is a must. You can see the dining room, the wine cellar and be sure not to miss the men’s restroom. Even women should take a peek to see the waterfall urinal.

The Inn has 109 theme-based rooms and a stay here might have

TherearemanythingstodiscoveraroundthecityofSanLuisObispo

SanLuisObispo

NORTHERN ITALIAN CUISINE

created by

experienced and

skilled chef

Antonio VariaAntipasti, hand crafted pastas

and generous main courses featuring the area’s freshest

seasonal ingredients. Desserts such as tiramisu or gelato.

LUNCH: MON-FRI 11:30-2:30

www.btslo.com

(SLO RESTAURANT CLOSES AT 2 ON THURS.) DINNER: SUN-THU 5:30-9:30, FRI & SAT 5:30-10:00

San Luis Obispo 805.545.8000

1037 MONTEREY ST.

Paso Robles805.237.0600943 SPRING ST.

Page 11: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

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San Luis Obispo

Laguna Lake

Bishops Peak

Cerro San Luis

Peak

Irish Hills Natural Reserve

LOS PADRES NATIONAL

FOREST

Cal Poly

San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport

Madonna Plaza & SLO PromenadeMadonna Plaza & SLO Promenade

San Luis Obispo

Country Club

To Arroyo Grande

To Pismo Beach

To Los Osos & Baywood Park

To Morro Bay To Paso Robles

EDNA RD.

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RD.

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ORCUTT

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TANK FARM RD.

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CALL

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FOOTHILL BLVD.

PREFUMO CANYON RD.

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SOUTH

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BONDFREDERICKS

STAFFORD

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IS DR.

Mission San Luis Obispo

Mission San Luis Obispo

Mission Mission

Laguna Lake Golf Course

Laguna Lake Golf Course

N

S

EW

227

MILES

0 1/2 1

101

1

101

1

San Luis Obispo

you sleeping in the Safari Room or the Cave-man Chamber or even the Old Mill Room with its own waterfall. A new addition to the property is the convention center where many special events take place.

After touring the Madonna Inn drive over to the largest open space in the city, Laguna Lake Park at 504 Madonna Road. Here there are pic-nic tables and barbecues, large grassy areas, and of course, the lake. Feeding the many domestic and wild ducks and geese is a popular pastime.

There is a nice walking trail along the lakeshore and a launching ramp for kayaks and canoes. Boating on the lake is fun, but best done in the morning hours before the winds come up.

A visit to California Polytechnic University’s agricultural center makes for an interesting time. Here there is a full-scale working dairy with Jersey and Holstein cows. There is also the swine unit, horse unit, and chicken house as well as the Cal-Poly farm. Students in the agricultural divi-sion supply produce and dairy products to many local families as well as local supermarkets.

Plant aficionados will enjoy seeing the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden on Highway 1 at Dairy Creek Road in El Chorro Regional Park. The gardens are a lovely quiet place to stroll or sit and meditate. Mediterranean plantings as well as California Natives are part of the landscape and a new educational facility is on site where a variety of programs take place. For more information, call SLO County Parks at 805-781-5930.

—By Ruth Ann Angus

For a map of San Luis Obispo area wineries, please see page 19.

Art GalleriesTheGalleryattheNetworkDowntow gallery featuring over 40 artists. Here’s a fun, convenient way to experience handmade, exceptional artwork by award-winning artists of the central coast. 778 Higuera St., Ste. B, near the mission in San Luis Obispo. www.galleryatthenet-work.com, 805-788-0886

ANTIQUES ON MONTEREY

1599 Monterey St. • San Luis Obispo • 805-783-1599

Furniture • Lamps • SilverPottery • Glass • Jewelry

& Much More!

Purveyor of Quality Antiques

Cafe & Bakery1491 Monterey, SLO544-7567

Cafe197 Pomeroy, Pismo Beach

773-4653

AWARD-W

INNING CLAM

CHOW

DERDESS

ERTS

• P

ASTR

IES

• BR

EADS

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER • SEAFOOD

CASUAL DINING AT AFFORDABLE PRICESOPEN DAILy At 7AM

splashcafe.com splashbakery.com

Page 12: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

12 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

San Luis Obispo

WoodstockPizzaVoted San Luis Obispo’s best pizza 22 times! Dine in, take out & delivery. Watch sports on HDTV, play video games & enjoy free WiFi. Open for lunch & dinner till 1 a.m. midweek and 2 a.m. on weekends. 1000 Higuera St. woodstocksslo.com805-541-4420.

Real EstateFarrellSmyth,Inc.Serving the real estate needs of San Luis Obispo County since 1978. Residential, commercial, investment, relocation services, property manage-ment and rentals. www.farrellsmyth.com 805-543-2172.

ShoppingAntiquesonMontereyOffering a wide selection of jewelry, furniture, silver, toys, glassware and many other unique items. Open daily from 11-5:30. Free parking. 1599 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, 805-783-1599.

FindersKeepersFabulous designer fashions at incred-ible prices. Casual to elegant. Browse through gently used fashions from designers like Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Louis Vutton and more. Open Mon. to Sat., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Located in the center of downtown at 1124 Garden St. between Marsh & Higuera. www.finderskeepersconsignment.com 805-545-9879.

MountainAirSportsThe Central Coast’s premier retailer of outdoor apparel, equipment, foot-wear and supplies since 1975. Great selection of hiking books & trail maps. Come by and visit us at the corner of Marsh & Broad streets, 667 Marsh St., Downtown San Luis Obispo. www.mountainairsports.com, 805-543-1676.

Tours & AttractionsCentralCoastFoodToursDiscover new tastes and the fascinat-ing stories behind them with the Central Coast’s premier food tasting tour. Our tours include seven food and beverage tastings (enough for lunch!) and interesting historical and architectural stops along our path. www.CentralCoastFoodTours.ComTickets at Zerve 800-979-3370

We Deliver!Watch Sports on HD TV’sVideo Games • Free Wi-Fi

san luis obispo’s

most wanted

1000 Higuera St 805 541-4420woodstocksslo.com

Voted SLO’sBest Pizza23 Times!!!

- New Times Readers’ Polls

Dining outBenFranklin’sSandwichesOver 40 years serving San Luis Obispo’s biggest and best sandwich-es. Also offering a variety of salads, soups plus homemade chili. Going wine tasting? Call in your order ahead for easy pick-up. Daily 9-6, Sundays 10-5. 313 Higuera, San Luis Obispo. www.ben-franklins.com, 805-544-4948

BuonaTavolaAntipasti, hand crafted pastas, gener-ous main courses and truly inspired desserts, such as Chef Varia’s famous tirami su. The highest quality and freshest foods. 1037 Monterey St. Open for lunch 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Open for dinner 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. 805-545-8000.

CieloCantinaMexicanRestaurant&CantinaOne of the best patios. Try tradi-tional mexican fare, famous butternut squash enchiladas and thier award winning margaritas. Open 7 days a week. Kids menu & sunday brunch. At Mission Plaza downtown, 1023 Chorro St. www.CieloCantina.com 805-545-9001.

CreeksideBrewingCo.Enjoy hand-crafted brews and scenic creek side views at this local favorite. Pub-style comfort food, local beers and wines, in addition to a full bar. Banquet room and catering available. Serving lunch and dinner. 1040 Broad St., San Luis Obispo. 805-542-9804.

Louisa’sPlaceVoted “Best Breakfast” in town. Family-style restaurant serves up a large selection of delicious meals for breakfast and lunch. Come and treat your taste buds. 964 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo. www.louisasplace.net (805) 541-0227.

Mama’sMeatballMama’s Meatball is a fine Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria serving lunch and dinner. Mama’s Meatball has specialized in creating seasonal menus by using only the finest and freshest ingredients. 570 Higuera St. #130. Open daily 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. 805-544-0861.

SplashCafe&ArtisanBakeryBreakfast, lunch and dinner. Comfort-able, affordable & delicious. Full service bakery. Open daily 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. 1491 Monterey St. 805-544-7567.

964 Higuera St., Downtown San Luis Obispo541-0227 • www.louisasplace.net

Weekday Special10% OFF YOUR ORDERMention you saw this ad.

Voted Best Breakfast 3 Years in a Row

HOME STYLE COOKING

Page 13: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

www.slovisitorsguide.com FALL201113

Experience bold flavors and

authentic Mexican atmosphere

San Luis Obispo

With its red-tile rooftop and adobe exterior, it’s only fitting that

Cielo Cantina, the restaurant that sits across from San Luis Obispo’s Spanish Mission, should serve Mexican fare in a family-friendly setting. The interior is decorated in the modern style of Mexico City, with subdued earth tones, agave plants in elegant pottery, and in-timate paintings of indigenous people on the walls.

“We wanted to make it casual and welcoming for everybody,” said own-er Sean Faries. “With the location, we get all kinds of patrons – tourists, students, families, business people – they’re all welcome here.”

Cielo Cantina is Spanish for “sky bar,” and the name fits. The creek side patio provides the perfect California dining experience where patrons can immerse themselves in the rich environment, surrounded by lush vegetation and historic architecture, while they munch flavorful food and watch the bustling downtown activ-ity. Add a margarita to the mix, and it sure feels like heaven!

“Our chef did a fantastic job of taking traditional Mexican cuisine and breathing new life into it with local produce and seafood,” said Faries. “Our dedication to quality really sets us apart.”

That sentiment is especially evident in their steaming plate of roasted squash enchiladas served with black beans and rice. This meat-free concoc-tion is a guaranteed hit with vegetarians, but the unique combination of bold flavors is enough to keep even the staunchest carnivores coming back for more. Another favorite is the fiesta salad with plump shrimp, locally grown avocado, olives, and plenty of pico de gallo.

Their fajita menu boasts five different options for sizzling spreads of carmelized onions and peppers with chicken, certified Angus steak, halibut, shrimp, or even portabella mushroomes.

“They’re made with high quality meat, not left-over bits and pieces hidden in sauce,” said Faries.

Cielo builds a lot of value into their plates with heaps of hand crafted, deliciously seasoned guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo included with most meals at no extra charge. Entrée prices start at $6.50 and peak at just $14, letting patrons get a full meal (usually needing to-go

HeavenlydiningatCieloCantinaboxes) without having to break the bank. Weekly specials like Monday’s industry night (30 percent off the bill for hotel, restaurant, and winery staff), Taco Tuesdays with $2 tacos and beers, and all day happy hour on Thursday keep the savings com-ing, and the kid’s menu manages to provide even better deals. Children can get a small entrée, a drink, and a churro with carmel dipping sauce for dessert, all for $5.

“Our motto is ‘service, service, service,” said Faries. “We try to make guests feel comfortable, especially if they want to modify the menu to fit their diet or unique tastes.”

The food’s great, but don’t forget that Cielo Cantina is also a full ser-vice bar. They serve over 50 different tequilas, margaritas, and mixed drinks, and their talented bartenders pour drinks into the early morning hours with DJs spinning dance mu-sic Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. They’re the only ones down-town that serve ice blended cocktails for a sweet summer treat.

“We’ve got the largest tequila selection in town,” said veteran bartender Chris Lee. “We do tequila flights that are a lot like wine tasting. There’s more value and quality taste to some tequilas than most people would think.”

Faries had a professional tequila sommelier come down and give an instructional course on the finer points of tequila and the agave plant from which it’s derived so that all

of his bartenders could answer any questions and help drinkers get the best experience possible.

Aside from the traditional margarita, Cielo serves a prickly pear cocktail made with the puree of a sweet Mexican fruit that looks like a cactus. They also make a skinny margarita that uses Saint Ger-main instead of Sweet and Sour mix for a cocktail with half the calories.

“The ‘Perfect Margarita’ uses fresh squeezed lime juice and premium cointreau,” said Faries. “Perfect is really an understatement. It’s an amazing cocktail.”

Daring drinkers can try the infamous “worm shot,” a mescal concoction with a real worm floating inside. It’s certainly a memorable experience for a twenty first birthday celebration. The staff will even snap a picture as you swallow the worm and post it online.

For quality food and a stimulating atmosphere, visit Cielo Cantina at 1023 Chorro Street by the Mission Plaza. For more information or reserva-

tions, call 805-545-9001.— Nick Powell

Page 14: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

14 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

San Luis Obispo

The GALLERY AT THE NETWORKFine Art and Crafts from premier

Central Coast Artists

778 Higuera St.San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

805-788-0886www.galleryatthenetwork.com

Distinctive artwork for home, garden and

commercial settingswww.homeandgardenartlink.com

and

When visiting a “foody” city like San Luis Obispo, try-

ing to pick a few restaurants that capture the unique spirit of the area can be a daunting task, especially if time is tight and knowledge is lacking. Luckily, there’s a new business that takes hungry visitors on a downtown walking tour that guarantees to have everyone leave town feeling like a local.

Central Coast Food Tours puts groups of up to twelve people in the capable hands of knowledgeable tour guides and sets them loose on a two mile trek through the vibrant downtown district of what USA Today and Oprah called America’s happiest city. Participants are taken to six to eight food and beverage hot spots with unique styles and flavors that represent the diverse qualities of San Luis Obispo. Most are small, hole-in-the-wall type gems that locals love but that tourists might

Adeliciousadventure

easily overlook. “We’re just local people who love

this area and want to share our en-

thusiasm with visitors,” said Laura Gurreau, who started the business with her husband in April of 2011. “We want to shine a light on the back street finds.”

Each stop on the tour includes a pre-arranged, snack size serving of the establish-ment’s finest offerings. Be prepared to taste decadent truffles, fresh salads, rich olive oils, exotic meats, and much more. All together, there’s plenty of food for a full meal (and even take-out boxes), but the fine dining is broken up with easy strolls through interesting neighborhoods, giving

everyone time to digest and make room for more morsels.

The food is the obvious star of the show, but the tour includes much more than a list of restau-rants and some lunch. Gurreau and her lead tour guide, Jules Du-rocher, did extensive research with the San Luis Obispo Historical Society to learn about the area’s dramatic history and architec-

ture. They also sat down with each of their featured business owners to learn the story behind the food.

“You really get to know the restaurants,” said Durocher. “I love

Black Sheep Bar and Grill’s mac and cheese.

Discover new tastes and the fascinating stories behind them. Each guided tour includes

6 food tastings and several stops at interesting historical or architectural features on the way.

Check schedule & buy tickets: www.centralcoastfoodtours.comOr Call at: 800-979-3370

facebook.com/ccfoodtours twitter.com/ccfoodtours

Take a

CenTral CoasT

Food Tour!

Take a food tour

Page 15: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

www.slovisitorsguide.com FALL201115

San Luis Obispo

Serving all of San Luis Obispo County since 1978 in Real Estate Sales including: Residential, Commercial, Investment,

Relocation Services, Property Management and Rentals.

(805) 543-2172www.farrellsmyth.com

Now with two Real Estate offices to serve you!Main office: 21 Santa Rosa St, Ste. 100, San Luis Obispo

AG Branch: 102 E. Branch St, Ste. D, Arroyo Grande

● Hand-crafted ales● Pub-style comfort food● Scenic patio dining● Local wines, Full bar● Banquet room● Catering available

1040 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo • 805-542-9804www.creeksidebrewing.com

LUNCH & DINNER 7 DAYS A WEEKLunch 11:00a-4:00pDinner 4:00p-9:30pBar Menu Sun-Wed 11:00am-11:55p, Thu-Sat 11:00a-1:30a

HAPPY HOURMon-Fri 4:00p-6:00p

MONDAY$3 Pint Night

sharing that information and creating real relationships with people.”

Ever wonder why most of San Luis Obispo’s buildings are made of brick, or why all the houses seem to have front porches? And how did local hero and famed developer Alex Madonna get his start? These questions will be answered along with details about Father Junipero Serra and the groundbreaking at Mission de San Luis, Obisbo de Tolosa. Participants will learn how Black Sheep Bar and Grille got its name, and they’ll hear the heartwarming tale of how a departed regular got a plaque in a table at Jaffa Café.

Even jaded, long term residents are bound to learn something new about the many works of public art

that decorate their home town or pos-sibly discover a wonderful restaurant they’d always known about but never tried for one reason or another.

“The goal is to entertain people and feed them some dynamic, pro-gressive food, said Durocher.

“It’s a great activity for tourists, but it’s also perfect for Cal Poly alumni doing reunion get-togethers.”

It’s easy to see why it took just a few months for Central Coast Food Tours to rise to Trip Advisor’s top spot for San Luis Obispo Tours. Between feeding your stomach and feeding your brain, there’s not a dull moment. The tour guides are friendly and helpful, willing to an-swer questions on any topic. They’ll help tourists plan their entire vaca-

tion, offering tips on local activities, hotels, and hikes.

Because of the tour’s busy schedule, guides ask participants to refrain from shopping at any of the stops. However, they do give guests a pamphlet of coupons that people can use after the tour as they meander back to their cars at the end of the day.

The company makes regular adjustments to its tours, so there’s always something new on the jour-ney. They also do seasonal events

like their summer wine and food pairing that took place every Friday at El Colibri and Spa in Cambria. Be on the look-out for future tours in Paso Robles and possibly a pub crawl in San Luis Obispo.

To book your own delicious adventure, go to www.centralcoast-foodtours.com. Reservations are made online only. Tours cost $65 per person, last between two and three hours, and take place in rain or shine.

— Nick Powell

Brick-fired pizza at Giuseppe’s. Guide Jules Durocher educates the group at Black Sheep Bar and Grill.

Page 16: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

16 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

San Luis Obispo

Helping you meet the challenge.

www.mountainairsports.comLocally owned and Operated for over 30 years!

Santa Barbara • San Luis Obispo

Apparel •Equipment•Footwear

667 Marsh Street Downtown San Luis Obispo • (805) 543-1676

finders keepers consignment boutique

Dare to be as fabulous on the outside as you are on the inside!

Casual to Elegant…

Fabulous Designer Fashions at Incredible Prices!

1124 Garden St. - Between Marsh & Higuera - San Luis Obispo805.545.9879 • Or shop online at www.FindersKeepersConsignment.com

Conveniently located in the center of town!

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm

Chanel - Gucci - Prada - Louis Vuitton Michael Kors - Manolo Blahnik - CelineTods - Twelfth Street - Nanette Lepore

Alberto Fermani - Max Mara - True ReligionJuicy - Marc Jacobs - Eileen Fisher

Donna Karan - Chloe’ - Tylie

FarmersmarketisafunfestivalSan Luis Obispo’s Farmer’s

Market is not just a market and not just an event, it’s an institution. Combination produce market and street fair, this Thursday night gather-ing has much to offer for a summer’s night stroll.

Freshness is the key to the success of every farmer’s market. Crops are usually picked on either the same day as the market or within a day. Tomatoes, strawber-ries, peaches, and avocados are offered at their peek ripeness.

Variety is another reason to shop at farmer’s market where you may find several different kinds of

vegetables and fruits as compared to what is found at the supermarket, and most are grown pesticide free.

Higuera Street between Osos and Nipomo Streets becomes an olfactory heaven with the aroma of barbecue, and vendors offer the best in grilled tri-tip,

a specialty of the Central Coast, as well as chicken, ribs, and sausage. Other food booths offer pizza and homemade cookies.

You will enjoy the variety of entertainment from belly dancers to rock and folk musicians to gym-nasts to high school bands. There is something for everyone. And

be sure to spot San Luis Obispo’s mascot, Downtown Brown, a six foot bear who gives out bear hugs and paw shakes.

Cars are not allowed on the five blocks of Farmer’s Market and parking is available in the city parking lots on Palm and Morro as well as street parking on adjacent streets. Watch for the no parking

signs on the meters though. Farmer’s Market takes place ev-

ery Thursday except for Thanksgiv-ing or if it is raining. But it never rains in summer in San Luis Obispo so be sure to come out on Thurs-days to enjoy the country’s best Farmer’s Market. For information call (805) 544-9570.

—Ruth Ann Angus

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www.slovisitorsguide.com FALL201117

San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo1605 Calle Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

805-786-4200 • Fax 805-786-4210Marriott.com/SBPCY

Luxurious Guest Rooms Amenities include luxury bedding and pullout sofas, flat screen high-definition televisions with On Demand movies, complimentary high speed Internet, coffee/tea in-room with microwave and refrigerator.

Meeting Spaces Each of our meeting rooms offer a wide selection of technologically advanced audio/visual equipment and services, appx. 4,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and full catering services.

Dining & Entertainment Our Café offers breakfast and dinner and a happy hour Monday - Friday from 3-6pm.

Please ask about Group Discounts.

Phot

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It’s a warm spring day and you’re walking along a bustling downtown sidewalk when something

catches your attention. An aroma, a scent, a fra-grance of some kind. What is that unidentifiable odor? You pause, ponder, but can’t quite put your finger on it. In fact, you’re not even certain if it is a good smell or a bad smell. You decide to investigate.

You are, of course, in San Luis Obispo, California strolling down Higuera Street. You have prob-ably just seen a movie, had lunch, and are now carrying several shopping bags. As you approach 733 Higuera you catch your first glimpse. You have just identified the source. It’s a wall. It’s a wall covered in… covered in gum? That’s right, you have just stumbled upon Bubblegum Alley.

Bubblegum Alley rivals only The Madonna Inn as the most unusual (and popular) attrac-tion in all of San Luis Obispo. A narrow alley (be careful not to brush up against the sides as you pass through) 15 feet high and 70 feet long that

BubblegumAlleyisastickysituationprograms, is seen as a good luck charm for area sports teams, and is a popular place to demon-strate love and affection to ones mate, similar to carving your initials in a tree.

The walls of the alley act as a canvas, an outlet for creative expression. Many ponder at how some of the higher wads could have possibly been stuck where they are, and only the bravest of artists know for sure. Just take a look at the giant self-portrait high in one corner of a man in sunglasses blowing a giant bubble. A lot of people had to chew a lot of gum to make that larger than life public art piece.

There are attractions that one must see to be-lieve. Bubblegum Alley is definitely one of those. When you visit the walls, you may gasp. You may laugh. You will undoubtedly begin to point here and there as you travel up and down the alley. You will find hearts. You will find peace signs and shiny wrappers. You will find pennies and pebbles stuck in the goo. You will take the piece of gum that you are chewing out of your mouth and find the perfect spot. You will become a part of this most unusually awesome tradition, adding to the layers of time, and you may even come back to do it all over again.

—By Rebecca Ross Klosinski

is plastered from bottom to nearly top with every color and variety of chewing gum known to man.

There is some disagreement as to how this unassuming byway between two downtown shops came to be covered in gum. Some say it started just after WWII as a San Luis Obispo High gradu-

ating class event. Some say it started as a rivalry be-tween the local high school and Cal Poly University in the 1950’s. Oh what a simpler time it was, when rivalries were settled by Bubblicious.

Whatever the origins, one thing is for sure. This alley of gum represents tra-dition - much to the delight and disgust of the local citi-

zenry. There are those who see Bubblegum Alley as a dump for the ABC (Already Been Chewed) and think of it as a stain on the clean streets of SLO. But then there are those in the majority who see the wall for what it is – a fun, silly, and yes, even gross tradition that draws attention from people all over the world. Bubblegum Alley has appeared on several nationwide television

Page 18: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

18 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

San Luis Obispo & South County Wine Tasting

Handcrafted Arti

san W

ines

Fri-Sun 11-6 – Drop-ins Welcome! www.autrycellars.com5450-B Edna Rd. (Hwy 227), San Luis Obispo • 805-546-8669

Come learn about wine from the sourceMeet the Winemaker

Join us for the Grand OpeninGof our new Tasting room!

It’s the only place on the Central Coast where sparkling wine is

produced, but that isn’t the whole story about Laetitia Vineyard and Winery.

When you walk into the tasting room you can’t miss the two huge Coquard presses in the adjacent room. Laetitia is the only winery in the United States to have these rare European wooden-basket wine presses that are manufactured by the Coquard Company of France. Using these, Laetitia makes sparkling wine ac-cording to the Methode Cham-pénoise, the authentic French method that puts that famous sparkle into the beverage. During harvest time guests are invited to take off their shoes and get into the large presses to stomp the grapes, “I Love Lucy” style.

Bubbles, or CO2, are the most important thing about sparkling wine and there are four methods of getting those bubbles into the

LaetitiaVineyards–HomeofDiversity

wine. It can be injected, just like it is in soda drinks, but the fizz doesn’t last long. There is an Ital-ian method called Charmat that allows for smaller, long-lasting bubbles, and there is a transfer method. But the original French method is the supreme one and has produced award winning champagne for many years. However, the designation “cham-pagne” cannot be used outside of the Champagne region of France, thus all others are referred to as sparkling wine.

You might think producing sparkling wine would be enough,

but the owners and the winemak-ers at Laetitia believe in diversity and offer a full complement of fine wines including white wines such as Chardonnay, Rousanne, and Riesling and red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Syrah.

Two related winemakers are responsible for all the products. Dave Hickey has been the spar-kling wine producer since 1999 and was apprentice with Maison Deutz, under the former owner of the winery, since the early 80s. His son, Eric, joined him, work-ing in the cellar while in high

Laetitia Vineyards tasting room.

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San Luis Obispo & South County Wine Tasting

San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo &South County

Laguna Lake

Cerro San Luis

Peak

Cal Poly

San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport

San Luis Obispo

Country Club

Laguna Lake Golf Course

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To Morro Bay

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To Lopez Lake

To Santa Barbara & Los Angeles

LOS BERROS RD.

OCEANO DUNES

Spyglass Park

Eldwayen Ocean ParkDinosaur Caves Park

VALLEY RD.

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Cerro Caliente

Autry Cellars

Kynsi Domaine Alfred

Laetitia

Talley Vineyards & Bishop’s

Peak

Phantom Rivers

Pismo Beach WineryPismo Beach Winery

Vino Versato

Claiborne &

Churchill

Wol�Edna Valley

Saucelito Canyon Ortman

Baileyana & Tangent

Stephen Ross

Sextant Wines

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school, and in 1994 became Cellar Master at Maison Deutz. Eric studied winemaking at UC Davis and after new owners bought the winery, he was named winemaker over the still wine program.

Laetitia Vineyards was purchased by Selim Zilkha, an entrepreneur who was born in Baghdad and has lived in Egypt, Lebanon, the United Kingdom, and the United States. He founded the Mothercare retail chain in the United Kingdom as well as Zilkha Renewable Energy, a wind power development com-pany with his son. He became interested in the wine industry and purchased both Santa Barbara Highlands Vineyard and Laetitia Vineyards. His daughter Nadia is Executive Vice President and has her own line of wines.

Pinot Noir grapes comprise a majority of the plantings at the Laetitia Estate along with Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Syrah, Pinot Gris, Tempranillo, and Riesling that enjoy the cooler climate of the Arroyo Grande Valley. The Santa Barbara Highlands Vineyard label utilizes grapes grown in the Santa Barbara Mountains at 3,200 feet above sea level. Here there are warm, sunny days that lend them-selves to quality grapes of both red and white Rhone varietals.

Farming methods under the care of Lino Bozzano have resulted in Laetitia and Santa Barbara Highlands Vineyards being awarded certification by the Sustainability in Practice (SIP) program. Rather than using chemicals and pesticides for weed control, goats are em-ployed to browse the areas between the vines. The goats are watched over by Lucky the llama, who also helps out with grazing. Bio fu-els are used in the tractors and rose bushes are

planted at the end of the vineyard rows to attract insects away from the fruit. Grapes are picked at their optimal times and teams of pickers move down the rows hand picking the grapes.

Laetitia Vine-yards produces seven different sparkling wines with the best being their Brut Cuvee and Brut Rose. Between Laetitia, Santa Barbara Highlands Vineyard and Nadia labels, more than 30 dif-ferent varieties are offered.

When you visit the winery you will drive

up the hill past rows and rows of Pinot Noir vines to reach the tasting room. Outside is a fountain with picnic tables under the shade trees. A bocce ball court is available and there is a lovely walking trail. Laetitia provides van pick up for guests staying at the Cliffs, Dol-phin Bay, Spyglass, Seacrest, Sea Venture, and Sandcastle Resorts, which includes free wine tasting of five selections.

There are a number of events throughout the year such as Roll Out the Barrels in May, and the SLO Vintners Harvest Celebration in November. Guests get to ride through the vineyard in gondola cars for tours.

Laetitia means joy and happiness and an afternoon spent tasting the diversity of these wines is guaranteed to give you joy and make you happy.

— Ruth Ann Angus

French Coquard press.

Laetitia’s bubbly.

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PismoBeachShellBeach&Oceano

The beach cities of Shell Beach, Pismo Beach, Oceano and Grover

Beach run along the coast connected by first Highway 101 and then High-way 1. It is difficult to tell where one city ends and the next begins. The four cities attract visitors year round for their proximity to the ocean and the variety of activities individuals and families can enjoy.

The main attractions in Shell Beach are the vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Drive down to Ocean Boule-vard where parking and a set of stairs provide access to the sandy beach below. There’s a perfect lookout gazebo in Margo Dodd park.

Take a picnic basket and enjoy breathtaking sunset views. Fishermen love to cast lines from the stretch of cliffs. Also popular in Shell Beach is kayaking.

Tours & AttractionsPismoBeachPier

This 1,200-foot pier is a major fishing attraction. For serious recre-ation, try kayaking, surfing, or scuba diving. For a more relaxed afternoon walk the pier and then head to the downtown area for shopping.

OceanoDunesThousands flock to the Oceano

Dunes State Recreational Park to camp along the ocean in tents and

RVs every week. You can rent and ride dune buggies and ATVs on the beach and enjoy riding for the entire afternoon.

There is a small cost per vehicle to drive on the beach and it is rec-ommended you have a larger vehicle before attempting to drive on the dry sand; you don’t want to get stuck in the dunes.

DinosaurCavesParkLocated at the corner of Cliff

Street and Shell Beach Road, Shell Beach. This 11-acre park is popular with walkers, photographers, dog lovers, joggers and fishing enthusi-asts. Observe dolphins, whales, sea otters and other sea life as well as sea and shore birds such as gulls, cormorants, and Peregrine falcons.

Dining OutMama’sMeatballFine Italian cuisine at great prices. A casual, family-run restaurant serving home-style Italian cuisine, using only the finest and the freshest local ingre-dients at an affordable price. 325 Pier Ave., Oceano. 805-473-2383.

OldJuan’sCantinaMexican never tasted so good. Try the Sunday Ranchero breakfast. Hwy 1 & Pier Ave., Oceano Beach. 805-489-5680.

Penny’sAllAmericanCafeProudly serving delicious food for over 9 years. This family owned busi-ness enjoys making their customers smile. Come in and enjoy the best breakfast by the beach or try out the new summer dinners. 1053 Price Street, Pismo Beach, www.pennysallamerican.com, 805-773-3776.

SplashCaféThis restaurant is a must-stop and is popular with the locals. There is often a line out the door to get clam chow-der in a bread bowl. Pismo Beach is called the “Clam Capital of the World,” so you shouldn’t leave without trying a bowl. 197 Pomeroy, Pismo Beach. 805-773-4653.

Outdoor ActivitiesSeaweedExpressWelcome aboard the Seaweed Express, a fast pace adventure boat tour. Visit sea otters, dolphins, whales, sea lions and jellyfish. Float through our rugged coastline and explore Mermaid’s Lair, Pirate’s Cave and Fossil Point. Located at Port San Luis. www.seaweedxps.com. 805-703-0397.

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DOLLIVER

SEAVIEW

WADSWORTH

BAY

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POMEROYMAINPISMO

HINDS

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Pismo Pier

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Downtown Pismo BeachDowntown Pismo BeachGrover Beach

Beach Cities

Avila Beach

Port San LuisEldwayen Ocean Park

Spyglass Park

Bob Jones City to the Sea Trail

Avila Beach Resort Golf

Course

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To San Luis Obispo

PISMO STATE BEACH

Oceano

Pismo Beach

Pismo State Beach Golf Course

Dunes entry

Prime Outlets

at Pismo Beach

Pismo Coast Shopping Plaza

GRAND AVE.

SILVER SPUR

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22nd ST.

Dinosaur Caves Park

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Pismo Beach, Shell Beach, Oceano

ShoppingThomasKinkadeGalleryA showcase of Thomas Kinkade’s famous works both new and classic. Ask to see his lesser known pieces as well. Experience the many beautiful styles of Kinkade’s artwork. 500 Cypress St., Pismo Beach. 805-773-9424.

SeasideGalleryAlways changing and affordable original paintings, sculpture and gicleé art by local and globally-acclaimed artists presented for sale in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Fine art in the heart of Pismo Beach. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 580 Cypress Street, Pismo Beach, www.theseasidegallery.com, 805-773-8057.

Wine BarVinoVersato-TheWinePourOffering wine tasting flights, glasses and bottles for purchase in a fun and upbeat atmosphere. Our wine flights are hand-poured with an emphasis on local boutique productions. Three beers on tap, specialty pints, weekly “Happy Hour” and live music on the weekends. www.vinoversato.com, 781 Price Street, Pismo Beach, www.vinoversato.com, 805-295-6622.Salons & Spas

Call or visit our website for other locations/dates.SpyglaSS ReStauRant Shell BeaCh

Murder Mystery Parodies

Reservations & Info 805-489-3875www.murderinmind.com

Beverly HillbilliesMurder Mystery

Oct 2 - nov 6 • Sundays 5pmREUNION

now - Sept 4 • Sundays 5pm

THE

A crowd of surfers can frequently be seen just off the Pismo Beach Pier.

Page 22: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

22 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

Pismo Beach, Shell Beach, Oceano

www.pennysallamerican.com

DAILY 6AM-2PM

Voted 2007 Business of the YearPismo Beach Chamber of Commerce

For Delivery Call805-473-3916

1053 Price StreetPismo Beach

805-773-3776

Happy HourBeer & Wine

Monarch butterflies make one of the most incredible jour-

neys from as far away as Canada, across the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada range to winter in balmy Pismo Beach. In late spring they take wing again and head back north and during the trip mating occurs. Several generations are born and die before a return trek is made.

A monarch’s life span is short – about nine months. Some of the great-great-great grandchildren of the butterflies that are at Pismo Beach now will return next fall. Monarchs are well known as long distance travelers and cover up to 265 miles a day on their journeys. Some travel as much as 1000 miles to reach their destination.

It’s a mystery to scientists why the monarchs return to the same

Go see the butterflies

To reach the grove from U.S. 101 exit at Price Street in Pismo Beach. Travel north on Price for 25 yards to Ocean View Avenue, then left one block to Dolliver Street (Highway 1). Go left for one mile. Pismo State Beach North Beach Campground will be on the right. You may drive into the campground and park in campsite #78. There are signs to the grove. Additional parking can be found adjacent to the grove entrance on Highway 1.

wintering sites, but this Pismo location has become the largest colony of monarch butterflies in the

ThemightymonarchsPismo Beach hosts the largest monarch butterfly colony from Oct.-Feb.

country. While population figures

fluctuate and have decreased from historical times, an average 75,000 butterflies come to Pismo each year. Recent years have seen only 23,000 compared to 230,000 in 1990-91.

This decline in numbers is of concern to the scientific commu-nity and special tagging programs have been carried out for years now to study the butterflies.

In the grove you will see clumps of insects suspended like Japanese lanterns from the branches of the trees. They look like paper grocery bags hanging with only the under-side of their wings showing.

Every now and then a flash of

bright orange and black will show as one butterfly in the group will flex his wings. Once warmed by the sun the colorful insects often burst out all at once in a massive flight of hundreds of wings.

The Central Coast Natural His-tory Association has a docent trail-er on site and volunteers docents are on hand every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Special talks explaining the life cycle of the Monarchs are held at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

At the trailer you can purchase postcards, t-shirts, jewelry, edu-cational books and brochures and many other butterfly souvenirs.

A visit to the Central Coast at this time is not complete without a stop at the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove.

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Pismo Beach, Shell Beach, Oceano

Vino VersatoPismo’s Newest, Hippest,

Wine Bar & Tasting Experience

805-295-6622781 Price St., Pismo Beach

(Next to Cracked Crab)vinoversato.com

Mon-Sat 3-9p • Closed Sun

Local Boutique WinesLive Music Thur, Fri, & Sat

The latest trendy thing for wine aficionados to do is to visit wine

bars and Vino Versato in Pismo Beach is one of the best. You won’t find the typical bar scene here. This small boutique wine bar is where elegance and sophistication reign.

“We believe in supporting our local vendors,” Cindy Giovacchini says, and in so doing she and her partner Johnna Bramblett only offer you exclusive hand poured wine selections.

They offer $5 wine tasting flights, glasses and bottle for purchase and three beers on tap and an array of specialty pints in a fun and upbeat atmosphere. They feature a list upwards of 45 wines with emphasis on local boutique producers under 400 cases. “We put a lot of effort into finding exceptional wines that are rarely seen by the public,” says Johnna.

“We enjoy introducing people to great vintners like these,” Cindy

said, “from day one on we have had regulars.” The owners were so ap-preciative of these loyal patrons that some of them have earned their own exclusive bar chair with their name emblazoned on the back. “Other cus-tomers are jealous,” Cindy said, “and want their name on a chair too.” She may have to consider placing names on the little round bistro tables.

Every Wednesday night from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. is “Winemaker Wednesday” where you will meet the winemaker, taste the selections, and learn about the wines. Some of the recent winemakers participat-ing were from Mc Keon-Phillips, by winemaker Ardison Phillips of Santa Maria, Red Zeppelin of Paso Robles by winemaker Stillman Brown, and Core Wine Company of Santa Maria by winemakers Dave and Becky Corey.

There is seating inside and out-side on the patio where you can sip your wine or beer and people watch on Pismo’s “Restaurant Row.”

There is a European feel to the black, silver and pink décor of the shop. The pink does double duty as the owners are supportive of breast cancer awareness having had friends afflicted with this disease. Pink is the representative color for breast cancer.

Vino Versato celebrates wine, women, and song and men enjoy this ambiance too. One of the best deals is the “5 at 5” offering where from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. you get a $5 glass of premium wine and $5 appetizer of your choice while listening to recorded musical selec-tions that range from Andrea Bocelli

VinoVersatoisaPismoBeachfavorite

A cozy outdoor patio encourages socializing.

Addams Family Reunion murder mystery

Join Morticia, Gomez, Wednesday and Uncle Fester as they host their annual family reunion. But where’s Pugsley?

It’s an interactive murder mys-tery parody that opens Sunday, October 2 and runs every Sunday at 5pm through November 6 at the Spyglass Inn Restaurant in Shell Beach. The price is $48.95 per person which includes the show, dinner, tax and wait staff gratuities.

Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their Halloween costumes.

For more information call Murder In Mind Productions, (805)489-3875

to Billie Holiday. Appetizers include spicy black bean dip with parmesan crisps and nuts, cappocolla, salame, prosciutto with double cream gouda and French blue cheese, and the decadent Belgian chocolate pudding with chocolate wafers and French truffles. Yum!

Entertainment includes local fa-vorites like Tim Jackson, Dave Miller

and Michael Nunez every Friday and Saturday evening.

You can keep up with special events at Vino Versato on Facebook. Located at 781 Price Street in Pismo Beach, they are open Monday to Saturday from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., but closed on Tuesday, and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

– Ruth Ann Angus

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AvilaBeach

Situated off the beaten path of Highway 101 and Highway 1, Avila

Beach is set back from the rest of the beach communities. The small town rests in a bay at the mouth of Diablo Canyon and is a great place to go for a nice afternoon or evening out.

Dining OutGardensofAvilaServing the finest in fresh California fusion cuisine. Romantic, intimate setting. Breakfast, lunch & dinner. Try renting a hot tub before or after your meal. 1215 Avila Beach Dr. at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort. 805-595-7302.

TheGrillAvilaBeachLocated at the Avila Beach Golf Re-sort, The Grill offers seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine with unforgettable Pacific Ocean views. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, cocktails on the patio or an intimate fire-side dinner, The Grill is the perfect place. www.avilabeachresort.com, 6464 Ana Bay Drive, Avila Beach, 805-595-4001

OldePortInnFine dining. Stay on Avila Beach Dr. until the end. Inn is at the end of the pier. Fresh fish market nearby. Take some fresh seafood home to enjoy.

550 Front St., Avila Beach805-540-5061

www.SpaAvila.com

SLO COunty’S Premier Day SPa featuring... Facials • MassageCouples RoomBody TreatmentsMineral Spray Tan, and more

Proudly Offering In-Room Massageat all South County Hotels/Resorts

The restaurant has an unobstructed view of the ocean and has terrific sea-food, but go prepared to pay market price. 805-595-9422.

Golf CoursesAvilaBeachGolfResortOverlooking the bay, the Avila Beach Golf Resort includes a par 71, 6500-yard championship course. The front nine is situated within oak-lined val-leys, while the back nine transverses a tidal estuary. Golfers will enjoy this challenging, scenic course. www.avilabeachresort.com, 6464 Ana Bay Dr., 805-595-4000.

Hot SpringsSycamoreSpringsResortAll rooms/suites with private hot tubs. Top-rated spa and wellness center offers a wide variety of mas-sages and facials. Hourly hillside hot tub rentals. Daily yoga, Pilates, tai chi classes, hiking. Gardens of Avila Restaurant. 1215 Avila Beach Dr. 800-234-5831.

ShoppingAvilaCoutureClothingCo.Shop beautiful downtown Avila Beach! A unique and upscale

boutique clothing store specializing in women’s fashions and accesso-ries. Carrying such brands as Juicy Couture, Free People, Level 99, and Rebel Yell. New and exciting styles of clothing come in weekly. 425 First St. 805-439-1926.

Spas & SalonsTheSpaCentralCoastLocated at Avila Lighthouse Suites, you will find a full service day spa, offering facials, massage, far infrared sauna, couples treatments, waxing, Sun FX tanning and body wraps. Prod-ucts by Bare Minerals, Aveda and Spa

Technologies. Just 4 miles from Pismo. 55 Front St., www.spaAvila.com805-540-5061.

Wine TastingAlapayCellarsAlapay continues to earn highest honors for their premium boutique wines. One block from the ocean is the basement level tasting room. This tasting bar is splashed with bright colors and hosts a giant salt water aquarium, wine accessories and beach related gifts. 415 First St.www.AlapayCellars.com805-595-2632.

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Avila Beach

Sometimes called the San Luis Obispo Lighthouse, it stands on

a bold headland overlooking the Pacific, not far from the Diablo Can-yon Nuclear Power Plant, the Point San Luis Lighthouse, and thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers, it is now open for public tours.

The need for a lighthouse here became obvious during the late 1800s when Port Harford had hundreds of ships coming in. The well known fog of the Central Coast made navigation along the rocky shoreline hazardous and eventually construction began on the Prairie Victorian model lighthouse and was completed in June of 1890. In 1974 the Coast Guard decommis-sioned the station and it fell into disrepair. In 1995 the Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers formed to save the structure and return it to its former glory. This project included repairing an old wagon road which

Sentineloftheseawas the only land access to the site and was barely passable. That road is now paved and although quite narrow, is used for the van and trol-ley tours out to the point.

On a sunny Saturday morning a group climbed aboard “Lucy” the trolley and soon found out that among the guests was Mary Alviso Gandsey of Templeton, niece of one of the last lighthouse keepers, Rob-ert Moorefield. This would mark the first time Mary had returned to the light station since spending sum-mers there during the early 1940s.

After passing through the heavi-ly guarded gates of Diablo, we drove up the long winding road fearful of the edge but overwhelmed by the beauty of the area. At each curve another scene greeted us – Avila Bay, the yacht harbor, Harford Pier, and the wide expanse of the Pacific. We were reminded by our guide

Tour Point San Luis Lighthouse

Continued on page 26

Page 26: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

26 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

Avila Beach

76 Landing Passage, Avila Beach(Across from the parking lot)

805.627.1443 • www.morovino.com

2 TasTings for The Price of 1*

Open Daily 12-6*with this ad.

Award-winningfun beach setting

Italian-style Winesin a

that in early days horses pulling wagons traveled in to the lighthouse this way. And finally there it was, the Point San Luis Lighthouse.

Our tour started in the Horn House where we learned that this was a whistle house for the 10-inch fog whistle that was used before there were fog horns. This demanded a full head of steam in the boiler house before it could be blown. Later it was replaced by a two-tone diaphone horn. That origi-nal foghorn is gone but the two that followed and replaced it are still in the building. The older of the two, dating from 1924, is refurbished and is on display.

“When the foghorn blew, it was so loud it shook the building,” our guide said, “and rattled the windows. So every 30 seconds when it blew everyone who worked in that building stopped talking. When these same folks went into town to visit the saloon, others noticed that they spoke with a pause in their speech every 30 seconds.”

Housed in the Horn House is the original fourth order Fresnel

lens that was used to send a white flash of light every 30 seconds followed by a red flash of light. The lens is 132 years old and was lit by a kerosene lamp. It was brought over from France in 1878 and cost $2000 to ship. Keepers worked in four hour shifts keeping the light lit.

During restoration of the buildings an original wick was found in the walls apparently stolen and hidden by an indus-trious pack rat. The wick is now on display with the lens.

Next we toured the lighthouse itself and an impressive structure it is. A climb up the nar-row twisting stairwell brought us to the lamp house where we could see a 360 degree view.

The Head Keeper and his family lived in the rooms connected to the lamp house tower.

All of the rooms are now restored with period furniture including a magnificent stove in the kitchen. In the parlor and bedrooms are coal fireplaces with slate sur-rounds that were finished to look like marble. The restoration crew has a painter who was able to finish the slate on the parlor fireplace to match the original mantle.

The San Luis Historical Society and the San Luis Obispo de Tolosa Chapter of the Questers have been instrumental in helping with sup-plying furniture from the 1890s period and many local residents have brought back items that had been removed from the home.

Upstairs are three bedrooms, one of which belonged to Lucy, stepdaughter of Keeper, Robert Moorefield and Mary Gandsey’s

Continued from page 25 cousin. Mary related some of the summertime adventures they had shared as children and what it was like to live at a remote light station.

At one time a double keepers dwelling was on the property where the first and second assistant keep-ers and their families lived. This was torn down by the Coast Guard and replaced with a duplex that is being restored and will become a Visitor Center. There was also a coal shed and an oil house where the kerosene for the lamp was stored as well as whale oil and two 50-gallon cisterns to catch and store rainwater. One of the two original privies is also on the site.

Soon it was time for us to get back on the trolley which was do-nated by the City of Morro Bay and we now understood why the trolley had been renamed “Lucy” after Lucy Brohard who only recently passed away. Once again we enjoyed the vistas on our return trip down the road and all of us commented, “where else could we travel two miles to go back 100 years in time to a period when tending the light meant the difference between death in a stormed tossed ocean or transit to a safe harbor for ships coming to the Central Coast.”

You can experience this fine docent led tour every first and third Saturday of the month when both trolley and van tours are available. The fare is $20 per person and trips leave at 12 p.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. with return trips on the half hour. No pets and no smoking allowed. There is also a hiking trail to the lighthouse and docent led tours by the trail cost $5.

For reservations call 805-540-5771.

– Ruth Ann Angus

This Fresnel lens is 132 years old and was lit by a kerosene lamp.

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A new addition to the thriv-ing downtown Avila Beach

business district opened at 425 1st Street, across from the Avila La Fonda Hotel and next door to Alapay Cellars tasting room.

Avila Couture Clothing Company, a unique and upscale boutique clothing store special-izing in women’s fashions, is owned by Rebecca Rem-menga—co-owner of Alapay Cellars.

Realizing a dream Rebecca has had for a number of years, the boutique has been elabo-rately decorated (yes, there are even pink chandeliers) and is carrying popular brands such as Juicy Couture, Free People, Level 99, BB Dakota, Gypsy 05, One Teaspoon, and Rebel Yell and apparel plus accessories.

“I’m really excited about open-ing the store!” says Rebecca. “The feedback has been really positive from day one.” “We’re filling a niche that was missing in Avila Beach plus,

you no longer have to drive to Santa Barbara for these wonderful cloth-ing lines and brand names!”

Mrs. Remmenga is no stranger to the business and community ser-vice world; she was the former Sales Manager for a leading radio station

in Fresno prior to settling in Avila Beach in 2001. Having met and married her husband Scott, the two of them have grown Alapay Cellars winery to its current case capacity of nearly 6000 cases annually.

In 2007, Rebecca was named

one of the top 50 Women in Business on the Central Coast by the Pacific Coast Business Times magazine. In 2008, she was named one of the Top 20 under 40, by the SLO Tribune newspaper. Additionally, she played an important part in the extensive remodel of the Avila Community Center, serving as the Treasurer from 2003-2008.

The Avila Couture Clothing Company is open Monday thru Thursday from 10:30am-6:00pm, and Friday’s and Saturday’s from 10:30am to 7:00pm, closed on Sunday’s. New and exciting styles of clothing are coming in weekly,

with the addition of sizes to ac-commodate the more full figured women.

Rebecca and her staff look for-ward to the upcoming busy summer season, serving both local residents and visitors alike with a fun and unique shopping experience.

Avila Beach

Alapay Cellars

“Come on in... the Water’s WINE”

www.alapaycellars.com

415 First St., Downtown Avila Beach • 805.595.2632Open 10:30am-6pm Daily

Taste Award-Winning Wines at the Beachin one of the most beautiful and lively tasting rooms on the Central Coast.

Stop by and find out what the gold medals and the buzz is all about!

425 1st St., Avila Beach ~ 805-439-1925

Don’t drive to Santa Barbara for DESIGNER jeans, tops, dresses & accessories!

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AvilaCouturebringshighfashiontoAvilaBeach

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Grover Beach is an outdoor lover’s dream that offers numerous recre-

ational activities. It also offers dining, night life and a card room. The town rests between Pismo Beach, Oceano and Arroyo Grande. The town, which covers a roughly two mile area and has streets named after popular beachside resorts, has parks for visitors to take in the great weather year round.

You can drive along the beach in your car, truck or ATV, or rent one. Or you can ride horses on the coastline. Grover Beach hosts the only train station for the Beach Cities and has a Visitors Center there at 180 Hwy. 1.

This is one of the last affordable beach towns for buying real estate. It has been called an up and coming Santa Cruz or Malibu. Hilton is constructing a new hotel soon and a convention center is being planned.

OceanoDunesStateVehicularRecreationPark

Located at the end of Grand Avenue. This is undeniably one of Grover Beach’s main attractions.

Thousands flock to the Oceano Dunes State Recreational Park to camp along the ocean in tents and RVs every week. You can rent and ride dune buggies and ATVs on the beach and enjoy riding for the entire afternoon.

There is a small cost per vehicle to drive on the beach. Several ATV rental shops are located within Grover Beach. See details on page 33. Overnight camping is allowed on the beach and scenic boardwalk leads visitors to the Monarch Butterfly Grove in nearby Pismo Beach.

PismoBeachGolfCourseThis nine-hole executive course is located

within feet of the ocean. 27 par. Open dawn to dusk daily. “The course also offers a great seaside loca-tion, which means golfers rarely get too warm,” said

owner Bruce Van Vort. “ We can almost guarantee a perfect golf day.” 9 La Sage Drive, Grover Beach 805-481-5215.

Dining outStationGrillGreat family dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Serving traditional breakfasts for around $5. Lunch is served all day including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and wraps. Dinner served from 3pm to 8pm. Great homemade comfort food like, meatloaf and lasagna. Plus daily specials. Enjoy watching the trains go by. 170 W. Grand Ave, Grover Beach. 805-489-3030.

GroverBeachDon’t miss the hidden gems, dunes, golf and parks of this laid-back beach town

ParksS.C.SkatePark1750 Ramona Avenue between 16th St. and Oak Park Blvd. Open to skateboarders and inline skaters. Helmets, knee pads and elbow pads are required. Onsite staff. $2 admission. 805-597-4725.

16thStreetParkAt South 16th St. and Menetone Ave. Areas to barbecue, restrooms, a large covered picnic table area and two play structures. The park also boasts horseshoes, softball and a grass volleyball court.

Come and watch trains while

you dine.

170 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach805-489-3030

Join us for Great Food at Low Prices!

Open 7 Days a WeekBreakfast • Lunch • Dinner

www.StationGrill.net

STATION GRILL

Play Texas Hold’em

PLAY RESPONSIBLY: 800-GAMBLER

FREELessonsDaily!

4th & Grand Ave

Grover BeachNext to

Mongo’sSaloon

SloPoker.com805-474-8500

“Where visitors feel like locals and locals are treated like guests!”

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ATVs to anyone under the age of 9.“All children are supposed to be

supervised,” he says.Oceano Dunes is ranked as the

No. 1 place to stay overnight by Reserve America.

“It’s a very popular destination,” says Jim Suty, president of the Friends of the Oceano Dunes. He has been vacationing at the Dunes for more than 30 years.

Suty says he used to visit the Dunes every six weeks and now he makes it down about five to six times per year, including Thanksgiving.

“We’ll be celebrating Thanksgiv-ing down there,” Suty said. “We’ve been doing that for 30 years.”

He recommends visitors to the county make a trip to the dunes, even for a day, to walk along the sand, hang out at the beach, ride ATVs or small dune buggies, play volleyball, shop in the nearby towns or go for a plane ride.

“There’s a myriad of things to do – it all depends on what they’re looking for,” Suty said.How to get there

From San Luis Obispo, exit Highway 101 at Pismo Beach to Highway 1, turn right at the light in Grover Beach to enter the state park. It costs $5 per vehicle to enter the dunes. Be sure you’re in a

Grover Beach

The beach at Oceano

Dunes is the only beach in California where vehicles are still allowed to drive on the sand. And the dunes were fea-tured in a scene in “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End.”

Visitors are able to camp and ride all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on the beach all year round.

Before you head out to the dunes, the Friends of the Oceano Dunes offers tips on what to bring and what to do and not to do:

• Arrive at the beach at low tide – a tide schedule can also be found on the Web site www.oceanodunes.org

• Air tires down to 20 lbs. per tire.

• Don’t make sharp turns in the sand.

• Don’t stop going uphill.• Carry a cell phone for

emergencies.• Don’t ride ATVs with a pas-

senger or without a helmet• Don’t take glass bottles to the

beach.• Bring extra keys. They are

difficult to find if dropped in the sand.

“Flip flops and shorts can be very uncomfortable and very dangerous,” says Zach Zeman with BJ’s ATV Rental. He recommends dressing in layers, wearing long pants and closed toe shoes.

While ATVs are available for rent on the beach, you can also stop by an ATV rental’s store front as well.

Before you rent an ATV, be pre-pared to fill out release and liability forms and get basic safety instruction before being released to ride in the dunes. Zeman said BJ’s will not rent

Ridethedunesonthebeach

COME RIDE THE PISMO DUNES197 Grand Ave • Grover Beach

Grand Ave. Exit off Hwy 1013 miles West - Near the Beach

(805) 481-5411www.bjsatvrentals.com

RentalsBJ’sATVRentals197 W. Grand Ave., Grover Beach. Carries everything you’ll need to spend a day riding the dunes. ATV rentals include fun light-weight ATVs for the smaller dunes as well as fully-automatic models for inexperienced riders. Carries ATV and dirt bike parts. Two-hour minimum. Group rates available. Open Mon. to Fri. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat & Sun 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 805-481-5411.

SunBuggieFunRentals368 Pier Ave., Oceano. Sun Bug-gie Fun Rentals has dune buggy rentals, both two-seaters and four-seaters. 805-481-2296.

vehicle fit to drive along the beach, as the dunes are two miles from the entrance.

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ArroyoGrandeThe beautiful Village of Arroyo

Grande offers a variety of activi-ties and retail stores to visit when in South San Luis Obispo County. Additionally, the small community showcases its history through the variety of historical buildings, the historical society and local business showing off its roots with historic photos and information. On Saturday afternoons, the village comes alive with wine tasting, restaurants, coffee shops, shopping, the farmers’ market and more.

HistoryHeritageHouseMuseumandGardens

126 South Mason, Arroyo Grande The museum has an interest-ing collection of period clothing, photographs and kitchen items, just to name a few and docents are avail-able to answer any of your questions. The Heritage House Museum is open to the public on Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The “Barn” is the South County Historical Society’s Museum Annex, which houses a variety of antique vehicles and agricultural artifacts from the South County area. It also houses vintage printing presses and other interesting exhibits. The barn is located just a few steps from the Santa Manuela Schoolhouse and immediately behind the Heritage House, a historical home which is also a museum with an interesting collection of period clothing, photo-

The first floor of the Hall will house the Museum with a display of its large collection of historical arti-facts from the South County area that is a result of 25 years of intense col-lecting. The second floor will house a historical library and study area as well as offices serving the Society and Museum. The building hosts a variety of exhibits.

Dining outDocBurnstein’sIceCreamLabThe ice cream created on-site are deli-cious and inventive. Every Wednesday at 7 p.m., Doc Burnstein’s has its Ice Cream Lab Show, a 30-minute com-edy show with audience participation. By the end of each show the audience will have created a unique flavor that will make its debut the following weekend and will remain out until the next week’s flavor is put out. Open at noon. 114 W. Branch St. 805-474-4068.

KlondikePizzaLocated in the basement of the build-ing, the floor is dirt and covered with discarded peanut shells. Quality pizza takes time and the average wait for orders is 20 minutes; however, if it is a busy time, it will take longer, but it’s worth the wait. Sing-along every first and third Saturday night, 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Open Mon. to Fri. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sat & Sun. till 10 p.m. 104 Bridge St., 805-481-5288.

graphs, kitchen items and more. 805-489-8282.

PauldingHouse551 Crown Hill Road, Arroyo

Grande. Docents are available to an-swer your questions at the Paulding House during its hours of operation, which are available by appointment 805-473-3231 or on the first Saturday of the month from noon to 3 p.m.

Ruby’sHouse:PatriciaLoomisHistoryLibrary&ResourceCenter

134 S. Mason St. This new center will offer teachers, students, journal-ists and researchers a wealth of materials on California history with a special emphasis on local South San Luis Obispo County history.

The Library and Resource Center will be available to students and community members for research projects, including the production of community history exhibits and historical reenactments.

IOOFBuilding128 Bridge St. The South County

Historical Society acquired the prop-erty, which was formerly the meeting place for the International Order of Odd Fellows in 1985.

The Hall was placed on the Na-tional Register of Historical Places in 1991. Currently, the Society is raising money to have this historical building restored, with the first step being earthquake retrofitting.

Spend an afternoon discovering this historic village and all it has to offerQuarterdeckSeafoodRestaurantVoted the “Best seafood on the Central Coast” by locals. The saltwater fish tank is a fun treat for kids and

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the tropical atmosphere in the bar is a fun treat for adults. Lots of menu selections for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Just north of the Village off Hwy 101 at 1500 W. Branch St. 805-481-3474.

FarmsWindmillFarmsCome explore the daily farmers market with huge selection of fresh produce, an assortment of gourmet goods, gifts, and garden items. Kids will love the “critter corral” petting zoo area. More than a farm, it’s a great family outing! Just north of Nipomo off Hwy. 101,1275 N. Thompson Ave. www.windmillfarms.org 805-489-1000.

Golf Courses CypressRidgeGolfCourseCome experience the way golf should be at Cypress Ridge. This Peter Jacobsen Signature Course is as challenging as it is beautiful. Mature cypress trees, lush green fairways and cool, fresh ocean air make this a golfer’s paradise. 780 Cypress Ridge Parkway, Arroyo Grande. www.cypressridge.com. 805-474-7979.

Real EstateTeamGoodellCentralCoastRealEstate&InvestmentsOur team of exceptional real estate professionals, under the leadership of John Goodell, offers top-level service and extensive knowledge of the area. 290 Station Way, Suite A, Arroyo Grande. www.teamgoodell.com. 805-473-3300.

ShoppingButtonsn’BowsIt doesn’t get any cuter than this children’s bou-tique. They have a wonderful selection of clothes and quality toys. 119 East Branch St. 805-473-9186.

Wine TastingPhantomRiversWineHandcrafted and limited release wines available for tasting. Summer: Open daily weekdays 12pm-5pm, Fri. 12pm-9pm & Sat. 12pm-7pm. Winter: Closed Tues. & Wed., open Thur., Sun., Mon 12pm-5pm, Fri. 12pm-7pm, Sat. 12pm-6pm211 E. Branch St., Arroyo Grande, 805-481-9463.

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Team GoodellCentral Coast Real Estate & Investments

John Goodell

[email protected]

290 Station Way, Ste. A, Arroyo Grande

A fourth-generation local residentwho, together with his team, offers

top-level real estate service.

119 East Branch Street

Childrens’Boutique

Clothes& Toys

473-9186 Arroyo Grande

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Arroyo Grande

Gift Store. Market. Nursery. Petting Zoo.

Open 7 Days a Week

1275 N. Thompson Ave.Arroyo Grande

Just north of Nipomo, east off Hwy. 101Exit Los Berros/Thompson Rd

805-489-1000www.windmillfarms.org

Fun for the Whole Family

Windmill Farms isn’t your ordinary farmer’s mar-

ket. For one thing it is available every day, rain or shine. The old fashioned barn and windmill grace the side of the road just off the 101 freeway on Thompson Road in Arroyo Grande. As cars whiz by on the freeway they might miss this special place, but if they slow down and make a stop, they will surely enjoy the adventure of a visit to Windmill Farms.

Approaching the Farm you will see old fashioned western wagons and a quaint trolley car. Nearby is a field with sunflow-ers and corn growing high. As you walk through a vine covered archway you might feel like you are entering into a magical world especially when you glimpse your first view of the garden. Brilliant blue pottery is sur-rounded by potted roses of white, red and yellow. Brightly colored ceramic flowers and little toadstools accent the green foliage of the plants. Here too are fountains and statuary. Benches situated on the gravel pathways offer a place to rest and enjoy the peaceful scene. Mounted on the front of the building is artwork featuring whimsical cows and chickens.

The garden at Windmill Farms specializes in a variety of roses and succulents. “We decided on these two types of plants because of the hardness of our water here,” commented Lorna Kirk, owner of the Farm. Lorna and her husband bought the property in 2000 when there was only the front small barn building on the site. They have since built onto that structure, greatly enlarging the capacity of what the barn can offer. Inside you will find a myriad of items

Afarmer’smarketandmore!

from the pesticide-free fruits and vegetables that they grow on their adjacent farmland and on a farm in the Central Valley to an eclectic and colorful assort-ment of gift and culinary items.

You will see beautiful gift items, crock-ery, natural lotions, soaps, fra-grances, and oils, cards, tableware, decorative art, col-lectibles and more. Spe-cially made

up gift baskets are also available.In the main part of the room

shelves are stocked full of a wide variety of gourmet foods, sauces, jams, preserves, breads and mix-es. “Most of the gourmet foods are from California suppliers and local sources,” Kirk said, “we like to support our local farmers. You can sample anything you might be interested in before buying,” she said, “this way you won’t be disappointed.”

Outside in the Critter Corral visitors can walk through and pet or feed the animals. There are goats, sheep, donkeys, pigs, turkeys, and Guinea fowl. The goats in particular strike interest-ing poses as they reach over the

Special events take place at the farm. In the fall a large sup-ply of pumpkins are put outside and people and kids come from far and wide to make their spe-cial pumpkin selections. “We are also excited to be starting to host the Central Coast Garden Club here,” Kirk said. The Club will meet there on the 4th Sunday of the month at 2 p.m.

If you are looking for some-thing special for that person who has everything, this is a good place to come to find something unique whether it be gift items, gourmet food, coffee, and tea, or lovely roses and garden art. Or perhaps you might just like to sit in the garden with a cup of gourmet coffee and a deli-cious raspberry scone! Windmill Farms is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in summer and until 5 p.m. in winter. Do stop by, you won’t be disappointed.

— Ruth Ann Angus

fences to beg for your attention. The Kirks host school groups throughout the year to come and see the animals and take part in a little of farm life. Kirk mentioned that they do breed the goats and will sell kids.

Inside the barn you will find fresh produce, kitchen items, gifts and more.

Toggenburg goat awaiting a treat.

Page 33: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

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Arroyo Grande

It’s fall and the perfect time to

visit one of San Luis Obispo County’s best attractions – Lopez Lake. Pack a picnic and head out through Arroyo Grande Village into the coun-tryside. Soon you will approach the begin-ning of the lake.

Lopez came into being in 1969 flooding farmland, strawberry fields, and all, to become the water supply for the growing Five Cities area. Two Chumash vil-lages located near the present dam are now under 160 feet of water as is the original ranch belonging to Juan and Jesus Lopez. Trees and build-ings were removed in preparation for the flood. It wasn’t long though before area residents recognized that this was a great recreation spot and Lopez Lake became a popular county park.

There are 22 miles of shoreline and afternoon winds make the lake a perfect place for sailing or windsurfing. The lake is also a great place for a canoe or kayak trip. Good boat launching facilities are located adjacent to the marina and store and there are boat and equip-ment rentals here too. Waterskiing is especially popular.

Fishing is great at Lopez Lake, which is stocked with rainbow trout, bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. You will find fishermen quietly angling in the backwaters of the lakes many arms.

If you love nature then this is the place for you. More than 150 spe-cies of birds have been noted and 30 mammal species. Among these are mule deer that are easily seen browsing the oak studded hillsides. Coast live oaks with their acorn abundance attract the colorful and industrious acorn woodpecker. Masters at saving up for a rainy day, this bird goes about in a serious manner drilling numerous holes in the trees. Then they collect acorns and one by one stuff them into the prepared receptacles storing them for future consumption.

Many migratory birds find Lo-

ExploringLopezLake

pez Lake a great stopping-off point. A flock of American white pelicans often resides at one end and eared grebes, cormorants, mergansers, and other waterfowl dot the surface of the lake. One of the best ways to see this is to take a ranger guided nature boat tour. Park rangers will take you out on a comfortable, stable pontoon boat that can get back into all the twists and arms of the lake. If you’re really lucky, you may spot a bald eagle perched in a tree or an osprey hunting.

Turkeys also love the acorn rich habitat at Lopez. They even have their own special trail named for them – Turkey Ridge Trail. This is their favorite roosting and feeding area and they are so accustomed to people that you can get pretty close to them.

Hiking is a great way to experi-ence the flora and fauna of the park. Just walking beneath the stately live oaks is a treat. There are numer-ous trails available and most are relatively easy. Some bring you to views of the lake and others offer panoramic vistas. Along the way you may see evidence of prehistoric times in the shell fossils embedded in the Santa Margarita limestone. This was an inland sea some 26 mil-lion years ago and the remains of scallops and oysters stick out of the crumbly soil.

You can enjoy your picnic at one of the lakeside tables. You might even want to stay overnight at one of the tent or RV campgrounds rated among the best in the county.

For more information see www.slocountyparks.org or call (805) 788-2381.

— Ruth Ann Angus

Woodpeckers store acorns in the bark of trees.

Page 34: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

34 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

The trail from the boardwalk leads into the dunes. The huge Nipomo Swapmeet and Fleamarket are on the grounds ad-jacent to the 101 Freeway at the Teft Street offramp. The Nipomo Swap-

NipomoNipomo is a small city on the mesa

in the southern area of San Luis Obispo County that is known for its stands of eucalyptus trees, expansive golf courses, upscale homes, and one of the largest swapmeets anywhere. The name Nipomo is derived from a Chumash word, nepomah, meaning “foot of the hill,” and Chumash were the original inhabitants of the area going back 9,000 years.Nipomo is known for the historical home of Captain William G. Dana whose descendants populated the area and started the town. His adobe house still stands near the 101 Freeway. The Dana Adobe Nipomo Amigos has been restoring the prop-erty and many historical events and festivals are held here throughout the year. www.danaadobe.org Other attractions in the city are the Nipomo Native Gardens where a forest of native plants and trees are

The Luffa Farm

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maintained by volunteers from the Nipomo Native Gardens Society. The Nipomo Native Garden is a twelve acre site located between Pomeroy, Camino Caballo and Osage. The site is in the final stages of being restored to a native botanical garden which will feature native plant communi-ties endemic to the Nipomo Mesa and dunes complex. www.nipo-monativegarden.orgAlong the country roads throughout town are even rows of thousands of blue gum eucalyptus trees that were planted here in 1908 in anticipation of developing a timber industry. The wood of eucalyptus turned out not to be of the quality necessary for building.A bit south on Highway 1, at the end of Oso Flaco Lake Road is the Oso Flaco Lake Natural Area. There is a boardwalk across the lake and this is an excellent spot for birdwatching.

meet & Fleamarket combines great family entertainment with old school swapmeet atmosphere. There is a miniature outdoor railway nestled in a bonsai garden with a waterfall, trestles, tunnels and other miniature marvels. Oil Pan Alley is dedicated entirely to auto enthusiasts, com-plete with Hot Wheel races. For the kids there are free miniature pony rides every Sunday, this plus over 300 vendors offering their wares. The Nipomo Swapmeet & Fleamarket is the largest swapmeet on California’s central coast and is open Friday, Sat-urday, and Sunday from 6 A. M. to 6 P. M. It’s free but there is a fee to park.

— Ruth Ann Angus

Golf Courses BlacklakeGolfResortLocated between Santa Maria and Pismo Beach, Blacklake Golf Resort is the Central Coast’s only 27 hole course. Visit Blacklake to play any combination of the three distinct nines and stay for lunch or dinner at Blacklake Bar & Grill. www.blacklake.com, 1490 Golf Course Lane, Nipomo, 805-343-1214 .

Real EstateNipomoPropertiesLooking for your dream home, investment property or your own vineyard, this is the full service real estate company for you to call. New home in Trilogy 3 bed, 3 bath $625,000. Call Diane or Anita for details! 543 West Tefft Street, Nipomo. www.NipomoProperties.com 805-929-4970.

Tours & AttractionsTheLuffaFarmCome and see how luffas grow at the Luffa Farm. These natural sponges grow like squash. Take a free tour and see all their products at the gift shop. www.theluffafarm.com Open Wed. to Sun. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1456 Willow Road. 805-343-0883.

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MorroBayAsightseersdelight

Explore the natural beauty of Morro Bay, the town famous for its fog

and fishing. Whether for a day or a week this small town by the Rock has something for everyone.

Morro Bay is bursting with excit-ing activities for you to try. There’s deep sea fishing, whale watching, world-class surfing, hiking, biking, and kayaking, and camping under the stars.

When it comes to birdwatch-ing, there’s little doubt that Morro Bay provides the best chance for seeing a great variety of species. It’s an incredible birding spectacle. And birds aren’t all. There are harbor seals, sea lions, and sea otters. You’d have to travel far and wide to see so much diversity.

Looking to take a slower pace? Stroll down the Embarcadero and browse gift shops and art galleries. Explore the local cuisine dining on fresh caught fish. Find the perfect wine to complement your meal from area wineries.

Sit on a bench in Tidelands Park and watch the boats leaving the harbor or take a walk on the beach and watch the waves. Walk out the harbor boardwalk to Morro Rock, the 576-foot volcanic plug that looms over the bay and seashore. Keep an eye out for sea otters that rest in the kelp beds near the shore.

Head into Old Town and you will find a variety of specialty shops, an-tique galleries, restaurants, and coffee shops. Book a stay at one of the fine motels. And take in a movie at the town’s first rate theater.

Venture into Morro Bay State Park and visit the Natural History Museum that has interactive exhibits, offers guided nature walks and informative lectures.

Tee up and enjoy an afternoon hitting the greens at the 18-hole championship golf course where every hole has a view of the bay.

No matter what you choose to do, a stay in Morro Bay is always excep-tional and sure to make you want to return again and again.

Art galleriesArtCenterMorroBayView or purchase regional fine art, attend meetings, workshops, classes for adults and children, Art in the Park summer festivals, and Morro Photo Expo. Enter scholarship programs. Gallery open Noon-4 p.m. daily. 835 Main Street., Morro Bay, www.artcentermorrobay.com, 805-772-2504.

GalleryatMarinaSquareLarge selection of works from local artists. 601 Embarcadero, Ste 10, Morro Bay 805-772-1068.

ThomasKinkadeGalleryA showcase of Thomas Kinkade’s famous works both new and classic. Ask to see his lesser known pieces as well. Experience the many beauti-ful styles of Kinkade’s artwork. 601 Embarcadero, Morro Bay. 805-772-8204.

ShoppingSilverSeahorseAbsolutely adorable clothing & gifts for children. Just when you thought your kids couldn’t get any cuter, wait until you see this store.601 Embarcadero #7 Marina Square, www.silverseahorse.com 805-772-1336.

Dining outTheBaysideCaféLocated at the State Park Marina it’s the best kept secret on the Central Coast. Seafood dinners, such as fresh fish, steamers and fish and chips. Meatloaf served Thursday nights. Lunch daily starting at 11:00am, Dinner Thursday-Sunday 4:00pm-8:30pm. Located across the street from the State Park Campground entrance. 805-772-1465.

BlueSkyCoastalCafeWaterside location with casual dining indoors or out. Fresh fare & comfort

food for breakfast, lunch & sunset din-ners. Fresh seafood with south of the border selections and clam chowder bread bowls. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. Happy hour 4:00-6:00 p.m. Pet friendly & WIFI. 805-772-8988.

GiovannisFishMarketThis is a fun, family owned landmark market and diner for over 25 years. They offer a wonderful variety of fresh fish for sale. Dining on outdoor wharf patio. Open daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.1001 Front St., Morro Bay. 805-772-1276.

HofbrauRestaurantFor over 40 years, the Hofbrau has been serving slow-cooked, hand-carved roast beef sandwiches, beer-battered fish & chips, and juicy hamburgers on their ocean-side patio. A favorite of locals and tourists alike. 901 Embarcadero, Morro Bay. 805-772-2411.

MorroBayMudFudgeOver 60 flavors of award- winning chocolate. Don’t leave Morro Bay with out trying some amazing hand-made fudge. 89 Main St Suite C, Morro Bay, (805) 771-0195.

WindowsontheWaterGourmet dinners and bay views. Open daily at 5 p.m. call for reserva-tions. 699 Embarcadero Blvd. 805-772-0677.

Page 36: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

36 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

A central coast favorite in Morro BayOpen for lunch daily. Dinner Thursday through SundayAcross the road from Morro Bay State Park campground entrance.

( 8 0 5 ) 7 7 2 - 1 4 6 5

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Morro Bay

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Coleman Park

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Cloisters Community

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Bayshore Blu�s Park

Museum of Natural

History

Black Hill

Morro Rock

MORRO DUNES

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MORRO ROCK STATE PRESERVE

Morro Bay

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ATASCADERO RD.

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Golf CoursesMorroBayGolfCourseThe number one “must play” course on the central coast. Ocean views from all 18 holes, driving range, food and beverage. Feel like you are playing at Pebble Beach for a fraction of the cost. 201 State Park Road, www.centralcoastgolf.com (805) 782-8060

Outdoor activitiesBayCruisersBoatRentalsRent an electric boat that you can easily cruise on Morro Bay, no experience required. Bring a picnic and drinks and spend some wonderful time on the water. 845 Embarcadero on the dock, www.baycruisers.com, 805-771-9337.

MorroBayAquariumOpen daily 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.$2 for adults, $1 for children 5-11, under 5 free. 595 Embarcadero, Morro Bay. 805-772-7647.

MorroRockTake a walk and explore the beautiful Morro Rock. Follow Embarcadero Blvd North to Coleman Drive. The Rock provides habitat to the peregrine falcons. Otters sometimes raft in the channel. Climbing the Rock is illegal.

MuseumofNaturalHistoryMorro Bay State Park, Morro Bay. Recently modern-ized. Open daily 10am to 5pm. Closed Thanksgiv-ing, Christmas, and New Years day. $2 for admis-sion, ages 16 and under free. 805-772-2694.

RockKayakRentalsWhere your adventure begins! Their knowledge-able and friendly staff will help you with rentals, sales or lessons. 845 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, 805-772-2906.

Wine TastingSTAXWineBarSTAX is the hottest new wine bar located right on the waterfront. Featuring over 100 wines by the taste, glass or bottle. Open for lunch and dinner daily from 12-8pm. Gourmet meats, cheeses, chocolates, beers and more! 1099 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, www.StaxWine.com, 805-772-1276.

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Page 37: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

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Morro Bay

Among the little shops on the Embarcadero in Morro Bay

are an assortment of really fine art and craft galleries. One of the best and most interesting is the Gallery at Marina Square. Go upstairs and you will find two large gallery sec-

tions filled with oil and watercolor paintings, fine photography, jewelry, glass blown figurines, fabric art, sculpture, woodcrafts, cards, notes, bookmarks, magnets, mugs, and

trivets. What makes this gallery special is that it is all work from lo-cal, professional, award winning San Luis Obispo County artists. Also making it special is how it is run for the artists.

The gallery came about eight years ago when a group of artists who belonged to a co-op in San Luis Obispo decided they wanted something more where they could show their work, sell it, and offer a unique and diverse art experi-ence to the public. They chose to do this in Morro Bay at a location that draws people visiting the Central Coast from all over the world, Marina Square. The actual business is owned by Nona Jane Siragusa but is run by a hub of artists that act as its board of directors. Each hub member has a distinct responsibility, such as marketing, which Patricia Newton handles.

TheGalleryatMarinaSquare

The gallery showcases San Luis Obispo County artists.

Gallery at Marina Square

Open Daily 10am-6pm

601 Embarcadero, #10, Morro Bay, CA 93422

805-772-1068http://galleryatmarinasquare.blogspot.com

Deb Festa‘Fantasy Garden’

Chuck Pruitt‘White Pelicans’

Janice Ray-LehmkuhlJewelry

Shelly Myers‘Ocean Earth’

Patricia Newton‘Romance of Morro Rock’Nona Jane Siragusa

‘Daughter of God III’Ardella Swanberg

‘Seated Nude’

Continued on page 38

Individual artists are

featured in a month long

show, and a reception,

open to the public, is

held on the second

Friday from 5 to 8 p.m.

Page 38: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

38 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

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Space in the gallery is rented as it becomes available and Siragusa makes the decision for inclusion in the group. Price for a space is governed by its size. Each artist is required to work at least one day a month selling all the pieces in the gallery. Artists with more extensive exhibit space work more days. The gallery retains 35% of sales and this money goes towards rent, upkeep of the area, supplies, and advertis-ing. Artists pitch in to pay for a variety of advertising that the gallery places in many local publications and in so doing a photo of their work is used in the ad.

Once a month an artist is featured in a month long show, and a reception, open to the public, is held on the second Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. Food and non-alcoholic drinks are served and musical entertainment is supplied by guitarist, Michael Swanberg.

In August mixed media artist Don Doubledee and photog-rapher Karen Peterson will be featured in a show entitled “California Dreaming.” Doubledee commented that participating in the gallery is like being in a fam-ily. “Everyone helps each other,” he said, “whether it’s with framing a piece, or marketing ideas, or help with their presentation.”

Along with member shows, there is also a featured guest artist who may or may not be local. Guest artists are supplied with a large wall space to hang their work in the second room in the

upstairs location that is adjacent to the original gallery space.

Featured artists in September will be photographers James Crawford, Laura Dienzo, and Robert Taylor. A local life draw-ing group will be guest artists in October and featured artist will be watercolorist, Susan Wood.

“We all produce both large and small work,” Patricia Newton commented, “and we advise

new artists to produce smaller things because these are the types of items that sell well, espe-cially since tourists are our main clientele.” So you will find note cards of the larger paintings in the gallery at most of the spaces along with other smaller items to choose from. “I think the prices are reasonable for the quality of art offered here,” Doubledee said, “and it is all work that reflects the nature of the area.”

The Gallery at Marina Square is open daily from 10 a.m.to 6 p.m. at 601 Embarcadero #10, Morro Bay, (805) 772-1068.

— Ruth Ann Angus

Continued from page 37

Artist Patricia Newton with her artwork.

Page 39: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

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Morro Bay

For 60 years the Art Center at Morro Bay has been gallery

home to local artists and beyond. This large exhibit space located on Main Street in Old Town Morro Bay is run by the Morro Bay Art Association and is a hub for fine art on the Central Coast.

In the beginning there was no gallery. In 1951 a small group of artists who hungered for a way to let the public see their work band-ed together and used whatever space they could for a show. They even hung their paintings outside on the neighborhood trees, which of course allowed passersby full view of their art. Eventually the opportunity to purchase the build-ing where they are now located in downtown Morro Bay became available, and the association finally had a permanent home.

Currently there are 200 mem-bers who may show up to three pieces in each show and there are eight or nine shows a year. With two spacious galleries in the building the association is able to showcase a wide variety of medi-ums. It is all original artwork from local artists. There is one special exhibit a year that brings in pieces from national and international artists. In 2012, in either late May or early June, the Pastel Society of the West Coast will be featured in the exhibit.

This year is the 60th anniver-sary of the association and current President Flo Bartell hopes to be able to exhibit the first painting that a variety of past presidents had exhibited at the gallery. Scrapbooks reflecting the time period from 1951 to 1971 will also be on display. A reception entitled “Looking Back” will be held at the gallery on September 18th and it is open to the public.

On the second Monday of the month a demonstration by a local artist takes place at 3 p.m. Refreshments are served.

Bartell is in her third year as President and works avidly at marketing the Art Center. “We’ve made significant changes in the past few years,” she said. “We changed the name to Art Center

TheArtCenterinMorroBay

Morro Bay and painted the build-ing a catchy purple color so it would stand out on the block.”

The Center offers many classes and workshops for the public. An oil and acrylic class taught by artist Jason Mayr is offered on

Mondays from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Kathy Miller presents water-color classes on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Both classes are $25 per session.

Creativity Days are free and fun sessions on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Anyone can at-tend with their own projects and materials.

Upcoming workshops with area and regional artists will feature paper dolls and stacking dolls in August, and soft pastel in October. A multi-media workshop by Joan Scott is also planned for fall.

Children are not forgotten either. Art Camp is offered in summer months and there are free clay classes for eight to 14 year olds. Plans are also in the works for classes for children ages six to eight.

“In October we will have an art contest for children,” Bartell said, “and information about it will be available in area schools, libraries, and in local newspapers. It is a county-wide contest for ages five to 14 with prizes in several categories.”

The Art Center sponsors Art in the Park held in City Park on Memorial Day weekend, July 4th weekend, and Labor Day weekend. It also is the sponsor for the an-nual Morro Photo Expo to be held

in 2012 on March 31-April 1.Perhaps unknown to most is

the fact that proceeds from the sale of art at the gallery and from Art in the Park goes to fund scholar-ships for local college and high school students. “We’ve funded more than $10,000 to a number of students each year,” Bartell commented. In mid-November students participate in the Annual Student Scholarship Show.

Anyone can join the Morro Bay Art Association. Family and Single memberships are $25 with Busi-ness at $18 and Students at $12 per year. Members who display also work as docents at the gallery and open hours are from noon to 4 p.m. daily.

— Ruth Ann Angus

The Art Center is located in Old town Morro Bay and is celebrating its 60th anniversary.

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Page 40: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

40 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

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on

871 Zinfandel & vanilla Bean Pine Nut Chardonnay

This is a great place to start an exploration of tidepools. From

Piedras Blancas to Montana de Oro the rocky outcroppings of the coast offer us a glimpse into the marvelous wilderness of the underwater world.

It starts with the rise and fall of the tides. Twice a day, pounding surf surges in and beats against the rocky shoreline, whipping up an agitated froth. Six hours later the waters retreat leaving the area exposed and life within it on hold until the sea returns.

In a tidepool at Corallina Cove in Montana de Oro deep pockets in the rock layers hold pools of water filled with colorful life. Ochre Sea Stars, some orange and some purple, stand out against the deep green sea lettuce. Small black and brown turban snails pepper the pools.

Some of these shells actually contain hermit crabs that scurry around hunting for food. Green anemones wave their tentacles try-ing to capture minute organisms to

drag into the depths of their bodies. A pretty rose colored scale called

coralline algae covers most of the rocks under water and lends the cove its name. Harbor seals haul out and rest on the exposed rocky ledges. Closer to the breaking waves are sea urchins, and more crabs and sea stars.

There are several tidal zones beginning with the splash zone, which receives the blast of the waves at high tide, and proceeding through the high tide, mid tide, and low tide zones.

Each of these sections has its own creatures and plant life that manage to exist in both the turbu-lent water and when high and dry.

The high tide zone remains moister than the splash zone and here you will see barnacles, mussels, rock crabs, anemones and chitons.

The mid tide zone is uncovered at normal low tide levels. Small fishes, shrimp, sea stars, hermit crabs and nudibranchs live in this

environment. Of these the shell-less snail, the nudibranch, is probably the most colorful, often having flow-ing plumes on their backs.

They dine on sponges, hydroids, colonized plant-like organisms that

Exploretidepools cling to rocks, and bryozoans, moss-like creatures similar to coralline algae.

Uncovered only at the low-est tides each month, the low tide zone harbors anemones, sponges, sea urchins, tube worms, sun stars, sea cucumbers and thick beds of seaweed.

Gazing into these many small ponds at low tide you will be privi-leged to see a miniature realm in complete detail. If you go tidepool-ing, please leave the areas as you found them. Replace rocks and creatures exactly as they were and handle everything gently.

— Ruth Ann Angus

Where to go• Corallina Cove, Montana de Oro• Hazard Reef, Montana de Oro• Morro Strand Beach, north of Yerba Buena St., Morro Bay• Cayucos Beach, south of Ocean Front and “D” Streets• The rocky reefs off Shell Beach• Windy Cove, north of Natural History Museum, Morro Bay• Leffingwell Landing, Cambria• The rocky reefs of Highway 1 near San SimeonWear non-skid shoes capable of getting wet and a walking stick for supportThe Central Coast Natural History Association offers docent walks at many of the above locations. Call 772-2694 for information.

Bay CruisersElectric Boat Rentals

www.baycruisers.com

Up to 8 people$75 per hour

Bring a picnic & drinks

845 Embarcadero, Morro BayLocated on the Boatyard dock, just behind

the Visitors Center & The Outrigger

805-771-9337

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Los Osos

LosOsosisagatewaytonatureLos Osos, Spanish for Valley of the Bears, is off the

beaten path and the gateway to Montana de Oro, an amazing state park along the ocean. The town has many quaint places of interest for visitors to stop on their way to and from the state park. Try one of the many restaurants or grab something to take with you for a picnic at the beach or one of the nearby forests.

MontanadeOroLos Osos Valley Road leads right into the state

park. The park, popular for day visitors, has 50 primitive sites. The park is well-used with daily visitors throughout the year who go there to hike, picnic, fish, camp, surf, take a dip in the ocean or visit the tide pools. The park’s visitor center is located at Spooner’s Ranch House Museum above Spooner’s Cove. The cost to enter the park is free. 805-528-0513. For camping call 800-444-7275.

ElfinForestThe forest has nearly 200 species of plants,

more than 100 varieties of birds, and many species of mammals and reptiles and amphibians. The for-est includes a 1-mile boardwalk that is wheelchair accessible at the north end of 16th Street. Guided tours are given on the third Saturday of each month at 9:30 a.m. starting at the north end of 15th Street off Santa Ysabel. 805-528-0392.

BaywoodPierThe pier, at the intersection of 2nd Street and

El Morro Ave., overlooks the shores of the back bay of Morro Bay. It is a quiet place to sit and enjoy the estuary. Grab something to eat and enjoy watching the many species of birds in the bay.

TheLosOsosOaksStateReserveHalf-mile east of South Bay Boulevard on the

south side of Los Osos Valley Road. The reserve has an easy one-mile trail through the “Pygmy Oaks”, which are dwarfed coast live oaks. The low canopy reserve is on the site where Chumash Indians once lived.

LosOsosCommunityParkLocated at the corner of Los Osos Valley

Road and Palisades Avenue. The park includes a 17,000-square-foot skate park, three tennis courts, playgrounds and restrooms. The park is ideal for walking or picnicking and is the site of the Los Osos Valley School, one of five original one-room schoolhouses between San Luis Obispo and the coast. Of those five, only two still exist today, both in Los Osos.

SweetSpringsNaturePreserveLocated on the north end of Ramona Avenue between Broderon and 4th

Street. The park is open from dawn to dusk and has trails that wander through the Monterey cypress and eucalyptus trees around two freshwater ponds and a salt marsh to the edge of Morro Bay. The preserve is managed by the Morro Coast Audubon Society. Monarch butteries are plentiful in this preserve from late October to March.

BaywoodParkFarmers’MarketOn Santa Maria Avenue between 2nd and 3rd streets. The market takes

place every Monday from 2 to 4:30 p.m. The market offers fresh, local, in-season produce. 805-748-1109.

BearstatuesOn your way into Los Osos notice the large grizzlies stationed as guards into

the town at South Bay Boulevard and Los Osos Valley Road. The statues were created by local artist Paula Zima.

GolfingSeaPinesGolfResortThe resort includes a golf course with tournaments, private lessons and pro shop, lodging and a clubhouse grill. 1945 Solano Drive. 805-528-5252.

Los Osos/Baywood Park

LOS OSOS VALLEY RD.

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Downtown Baywood Park

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EL CHORRO REGIONAL PARK

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MORRO BAY STATE PARK

MORRO ROCK STATE PRESERVE

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CayucosEnjoythisscenicseasideretreat

A quiet town, Cayucos invites folks to slow down, smell the ocean air,

pick up sand dollars and never take life for granted. The broad main street recalls the days of stagecoaches and cowboys, and the Saloon is still a great place for after-hours drinks. You can also play a game of pool or a hand of poker there. For a drink with a view, try Schooner’s across the street.

The livery station gave way to Nelson’s Garage, but the Cayucos Barbershop still keeps coiffures in order. Cayucos is a town in tune with

BISTRO, WINE BAR & BAKERY

RESTAURANT:LUNCH & DINNER ~ WED-SATBRUNCH & DINNER ~ SUN

BAKERY: 8AM-3PM ~ WED-SUN

78 N Ocean AveCayucos805-995-1006Call for reservations

[email protected]

Most Highly-Acclaimed Restaurant in SLO County

Celebrating over 23 years of serving the Central CoastHighway One Vacation Rentals

Vacationand Beach Rentals

www.highwayonerentals.com

805-995-3678148 N. Ocean Ave., Cayucos

its past, but is also preparing for its future.

Cayucos is the number one destination on the central coast for antique shoppers, and a great place to just cool down and get away from the heat. It is the perfect beachside town for renting a beach house and enjoying a week of sand castles, sunsets and relaxation.

Tourism is the local economy’s largest industry, and Cayucos offers many nice hotels and beach house rentals for the weary traveler.

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StateBeach&PierThe coastline has several access points. Free

parking, bathrooms, showers at the pier. Lit for night fishing. Nearby you will find surfboards, wet-suits, kayaks and lessons available. Great childrens playground and volleyball.

HardieParkJust a short walk north from the pier. Good pic-

nic area with tables, barbecue pits and playground .

Antique shopsIts hard to miss all the lovely antique shops

in downtown Cayucos. There is a lot of fun to be had and treasures to be found when exploring the nooks and crannies of these fine shops.

RichManPoorManFine antiques, open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 146 North Ocean Ave – Cayucos. 805-995-3631. www.RichManPoorManCayucos.com

DiningDuckiesChowder82 Ocean Front Ave., Cayucos. Famous clam chow-der in a relaxing setting by the Cayucos Pier. 805-995-2245

Hoppe’sGardenBistroThis is a true five-star restaurant. Expect the best in beef, poultry and seafood. Try the abalone. Outstanding wine list. Highly recommended for a special night out. Open Wed. to Sun., lunch and din-ner. 78 North Ocean Ave, Cayucos. 805-995-1006.

OceanFrontPizzaThis is the best pizza in town! Free local delivery. Open 7 days a week from noon ‘til 9pm. 156 1/2 Ocean Front Ave., Cayucos. 805-995-2979

SeaShantyRestaurant.296 South Ocean Ave., Cayucos. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Great local seafood. Open daily at 8 a.m. 805-995-3272.

Skippers113 North Ocean Ave., Cayucos. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. 805-995-1122.

ShoppingMcLeanJewelryDesignHand-made wedding sets and unique jewelry for women and men in platinum, gold and silver. Exotic gemstone collection from around the world, includ-ing Tahitian Pearls, Canadian Diamonds, Big Sur Jade. Since 1977. Open Wed. to Sun., 10am-5pm, 180 N. Ocean Ave. 805-995-1212.

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CambriaSanSimeon&NorthCoastNestled in a forest of coastal pines, Cambria rests

along a rugged coastline, offering spectacular views, top-notch cuisine and quaint shopping.

The town is charming; filled with boutique shops and roads lined with wildflowers. Walking through Cambria is like revisiting the quiet, isolated community that flourished in the early 1900s.

Today, Cambria is the biggest settlement on the North Coast with two village areas filled with small shops, restaurants, motels and seaside cottages.

It is also the gateway to the California State Parks most popular attraction — Hearst Castle.

Cambria is about 35 miles north of San Luis Obispo on scenic Highway 1 and about 30 miles west of Paso Robles at the end of the wine coun-try’s Highway 46 West.

On your drive you’ll first notice the smell of the magnificent pine trees. Then follow them, as they grow right up to the coastline.

Cambria boasts some of the finest restaurants in San Luis Obispo County. They run the gamut of tastes from California cuisine to seafood, but share a common goal of absolute freshness.

HearstCastleSee story and photos on page 47.

ElephantSealsSee story and photos on page 47.

SanSimeonSan Simeon is the last stop on the road to

Hearst Castle. The state beach here is a favorite camping site for tents and RVs.

It’s a great place to watch kite-boarders ride the ocean and fly high in the breezes, when the wind is right. Or take a hike through the nature surround-ing you.

Art GalleriesTeresabelleGalleryHandcrafted fine arts like jewelry, crafts, sea glass, beads, and gifts. 766 Main St. 805-927-4556.

DiningAllocco’sItalianBakeryA unique Italian bakery, specializing in fresh baked bread,Taralli Italian gourmet pretzels, Italian pastries, house sandwich & Italian coffee. Open 7 day a week. Come see them at North County Farmers Markets. 1602 Main Street, Cambria, www.Alloccos.com, [email protected], 805-927-1501.

CambriaPinesLodgeRestaurantA casual, relaxing lodge environment with beauti-ful garden views. Indoor and outdoor seating are available. Features organic produce hand picked from the Lodge’s organic kitchen garden. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Reservations are rec-ommended for dinner. 2905 Burton Drive, Cambria805-927-4200 ext 2111.

LasCambritasFamily-owned local favorite serving creative Mexican home cooking and unique daily specials. Happy hour includes margaritas, well and beer. Central Coast wine list and live music on our pet-friendly patio on Sundays. 2336 Main St., Cambria 805-927-0175.

MoonstoneBeachBarandGrillA locals favorite. Full bar and views of the ocean. Lunch and dinner entrees include seafood, steak,

chicken, pork and pasta dishes. 6550 Moonstone Beach Dr., Cambria 805-927-3859.

SeaChestOysterBar&RestaurantSunset views and seafood. Sit at the oyster bar, and watch the chefs cook. Appetizers include oysters Rockefeller and steamed clams. Come early for a good seat and bring cash or check. Reservations and credit cards are not accepted. Opens daily at 5:30pm. 6216 Moonstone Beach Dr., Cambria 805-927-4514.

Outdoor activitiesCoastalDiscoveryCenterInteractive family exhibits: talking tide pool, live trout tank, & deep sea voyages. Activities for kids. Free to the public Fri - Sun 10-4, and most holiday Mondays. Hearst State Beach in San Simeon across from exit to Hearst Castle. 805-927- 6575

NittWittRidgeNitt Witt Ridge, pictured above right, is a hilltop home transformed by one man into what has been described as an “assemblage of sculpted junk.” Arthur Weal, spent many years collecting items fellow Cambrians were throwing away in order to create the home, which has been named a California Historic Landmark as a true example of a folk art environment. Tours. 881 Hillcrest Drive, 805-927-2690.

ShamelParkOn Windsor Blvd. North, Park Hill.Shamel Park is a great place to bring the kids and spend an afternoon by the coast. The park has a large lawn area that perfect for picnics, a public

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Cambria, San Simeon, North Coast

pool, playground and beach access. Look for whales migrating along the coast.

ShoppingTheBall&Skein&MoreA wide variety of unique yarns, knitting and crochet supplies, buttons, and kits. Something for every-one, from the beginning knitter to the serious fiber artist. Unique gifts and offerings to remember your trip to Cambria. 4070 Burton Drive. www.cambriayarn.com 805-927-3280.

Vacation RentalsCambriaSeasideGetawaysWhether you’re looking for a scenic getaway for the entire family including your pet or a romantic retreat for two, we have a vacation rental for you. Visit us upstairs at 702 Main St, Cambria. www.CambriaSeasideGetaways.com, 805-927-0177

Wine TastingBlackHandCellarsSpecializing in red wines like Bordeaux, Cuvee and Rhone blends. Open Thursday-Monday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. We are located at 766 Main St., Cambria in the courtyard (cross streets Arlington and Main). www.blackhandcellars.com. 805-927-WINE (9463).

FermentationsGreat wine tasting bar specializing in local wines. Enjoy a glass while you browse our selection of unique gifts and home decor. Taste the fig lemon balsamic vinegar and other treats. 4056 Burton Dr., in the East Village, Cambria. www.fermentations.com (800) 446-7505.

Hearst Castle

Visitor Center

West Village

East Village

Shamel Park

San Simeon Pier

To Cayucos

To Big Sur

To Paso Robles

SAN SIMEON BEACH STATE PARK

Paci�c Ocean

FISCALINI RANCH

PRESERVE

FISCALINI RANCH

PRESERVE

WILLIAM RANDOLPH HEARST

STATE MEMORIAL MONUMENT

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Wine & Gourmet Food TastingHome Accessories with a Wine ThemeUnique Wine GiftsShop while you taste!Open Every Day

4056 Burton Drive Cambria East Village

805-927-7141 www.fermentations.com

805-927-0177Toll Free: 800-464-0177

702 Main Street • Cambria, CA 93428cambriaseasidegetaways.com

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Cambria, San Simeon, North Coast

THE PREMIER HORSEBACK RIDING EXPERIENCE

ON THE CENTRAL COAST

OUTBACKTRAIL RIDES

† THE DROVER ¢

Discover the true romance of horse and rider on our two hour ranch ride that boasts some of the most stunning ocean views along the California coast,

accessible only from this exclusive private ranch. Enjoy an instructional

riding program with your guide before beginning the adventure.

$ 85 / 2 hours +

Wednesday – Sunday: Morning, afternoon & evening sunset rides.

All rides are by reservation only.

Discover the true romance of horse and rider as you enjoy spectacular ocean

and mountain views and an inside look at an exclusive private working

ranch. Our ride locations are just south of Cambria along scenic Highway 1.

All of our rides are personally guided by an Australian Stockman.

Specializing in small group and private rides.

www.outbacktrailrides.com

(805) 286 - 8772

THE PREMIER HORSEBACK RIDING EXPERIENCE

ON THE CENTRAL COAST

OUTBACKTRAIL RIDES

† THE DROVER ¢

Discover the true romance of horse and rider on our two hour ranch ride that boasts some of the most stunning ocean views along the California coast,

accessible only from this exclusive private ranch. Enjoy an instructional

riding program with your guide before beginning the adventure.

$ 85 / 2 hours +

Wednesday – Sunday: Morning, afternoon & evening sunset rides.

All rides are by reservation only.

Discover the true romance of horse and rider as you enjoy spectacular ocean

and mountain views and an inside look at an exclusive private working

ranch. Our ride locations are just south of Cambria along scenic Highway 1.

All of our rides are personally guided by an Australian Stockman.

Specializing in small group and private rides.

www.outbacktrailrides.com

(805) 286 - 8772Morning, afternoon & evening sunset rides. All rides are by reservation only.

Closed Tuesdays.

For over 30 years, people from around the world have been

coming to the Ball & Skein & More in Cambria, California to find the most amazing selection of yarns and needle supplies from around the world. In its current location in Cambria’s Historic East Village at 4070 Burton Drive for over 28 years, the shop has been under new ownership since Halloween of 2009. In what came to look like a series of ‘meant-to-be’s’ Kris Gregson and her husband Oz Bar-ron moved from a small town just outside of Boston Massachusetts to buy and run a yarn store on California’s Central Coast!

When asked where they find their yarns, Kris explains, “We travel to trade shows and meet with representatives of various products. There are so many beautiful yarns available now it makes our job fun but hard. We try to find things that are unique, give great value to our guests, and are items we can feel

good about offering. We love find-ing products with a story. We have things that are Fair Trade certified, many made by small cooperatives from around the world, organic yarns, and yarns from California as well as the rest of the US. We like to think if you choose something from our shop, it’s not ‘just another yarn.’”

“People ask us all the time how we found Cambria,” say Kris, “We say that Cambria found us.” A life long knitter and crocheter as well as a successful corporate executive, Kris has spent years visiting yarn shops around the country, often bringing her knitting to meetings and town meetings. “Oz and I had been asking ourselves ‘what’s next’ for a few years and we explored many places in the US and the Caribbean knowing we’d find ‘it’ when we saw it. After all, it’s how we found our old house back east.”

Intrigued by a series of columns by Atascadero resident and motor-

cycle journalist Clement Salvadori, they visited the area last April to spend a week or so. “It reminded us so much of Vermont, a place dear to us,” says Oz. The sense of community, the arts, and the rural environment, combined with the great food, wine, mild weather, and the ocean nearby had them making plans for an eventual move west.

In June of 2009, a trip was taken to look at properties all around

SLO county and while driving past the shop, Oz mentioned that they loved the little shop. When it was discovered it was for sale, well the die was cast and across they came, Oz by motorcycle, Kris by airplane. “We’re so excited, we’re having a modern day adventure!,” says Kris.

Stop by and say hello and check out their extensive selection of items for all fiber fans, including items for the ‘non-knitter’ among us!

Ball&Skein&More

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Come and join the millions who have visited this hilltop

San Simeon estate to explore the ar-chitecture, art, and gardens of “The Enchanted Hill,” and absorb the stories that accompany them.

Hearst Castle opened to the public as a California State Park in 1958, but before that it was the home of publisher, movie producer, and art collector William Randolph Hearst (1863-1951). History

In 1865, George Hearst, a wealthy miner, purchased 40,000-acres of ranchland that included the Mexican Ranchos of Piedras Blancas, San Simeon and Santa Rosa. In 1919, his only son, William Randolph Hearst, inherited the land from his mother, Phoebe Apperson Hearst. By then the ranch had grown to encompass 250,000 acres.

Originally known as “Camp Hill,” its wilderness offered a place for family members and friends to “rough it” on camping trips. Despite elaborate arrangements with separate sleeping and dining tents, Hearst envisioned more comfortable accommodations. His simple instructions to famed San Francisco architect Julia Morgan in 1919: “Miss Morgan, we are tired of camping out in the open at the ranch in San Simeon and I would like to build a little something.”

Hearst and Morgan’s collabora-tion was destined to become one of the world’s greatest showplaces. As they were planning and construct-ing his dream home, Hearst re-named the rocky perch from which it rose “La Cuesta Encantada” - The Enchanted Hill. By 1947, Hearst and Morgan had created an estate of 165 rooms and 127 acres of gar-dens, terraces, pools and walkways.

The estate’s magnificent main house, “Casa Grande,” and three guest houses are of Mediterranean Revival style, while the impos-ing towers of Casa Grande were inspired by a Spanish cathedral. The blending of the architectural style with the surrounding land, and Hearst’s superb European and Mediterranean art collection, was

so seamless that world-renowned architectural historian, Lord John Julius Norwich, was moved to say that “Hearst Castle is a palace in every sense of the word.”Museum

The William Randolph Hearst exhibit located in the Visitor Center offers guests an insightful look into the Castle, its architect Julia Morgan, and its owner W.R. Hearst. Family histories, vintage photographs, and historical documents provide a more intimate look at Mr. Hearst’s

first-time visitors as it provides a broad overview of the many facets of Hearst Castle and it is the least strenuous of the tours. Tour dura-tion is 1 hour and 45 minutes which includes the bus ride to and from the castle.

Tour Two focuses on the architectural elements and vast art collection in the main house, or Casa Grande. Featured rooms on this tour include; the Doge’s Suite, “The Cloisters” which are four guest rooms flanked by open walkways, the Library, the Gothic Suite which occupies the entire third floor and includes Hearst’s impressive private suite, library and office, and the Kitchen. Tour duration is 1 hour and 45 minutes, which includes the bus ride to and from the castle.

Tour Three provides an over-view of the construction and devel-opment of the Hilltop by contrast-ing the earliest guest house with the most recent addition, the North Wing. Tour duration is 1 hour and 45 minutes, which includes the bus ride to and from the castle.

Tour Four not only concen-trates on the beauty of the botani-cal gardens, but also provides a glimpse into some of the less familiar aspects of Hearst Castle. Tour duration is 1 hour and 45 minutes, which includes the bus ride to and from the castle. (800) 444-4445.

TourhistoricHearstCastleCambria, San Simeon, North Coast

personal life. Ad-mission is free.

Beautiful works of art from his col-lection give a glimpse of the treasures seen on tour. A dis-play dedicated to Mr. Hearst’s career in media, publishing, and politics features an audio recording of a political ad-dress he made. A short video highlights the film career of Marion Davies.

Young visitors to the Castle can

explore the exhibit with a free Treasure Hunt map provided at the desk inside the exhibit doors. A prize is awarded to participants.

Children and adults alike will enjoy the “touch gallery” - a display of tiles, marble, textiles, and other materials used in the art and ar-chitecture of the Castle that allows guests to experience the collection in a tactile way not allowed on tour.Tours Available

Tour One is recommended for

Find and see the elephant seals

The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Colony is located on scenic coast Highway 1 approximately 45 miles north of San Luis Obispo near the Piedras Blancas Light-house and south of Big Sur. The site is open all year round with docents present every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during breeding season and on weekends and holidays at other times. Seals are viewed on the beaches from a boardwalk bluff above. Parking and entrance are free. www.elephantseal.org.

An elephant seal family raising their pup.

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used were similar to a train whistle, and then a siren was used. Finally the traditional fog horn blast came to be and the light station was recog-nized by the length of the blasts. These first blasts

used were loud enough to break eardrums.

Piedras Blancas means white rocks in Spanish and the large rocks offshore are just that. Over the years many birds have roosted or nested here, and their droppings, called guano, are the source of the color. At times in the 1800s guano was harvested from these rocks by passing schooners. After a harvest-

Lighthouses have always evoked a romantic feeling with people.

Travelers go out of their way to visit a lighthouse. Piedras Blancas is no exception.

From June 15-August 31 there will be tours offered on Mondays-Saturdays except federal holidays. From September 1-June 14 tours are offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, except federal holidays.

Tours start one and a half miles north of the entrance to the light station at the old Piedras Blancas Motel. Be there at 9:45 a.m. No reservations are necessary and tour guides will be waiting for you there. Tours cost $10 for adults, $5 for ages six to 17, and free for children five and under. Next you will car caravan with your guide to the lighthouse.

Construction of the Piedras Blancas Lighthouse began in 1874 and was finished in 1875 when the first order Fresnel lens was installed. You will notice that the top of the

lighthouse is missing this lens. Origi-nally the light-house stood more than 100 feet high. It is now 74 feet high. In 1949 the lens and the upper section of the structure were removed due to earthquake damage. The beautiful Fresnel lens has survived however, and you can see it close up in an enclosure in downtown Cambria.

The light from the first order Fresnel lens could be seen 18 miles out to sea.

In 1906 a fog signal building was built. Inside was the latest equip-ment to make sound loud enough to carry out to sea. The first sounds

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ing like this, when the sea breezes blew, an odor wafted across the light station making the lives of the lighthouse keeper and his family a bit miserable.

The tour will take you inside the lighthouse where there are displays explaining the early equipment used in operating the beacon. Visitors are not yet allowed to climb to the top of the lighthouse, but after future restorations, this too will be avail-able. In the middle of the interior hangs a weighted apparatus that extends into an eight-foot hole in the floor. A weight was wound up around a drum and gravity caused it to fall causing the beacon up top to turn. The mechanism was called a clockwork; it worked like the weight on a grandfather clock.

A tour of the light station will be a highlight of your visit to the Central Coast. Call for details 805-927-7361 or email [email protected].

—Ruth Ann Angus

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Cambria, San Simeon, North Coast

One of Cambria’s oldest homes is the Guthrie-Bianchini

House, built in 1870 by Thomas Clendinen. After 50 years in probate, the house was purchased by the Cambria Historical Society in 2001 and the renovation began. Now the home of the historical museum, this lovely old building sits of the corner of Burton Drive and Center Street in Cambria’s Historic East Village.

Sharing Cambria’s heritage is an important mission of the Cambria Historical Society. For one thing, that heritage belongs to you. With help from the community and visitors to Cambria, we purchased and restored the Guthrie-Bianchini

VisittheCambriaHistoricalMuseum

The Guthrie-Biachini House as it appeared in 2001.

The Guthrie-Biachini House as it appeared in the late 1800s.

Discover Cambria’s past at the Cambria Historical Museum. The Guthrie-Bianchini House today.

House as Cambria’s museum of history for everyone, young and old, to explore and enjoy. Come in and meet the pioneers who have inspired us with the tenacity and energy that reflects America’s heri-tage and values. The docents and exhibits will take you on a fascinat-ing journey.

The Cambria Historical Museum is located in the heart of Cambria’s East Village at 2251 Center Street. Museum hours are Friday-Sunday, 1p.m.-4p.m., Mon-day, 10a.m.-1p.m. Tour this historic home, learn from the exhibits and relax in the garden. The museum, and Cambria’s history, is yours to enjoy.

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Santa Margarita is an oasis of rural country life nestled in the heart

of the county just off Highway 101 and Highway 58. It’s a little taste of the old west.

Spend the day at Santa Margarita Lake, fishing, hiking, relaxing and then finish the day in downtown with wine tasting at two locations, beer tasting at the just-opened brewpub, dining, and antiquing before heading to your next destina-tion.

SantaMargaritaLakeLocated off Highway 58. The park of-fers a variety of services year round. Some services include fishing and boating, hiking and trails, picnics, camping, and swimming. The park is located on several thousand acres of land that has been designated as open space. Two camping areas are open and backcountry campgrounds are accessible by boat. The swim-ming area is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Be sure to stop at the one gas station in town before driving out to the lake, as there are no gas services once you leave town. 805-788-2397.

SantaMargaritaHistoricalSoceityThe vision of the Santa Margarita Historical Society is to make our

Specialty NurSery & GardeNer’S Store22210 El Camino Real • P.O. Box 564

Santa Margarita, CA 93465805-438-4250 • www.educatedgardener.com

Specializing in drought tolerant, hardy and unusual perennials & carrying the largest selection

of pond plants in North County

SantaMargaritaComeandexplorethissliceoftheoldwest

local history available on-line with hardcopy held at our public library located on the corner of I & Murphy Streets in Santa Margarita. Plans call for restoration of the small county jail building and documenting a number of the community’s historic buildings, both those that are still standing and those that have

The Educated Gardener at 22210 El Camino Real.

disappeared over the decades. The Society is recording the stories of “old timers” to help ensure that the history of the town, which grew out of the Mexican Land Grant Rancho Santa Margarita, is not lost.

DiningTheRange22317 G Street. The Range offers fine dining that reflects what is locally grown and produced in the area, including many of the wines served. Chef Jeff Jackson serves a unique

dinner menu that changes based on the season. 805-438-4500.

ShoppingTheEducatedGardenerThis nursery is an attraction all on its own with its lavish grounds that are nice to walk through on a sunny afternoon. Enjoy the atmosphere or pick out a plant or garden decoration to take home. While there, be sure to visit Chicken John, the resident roster. 22210 El Camino Real. 805-438-4250.

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FarmsBlueSkyGardensPumpkinFarmBring your family to this small off-the-road farm, for a haunted house, corn maze, and farm animals. Pumpkins, gourds, tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, peppers are available. Open daily during October 9:00 a.m. to dark. Reservations recommended for small groups. 19505 Walnut Avenue, Atascadero (Garden Farms), blueskygardens.sanityonline.com, 805-610-6330.

AtascaderoOutdoorfamilyactivitiesabound

Atascadero was purposely situat-ed halfway between Los Angeles

and San Francisco on Highway 101, only 20 miles from the ocean by the city’s founder, E.G. Lewis in the early 1900s. The city is full of history with its numerous colony homes, many of which have been restored to their original grandeur.

The lake itself is an attraction for locals and visitors alike with paddle boat and kayak rentals, a small wad-ing pool for the little ones, fishing and a mile-loop around the lake for walking, jogging and bike riding. The park also offers play equipment for the children and picnic areas for small and large groups. Before ven-turing into the park, check out the county’s only zoo, Charles Paddock Zoo, which is located in the park, just off Highway 41.

ChalkMountainGolfCourse10000 El Bordo Rd. The golf course is situated among ancient and mature oak trees, sweeping hills, and a meandering creek. Chalk Mountain is a fun and challenging course for all levels of golfers. The golf course is open to the public and is located next door to the city’s only dog park

and next to Heilmann Park, which is a great place for picnics and for kids to play. 805-466-8848.

AtascaderoLakeandParkLocated on Highway 41 next to the zoo. The park is open from dawn to dusk and is open to the public. Paddle boats and kayaks are avail-able for rent during the summer and depend on the water level of the lake. Recreational fishing is available around the lake. A pedestrian path loops around the lake and is about one mile.

AtascaderoHistoricalSocietyThe Atascadero Historical Society Col-ony House, 6600 Lewis Ave. behind the city parking lot across the street from the City Administration Building, is open every Wednesday and Satur-day from 1 to 4 p.m. Talk to a docent about the history of Atascadero.

AtascaderoZoo9100 Morro Rd., Atascadero, just off Highway 41, about one-and-a-half miles west of Highway 101.Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for children 3 to 11 years old and $4.25 for seniors 65 and older. The zoo is open during the summer from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. The zoo is one

of only 211 zoos accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association since 1991. The park was founded by Charles Paddock in 1955, who was a park ranger who came to the aid of injured wildlife. 805-461-5080.

Dining OutFigGoodFoodA tiny place serving up big flavors...including homemade pasta and slow cooked meats off the rotisserie. Making their own sandwich rolls and focaccia every morning and using mostly organic vegetables. 5945 Traf-fic Way, 805-460-9900.

KaiLanaSushiandSeafoodThey have such great local word of mouth, they are adding on a new deck. Their Hawaiian fusion menu is consistently called the best, with great prices too. Also offering wine tastings and acoustical events. 3000 El Camino Real, 805-462-2232.

Blue Sky Gardens is the perfect place to pick out your fall pumpkins.

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Atascadero

Adobe Plaza

Sunken Gardens

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Atascadero

Tra c Way Park

Colony District

Adobe Plaza

StadiumPark

De Anza Trail

Chalk Mountain

Golf Course

Heilman Park

Paloma Creek Park

Atascadero Lake Park

& Zoo

Atascadero Lake Park

& Zoo

MORRO RD.

SANTA LUCIA RD.

SAN RAFAEL RD.

LOS OSOS RD.

SAN GABRIEL RD.

SANTA ROSA AVE.

ATASCADERO AVE.

PORTOLA RD.

SANTA BARBARA

CURB

ARIL AVE.

EL CAMIN

O REAL

EL CAMINO REAL

TRAFFIC WAY

UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD

Salinas RiverSANTA

CRUZ RD.

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SAN JACI

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AN

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ROCKY CA

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41

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101

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101

MILES

0 1/2 1

Fig Chutney & BriePeruvian Chicken Salad

Cuban Pulled PorkCitrus-Glazed Rotisserie Chicken

Salons & SpasTheSpaCentralCoastFull service day spa offering facials, massage, steam room, infrared sauna, seaweed body wraps, wax-ing, Sun FX tanning, meditation room. W e carry Bare Minerals, Aveda and Spa Technologies. 6105 El camino Real, www.thespacentralcoast.com805-464-0129.

VinoTherapyStudio“A skin and body wine experience”. Grape seed oil massages, facials & body treatments, wine bar, and much more. Re-emerge a new person, relaxed and rejuvenated. 5990 Entrada, Atascadero, www.vinotherapystudio.com, 805-466- VINO (8466).

ShoppingBellaCoseBoutiqueThe boutique that will keep you and your friends coming back for more. Not only are the prices great but the customer service can’t be beat. They carry a wide variety of clothes. Visit today!. 5992 Entrada Ave, Atascadero, 805-462-2673.

Wine TastingFrolickingFrogCellarsWith 450 case annual production, they are proud to be among the wineries of the Central Coast & Paso Robles appellation. Their hand-crafted wines are unique and boutique. Stu, the winemaker, celebrates his passion in every wine bottled. The 11th harvest in 2011 will be adventurous. www.frolickingfrogwine.com, 805-466-0779.

HavenWineBistroRomantic, relaxing envi-ronment with an outdoor patio and over 45 Central Coast wines by the glass, local and imported beer and delicious bistro fare served all day. Live music Wednesday - Saturday. Next to our sister busi-ness The Spa Central Coast. 6155 El Camino Real Atascadero, www.havenwinebistro.com, 805-461-9463.

462-Cose (2673)5992 Entrada Ave., Atascadero

Mon-Fri 10-6, Sat 10-4

Visit our boutique in Downtown Atascadero, around the corner from the Carlton Hotel

• MarahlagoLarimar• Brighton• GemstoneCollections• NotYourDaughter’sJeans• JagJeans• Willow• Spanx• AprilCornell•Santiki

• MaggieZandCobianSandals

• GiftCertificates• UniqueGifts

• LucyLove• Zashi• PlusSizes

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Hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Admission: Adults (12 and over): $5 Seniors: $4.25Children (3-11): $4 Children (2 & under): FREE

Fun to Do at the Zoo Birthday Parties • Zoo Snooze • Bug Zone • Workshops

Visit and have fun at the Zoo. Visit our website for events, memberships, camps, educational programs and much more.

DiscoVer over 200 animals in five park-like acres.

obserVe the animals up close in naturalistic habitats.

ParticiPate in special events that are always happening at the Zoo.

For a listing of events and educational programs go to www.CharlesPaddockZoo.org

Fun for the Whole Family!Your Central Coast Conservation Center

Located on Hwy 41, about a mile-and-a-half west of Hwy 101We are open during the construction!

For info call 805-461-5080 or visit our Website www.charlespaddockzoo.org (Site donated by Clever Concepts, Inc. www.cleverconcepts.net)

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Atascadero

Like many small businesses, Anderson Taxidermy & Guide

Service, Inc., grew out of the hob-bies and passions of its owners. Don and Rosemary Anderson run Anderson Taxidermy & Guide Ser-vice, Inc., from their home, nestled in the wooded hills of Atascadero. Don is a fourth-generation resident of the Central Coast, and began

hunting on his family’s ranch in Ar-royo Grande. Now Don hunts and guides other hunters in California, numerous other states and interna-tionally.

While Don specializes in guid-ing hunts in this area, he began his career as a hunting guide in Alaska, and still guides hunts there; but his experience hunting in California helps him offer what Rosemary describes as “exclusive hunts on the Central Coast.” He has access to local ranches through relationships forged with landowners during his decades of hunting and guiding. His knowledge of the animal that he hunts allows for the success rate of animals taken by his customers.

Among the animals that Don guides for locally are pigs, Tule Elk, deer, California Desert Bighorn Sheep and the sought-after Aoudad, also known as a Barbary Sheep originally from North Africa which has an established population on the Central Coast.

While most hunts range between two to four days, a guided hunt for a California Desert Bighorn sheep hunt can be 12 days in length and extended to accom-modate the hunter’s need to remain in the field in pursuit of these elusive and challenging species. He describes the period of hunting as time quietly spent, with the softly spoken communication between he and his hunters and no smoking al-lowed. The effort is to be unobtru-

Takeaguidedhuntingtrip

sive so as not to alert the animals to their presence. Don finds the skills developed while hunting beneficial for younger hunters, as they learn to be patient, quiet and to get up early to go out into the field.

Rosemary says that hunting “is a matter of tradition with Don” and their business is about “sharing their abilities with others so they may experience time honored tra-ditions passed on from generation to generation with others.” She says that for Don and her, hunting is a choice, hunting when successful can put meat on the table, however it isn’t about pulling the trigger so much as enjoying the outdoors and

the gifts nature can provide. If your are skilled and capable of placing a well aimed shot, the return is in having put food in the freezer and possibly the preservation of a trophy taken, honoring the animal as well.

Not everyone is 100% successful every time they enter the field to hunt. Those that do may have the animal mounted to preserve the memories of that hunt and recalling time spent with those who were with them at the time of that hunt. So when you look at that animal, know that there is something great-er than just a head on a wall, there are memories and the stories be-

hind them. The experience shared, and memories of times past, places and adventures in the field recall of those who were with you, memo-ries of quality time spent doing with family and friends. Not every animal is mounted, but those that have been “all have stories behind them.”

Don and Rosemary are aware of the importance of maintaining the population and health of the herds that Don and his clients hunt. They emphasize that the hunting industry is highly regulated to conserve and protect the popula-tions of the animals they hunt, and that all of their activities are in strict compliance with Fish & Game regulations. Their hunting clients must obtain all necessary license, permits and tags. For the more rare and sought-after animals the regulatory limitations can result in high fees, and the revenue generated from hunting is used to maintain the lands that the animals

Don hunts and guides

hunters in California,

numerous other states

and internationally. A bighorn sheep hunt can be up to 12 days in length.

Don Anderson brings a lifetime of hunting experience into his guided trips.

PATCHPUMPKIN

CORN MAZEHAUNTED HOUSE

Blue Sky Gardens

OPENING DAYSaturday, Oct. 1

OPEN DAILY 9AM-DARK

19505 Walnut Ave., AtascaderoGarden Farms

Just North of Santa Margaritaoff El Camino Real, Follow the Signs

438-5801 or 610-6330School Groups call for Reservations

FarmAnimals

PicnicArea

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www.slovisitorsguide.com FALL201155

inhabit, protect and maintain the animal’s population.

Don’s skills and experience have earned him a place in the interna-tional hunting community as well as in his native California. His reputation brings him the majority of his business, and he says that most of his customers find him through word-of-mouth, from other hunters. Besides serving as a guide in California, Don also offers to guide hunts in Alaska, Texas and Mexico. In the past, he has led hunts in locales as far off as Ethiopia and Pakistan.

As hunting became a passion of Don’s he was introduced to the finer details of taxidermy as a way to preserve and display the game that he obtained. When the leading taxidermist on the Central Coast began moving towards retirement, Don stepped in to fill his place. He started his taxidermy business in 1977 and has been expanding his client base since. Now he offers his taxidermy services not only to locals but to hunters from around the world as well. His knowledge of the animals he has hunted have

provided him to make lifelike replicas of the species mounted, he can re-create the muscle contours and stance of each animal he works with.

While most examples of Don’s taxidermy work are in private collections some examples are available on public display at the Cachuma Lake Nature Center on Highway 154, between Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez. These mounts serve to give visitors information about the animals indigenous of the area that they might never see in the wild.

Anderson Taxidermy & Guide Service, Inc., does much of the legwork for hunters who want to try their hand at the game the Central Coast has to offer. Besides organizing the hunt, Don often ar-ranges for food, transportation and lodging for his clients. He also can take care of having their game sent to the butcher shop and prepared for display at his taxidermy shop.

For more information on the services Anderson Taxidermy & Guide Service, Inc., offers, visit their website at www.thehuntpro.com or call (805) 466-3240.

VISIT US ONLINE:www.thehuntpro.com

Don Anderson with his California desert bighorn ram

13600 Old Morro RoadAtascadero, CA 93422-2021

Phone: (805) 466-3240Fax: (805) 461-5767

• More than 25 years as a licensed guide• Dedicated to providing high-quality hunts, one hunter at a time• Customized packages available

ANDERSONTAXIDERMY &

GUIDE SERVICEINC.

ANDERSONTAXIDERMY &

GUIDE SERVICEINC.

CALIFORNIA SPECIALS:DESERT BIGHORNS

SAMBAR DEER, AOUDAD,BLACKTAIL DEER,WILD BOAR,

TURKEYS, VARMINTS

OTHER HUNTS OFFERED:BROWN BEAR in Alaska

WHITETAIL DEER, EXOTICS in Texas

Atascadero

Luxurious Guestrooms

6005 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA805-461-5100 8 the-carlton.com

The Carlton is dedicated to one goal: Creating an

unforgettable experience

for you

7305 thru 7385 El Camino rEalatasCadEro, Ca 93422

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ComeSeeWhat’sHappening!Little Caesar’s Pizza

Gibson Brothers B-B-QTaco Bell

Pacific Western BankSan Luis Physical Therapy

Caring Touch MassageM&M Smoke ShopYogurt CreationsThe UPS StoreSunrise Donuts

Mary Anne’s HallmarkHair District

Check Into CashRadio Shack

Page 56: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

56 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

AtascaderoAtascadero

Nothing defines a getaway like a trip to this beautiful

wine region, and nothing defines relaxation, during that getaway, like The Spa Central Coast. Founded in 2003 by Kitty Arosteguy, The Spa Central Coast offers Central California’s premier day spa experi-ence.

From tra-ditional facials and massage to mineral-based sunless tans and detoxifying infrared sauna sessions, The Spa Central Coast offers up an array of treatments, perfectly tailored, and perfectly executed to enhance your wine country stay.

TheSpaCentralCoastoffersshuttleservice

With three locations, the Spa Central Coast proudly serves the greater San Luis Obispo County:

The flagship The Spa Central Coast, located in the historic Colony District of Atascadero

The Spa Central Coast at Avila, located inside Martin Resorts’ Avila Lighthouse Suites

The Spa Central Coast’s newest offering, in-room massage at the lovely Paso Robles

Inn, also a Martin Resort.In addition to partnering with

Martin Resorts to provide luxuri-ous on-site treatments, The Spa Central Coast is pleased to offer a

ATASCADERO - CENTRAL COAST WINE COUNTRY

Highest Overall Guest Satisfaction in Region - 2010 + 2011!— InterContinental Hotels Group

All rights reserved. This hotel is independently and locally owned and operated.

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9010 West Front RdAtascadero, CA 93422

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• Heatedoutdoorpool+whirlpoolspa• VisitusatTripAdvisor.com

3000 El Camino Real, Atascaderowww.KaiLanaSushiAndSeafood.com

Open for Lunch and Dinner 7 days a week

805-462-2232

Hawaiian Fusion • Great PricesMusic on the Deck

Wine and Sake Tastings

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Atascadero

shuttle service to and from any Paso Robles hotel to their beauti-ful, full-service Atascadero location, which includes the delectable offerings of Haven Wine Bistro, a sister company of The Spa Central Coast..

Plan time, during your Paso Robles visit, to pamper yourself. Take pleasure in a foot-soak on the back patio, while sipping on a glass of local wine and enjoying organic bistro fare.

Grab your partner and experience a steam-room treatment, followed by personalized, luxurious couple’s massage. Got a night on the town planned? Treat yourself to a body-slimming seaweed wrap and mineral spray tan. The possibilities are endless and only a shuttle away.

For a complete spa menu, please visit www.thespacentralcoast.com, or call (805) 464-0129.

Atascadero

Page 58: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

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Templeton is the epitome of small town charm. If you are looking to escape the hustle and

bustle of city life then you are in the right place. A visit to the historic main street of Templeton will transport you back in time. A time when you could safely wander the boardwalks while eating an ice cream cone, sampling homemade chocolates, hav-ing a glass of local wine, dining out, shopping at little boutiques, and best of all spending time with the family.

Dining OutMcPhee’sGrillFresh seasonal menus. A special place to go for

Templeton

lunch or dinner. The macadamia crusted Alaskan halibut is exquisite. 416 S Main St., 805-434-3204.

FarmsHappyAcresFamilyFarmThis cute little family farm specializes in lotions, soaps and other skin card products made from all natural, hormone-free goat milk. You can also find fresh goat milk, cheese and ice cream. Come visit their one of a kind farm stand in Templeton.happyacresfamilyfarm.net 1955 Templeton Rd. 805-434-7580.

MuseumsTempletonHistoricalMuseumSocietyIncorporated as a nonprofit organization in 1989, the realization of a dream of nearly 25 years earlier. The Horstman house, built by Albert Horstman, a prominent businessman in the 1920s, was donated to the society in 1994 and serves as the museum where local memorabilia and photographs are displayed. Templeton’s original railroad warehouse (behind the house) contains a 1925 Model T in original condition, an antique carriage and other items too large to put into the house. Open Fri. - Sun. 1- 4 p.m. 309 Main St. 805-434-0807.

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Something got your goat? Not at Happy Acres Family Farm.

Goats are what it is all about at Happy Acres, a state licensed, certi-fied organic dairy goat farm. More than 200 of them rest under shade trees, munch alfalfa in enclosures, or roam in the grasses with the alpacas.

Stephanie Simonin is the goat lady, and her business has grown from one sweet goat named Stella, who Simonin brought in some years ago to help feed calves who had lost their moms. Stella still lives here along with an assort-ment of animals who share the farm. There are mini-teacup pigs, miniature horses, regular sized horses, a miniature donkey, a cow, alpacas, a goose, cats, kittens, small dogs and really big dogs. All the animals get a name and the goats have tags on collars around their necks so you can see what those names are and be properly introduced. Simonin, her mom, Laurie, her sister, and all the kids take part in running the farm.

In 2009, Simonin completed work on a large farm stand that sits at the entrance to the prop-erty. When you first drive up two huge Burmese Mountain dogs greet you enthusiastically. If you should happen to bring your pet along, Simonin requests that you leave the pooch in the car while you visit.

The stand contains cheese, ice cream, eggs from free-range chickens, and certified organic fresh produce. Happy Acres offers a line of skin care products made from the milk at both the stand and online. The products include moisturizer, facial cleanser, lip butter, eye cream, and soap bars. Eczema, psoriasis, and acne are helped by products like these. They also contain vitamins A, B, and K, amino acids, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorous and are paraben free.

Simonin’s Mom, Laurie pro-duces all the lotions and cheeses. The cheese production area is located in the milking barn. Large batches are produced for restau-rants in the area. “We were asked

AfamilyaffairatHappyAcresFamilyFarm

by one of the Italian restaurants to make an Italian cheese,” Laurie commented as she pointed to a cooler stocked with two sizes of

oblong shaped cheeses. “Most cheeses are French. This is Toma,” she explained, “made with no culture.”

Some of the other cheeses are Fresh Chevre with herbs that are grown locally, one with Sundried Tomatoes, Parmetta, which would be used as you would Parmesan, and Feta. “Some are made without salt and some with,” Laurie said.

While goat milk is well known to be good for those who are lactose intolerant, Simonin com-mented that she discovered the benefits of drinking goat milk first hand. Not soon after one of her children, who suffered seasonal allergies, began drink-ing it, the condition cleared up. “No more sinus or runny nose,” she said.

While Laurie produces the products, Simonin is in charge of the goats, performing milking chores twice a day. Her sister and the kids also pitch in and have chores like giving Lucy the cow her bottle feeding. Lucy is actu-ally still a calf and requires milk along with feed. This is just one of the rescue animals that have come to live at Happy Acres. The calf had been mistreated to the extent that she still is not quite as well socialized as she should be, but with tender care at Happy Acres she is beginning to trust her new owners. A cow is useful on the farm especially during the time that the goats give birth. The kids often need a supplement of milk and Lucy will be beneficial at that time.

Simonin breeds the goats once a year and relies on the blood line and talents of Scotty, the Billy goat among others. Scotty roams the back pasture along with an assortment of goats and two black alpacas. The alpacas were also rescue animals, and they perform a valuable service. The farm is lo-cated in the countryside of Tem-pleton and it is not uncommon for there to be mountain lions, coyotes, and foxes about. Even neighborhood dogs are a threat. When a threat is perceived, the alpacas give out a high-pitched sound and immediately go on alert. They herd the goats back behind them and prance forward, shrilling their call as a warning to

Simonin’s mother Laurie produces all the lotions and cheese.

Stephanie Simonin treats her goats to a few peanuts.

Continued on page 60

Templeton

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Templeton

& FARMSTAND

Unique

Dairy Products

Lotions – Soaps – CleansersGoat Milk – Cheese – Ice Cream

Family Owned & Operated

1955 TEMPLETON RD., TEMPLETON / 805-434-7580www.happyacresfamilyfarm.net

cERTiFiED ORgANic PRODucE

whatever predator might be try-ing to gain entrance to the field.

Another nice element of hav-ing alpacas is that they produce a fine, soft wool that is spun into yarn for making clothing. The yarn is sold at the farm stand and the funds are donated to charities that the kids choose.

Tours of the farm are available by appointment and consist of learning how to milk, blending your own cheese, which you get to take home, bottle feeding baby goats when they are born, and feeding peanuts to the goat herd.

Tours last one and half to two hours long and cost $25 for adults and $12 for children. Happy Acres offers discounts for school groups. Call Stephanie at (805)

434-7580 for an appoint-ment.

A visit to Happy Acres Family Farm is sure NOT to get your goat!

Happy Acres Fam-ily Farm products are

sold at Farmers Markets in Morro Bay, Templeton, Baywood Park, and Avila Beach. They are also avail-able at area stores and the cheeses are featured in recipes in dozens of restaurants. You can find their lotion products for sale online at www.happyacresfamilyfarm.net .

— Ruth Ann Angus

Stop by the Happy Acres farmstand at 1955 Templeton Rd., Templeton

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PasoRoblesShopping•FineDining•WineTastingPaso Robles is bursting at the seams with at-

tractions for tourists.Wine tasting, fine dining, shopping, visiting the lakes, seeing local Missions and visiting museums top the list of things to do in and around Paso Robles.

Two new major hotels have opened in the last two years and more are on the drawing board. Both the La Bellasera Hotel and Suites (at Highway 101 and 46 East) and the Courtyard by Marriott (at Highway 101 and First St) are two new beautiful ad-ditions to the city’s numerous lodging options.

WineTastingSee special section on Page 79 The biggest at-

traction for tourists is the local wine country. There are more than 180 wineries in North County, many with tasting rooms open for your enjoyment all week long. This area is the fastest growing Ameri-can Viticultural Area in California with 26,000 acres planted. It has one of the longer and most consis-tent growing seasons for wine grapes in California.

StudiosontheParkIf art is what you’re looking for, the newly

opened Studios on the Park in Paso Robles is sure to please. A nonprofit open studios art center in the heart of downtown at 1130 Pine Street. The center has nine studios with 24 working artists in a variety

of media. Make art a part of your life by witnessing the creative process in action, enrolling in a class or workshop or viewing quality themed exhibitions.

AntiquesVineyardAntiquesUnderpriced treasures is our reputation in our 10,000 sq.ft. antique mall. Antique furniture from primitive to elegant. Old tools, glassware, pottery, artifacts, toys, wine accessories, jewelry and more. Garden art in our 2,000 sq.ft. patio. Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 11-5. 2320 Ramada Dr., Ste. A, 805-237-4012.

ReminisceAntiquesBrowse this village of shops for a selection of fabu-lous antiques and treasures for everyone. Vintage, home decor, western, gifts, jewelry, accessories and everything inspirational. Open Mon. to Sat, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In downtown at 1344 Pine St., ReminiscePasoRobles.com 805-239-1001.

BeerFirestoneWalkerBrewingCo.This award-winning brewery offers an in-depth tour experience showing you all that goes in to making beer. See the Firestone Union, the only operating

union of barrels still fermenting beer in the US. After the tour, belly up to the bar and try one of ten beers on tap. 1400 Ramada Dr., firestonebeer.com, 805-238-2556 x15.

Dining OutBigBubba’sBadBBQBig family fun is what you’ll find at this western-themed restaurant. Belly up to the full bar. Don’t miss the onion rings or the mechanical bull. 1125 24th Street, 805-238-6272.

BuonaTavolaAntipasti, hand crafted pastas, generous main courses and truly inspired desserts, such as Chef Varia’s famous tiramisu. The highest quality and freshest foods. Open weekdays for lunch & dinner. Open Sat. & Sun. for dinner at 5:30 p.m. 943 Spring St. Call for reservations. 805-237-0600.

CiderCreekBakery&DeliBreakfast and lunch in a warm, inviting atmosphere. The bakery goodies are the best. The sandwiches are to die for. Pastries, pies, cookies, breads, espres-sos and lattes. Open Mon-Fri 7 a.m. - 6 p.m., Week-ends 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. 205 Oak Hill Road #102, www.cidercreekbakery;.com, 805-238-4144 .

YANAGIS U S H I & T E P PA N G R I L L

1221 PARK ST., PASO ROBLES805.226.8867

www.yanagisushigrill.comOffer good at Paso Robles location only. Not good with any other discounts. One offer per table. Must present this ad. Expires 10/31/11.

any purchase of $30 or more OR

any purchase of $50 or more.

Call for Teppan Table reservations.

$5 OFF $10 OFF

Continued on page 62

www.EarthTonesGifts.comLOCATED IN DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES

Featured Artist - Rosi Lusardi

Gifts, Gallery & Massage

Local Art & Unique Jewelry}

Candles, Books & Music}

Yoga Classes & Massage

1319 Park Street 805.238.4413

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Paso Robles

Paso Robles Event

Center

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FenomenalWorld fusion tapas, cheeses and cured meets pair beautifully with international and local wines and brews. Relax in a hip, comfortable setting on the downtown park in Paso Robles. Let your senses explore Fenomenal. 835 12th Street, Paso Roblesfenomenalplace.com, 805-227-7154

OdysseyWorldCafeAn enchanting world tour for your palate. Located in downtown Paso Robles. Dine inside the Mediter-ranean ambiance or al fresco. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, wines, beverages and desserts. Open 8:00 a.m.- p.m. 1214 Pine St., odysseyworldcafe.com, 805-237-7516.

PanolivoFamilyBistroTasty and healthy French-inspired California cuisine in a casual chic atmosphere. Breakfast, lunch & dinner served all-day, everyday. Spectacular des-serts and French pastries. Reasonably priced wines. Extensive kids menu. Patio dining. 1344 Park St., 805-239-3366.

RistoranteIlCortileThe town’s newest fine dining Italian restaurant. Seasonal menus created with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Homemade pastas, fresh seafood, meats and antipasti. Dinner served 7 nights a week. Lunch served Mon.- Sat. 608 12th St. www.ilcortileristorante.com, 805-226-0300.

Robert’sRestaurant&WineBarDowntown off the park. American classic fine din-ing. Sensitively-priced menu. Abundant portions, using locally-grown produce and proteins. Beautiful, stylish dining room with an uptown, yet cozy, ambiance. 1218 Pine St , www.robertsrestaurantpaso.com., 805-226-5556.

SenorSancho’sEveryday is a celebration at Sancho’s. Fantastic food, margaritas and atmosphere. You will never go away hungry or thirsty or in a bad mood. www.senorsanchos.com. 2927 Spring St., (805) 237-1508 and 1902 Creston Rd. 805-237-9880.

ThomasHillOrganicsBistroFrom our farm to your table. A creative menu featuring organically-grown produce and natural proteins. Enjoy local wines, lunch or dinner in our dining room or outdoor patio. Located downtown in the alley at 13th St. 1305 Park St. www.thomashillorganics.com, 805-226-5888.

For a map of Paso Robles area wineries, please see page 80

Robert ’s A Fresh Approach To Classic American Cuisine

Open for Lunch 11a-2p & Dinner 5p-10p Closed Mondays

1218 Pine Street, Downtown Paso Robles

805.226.5556www.rober tsrestaurantpaso.com

Rated the #1 restaurant in Paso Robles by Trip Advisor

Vineyard Antiques“Underpriced Treasures”

Over 10,000 sq. ft. of antiques!7,500 sq.ft. Inside, 2,500 sq.ft. Outside

2320 Ramada Dr., “A”Paso Robles • (805) 237-4012Hours: M-S 10-5, Sun [email protected]

Invest in Your Future While Collecting the Past

Wine-Related Antiques & CollectiblesBuy & Sell Antiques, Furniture, Coins, Jewelry, Gold & Silver

Continued from page 61

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and encourages the development of archives and serves as a repository for records and other materials. The Paso Robles Historical Society is located at the historic Carnegie Library in the downtown city park. Open Thurs. - Sun. 1 to 4 p.m. 805-238-4996.

PioneerMuseumThe Pioneer Museum is fun for all Ages. 20,000 sq.ft of local history, get a glimpse of what life was like in the “ Good Old Days.” Dinosaur bones, Paderewski, vintage farm equipment, pioneer relics and lots more.Located at 2101 Riverside Ave, Paso Robles. Open Thursday-Sunday 1-4, Free Admission, 805-239-4556.

Pet BoardingPasoRoblesPetBoarding“The caring place”, family owned. Your pet will be treated like our family! Open 7 days a week. 2940 Union Rd.., 805-238-4340.

Real EstateMargretPurkiss,RealtorLet her 30 years of experience in specialized customer service work for you. Whether you are looking for your dream home or investment property,

Paso Robles

Vic’sCafeA family diner serving the best breakfast in town and homemade mouth-watering desserts. Call ahead and order your box lunches for wine tasting. A downtown Paso tradition. Don’t miss it. www.vicscafepaso.com, 814 13th St. 805-238-3988.

YanagiSushi&GrillVoted best sushi in the county, it’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Call to reserve a teppan table, or sit at the fresh sushi bar, either way, you get to watch your chef in action. 1221 Park St.. 805-226-8867.

Hot Springs SpaRiverOaksHotSpringsSpaDone wine tasting? Take an hour and come relax in the historic natural mineral springs. Private indoor and outdoor tubs start at $12/hour. Full service spa offering therapeutic massage and facial treatments. RiverOaksHotSprings.com, 800 Clubhouse Dr. 805-238-4600.

MuseumsPasoRoblesHistoricalSocietyThe Paso Robles Historical Society is a non-profit organization that seeks

tttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt

841 13th St. • Paso Robles • 805-238-3988

VIC’S CAFEA Family Restaurant

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner • Catering • Homemade Pies & DessertsMON-SAT 6AM-8PM SUN 7AM-2PM • www.vicscafepaso.com

Just good downhome cookin’!

Prime Rib

Dinner

$13.95Saturday night

2940 Union Rd.Paso Robles 238-4340Bathing & Grooming Avail.

Call for Reservations and vaccination requirements

YOUR NAPKIN WON’T BE ABLE TO WIPE

THE SMILE OFF YOUR FACE.

Chili’s Grill & Bar2001 Theater Dr., Paso Robles, CA

805-226-9226

Oldtimer® with cheese topped with

crispy onion strings, Shiner Bock®

BBQ Sauce, and sliced avocados

Molten Cakes

Come by Chili’s® today andlive life to the tastiest.

Continued on page 64

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Paso Robles

or want to sell your home. SRES, DRE #01848509, 805-975-3988.

RV ResortsWineCountryRVResortWhether you are looking for relax-ation, exciting activities or a romantic setting, we’ve got it all! As a family-owned and operated business we’re dedicated to making your stay a most enjoyable one. 2500 Airport Rd., www.winecountryrvresort.com, 805-238-4500.

Salons & SpasStrawberryBlondeSalonStrawberry Blonde Salon, well known for its artistry, innovation and education, is located next to the train depot. They specialize in all the latest treatments and complete care for your hair as well as makeup and nails for any occasion. 714 Pine St. strawberryblondesalonpasorobles.com805-239-4200.

ShoppingEarthtonesGifts&GalleryConsience living inspired by nature. Offering unique gifts, artisan handicrafts & jewelry, books, music, candles, cents, crystlas, massage, yoga & reiki. Stop by their downtown shop at 1319 Park St. earthtonesgifts.com. 805-238-4413.

CountryFarm&CraftMarketLocal farm fresh produce and fresh eggs in season. Thursday, 3 to 6 p.m., at the 101 Open Faire Farmers Mar-ket; Friday, 4 to 7 p.m., at the Golden Hills Plaza; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the downtown park in Paso Robles.

RockyMountainChocolateAn experience providing visitors with hundreds of chocolate treats, just as unique as the store. Located in downtown Paso Robles right next door to the movie theatre. 1106 Pine St., 805-226-7598.

205 Oak Hill Rd. #102, Paso Robles805-238-4144

www.cidercreekbakery.com

Pastries • Pies • Cookies • Breads • MuffinsSandwiches • Soups • SaladsCoffee • Espresso • Latte Now Serving Beer & Wine

OPEN DAILY M-F 7-6, WEEKENDS 7-3

Join us for Breakfast & LunchHot Rod & Classic Car GatheringsSaturdays 7:30a-9:30a

120 S. Vine Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446(805) 239-9700 - Main(805) 239-5511 - Sales

www.courtyardpasorobles.com

Restaurant & Bar On-site – Meeting & Banquet Rooms – Complimentary Wireless Internet24-Hour Fitness Center – Outdoor Heated Pool & Spa – Extended Stay & Group Rates Available

We’ve got just the room you need. The only thing missing is you.

Approved

805-239-30302745 Spring St., Paso Robles

Newly Remodeled •High-speed InternetSwimming Pool • Cable • HBO

DD Phones • Non-smoking RoomsHandicap Accessible • No Pets

Close to Wineries & Downtown Paso Robles

Continued from page 63 ToursCalLimoLimousinesOffering the ultimate wine country experience with exotic limousines and expert wine tour guides. You will be pampered each step of the way. Tours available in Paso Robles, Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, Edna Valley, Pismo Beach, and Santa Ynez. www.cal-limo.com, 805-772-2200.

SintonHelicopterToursHop from vineyard to vineyard in your own chartered Helicopter. Rise above the ordinary, try a helicop-ter tour for your next wine tasting experience. Airport service, wedding, group and corporate transportation available. Rates start at $950.00 per hour. sintonhelicopters.com or call 805-238-4037.

Wine ExperienceUnCorkedWineToursTour wine country in a fully loaded luxury van, customize your tour or leave it to your fun and friendly driver. You will also get photos of your day. Accommodates up to 6 adults. www.uncorkedwinetours.net(805) 459-4500.

WineWalkDowntownThe only guided wine walk in CA. Voted the 2nd best place to dine in the USA, and one of the happiest places on earth to live. Hear about the history of downtown as you walk. Wed- Sun, $29 per person. winetoursvip.com, 805-239-5920.

Vacation RentalCabernetCottage Located just steps from the historic town square. It is a newly remodeled two bed/ one bath and infused with wine country charm, antiques and oriental rugs. 738 Vine St. www.cabernetcottage.net 310-447-8583

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A Rare Opportunity toExperience Art Being Made

www.studiosonthepark.org

•Meettheartistswhiletheycreateoriginalworksofart •Attendfreeartdemonstrationsorregisterforaworkshop •VisitthePrintmakersandPhotographersGuilds •ShopatourContemporaryFineCraftsGallery

1130PineStreet•PasoRobles,CA93446•AcrossfromDowntownCityPark•805-238-9800ThursdayNoon-6pm•Friday&SaturdayNoon-8pm•SundayNoon-6pm

Paso Robles

Pioneer Day is coming to Paso Robles on Saturday, Oct. 8, and this year’s parade will

feature two “one of a kind” steam powered machines from the past, a 1906 Best Company traction engine tractor and also a 1902 American Fire Engine Company horse drawn fire engine.

The mammoth tractor, weighs over 19 tons, is some 18 feet wide and 20 feet tall and must be disassembled to be moved. It weighs over 19 tons, is powered by a two cylinder engine that produces 110 horsepower at its drawbar. It was manufactured by the Best Tractor Company of San Leandro, California which along with the Holt Tractor Company, later became the famous Caterpillar Tractor Company. These tractors were used for logging, farming and in the con-struction industries.

The horse-drawn steam fire engine was restored by the Hubert Family who found it rusting away in a barn in 1991. It is sponsored and operated by the California State Firefight-ers Association. It was manufactured by the American Fire Engine Company of Cincinnati,

Comegetallsteamedup!Pioneer Day Parade Saturday, October 3

Ohio and served the City of Reno, Nevada for over 20 years. It weighs over 9,300 lbs. and can pump 1,000 gallons of water a minute. It was manned by three fireman and pulled by the three of the traditional fire horses, the Percheron. This engine has been the proud participant in three Tournament of Roses Parades in Pasadena, California.

This parade is the 81st annual and will

feature over 170 interesting entries including historical wagons and tractors, equestrian teams, floats, bands and marching groups. Other activi-ties include a free bean feed and band concrete in the City Park, royalty named from pioneer families within the area and many other related activities. Please see our Advertisement for more information or log onto www.pasoroblespioneer-day.org

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Paso Robles

The Paso Robles Children’s Museum in downtown Paso Robles opened its doors in

2007, and has since had over 72,000 visitors. The museum’s historic home was once the volun-teer firehouse serving Paso Robles, and when the Children’s Museum moved into the space its theme was designed to reflect the building’s history. The building still resembles a classic firehouse, and the fireman’s pole is still located in the main area of the museum.

The building, which was built in 1940, underwent construction for 5 years to become the museum space that it is today. However, the building still maintains much of the feel of a firehouse, from the high ceilings to the large

windows in the front where the doors for the fire trucks used to open. Some of the exhibits embrace the building’s history as well, and a fire truck near the entrance is available for children to climb on and explore.

Tamara Richardson, the Paso Robles Chil-dren’s Museum’s manager, says that the museum is aimed at children from age 1 to 10, with the focus being on the early years of childhood. Parents are encouraged to accompany their chil-dren in exploring the museum, but it is also set up so that the children can play independently. The museum is designed to help children “learn through play.”

The museum has a “Creation Station” on the second floor with a new activity each day, so fre-quent visitors to the museum can expect to find new arts and crafts activities each time they visit. Exhibits in the museum include Grape Stomp, The Market Area, Newton’s Playhouse, Physi-cal Science Corner and the Theater Area. Local school groups are encouraged to visit the mu-seum on field trips, and a special time before the museum opens has been carved out for them.

The school groups participate in lessons on topics such as the food pyramid, the weather, metamorphosis and the solar system, depending on the ages of the students. Over 7,500 students attended these programs last year, and their

PasoRoblesChildren’sMuseum

visits were paid for through grants received by the museum.

Tom Martin, whom Tamara calls the “founding father” of The Paso Robles Children’s Museum, had the idea to convert the volunteer firehouse into a space for children in 2001. When the Safety Center opened in Paso Robles it freed up the volunteer firehouse building for another use. In 2002 the non-profit that runs the museum was formed, and the initial fundraising push began.

The success of The Paso Robles Children’s Museum is a reflection of the support that it has received from the community of Paso Robles. Over $1,000,000 was raised for the conversion of the building and the installation of the exhibits. One wall of the museum is dedicated to those who have donated to help fund the museum’s programs; the museum’s budget is made up completely of money raised through donations and grants.

Tamara says that both residents of the Paso

The museum is housed in the volunteer firehouse that once served Paso Robles.

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Paso Robles

6105 El CaminoReal, Atascadero805-464-0129

www.TheSpaCentralCoast.com

Wine Country’s Premier Day sPa featuring...Facials • Massage • Couples RoomSteam Room • Infra Red SaunaBody Treatments • Mineral Spray TanWine & Spa Packages, and more

Proudly Offering Shuttle Servicefrom all Paso Robles Hotels/Resorts

Robles area and visitors to town enjoy trips to The Paso Robles Children’s Museum. Fans of The Paso Robles Children’s Museum are invited to attend their annual fund-raiser, held this year at The Paso Robles Inn Ballroom on Sunday, October 16th from 1 - 4pm. There will be 16 wineries and 10 restau-rants participating in this event, “Cioppino & Vino.”

The Paso Robles Children’s Museum is open Wednesday and Saturday 10am - 4pm, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11am - 4pm and is closed Monday and Tuesday. The price for admission is $6 for kids over age 1, $7 for adults and $5 for seniors. Visit www.pasokids.org or call (805) 238-7432 for more information.

— Kate Joyce

Interactive exhibits are fun as well as a learning experience.

623 13th St. Paso Robles, Ca 93446www.pasokids.org

Call for hours and information 805-238-7432Association of Children’s Museums Reciprocal Member

Play & Learn!

We offer discovery fun for children and their families

showcasing the heritage of the Paso Robles Volunteer Firehouse

Climb aboard our 1944 Mack Firetruck and become a

firefighter or shoot some balls out of a cannon to learn about

Newton’s laws of gravity in Newton’s Playhouse.

ChildAdmissionFREE

with paid adultadmission

www.ilcorti leristorante.com

Paso Robles’ Fine Dining Italian Restaurant

805.226.0300608 12th Street, Paso Robles

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Paso Robles

Odyssey World Café

1214 Pine St., Paso Robles805-237-7516

Downtown near the ParkOpen Every Day - All Day 8:00am-8:30pm

Friday & Saturday until 9:00pmodysseyworldcafe.comArt Gallery with Giclée Prints

eurOpean Café ambianCeCOzy, Casual, COmfOrtableBreakfast •  Lunch All Day • Dinner• Gourmet Salads• Sandwiches & Wraps• Oriental Bowls• Homemade Soup• Delicious Food• Family-Owned Since 1997• International Menu

Join us Downtown…• Nightly Dinner Specials• Angus & Lamb Burgers• Pasta Dinners• Steak Dinners• Grilled Salmon• Local Wine List

Locals Love Us!

Usually when a horse walks into a bar, it’s a

setup for an old joke, but at the Pine Street Saloon in downtown Paso Robles, it’s a yearly tradition. This tavern is housed in one of the town’s oldest buildings and honors its wild western roots during the annual Pioneer Day Parade by throwing the door wide open and letting cowboys lead their horses in for a drink. This year, the event takes place on Saturday, Oct. 8.

“People get a real kick out of it,” said Ron French, one of the saloon’s owners. “How often do you get to have a beer with a horse?”

The opportunity to literally saddle up to the bar might be unique, but it’s not the only thing that sets this bar apart from the rest. Incredible hometown hospitality, daily drink specials, and that country ethos make the Pine Street Saloon an essential stop for anyone looking to enjoy a cold beer in a down to Earth environment.

“We go out of our way to take care of customers,” said French.

That’s a common statement coming from a business owner, and French really backs it up. Two years ago, the saloon acquired its own limousine, which French uses to pick up and deliver his custom-ers when they don’t have a sober driver on hand. Because he wants everyone to enjoy a safe night on the town, he’ll take you anywhere

within city limits, and all for free (though that kind of service war-rants a generous tip).

“It’s really popular with folks staying at the hotels,” said French. “If you don’t have a designated driver and can’t afford a cab, we want to make sure you don’t do anything that’s going to get some-one hurt.”

Even free limo rides don’t reach the extent of the bar’s helpful hospi-tality. Back in the frontier days, the saloon was a brothel, and there are still guest quarters above the bar. French has since cleaned the place up, and when a customer doesn’t have anywhere else to go, he or she can sleep it off in a room available

upstairs. But beware. It’s rumored to be haunted.

“I don’t really believe in ghosts or any of that,” said French. “It’s an old wooden building with creaky noises.”

Out of curiosity, French set up night vision cameras in the hall corridor and has video footage of what he calls “super charged dust particles” that appear to glow, travel through glass, and zip around the room even when the air is still.

“I set up a candle in there, and you can see that the flame isn’t moving at all while these things fly around,” said French. “I don’t worry about it though.”

French said that an added ben-

efit of the guest quarters is that he can use them as incentive to attract better bands from out of town. When the musicians have a free place to stay after their concert, they can charge less for the gig, which means patrons can enjoy better shows more often. Past performers include Paula Nelson, Willie Nelson’s daughter.

“We’re a country bar through and through,” said French. “We’ve got about 10 local bands that play here regularly. We keep them on a kind of rotating schedule and mix in an out of town act every once in a while to keep it from getting stale.”

During the day, the Pine Street Saloon is a quiet place to relax and visit with neighbors

and friends, but that changes at night. There’s always something fun happening, and the night time activities are guaranteed to draw a crowd, with live music every Satur-day and karaoke almost every other evening. Monday is open mic night and there’s free pool on Wednes-days. Women can enjoy two for the price of one drinks on Tuesday’s Ladies Night, and anyone in the restaurant or hospitality industry can get the same deal every Mon-day. For people who don’t fit either of those categories, the bar offers a daily happy hour from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. with dollar off well drinks and beers.

“We can make those foo-foo

Acountrysaloonwithcharacter

Owner Ron French behind the historic bar of Pine Street Saloon.

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Paso Robles

&Country Farm

Certified Farmers Market & Fair

Local Farm Fresh Produce & Fresh Eggs in seasonLocal Quality CraftersLocal Food Vendors

Fresh Hot Food: Hot Dogs • Tamales • Fish Tacos • Barbeque

Craft Market

— Saturday —Paso at the Park: 9am-1pm

11th & Spring St. • Open All Year

Thank you for supportingyour Local Farmers & Vendors

Call 805-237-0345for information

drinks, but they’re not very popular around here,” said French. “Our specialties are beer or Jack and Coke, nice and simple.”

That cowboy attitude provides an honest, blue-collar alternative to the more sophisticated wine sipping culture found throughout Paso Robles. Sure, it’s nice to roam the hillsides discussing the subtle differ-ences between grape varietals, but sometimes nothing beats a down and dirty cowboy bar with good company, easy laughs, and cheap drinks.

Other than the limousine, there’s little about the bar that could be called “refined,” and there are no fancy frills. The jukebox plays both kinds of music: country and western, and the decorations consist of animal heads and old concert flyers. The only food they serve are peanuts, beef jerky, and bags of potato chips, so grab a bite to eat before you mozy over to the bar to cap off your evening. It’s a cash only establishment, but they do have an ATM inside for those that only brought their credit cards.

The simple, no nonsense for-

mula of cold beer and good service has worked at Pine Street Saloon for 40 years. It’s a family opera-tion that started in 1971 under Pat French. For most of its run, the business was in the building next door to its current location, but the family always had their eye on the old brothel as a perfect drink house. They moved the business in 2002 just in time for the big earthquake that damaged several buildings in the area, including the brick build-ing that had housed the bar. It was torn down, and but the new loca-tion suffered nothing more than a slight tilt. If you look carefully at the front entrance, you can see that the wooden building leans a little to the right.

“This place was built to last,” said French. “We did some retrofits to reinforce the walls and make sure it was safe.”

After the move, Pat French hand-ed the reigns to her son Ron, but she still gets behind the bar to serve drinks every now and again. Ron’s son works in the bar as well, making it a third generation business.

“Mom started it. I’m keeping

it going, and Danny’s keeping it clean,” said French.

Whether you’re a homegrown local or a weary traveler, point your horse toward 1234 Pine Street in

the historic downtown district of Paso Robles and visit the Pine Street Saloon. For more information call (805) 238-1114 and ask for Ron.

— Nick Powell

Crush & Roll West, September 16-17

For the third year in a row, cigar connoisseurs and wine enthusiasts will gather in Paso Robles for the Central California Coast’s premiere festival, Crush & Roll West. This celebration of premium cigars, pre-mium wine and the good life, takes place Sept. 16-17, 2011 in the heart of the Central Coast wine country. In addition to sampling world-class cigars and wines, attendees will learn the finer points of both from expert vintners and cigar manufacturers.

This year, both the Friday evening and Saturday events will be held at the Paso Robles Event Center, which is home to hundreds of events throughout the year, including the yearly California Mid-State Fair. The Event Center is right off the 101 freeway and is easily accessible from any of the fine Paso Robles hotels and motels. Cost for the two-day event is $125 and activities include complimentary cigar and wine tasting, cigar rolling demonstrations, seminars, raffles, auctions, poker tourney, music, and much more.

Page 70: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

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Paso Robles

Come and enjoy the taste of Paso Robles while staying at Wine Country RV Resort!

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For a Tour, Visit our Website:winecountryrvresort.com

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Wine CountryWine Country

Water ski, jet ski, kayak, fish, campCome enjoy a perfect recreation

and relaxation spot for visitors and residents. Thanks to excellent rainfall this year, Lake Nacimiento is nearing capacity.

In addition to a newly com-pleted spillway, the lake resort has a new parking lot, ranger station and a marina with several new improvements. It is a stabilized marina with wider walkways, a protected fuel dock, marina store, boat slips that are wider and longer then before, three ADA boat slips, a 6-foot-wide by 80-foot-long ramp and restrooms on the dock.

There is abundant wildlife including bald and golden eagles. If you are lucky to spot one of their several nesting sites high up in the trees you are in store for a great treat. There are deer and cattle aplenty, if bird watching is of inter-

LakeNacimientooffersfamilyfun

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R805.772.2200

Wine ToursWeddings • Special Events

For the ultimate wine country experience

Paso RoblesMorro Bay

San Luis ObispoEdna Valley

Pismo BeachSanta Ynez

TCP 25201

www.cal-limo.com

Paso Robles

Mission san Antonio de Padua

Museum/Gift Shop831.385.4478

Open Daily 10am-4pmwww.missionsanantonio.net

Join us for an

Evening in the GardenOur Elegant Wine Tasting Event

$40 per person presale$50 per person at the door

November 5, 20114-8pm

The Mission that time forgot…

From Our Farm To Your Table

Open For Lunch and Dinner. Sunday Brunch. Closed on Tuesdays

1305 Park St. Paso Robles (entrance in the alley) 805.226.5888 thomashillorganics.com

Our bistro’s menu features fresh, organic produce grown on our farm and changes often according

to availability and season. Unique, local wines shape our wine list and a local winery is

featured every Wednesday night for our special Wine Pairing Menu.

est there are dozens of known birds in the area including great blue heron, western bluebird, American goldfinch, and several species of humming bird.

Navigating the lake’s 165 miles of shoreline includes mountains, canyons, caves, and waterfalls. Several coves on the lake include Snake Creek which is the tamest next there is Dip Creek which is home to the slalom course, it is the most family friendly area to day beach at, followed by Tables Creek which gets packed and islands of boats lashed together are not an uncommon site nor is the floating DJ that converted an old pontoon boat into what looks like a floating speaker.

Further down the lake several coves form what is locally known as the narrows, a very long windy narrow part of the lake that is a no wake zone. The narrows are a favorite spot to let the kids float behind in a tube or simply in their life vests or to just take a siesta.

The resort can assist in any or all of these activities with rentals of fishing boats, pontoons, wake-

boards and ski boats, kayaks or canoes by the hour, half day or for a full day of fun, rentals start at $20 and go up to $500 depending on craft and length of rental.

The Dragon Grill restaurant opens for the season from mid-May to mid-September. The local favorites that always sell out are the lasagna and the skirt steak. Movies are shown right next to the grill on Friday and Saturday nights and is free for those who are at the resort.

The resort offers biking, hik-ing, horseshoe pits, volleyball and basketball and a pool. There are 350 camping and RV sites and RVs, trailers and mobile homes for rent by the night or by the week, as well as condos in the Lakeview Lodges, which sleep up to 14. Camping/lodging rates start as low as $25 and go to $440 nightly. There is a general store with friendly staff to help out if you need something that you forgot or just simple sup-plies and snacks.

Fees for day use start at $12, boating fees are $6 daily and fish-ing licenses start at $13.40 for one

day; recreation on the lake includes boating, skiing, and a slalom course thanks to the Far West Water Ski Club, wake boarding, and fishing for the lakes numerous White Bass. The lake is popular for both visitors and locals, it gets extremely busy on the holiday weekends. If you head out there during the week you’ll have it more to yourself also if you want to avoid the crowds head out early in the day.

For reservations or more information, call (805) 238-3256 or http://www.nacimientoresort.com/ Slalom course info http://www.farwestwaterski.com/default.html

The resort is located at 10625 Nacimiento Lake Dr., Paso Robles. To get there exit Highway 101 at Highway 46 and head west through Paso Robles. In the city, you will be on 24th Street and when you leave the city, it will turn into Nacimien-to Lake Drive. You will then turn right on Nacimiento Lake Dr. and will turn left to get into the park and resort area. It is a 20-minute drive from Paso Robles.

— Ryan Paine

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72 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

Paso Robles

840 11th St. Paso Robles

Corner of Pine St.

226-5530Closed Tues.

Gourmet picnic boxes for local wine tasting

Charcuterie, fresh bread, local food products

Over 150 cheeses Expert staff to assist

with wine pairing Enjoy our patio

vivantfinecheese.com

Visit Vivant…

Come on in! Have a cold one & experience some

California history!Raise your

glasses to the spirits of

Frank & Jesse James!

Live MusicKaraoke

Pool TablesLottery

Safe Rides

1234 Pine St., Paso Robles • 805-238-1114www.pinestreetsaloon.com • 10am-2am daily

The Paso Robles Pio-neer Museum, located

at 2010 Riverside Avenue, next to the Mid- State Fairgrounds, is a great place for an afternoon ex-cursion to learn the histo-ry of the Paso Robles area. The 20,000 square feet of building space shows Paso Robles through the years, even before it was Paso Robles, and gives visitors a glimpse of what life was like in the good ol’ days.

The museum opened in 1972 with a 6,000 square foot building, which now houses the col-lection of antique buggies, carriages and cars. When you visit the museum, you will explore three large rooms which have different interesting exhibits, many of which are kept up by local community organizations.

You will start your tour learn-

ing about the geological eras, and will see dinosaur bones that were dug up in the Paso Robles vicin-ity. Next, you will learn about the area’s Western heritage, including

an exhibit with cowboy, horse and saddle artifacts.

One exhibit in the Museum is dedicated to the famous pianist Ig-nacy Jan Paderewski, who came to

DiscoverthepastatPioneerMuseumPaso Robles for the heal-ing powers of the baths when his rheumatism became debilitating in the early 1900’s. This display includes his bed along with other memorabilia.

In another exhibit you will see an old-fashioned hand-set type and Lino-type machine that made it easier to produce type. The blocks used to pro-duce printed materials for this machine are also on display. In the Paso Robles Bank display, you will see a great collection of antique typewriters, cal-culators and other office equipment. Next to the

bank vault you will discover rifles and shotguns collected by Clark S. Smith. In the country store display, you will seem transported back in time and feel like you could walk right up to the counter and order

View vintage automobiles, farm equipment and a country store display.

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Paso Robles

Stroll… Shop…Socialize…WHERE EVERYBODY

COMES TOGETHER

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

www.pasoroblesdowntown.org

Fri. 19th Pre-Olive Social 6-8pm, Sculpterra Winery. Call 238-4103 for tickets.Sat. 20th 8th Annual Olive Festival

10am-5pm - City Park. Olive Oil & Wine Tasting, Cooking Demos

Sat. 11th Pajama Party Movie Night7pm Park Cinemas, 1100 Park St. “The Great Race” - Tony Curtis,

Jack Lemmon, Natalie Wood. Call for tickets 238-4103.

Sat. 17th Taste of Downtown & Art de Tiza8am - City Park. Taste of Downtown 11-4. Call for tickets 238-4103.

Sat. 22nd 15th Annual Golden Oak Festival9-3 - City Park. Antiques, Crafts, Chili Cookoff, Garage Bands

Sun. 31st Safe & Fun Halloween4-7pm, Trick or Treat with Downtown Merchants,

Carved Pumpkin Contest, 6pm

DowntownPaso Robles

UPCOMING EVENTS

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what you want. The Post Office exhibit, part of

the general store, shows Mr. Patsey Dunn’s store, the home of the first Post Office in Paso Robles. There are also some mailboxes from San Miguel on display.

Several of the exhibits show life as it was in the early years of Paso Robles, including a pioneer housewife hard at work, with the wood-burning stove she used to heat irons to press clothes, and a bedroom scene complete with lamps, candles, handmade quilts, baby carriages and much more.

In the “Buggy Barn” you will be fascinated with the many show-cased vehicles that have been used over the years, including antique cars which are kept running by volunteers, and carriages and wag-ons, some of which are used in the annual Pioneer Day Parade held in October.

Be sure to check out the wall filled with almost 900 different kinds of barbed wire, made by different manufacturers, collected over many years.

The Geneseo schoolhouse

stands outside main building on the museum grounds. It was donated by the family of the late Linden Chandler in 2004 and shows a typical classroom where children learned during the early years of the community.

The museum has knowledge-able docents to answer any ques-tions you have while touring. The museum is open Thursday through Sunday from 1:00-4:00pm. Admis-sion is free. Special groups can also arrange a tour, and the museum is also available for special events. For more information call 805-239-4556.

The Paso Robles Pioneer Mu-seum is a non-profit organization and is funded by donations and events throughout the year. Their big fundraiser “Pioneer Pearls” will be held on May 14th from 4:00-9:30pm at the Paso Robles Inn Grand Ballroom. This elegant dinner dance event will be the “don’t miss” event of the year. For information or to purchase tickets, please contact Chuck Desmond at 805-237-2046 or leave a message for Cheryl Carnevali at 805-239-4556.

Offer Expires 10/31/2011

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Paso Robles

TREE MAN NURSERY

www.thetreemanpr.com

HWY 101 TO RAMADA DR. OFFRAMP, EAST SIDE OF 101

OPEN 7 DAYSM-S 9-6 / Sun. 10-5

Over 4 Acres of Lawn & Garden Supplies

The Largest & Funnest in the County

2630 RAMADA DR.PASO ROBLES

805-227-6225

Hundreds of varieties of everything, not just the top 10.

NTREE MANNURSERY

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TEMPLETON

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ada

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01

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If we don’t have it, you

don’t need it!

Twenty years is a long time – and a particularly long time for

any horse rescue organization to survive. Many well-intentioned people over the years have tried to establish organizations to save horses, and unfortunately, many have failed.

In Redwings twenty years, they have been fortunate to have good friends who helped guide them as they fine-tuned the mission to what it is today: “to eliminate the causes of equine suffering through educa-tion and community outreach pro-grams, rescue abused and neglected equines and provide permanent sanctuary or selected foster homes for those equines.”

In 1991, Redwings, then located in Carmel, began rescuing horses and initially, worked to “re-home” as many animals as possible. What became clear in time was that many of the horses that had been rescued and “re-homed,” reentered the same cycle of sale, unknown living

conditions with inexperienced or neglectful owners. It was at this time that Redwings adjusted course and made the decision to become a sanc-tuary and more carefully define what horses would come to Redwings. As a sanctuary, any equine that comes here as an adult – stays here until its’ last day. And the horses that come here are special – they are horses that no one else wants. They have been ne-glected, abused, abandoned – with little to no hope left for “normal”

adoption because of medical, physi-cal, or psychological issues due to suffering at the hands of humans.

Why you might ask would a place take in horses that can no longer “be useful.” Animals that come to Redwings all have a story to tell of overbreeding, abuse, ne-glect, abandonment. Their stories are shared to educate visitors and community members to be more understanding of the commit-ment they make when deciding to purchase a horse or become “a breeder.” With the economic downturn, horses are suffering as badly as humans. Current estimates suggest there are as many as 170,000 horses/year classified as unwanted – and possibly thousands more.

Please come and visit Redwings,

volunteer and/or sponsor one of our horses and know that through your support, you are helping to make things better for horses and burros.

Redwings is in Lockwood Valley near Lake San Antonio and Mission San Antonio at 47240 Lockwood-Jolon Rd., Lockwood, CA (831) 386-0135. Open for visits Monday-Saturday, 10:00am-3:00pm. www.redwingshorsesanctuary.org

RedwingsHorseSanctuarycelebrates20years

Pearl today, after receiving care from Redwings.

Pearl when she arrived.

Visit and meet our horses and burros. Hear the stories of how they came to need sanctuary.

Volunteer to care for our animals, help in the office, give tours and help spread the word.

Sponsor one of our equine residents and join with others who have realized the reward of providing for one of these magnificent animals.

Working to eliminate the causes of equine suffering through education and community outreach programs.

Lockwood, cA 93932

(831) 386-0135info@redwingshorsesanctuary.orgwww.redwingshorsesanctuary.org

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Coffee & Internet CafeCoffee & Internet Cafe

Full Espresso BarBaked Goods & More!

Near historic Mission

San Miguel & Wineries

1199 Mission St., San Miguel

805.467.2878

Serving Breakfast & Lunch

DOS PADRESmExicAn REStAuRAnt

340 14th St.SAn miguEl

When visiting Historic Mission

San Miguelstop by for

lunch or dinner

Open Daily 10am-9pmSunday Buffet 8am-2pm

Take-Out WelcomeBeer & Wine

805-467-0033

Come discover this tiny mission town, just 10

minutes north of Paso Robles on Highway 101. It’s population is just 1,400.

See the historic Mis-sion San Miguel Archangel, which has been restored and is open to the public. The grounds include a museum shop, church and other outbuildings.

Take a drive around the rolling hillsides and you will find acres and acres of wine grapes growing a dozen wineries sprinkled around. See the Wine Country Map a few pages ahead for more details. You’ll also en-joy the views of active cattle ranches, almond orchards, and horses.

Dining10thStreetBasqueCafeStyled like a Spanish-Basque board-ing house. Come hungry and sample about nine courses. Dinner is served to one and all at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 6 p.m. on Sunday. Go North on Highway 101 to San Miguel, Tenth Street off ramp, 249 Tenth St. Call for dinner reservations. 805-467-3141.

DosPadresRestaurantLocated in San Miguel near the historic mission. Locals and tourists alike enjoy delicious home-cooked Mexican food in a comfortable atmo-sphere. Beer & wine. Open daily 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sunday buffet, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. 340 14th St., San Miguel, 805-467-0033.

Station3CoffeeHouse&InternetCafeCharming coffee house with a

SanMiguel

firehouse flair. Great place to gather for conversation, social events and, of course, sharing food and drink. Open for breakfast and lunch with full espresso bar and daily specials. Mon.-Fri. 6:00am-2:30 pm, Sat. and Sun. 7:00am-2:30 pm. 1199 Mission St., San Miguel, 805-467-2878.

Farms & RanchesJohansingFarmsGrass Fed Beef, higher in Vitamins A & E, Omega 3 Fatty Acids, No antibiot-ics or added Hormones. Stress free Cattle. What beef is supposed to taste like. Order online or get more info at johnasingfarms.com. 6242 Estrella Rd, San Miguel 805-238-5386.

MuseumsRios-CaledoniaAdobeA century-old inn and stage stop on the old mission trail between San Francisco and San Diego, this adobe is located on grounds that once belonged to Mission San Miguel and is now part of the San Luis Obispo Parks Department. The “Friends of the Adobe” provides members the oppor-tunity to support and keep in touch

with history of the area. The Adobe is California Historical Landmark #936. Open Fri. - Sun. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 700 S. Mission Street, San Miguel, 805-467-3357 CampRobertsHistoricalMuseum Many military vehicles from WWII to the present are on display. Other interesting exhibits on the Salinan Indians, the Camp Roberts Railroad Station, the Vietnam War, the his-

toric SATCOM station, a Korean War Room, a new D-Day exhibit, and an exhibit on the famous entertainment stars who trained at the Camp. The Museum offers video viewing rooms, a military library, a picnic area, and a gift shop. Red Skelton’s barracks area is recreated in the Museum Annex. Enter at the main gate off Highway 101 and check in at the MP station for a visitor pass. Building 114, Camp Roberts, Open Thurs. and Sat. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 805-238-8288.

249 10th St., San Miguel • Just 7 minutes north of Paso Robleswww.TenthStreetBasqueCafe.com

Always Chefs Choice - Basque DinnerOne Seating 7pm Friday & Saturday, 6pm Sunday

Tapas Dinner – Thursday nights with guest winemaker • Lunch – Call ahead

Come to Our House for Dinner!

10th Street Basque CaféOriginal Spanish-French Basque Dining

805-467-3141

“Dinner at the 10th Street Vineyard Café made us feel as though we had been invited to a

terrific party.” — Los Angeles Times

Experience one of the Central Coast’smost original dining experiences!

Cookbooks Now Available

Page 76: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

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Olive Oil Tasting

As you enter the drive at Olivas de Oro Olive Company there

are olive trees as far as the eye can see. They are old, you can tell by their thick, gnarly trunks. You might think that they occurred naturally except for the fact that they are very evenly spaced from each other. In fact the trees tell a story of a fantastic journey.

Frank and Marti Menacho began Olivas de Oro Olive Com-pany in 1999 when they bought an orchard near Oroville, California. The trees on the property were old growth olive trees and while they established their business in North-ern California, they were looking for a property on the Central Coast. In 2007 they bought acreage in Creston and began the monumen-tal task of uprooting 2000 of the 103 year old trees and moving them to the new location. Since then they have planted a 16-acre high-density Arbequina orchard and harvested them in 2010.

The new property in Creston already had buildings on it and one of these has become the tasting room, which is open on weekends for visitors to come and try out the variety of oils. Eleven selec-tions are offered and these include flavored olive oils such as Meyer Lemon, Basil, Rosemary, Mandarin Orange, and Garlic. These are cold pressed by pressing the fresh ingre-dient along with the olives rather than adding extract afterward. They also offer olive oil soaps and an organic balsamic vinegar from Modena.

“We are 100% certified, organic since the beginning,” Frank said, “and produce Extra Virgin olive oil. This is important because in the United States there are no label-ing laws and any olive oil can be labeled extra virgin even if it isn’t.” Certification is performed by the USDA and the California Certified Organic Farmers. “We practice sustainable farming in order to preserve the eco-system,” Frank said. “Pest control occurs with the encouragement of hawks and owls,” he added, and there are owl nesting boxes and hawk perches through-out the property.

Olivesofgoldfrom103-yearoldtrees

Frank is a member of the California Olive Oil Council and the Olive Oil Tasting Panel. This Panel meets every year in January to taste submitted oil samples and to certify that the oil is Extra Virgin. The Panel adheres to the standards set by the International Olive Oil Council in Spain.

“We have a club membership available where you get to adopt an olive tree,” commented Marti. “The olive oil you receive will be made from your tree and the trees

adjacent to it.” The unique adoption gives a member an invitation to the annual harvest enabling them to pick a bucket of olives from their tree and make their own brined olives. Club members receive a new

harvest shipment of Olio Nuevo, and a spring and fall shipment of two bottles each along with tasting notes and recipes. “In November we also hold a harvest party and the public is invited,” Marti said.

Many people don’t understand the differences in olive oils and their usages. “True extra virgin oil is less than 0.5% acidity, and contains no defects as far as smell and taste is concerned,” Frank said. “Virgin oil ranges from 0.5% to 1%, and ordinary virgin from 1% to 2% acidity. After that there is oil that is lamp oil, and pumice oil, not meant for consumption.”

Along with producing their own products, the Menachos will plant olive trees on other properties, assist with their production, and will also produce some private label olive oils from their crop, such as for wineries in the area.

The Menachos have a couple of side businesses that will pique your interest too. It isn’t all olive trees and olive oil. Grazing on the property is a flock of Katahdin sheep that are utilized to keep the grasses down. Grass-fed lamb, processed by a USDA butcher, is for sale. The 60 or so sheep and lambs not only graze the grass but also nibble at the low growing branches of the trees affording the Menachos some natural pruning. The sheep are bred on the property and the stock is sold. This breed of sheep does not require shearing because they naturally rub their coats off. Frank has built a lean-to with some abrasive material wrapped around the enclosure that the sheep can use to scratch their hides. Two magnificent Great Pyrenees dogs share the pen space with the sheep for protection from predators.

Marti mentioned that when they bought the property there was a house there that a caretaker had been living in. They have since refurbished and redecorated it and use it as a vacation rental. “People that stay here really enjoy the solitude, and peace and quiet of the farm,” she said. There are three bedrooms, a full kitchen and dining area, and a large living room. The Menachos added a sunken patio off

Frank and Marti Menacho, owners of Olivas de Oro Olive Company.

Two Great Pyrenees dogs protect the sheep from predators.

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Olive Oil Tasting

Olive Oil Tasting DailyOlive & Gourmet Foods

Gifts of the Olive

weolive.com

Downtown Paso Robles1311 Park Street Paso Robles, CA 93446 (805) 239 -7667Open 7 days a week

You’re Invited

taste the finest California Extra Virgin olive oils,

vinegars and gourmet foods that inspire culinary adventure for every palate

sHoP oUR onlIne stoRe...

Downtown san lUIs obIsPo958 Higuera Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 595 -1376Open 7 days a week

CometasteattheOliveFest Paso Robles Main Street Association is presenting the Eighth

Annual Paso Robles Olive Festival on Saturday, Aug. 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

There will be free olive oil and olive product sampling from pro-ducers all over California. A “Culinary Row” at the festival will be serving great food, wine and beer and even olive oil ice cream. You can compete in the Olive Dish Cooking Contest.

The festival is located in the downtown Paso Robles City Park. Bring the family for a day of Olive Inspired Fun!

the living room where folks can sit outside and be sheltered from the wind. Rentals can be for just one of the guest rooms or the whole house.

Whether you choose an after-

noon of tasting, gazing at the old-growth trees, or a weekend stay in the guest house, your time at Olivas de Oro is sure to be golden.

— Ruth Ann Angus

Katahdin sheep graze the property to keep grasses down. They also help with pruning the trees by nibbling on low hanging branches.

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AltaCrestaOrchardSample gold-medal, estate-grown extra virgin olive oils in our tast-ing room located at our scenic orchard. 6075 High Ridge Rd., approximately 7 miles east of Paso Robles off Creston Rd. Open Satur-days & Sundays 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment. www.altacresta.com, 805-227-4751.

OleaFarmEnjoy European hospitality as proprietors Clotilde and Yves Julien lead you through the flavors and textures of olive oils that are uniquely Californian and yet so distinctly representative of Olea Farm. Come taste Sat & Sun 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 2985 Templeton Rd, Templeton. www.oleafarm.com 805-610-2258

OlivasdeOroOliveCo.We moved 2000 century old trees from our orchard in Northern California to our ranch in Creston. Taste award winning organic estate grown olive oils, see our lambs, and take in the views. Tasting room open weekends 11–5 or by appointment. 4625 La Panza Road. Corner of Highway 41 & Creston Road. www.olivasdeoro.com, 805-227-4223.

OliveUOliveOilA mom and pop operation.

Here’s where you can taste local olive oil

Products are available on-site. Award-winning, certified, extra virgin olive oil, raw-filtered honey and 4-year-aged balsamic vinegar may be tasted by appointment. Products are available at We Olive stores, on-line, or for best prices come visit us at our ranch. 21255 Hwy 41 E., Cholame. www.oliveuoil.com 805-463-2366.

PasolivoOliveOilWorld-class producer of organic and estate-pressed extra virgin olive oils. Come taste handcrafted olive oils and delicious artisanal foods on your Westside winery tour. Open daily 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 8530 Vineyard Dr., Paso Robles. www.pasolivo.com, 805-227-0186.

TerraceHillOliveCo.Featuring olive oils, homemade herb blends and meat rubs, sea-sonings and more. Tasting room open Saturday and Sunday 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. and by appoint-ment. Closed in January. Located on the beautiful Pleasant Valley Wine Trail, 2620 California Poppy Lane, San Miguel. 805-467-1906

WeOliveA retail shop & tasting spot at 1311 Park St., Paso Robles. Huge selection and friendly knowledge-able staff. 805-239-7667.

Olive Oil Tasting

Olive oil tasting involves smell-ing the aroma of an oil, and

then sipping it to taste its positive attributes. Official tasters drink the oil from dark blue glasses, to ensure they can’t see the color of the olive oil (and be influenced by an oil’s green or gold color). Look for three qualities

Tasters should look for these three positive attributes:

Fruityness: Any positive organic smell or taste.

Bitterness: A sign of freshness that is usually tasted on the sides of the toungue.

Pungency: A peppery, burning sensation in the throat.

Not all olive oils have all three of the attributes, but some should be present.

Try it for yourself! Grab that bottle you’ve had in the pantry for ages, and taste it to see if it’s still good. Pour some into a wine

Gooliveoiltastingglass – about an inch or two high – cover the glass with one hand while warming the base of the glass with the other. Place your nose into the glass after a minute and breathe in. Does it smell fruity, like green apples or cut grass or tomato leaf? Great! Or does it smell unpleas-ant, like paint thinner or bacon or a musty cellar? In that case, it’s probably defective and should be thrown out.

Next, slurp in about a quar-ter of a teaspoon and let it sit on your tongue while you breathe in. Finally, swallow a bit and look for any signs of pepper in the throat. If an oil has a greasy feeling on your tongue, it’s probably past its prime.

Remember, olive oil is a fresh product, much like a fruit juice. It needs to be used within 24 months of when it’s made, and it needs to be used within a few months of opening the bottle.

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WineTastingYourjourneybeginsatoneofmorethan200wineries

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Wine Tasting

Larry and Teresa Stanton have found their niche in the hills of

Westside Paso Robles. Larry’s daily routine includes inspecting the 20 acres of vineyards planted on the Cerro Prieto Vineyard and Cellars property, which they have farmed since 1984. Larry is as at home in these vineyards as are the turkeys and hawks that inhabit what Larry calls his “limestone mountain.” The heart of Cerro Prieto can be found in Larry and Teresa’s love of and connection to their land.

The Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc vines that make up the Cerro Prieto Vineyard were carefully planted and readjusted through grafting so that the most suitable varietal is planted in each area. Larry has designed his vineyard to take advantage of the many microclimates that he and Teresa have discovered during their years of work on their property.

Larry relocated from Southern California to the Central Coast over thirty years ago, after deciding to pursue his dream of farming while continuing with his medical career. He and Teresa met while working in the medical field. Now, with Cerro Prieto Vineyard and Cellars, Teresa says, they have “continued to work side by side like we did in the medical industry.”

Initially, Larry and Teresa grew their grapes to sell to winemak-ers in the area. Then Larry began to notice something happening each year in their vineyards: the plants on the edges of each plot

CerroPrietoVineyardandCellars

would ripen first. Due to the different conditions these grapes experienced on the fringes of the rows, pressed up against the oak forests, their ripening timetable was accelerated. He began to harvest these grapes separately from those harvested by his grape buyers, and with the small lots of grapes started to make his own wine.

These grapes from the fringes of his vineyards were ripening in very stressed conditions. For wine grapes, stress is a good thing. Larry says that each year this part of his crop, these “ultra-stressed” grapes,

Winemaker Larry Stanton’s connection to his land contributes to the success of Cerro Prieto’s wines.

Continued on page 82

Complimentary Tasting Thurs-Sun 11-5

180 Bella Ranch Road, Templeton, CA 805.226.2022www.SarzottiWinery.com

Family Owned & OperatedSavor the Passion – drink to lifeSVSarzotti Vineyard & Winery Specializing in

Red Wines

Come by for a Visit!

All of Rocky Creek Cellars wines are completely handcrafted and aged a minimum of

2 years in the barrel, resulting in adesirable delicious product for

you to enjoy!

(805) 238-1919 Located at 8687 Apple Rd., Highway 46 WestTasting Room Hours are 11:00am-5:30pm — 7 days a week

were the best 5% he grew. “My goal was to grow the perfect grape and by 2006 I had done it, and that is when I started making wine.” He credits the quality of the wines he makes to the vineyards, and to the grapes they produce.

Cerro Prieto grew out of Larry’s desire to see what these grapes from the fringes of his vineyards could do if they were made into wine on their own instead of being blended in with the rest of the crop. As a small winery, Cerro Prieto had the ability to process such small lots. Each year Cerro Prieto produces

around 350 cases of wine, all blends with the exception of their first wine, a Merlot.

Larry produces low-yield grapes, and gets about 1 ton per acre from the Cerro Prieto vines, and says that this translates into about 1 bottle of wine or less pro-duced by each vine. This approach seems to be working for Larry and Teresa. Since producing their first vintage in 2006 they have received some exciting awards:

2006 Merlot: gold medal San Diego International Wine Compe-

Page 82: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

82 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

We Pack & Ship the Central Coast

to You!

Wine, Olive Oil, Cheese,

& Gifts

Hotel & Winery Pickup Available

WINE COUNTRY PACK & SHIP Call or email for a rate quote

(805) 227-7117

[email protected]

www.winecountrypackandship.com

Open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm

tition and gold medal Critics Challenge International

2006 Paso Bordo: 92 points Wine Enthusiast

2007 Merlot: 91 points Wine Enthusiast

2007 Paso Bordo: gold medal and 91 points Los Angeles International Wine Competition

While Larry says that he produces his wines with wine aficionados and “real wine fans that like fine wine” in mind, he also thinks of food and food pairings as he makes his wines. He says, “I enjoy sitting down to a nice meal and opening one of our really superb wines.”

When Larry talks about his vineyards he shows his confidence in his vines and says, “This place can produce world-class wines.” Both he and Teresa express their gratitude at being able to live in such a beautiful spot with one an-other and do what they love. Larry says of the Cerro Prieto estate,

“This is a great place to grow old,” and laughingly adds “But we haven’t tried that yet.” With Larry’s dream of the perfect wine shimmering in the vineyards, it looks as if Larry and Teresa will continue not grow-ing old together for some time at their beautiful hilltop winery.

Tasting of Cerro Prieto wines is available by appointment. Call (805) 226-8448 for information or visit www.cerroprietovineyard.com

— Kate Joyce

Continued from page 81

Larry and Teresa Stanton

www.cerroprietovineyard.comBy appointment only.

2008

P A S O R O B L E SALCOHOL 15.8% BY VOLUME

CABERNET SAUVIGNONPaso Bordo Reserve

CERRO PRIETOVINEYARD & CELLARS

ReserveF

GOVERNMENT WARNING: (1) ACCORDING TO THE SURGEONGENERAL, WOMEN SHOULD NOT DRINK ALCOHOLICBEVERAGES DURING PREGNANCY BECAUSE OF THE RISKOF BIRTH DEFECTS. (2) CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLICBEVERAGES IMPAIRS YOUR ABILITY TO DRIVE A CAR OROPERATE MACHINERY, AND MAY CAUSE HEALTH PROBLEMS.

Larry and Teresa Stanton,Proprietors

805-226-8448Produced and bottled by Cerro Prieto Cellars Templeton, California

CONTAINS SULFITES 750 ML

rom the unique Paso Robles Westside/Templeton Gap area come some truly remarkable wines from estate grapesgrown in calcareous soils on steep mountainsides, influenced both by the hot daytime Paso temperatures an moderated at night by the cool ocean air flowing through the Templeton Gap. Fifty degree temperature differentials provide the perfect climatic conditions to produce truly world class grapes. Low yields of 2 tons per acre concentrate and intensify maximum flavor and bouquet resulting in only small production of our premium varietals. All grapes are hand harvested and sorted, macerated up to 3 weeks, and aged in 35% New French oak.

805-226-8448 805-674-0826

2 International gold medals

2006 Merlot

92 pts Wine Enthusiast

2006 Paso Bordo (Cab/ Syrah)

91 ptsWine Enthusiast

2007 Merlot

LA Intl Wine comp, International

gold medal & 91 pts2007 Paso Bordo (Cab/ Syrah)

Wine Tasting

Page 83: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

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Wine Tasting

Bianchi Winery has been producing wine for over thirty

years and through three genera-tions and is now a thriving Paso Robles staple. Winemaker Tom Lane brought his considerable experience to Bianchi in 2005. Tom began his education in the fields of biology and botany, and then stud-ied winemaking and Enology at the graduate level at U.C. Davis. His career as a winemaker flourished and he was named Winemaker of the Year twice, once in 1996 by Jerry Mead and then again in 1997 by Dan Berger. The combination of Bianchi’s deep roots in Paso Robles and Tom’s rich background in the wine industry has been a fruitful match.

Tom says that Bianchi’s wines are varied, in that he strives to keep each wine true to its varietal charac-teristics. This means that there is no set palate for Bianchi wines, but that each wine has its own distinct traits. The Bianchi estate vineyards include Cabernet Sauvignon, Mer-lot, Syrah and Zinfandel, which Tom says thrive in the conditions of this Eastside Paso Robles property. He describes Paso Robles as “an ex-cellent growing region.”

Tom also purchases grapes from other growers on the Central Coast, which allows him to work with grapes from dif-ferent climates like Santa Barbara County and the Edna Valley. Over-all, Bianchi produces wines from 13 different varietals, both as blends and as single-varietal wines. Bian-chi wines can be found throughout the country, mostly in small wine shops and restaurants, as well as in the tasting room on the property.

TomLanemakeswinewithcharacter

The winery at Bianchi offers Tom many tools to use in his wine-making. The tanks of fermented grapes can be monitored remotely, allowing Tom to adjust their temperature from his computer in

his office or even at home. The vineyards have soil-moisture monitoring devices that Tom can use to determine the state of Bianchi’s vineyards.

The winery building was designed to facilitate the winemaking process, and Tom says “we do everything here.” This includes crushing the harvested grapes, fermenting the

wine, aging it in barrel and bottling the finished product--and every-thing in between. All of the grapes grown on the Bianchi estate are hand picked, and they cut a lot of fruit off during the growing season so that they get low-yield crops.

Tom caters the process for mak-ing each wine to that specific lot, and says that there is no set regi-

ment for making wine at Bianchi, “We modify every step for each variety so that it accentuates what that variety should be.” He feels

that the oak elements added by barrel aging in oak barrels should not overwhelm the innate qualities of the individual varietal. With this in mind he selects oak from differ-ent cooperages and even different forests to compliment each wine he makes. He says of this process, “I see barrels as spicing tools and want to match the spice.”

Now, running under the direc-tion of the third generation of Bian-chis to produce wine, and with the expertise of Winemaker Tom Lane and access to great Central Coast fruit, Bianchi is thriving. Visitors can expect a friendly reception and great wines at this asset to the Paso Robles wine-tasting experience.

Bianchi wines are available to taste at the Bianchi Tasting room at 3380 Branch Road in Paso Robles daily from 10am - 5pm. Call (805) 226-9922 or visit www.bianchiwine.com for more information.

— Kate Joyce

Suzi Gaddini will be happy to pour you some of Bianchi Winery’s award-winning wines.

Bianchi winemaker Tom Lane.

Bianchi Winery

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84 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com

TASTING CELLAR

1585 LIVE OAK ROAD,PASO ROBLES, CA 93446tas t [email protected]

FRIDAY & SATURDAY10 TO 4

805.238.4112

EastsidE5225 Hwy 41E at Creston RdOpen Fri-Sun 11am-5pm or call for private tasting 805-238-4777

WEstsidEat Poalillo Vineyards

7970 Vineyard dr Open Daily at 11am

805-238-0621

Paso Robles Tasting Rooms

www.stangerVineyards.com

Wine Tasting

Meridian Vineyards can resemble an oasis to its visi-

tors. With its long, tree-lined drive leading through the vineyards and tasting room surrounded by herb garden and manicured lawns, Me-ridian is designed to offer visitors a place to stop and enjoy themselves.

Winemaker Lee Miyamura says that besides the inviting grounds,

the staff at Meridian contribute to this air of welcoming, describing them as “friendly, open, unique and inviting.” Tasting Room Supervisor Emily Shelby adds that everyone on their staff is genuinely interested in wine and people, and that they go out of their way to accommodate visitors’ needs.

It is perhaps this focus on hospitality that has helped Merid-ian Vineyards to become known for not only its wine, but also as a place to host and attend events. Weddings are frequently held at Meridian, and throughout the year

Fantasticwinesandstunningevents

the calendar of events is packed with brunches, dinners and holiday events. Laurie Miller, Meridian’s Special Events Supervisor, says that their Fourth of July event is an “awesome event” and is very popular each year. They have live music and food on the lawns, and fireworks over their pond later in the evening.

The events at Meridian have be-come a draw for locals and visitors alike. Many tasting room visitors were introduced to Meridian wines

at an event and later visit the tasting room to further explore Meridian’s wines.

Meridian produces six core wines, which are nationally distrib-uted: Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, Sauvi-gnon Blanc and Chardonnay. Lee says that they are most known for their Chardonnay. Besides these six wines they produce smaller lots of limited release wines, which are available to visitors of the Meridian tasting room. These wines include

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel, Grenache, Sangiovese and Barbera from the vineyards on the Meridian estate.

Meridian also offers chocolate and cheese pairings with their wines. This is part of what Laurie means when she says, “It is the Meridian experience that makes us stand out.” Guests are encouraged to call ahead if they have special requests, and the tasting room staff will do their best to help. Guests can bring a picnic lunch to have on

Winemaker Lee Miyamura and Events Supervisor Laurie Miller in the garden at Meridian Vineyards.

Guests are encouraged

to call ahead if they

have special requests,

and the tasting room

staff will do their best to

help.

Meridian Vineyards

Page 85: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

www.slovisitorsguide.com FALL201185

Wine Tasting

“If you’ve been here, then you know”

Saturday, October 22, 2011Harvest Celebration10am – 5pm; $10/person includes logo glass

Sunday, October 23, 2011Harvest Celebration10am – 5pm; $10/person includes logo glass

Saturday, November 12, 2011Wine Vine Run Pasta and Salad Feed

Sunday, November 13th, 2011Wine Vine Run-Half Marathon & 5K Run/WalkVisit www.winevinerun.com for registration

7000 Highway 46 East, Paso Robles, CA

For tickets call the Meridian Tasting Room 805-226-7133

www.meridianvineyards.com

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the grounds, or the Meridian staff can have a one waiting for them when they finish their wine tasting. Lee says, “We can accommodate a busload or a carload.”

Lee, who has been with Merid-ian for over 20 years and has been head Wine-maker since 2006, says that is has been fun to watch Paso Robles develop in over the years, and says, “It is just amazing how the industry it-self has grown.” She remem-bers one of the first Wine Festivals in the Paso Robles Downtown Park and says that it was easy to count the number of booths. Now, she says of the Paso Robles wine industry, “We have come into our own.”

This could also be said of Meridian Vineyards. Laurie, listing the annual events hosted by Merid-ian each year, says, “There’s always something going on.” She describes Meridian’s charm as “rustic el-egance, relaxed and lovely.” Visitors

to Merid-ian Vineyards are offered a chance to experience this charm for themselves, along with a glass of Merid-ian wine.

Visit Merid-ian Vineyards at their tasting room at 7000 Highway 46 East, from

10am - 5pm daily. Call or visit their website for more details, (805) 226-7133 and www.meridianvineyards.com.

— Kate Joyce

805.239.8555 | off HWY 46E at Mill Rd.Thu-Sun 12-5pm | www.mitchella.com

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Wine Tasting

The little stone farmhouse that sits at the corner of Highway 46

West and Oakdale Road is where you will find the tasting room of Hunt Cellars. The winery, begun in 1996 by David Hunt and his family, offers reds and whites, varietals and blends, aged in custom made oak barrels and not released until winemaker Hunt feels they are re-ally ready.

Hunt, who once had a profes-sional music career, decided more than 20 years ago to abandon that journey and had a vision of living the lifestyle of a fine winemaker with his own vineyard. Hunt lost his sight to retinitis pigmentosa, but hasn’t lost his vision for his winery and his passion for the lifestyle still flames.

Upon entering the tasting room you are greeted by the friendly staff and you can’t miss the big white grand piano in the room. It’s a player piano stocked with just about any song you can think of, but when Hunt is in resi-dence, he plays. “After I get my audience drinking the wine they think I’m an exceptional talent,” Hunt joked.

As you taste the wines you will notice that their names also reflect Hunt’s musical back-ground. There is a 2005 Chardon-nay called “Moonlight Sonata” and this is a wine that, like the melody, truly transports you with its smooth, mellow mood. And then there is “Afternoon De-light” a 2006 Syrah Rose that will certainly delight you. One of the newest releases is a 2007 Zinfan-

Wow!It’sallaboutfinishatHuntCellars

del called “Rocket Man” that is sure to send you to the moon. The winery offers a variety of estate grown reds, and three exceptional whites. Hunt says most people step up to the big mahogany bar, take their first sip, step back, and say, “Wow!”

Performing music is still part of his soul though and Hunt recently recorded a new CD with full orchestration and collabo-ration by well-known musical artists. Naturally the recording is all about his wines.

Part of the secret to the wines is in the soil and the climate. The Paso Robles countryside is known for its summer heat and cooler winters, but microclimates exist throughout the region. A

characteristic dividing line in the area has been the 101 freeway and wineries west of it claim a certain type of soil and climate and those on the east side yet another type. Hunt debunks this theory altogether.

He first chose about 30 acres on the west side but ultimately searched for his prime location which turned out to be deep in the eastern section, and elevated in height. His 550 acres called “Destiny Vineyards,” named after his daughter, sits in a spot giving him four different terroirs at a variety of elevations and climates. The soil contains deposits left there from an age when the ocean covered most of the Central Coast. There is a distinct micro-

climate where warm days change with breezes from the sea drifting through the pass in the coastal mountains and reach the vineyard around 4:30 in the afternoon. This affords the vines more heat therms during the day but also lends a necessary cooling effect.

In order to learn all he could about the winemaking process, Hunt took several extension courses in enology at the Univer-sity of California at Davis. The rest he perfected on his own and he is the last word in the wine-making process. All the blending is performed solely by him to his very exacting standards. Without sight he has developed his other senses more acutely and can tell differences in fragrance and

Complimentary Wine Tasting Welcome - Call ahead to scheduleOpen to the public during Wine Event Weekends

www.birdlandcellars.com 2627 Golden Eagle Way, San Miguel, CA 93451 805 400-0451 or 805 238-3004

The Hunt Cellars tasting room is located just minutes from Paso Robles on Highway 46 West.

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Wine Tasting

Come be a part of the world of “Wow!” wines.The most common word spoken

after the first sip.

Over 30 wines scored 90-96 pts

2875 Oakdale Road, Paso Roblesat Highway 46 West

Open 10:30-6:00(805) 237-1600 • www.huntcellars.com

bouquet by taste and smell. “I de-liver highly extracted wines that require extended barrel aging,” he said. The barrels are of American staves and French heads. Even in the vineyard Hunt uses his sensory abilities to assure himself of the quality of his fruit as it is growing.

He must be doing something right because his wines have won

numerous gold and silver medals as well as best of class and best of region awards. They always range in the 90-plus range in wine competitions. Hunt sums up his business saying “It’s a curse and a passion. Winemaking is all about the finish.” For those of us who enjoy the end result of his work, we hope he never finishes!

— Ruth Ann Angus

Owner David Hunt has been known to sit down at this player piano and entertain guests.

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Wine Tasting

CALCAREOUSV I N E Y A R D

Fresno

Olive Street

Peachy CanyonCalcareous VineyardX

Oak Street

Park

Spring Street

6th

St.

Paci

fic

Vine Street

Directions:From Spring St. in Paso Robles:Go west on 12th St.,left on Fresno St.,right on Peachy Canyon Rd.4.2 miles on right.

Just 4.2 miles west of Downtown Paso

3430 Peachy canyon Road, Paso Robles • 805-239-0289oPen daily 11am to 5Pm • WWW.calcaReoUs.com

Enjoy award-winning wines at our panoramic hilltop location.Come for the wine, stay for the view!

Lunch served on weekends from 12-3pm • Home of the Twisted Sisters Wines!

For Calcareous Winemaker Jason Joyce, winemaking is a

reflection of life. Since he started making wine at Calcareous in 2007, he has found that for him, “a lot of winemaking, especially at a place like Calcareous, is about telling a story.”

Calcareous, located on the west side of Paso Robles on top of one of the area’s characteristic oak-dotted hills, was started in 1999 by Lloyd Messer and his daughters, Dana Brown and Erika Messer. Now, an open tasting room takes advantage of the expansive views and the winery produces about 10,000 cases of wine each year, including Bordeaux blends, Rhone blends, pinot noir, chardonnay and zin-fandel. The estate vineyards were planted in 2002 with cabernet

Tellingastorythroughwine

sauvignon, cabernet franc, mer-lot, mourvedre, grenache, syrah, malbec and chardonnay.

Jason started working in the wine industry on what he planned to be a 3-month detour from his career as a chemist. He

had been working at a bio-tech startup in the Bay Area as a pharmaceutical chemist when he decided to take a break before moving to a larger company. He moved to Paso Robles to work a harvest, or as he puts it, “do some

manual labor, get outdoors and get out of the city for a while.” Jason had attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and he was happy to return to the Central Coast for a while. He joined the winemaking staff at Calcareous and worked at “the physical side of winemaking: scrubbing stainless and floors, dragging hoses.”

After his first harvest at Calcareous, Jason realized that he wanted his foray into the winemaking business to be more than just a detour and signed on as a permanent cellar worker at Calcareous. He became Assistant Winemaker in 2007 and in 2010 was promoted to Winemaker.

When asked about the switch from chemistry to winemak-ing, Jason says that “the biggest difference between science and winemaking is that with science there is one answer whereas with winemaking there are many an-swers.” It was this creative aspect

Calcareous winemaker Jason Joyce left a career as a pharmaceutical chemist to work in the wine industry.

Calcareous Vineyard

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“Family is a gift from nature”... and so are our wines.

Open Daily 11am to 5pm8325 Vineyard Drive · Paso Robles, California

Tel: 805.239.9020 · www.whalebonevineyard.com

Wine Tasting

that sparked the love Jason has for his new profession.

Jason says that when mak-ing wine “there is nothing set in stone about what you are trying to accomplish” and likens the field of winemaking to a liberal arts education, in that one can “apply the full spectrum of experiences to winemaking.” Jason likes that the job of a winemaker is made up of so many distinct facets, from organizing the cellar to the maintenance of the vineyards to thinking about how the wine will eventually be consumed.

He continues, “Winemaking allows you to apply that theo-retical knowledge, both in the physical side of winemaking and in how you tell your story.” It is this storytelling that has inspired the wines that Jason makes at Calcareous. He is excited about the maturing vineyards on the Calcareous property, which are composed of the limestone, or “calcareous,” soil so beneficial in producing high-quality grapes.

Jason stays up to date with what is happening in the Calcare-ous vineyards by communicat-ing with his vineyard manager and vineyard consultant on a regular basis. He also says that he does regular half-day stints

in the vineyards, pruning, shoot-thinning, leaf-pulling and tucking vines, so that he can “stay reminded of how much work it actually is to farm a vineyard.”

Jason explores the many com-ponents of winemaking in his blog on the Calcareous website,

Chalk Talk. The blog’s name references the chalky soils found on the property, and Jason has used Chalk Talk as a way to share and document what he and the Calcare-ous staff do on the produc-tion side of the winery, as well

as his own interests in the field of winemaking.

When Jason says “The land it-self is ultimately what makes Cal-careous special,” he is referring to both the winery’s namesake soil and to the place itself. He says that at Calcareous visitors can “experience what Paso Robles has to offer.” This hilltop winery is a great place to sit, take in the stun-ning views and enjoy the wine made possible by the land of this storied Paso Robles gem.

Calcareous is located at 3430 Peachy Canyon Road in Paso Robles, and is open daily from 11am - 5pm. Call (805) 239-0289 or visit www.calcareous.com for more information.

— Kate Joyce

In the vineyard, left to right: Rory Sheehe, Jason Joyce, Johnny Maduena, Martin Meraz

Behind the tasting bar are Jacqui Pailing and John Teeling

SAN MARCOS CREEKV I N E Y A R D

7750 NORTH HIGHWAY 101PASO ROBLES, CA 93446

(805)467-9260TOLL FREE (866)PASO-WINE

[email protected]

Taste Our Estate Bottled Wines Everyday from 11am-5pm

Wellsona

San Marcos Rd.

6 mi. North of Paso Robles on

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Paso RoblesPaso Robles

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Page 90: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

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Carina Cellars

Dedicated to producing high-qualityRhône wines in small, hand-crafted lots.

2 Great Locations3525 Adelaida Rd., Paso Robles • 805-835-9643

Open Fri-Mon 11am-5pm2900 Grand Ave., Los Olivos (Next to Panino) • 805-688-2459

Open Daily 11am-5pmwww.carinacellars.com

Spicy Syrahs, Vibrant Viogniers and unique blends such as Iconoclast & Clairvoyant

2 Tastings for the price of 1!with this ad.

WINERY2020 Nacimiento Lake Dr., Paso Robles, CA 93446

805-237-7848 • www.chroniccellars.com

Open Daily 11:30-5:30

Wine Tasting

From his downtown, park-front tasting room

winemaker Bob Shore can keep his finger on the pulse of Paso Robles, which suits him quite well. Bob is an easy-going, enthusiastic member of Paso Robles’ bustling town center, and the tasting room for his winery, Arroyo Robles, functions as a convenient center for the many facets of his business.

As much as he loves to make wine, Bob Shore also loves to talk about wine and teach about wine. He has structured his tasting room to include a classroom for a va-riety of food and wine-related classes. His family is a huge part of his daily life, and of his

Strivingtomakehandmade,qualitywinesbusiness as well. As often as not, at least one member of his family is pouring wine at Arroyo Robles’ bustling tast-ing room. His wife Tanis, son Jason and daughter Brianna are integral parts of Arroyo Robles.

Bob Shore has been mak-ing wine on the Central Coast for over a decade, starting in Avila Beach in 1998 out of a converted apple barn which he shared with three other winemaking families. Over the years he has been based out of San Luis Obispo and Santa Maria, but he has ended up in his Paso Robles location because he “just felt comfortable here.” He cites the excellent soil and weather conditions as reasons he produces wine out of Paso Robles, and feels at home in his downtown tasting room Bob Shore has been making wine on the Central Coast for over a decade.

Arroyo Robles

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Visit our tasting room in downtown Paso Robles. Enjoy our award-winning estate-grown wines while viewing

artwork by local and world-renowned artists.

1140 PINE STREET, PASO ROBLESDaily 12-6 & by appointment

805.237.7525 • www.orchidhillwine.com

ARROYO ROBLES WINERY739 12th Street, Paso Robles

805-226-5454www.arroyorobles.com

Please visit our tasting room in the heart of downtown Paso Robles.

Experience hand-crafted wines from our family-owned and operated winery

Shop for gourmet food items, wine accessories, gifts and much more.

OPEN DAILY 11-7

Wine Tasting

due to the “casual country feel and great people” found in Paso Robles.

The Shore family has been involved in agriculture in Califor-nia for decades. He and his brother ran an agricultural laboratory business, dealing with all kinds of crops, from cotton, potatoes and carrots to grapes. He also man-aged a demonstration farm, which focused on using all available tech-nology and advancements to “more efficiently use fertilizers.”

It is from this agricultur-ally focused background that Bob approaches winemaking. He feels that in order to be the best winemaker he can he must really “understand the soil” in which he grows his grapes. He is very involved with the soil in the vine-yards, which grows the Mediter-ranean grapes he likes. Soil types can differ greatly, even within a forty-acre plot. He says, simply, that one must “grow good grapes to make good wine.” He “puts extra effort into the vineyard to get good grapes,” and, “the extra effort is always worth it.”

Bob also acknowledges that

while he is primarily a self-taught winemaker, he has been fortunate to have great local consultants. As he encourages the students in his wine tasting classes to “learn by experience,” so has Bob learned by doing. He has enjoyed exploring the many varietals which thrive in Paso Robles, and his tasting menu boasts a unique ensemble of wines.

As Bob is inspired by the grapes, he is continually exploring and ex-panding his winemaking practice. He strives to make “handmade,

quality wines” which are “in-dicative of Paso Robles, both in style and in varietal.”

Another unique aspect of the Arroyo Robles tasting room is the array of small classes which Bob teaches. He says that he “loves to talk about wine”

and feels that it is best for people to “learn by experience and tasting” to find out “what affects their taste” and to see how the different aspects of food and wine interact. He en-courages students to talk about “all aspects of food and wine,” believing that “the more you know about wine the more you enjoy it.”

One class involved a wedding party and took place a few days be-fore the wedding. The members of the wedding party were separated into two groups: the men and the

women. Each group worked with Bob to create, bottle and label their own blend, and the two blends were served at the wedding reception. He hosts traditional food and wine pairing classes, and has installed a large whiteboard in the classroom to facilitate the discussions that take place as the classes progress. Bob has also taught “Pruning 101,” “Breakfast In The Vineyard” and blending classes, all classes of his own design.

Bob Shore invites visitors to come visit Arroyo Robles as a way to find out about small, family-owned wineries in Paso Robles. As he says, “Paso Robles is becoming known for great taste per dollar.” From its centrally located tasting room, Ar-royo Robles offers locals and tourists alike a chance to taste wines crafted by a family to which Paso Robles is a central fixture in its story.

Arroyo Robles wines are avail-able to taste at 739 12th Street in downtown Paso Robles from 11am - 7pm daily. Call (877) 759-WINE or visit www.arroyorobles.com for more information.

— Kate Joyce

The Arroyo Robles tasting room is located at the corner of 12th and Park Streets in Paso Robles

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VINES ONTHE

MARYCRESTPASO ROBLES

Art. Music. Wine. Blended.

5076 Mustard Creek Rd., Paso Robles • 805-237-0378Across the road from Chronic Cellars

Make plans to visit. We are pouring Friday-Sunday!

vinesonthemarycrest.com

250 Winery Road, Templeton, CA 93465

(805) 237-0510www.rottawinery.com

Tasting Room Open Daily10:30 - 5:30

Historic WineryesT. 1908

Wine Tasting

Mondo Cellars shouldn’t be seen as a quick stop on a wine

tour. Instead, it’s where you’ll want to finish a long day under Paso Robles sun.

“We serve our tastings restau-rant style. It’s not rushed at all,” said Doug Mondo. “People sit at the shaded tables on the patio where they can relax and take in the view.”

The best weather in wine country is during the late eve-nings, but most of the tasting rooms close at 5:00 p.m. Not Mondo. They stay open till late every Friday from March to Oc-tober for Sunset Happy Hour with catered-in appetizers, live music, and plenty of wine.

“We get a pretty diverse group of musicians rotating through, and everyone has a lot of fun,” said Mondo. “It’s a sea of fedoras out there.”

Fedoras? The Mondo family is a tightly knit clan with strong ties to their Italian heritage. They sell fedora hats (2,000 to date) in their tasting room and call their wine club the “Mondo Mob,” using the classic Italian hat as the club’s signal. The headwear is far from mandatory, but it’s fun and helps folks everywhere recognize fellow “mobsters.”

Fans of the winery are loyal for a number of reasons. Mondo Cellars specializes in Rhone and Bordeaux blends, and wine maker Kevin Riley is known for concoc-tions that are incredibly smooth, balanced, and easy to drink. It

doesn’t hurt that there’s no tasting fee for these wonderful wines. The quality service and friendly staff are also appreciated, along with the fun events and breathtaking view. The winery is perched atop a tall hill and overlooks miles of rolling vineyards.

It’s an ideal spot for a weekend getaway, so the family built the Villa nel Mondo, a three room bed and breakfast, on the 80 acre property. Elegantly furnished with a comfy king size bed, the Tus-cany suite has a 40 inch plasma TV, a romantic fireplace, and a large shower with an antique foot bath. The Venice suite has two bedrooms and a common living room area, making it the perfect

suite to accommodate two couples traveling together.

Mondo Cellars currently pro-duces about 2,500 cases a year, but

having such a good product can have a downside. The bottles fly off the shelves, sometimes months ahead of schedule.

Takeyourtimewiththiswine

Mondo Cellars’ live music events are a favorite of locals and visitors alike.

3230 Oakdale Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446 www.redsoleswinery.com • 805.226.9898 • Daily 11-5

Conveniently located on the beautiful Westside of Paso Robles, off Hwy 46W just 3 miles from Hwy 101.

Stop by and taste this year’s award-winners

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Wine Tasting

“I’ve never submitted the wines for awards, because we’ve never had any leftover bottles,” said Mondo. “We sell everything we make right here in the tasting room or ship it out to the Mondo Mob.”

In an effort to ramp up produc-tion and take the winery to the next level, Mondo is giving his club members a unique and exclusive opportunity. He’s selling stakes in 50 percent of the land and 30 percent of the winery to raise $2.68 million to reinvest in the facility improvements and marketing efforts. He also wants to build an event plaza for recep-tions, weddings, and big parties.The minimum investment is $11,000.

“It would be like a country

club member-ship with all the discounts in wine and fun events, but it’s also got very real tax and income benefits,” said Mondo. “You can grow with us.”

Mondo has prepared inves-tor packets with detailed descrip-tions of how the money will be used to increase the sales and profits of the company and how much stakeholders will get in return.

The winery is located at 326

Nacimiento Lake Drive just outside of Paso Robles. For more informa-tion, visit their mondocellars.com or call 805-226-2925. The tasting room is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the spring and summer, with ex-tended hours on Fridays and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the fall and winter.

— Nick Powell

805.459.4500 uncorkedwinetours.net

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VinoTherapyGlass of Vino, Wine Foot Soak,

Gourmet Late Lunch, choiceof a Cocoa-Cab Facial or

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Don a fedora and join the Mondo Mob.

Every Friday Night thru Oct 28th

Page 94: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

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Because of this early intro-duction into the wine industry of Paso Robles, and because of the relationships that Joe Sr. developed with growers in the area, Joe Jr. is connected to many of the vineyards in Paso Robles. While Grey Wolf grows many of its own grapes they purchase grapes from other vineyards as well. Joe Jr.’s familiarity with and ties to local vineyards allow him to have ac-cess to select fruit. These rela-tionships that the Barton family has with their growers are very important to them and reflect the importance of community and family to Joe Barton and his mom Shirlene.

Besides making the wine for Grey Wolf, Joe Jr. spends

much of his time in the vineyards. Another part of the legacy that Joe Sr. left to his family is the Grey Wolf estate vineyard. Grey Wolf grows Syrah, Zinfandel, Malbec,

DU

NN

ING

VIN

EYA

RD

SE

ST

AT

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INE

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Open Thur-Mon 11-5 • 1953 Niderer Rd., Paso Robleswww.dunningvineyards.com • 805-238-4763

Come find us at the “End of the Road!”

Wine TastingPrivate Reserve Wines…Meritage Blend, Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay & Special Releases only available at The Winery!

LodgingDunning VineyardsGuest Villa…

A New Private B&B Retreat…Enjoy Wine Country Lifestyle overlooking our Estate Vineyards!

Join DV Wine Club and receive club discounts on wine & lodging!

Best Kept

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Wine Tasting

Grey Wolf Vineyards and Cellars has been run by

the Barton Family at its loca-tion on a hillside on Highway 46 West for 17 years. The win-ery was started by Joe Barton Sr. in 1994 and the winemaking duties have been passed on to his son, Joe Barton Jr. When Joe Sr. started making wine on the Central Coast Joe Jr. was studying winemaking at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Joe Sr. became involved in the winemaking industry when he did some construction work for some wineries. Joe Jr. says that his father “got bit by the bug, then the next thing you know he was trading labor for fruit.”

Joe Jr. says that he and his father were both learning the craft at the same time, though from different

angles--Joe Sr. through working in the business and Joe Jr. through viticulture and enology classes. Joe Jr. would help his dad with the busi-ness, sometimes working the tasting

room on weekends. He says that it was fun for them to both be learning about the same subject at the same time, and that they were able to trade information and knowledge.

Winemaker Joe Barton and his mother Shirlene Barton

Mywhatbigredsyouhavegrandma

Grey Wolf Vineyards & Cellars2174 Hwy 46 West, PasoRobles

(805)237-0771 • www.greywolfcellars.com

Mention this ad and receive a free tastingOpen Daily 11:00-5:00

“Feels like HOMe”

Grey Wolf Vineyards

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Wine Tasting

upper right cornerof the map

Voûtes Bordeaux Blend

Gold Medal California State

L'Entrée Malbec

Gold Medal - San Francisco Gold Medal - Orange County

Silver Medal - California State

Fenêtres Petit Verdot Silver Medal

California State

Complimentary Tasting welcome by appointment

Open to the public during Wine Event Weekends

Call ahead or visit our website for hours and directions

www.bonniche.com 805-400-0451 805-238-30042627 Golden Eagle Way, San Miguel, CA 93451

Find Bon Niche at the top

3090 Anderson Rd, Paso Robles CA 93446 805.227.1428 • www.eaglecastlewinery.com

Eagle Castle Winery Enjoy Every Sip of Your Life

Want your wedding or special event at the Castle? Call or e-mail Jenn Chavez at (805) 227-1428 x204 [email protected]

Designed by Christina Chiavoni www.chiavonidesign.com

Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sau-vignon on the property. They also produce Tempranillo, Petite Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Rhone Whites and Reds. Grey Wolf makes around 4000 cases annually.

Many of the wines that Grey Wolf produces are blends, and Joe Jr. has fun with the names, many of which tie into the wolf theme visi-tors find in the tasting room: “Little Red,” “Lone Wolf,” “Big Bad Wolf” and “Alpha.” Joe Jr. says that they are most known for their Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon which “set them apart.” Indeed, Grey Wolf ’s 2008 “Lineage,” a Cabernet-based blend, won double-gold and best Bordeaux blend at the San Francisco International Wine Competition.

The tasting room at Grey Wolf has a welcoming feel, and in fact used to be the Barton’s home. Shirlene Barton’s office is just off the tasting room, and she says she often pops in to meet tasters and see what is happening at the tast-ing bar. Joe Jr. and Shirlene both emphasize the importance of family in the way they approach their business, and say that many of their

customers return with other family members for another visit.

The Grey Wolf tasting room has become a fix-ture along the Westside Paso Robles wine-tasting routes, and Joe Jr. says that this popular-ity is due to the quality of wine one can get in a variety of price-ranges. He says, “We make wine for everybody,” and that customers “get value at whatever level they are at.” Grey Wolf ’s small size allows Joe Jr. to take a “barrel to barrel” approach

in making wine. With lots some-times as small as 50 cases of one wine Joe Jr. says he has the ability to “isolate the best blends” to create

the wine he wants.Joe Jr. does not aim to make

wines to fit a house palate, but instead strives to be creative in his winemaking. With wines in the $15 - $35 range visitors to Grey Wolf are able to be adventure-some as well. Joe Jr. says that Grey Wolf ’s lower price point wines are a “smoking deal.”

With his desire to continue to be creative in his winemaking, Joe Jr. has launched a second label, Barton. Joe Jr. enjoyed being a part of Grey Wolf from the ground up, and is looking forward to working on the development and promotion of this new brand. In keeping with the family-oriented atmosphere fostered by the Barton family at Grey Wolf, Barton wines are sold along side the pack of Grey Wolf wines at their tasting room.

Grey Wolf is open daily from 11am - 5:30pm and 11am- 5pm in the winter and is located at 2174 Highway 46 West in Paso Robles. Call (805) 237-0771 or visit www.greywolfcellars.com for more infor-mation.

— Kate Joyce

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winemaking. As Hank laughingly says, this was “the beginning of the end” for him. His home in Topanga Canyon was on acreage planted with grapes, and until this time Hank had not known what to do with the grapes when they ripened. With this book on winemaking as his guide, Hank began making wine, a hobby that would eventually become Donatoni Winery.

While continuing to live in and fly out of Los Angeles, Hank became more involved with making wine.

5015 Linne Road. Paso Robles, CA. 805.226.8881www.sculpterra.com

Winery & VineyardSculpture Garden

Picnic Areas Fine Art

Family Owned

Open Daily 10am - 5pm

EXPERIENCE THE FUSION OF EARTH, ART & WINE

Wine Tasting

The history behind Dona-toni Winery is apparent to any

visitor to this Westside Paso Robles winery. Memorabilia and photo-graphs from the owners’ history in the airline industry cover the walls and adorn the tasting bar. And, owners Hank Donatoni and Sandi Baird are happy to elaborate on the story that the tasting room theme tells. Though they are retired now, Hank and Sandi’s connection to the airline business is still strong. Many of their friends were once co-workers, and even members of the aviation community they have never met find their way to Dona-toni through their shared histories.

Donatoni Winery’s history has strong ties to the airline indus-try as well. In 1968 Hank was a pilot working out of Los Angeles International Airport. On a trip to New York he had some time to explore the area and decide to go to Little Italy to buy a book on

Donatoniwinestakeflight

He began to travel to Paso Robles to purchase grapes, and established a winery in Los Angeles—appro-priately located on property at the end of the runway of Los Angeles

International Airport.Hank and Sandi met on a flight

while they were both working, Hank as a pilot and Sandi as a stew-ardess. One of the photos in the

WCP CELLARS

come for the wine, stay for the party!

www.wcpwines.com 805.239.15681335 Vendels Circle, Paso Robles, CA 93446

Zinfandel, Tempranillo, Pinot Noir, Rhone blends, Italian varietals, Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay from Santa Barbra County

Fri & Sat 12-7, Sun 1-5, Mon 12-5 or by appt.

Spanish & Italian varietals, Bordeaux blends and perfect patio whites

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from the Heart of Paso Robles Wine Country

2400 Highway 46 West • Paso Robles, CA 93446805.239.2233 • www.ninerwine.com

hours 10Am to 5Pm

Visit our website for current events and programs

Hospitality center

from the Heart of Paso Robles Wine Country

2400 Highway 46 West • Paso Robles, CA 93446805.239.2233 • www.ninerwine.com

hours 10Am to 5Pm

Visit our website for current events and programs

Hospitality center

from the Heart of Paso Robles Wine Country

2400 Highway 46 West • Paso Robles, CA 93446805.239.2233 • www.ninerwine.com

hours 10Am to 5Pm

Visit our website for current events and programs

Hospitality center

from the Heart of Paso Robles Wine Country

2400 Highway 46 West • Paso Robles, CA 93446805.239.2233 • www.ninerwine.com

hours 10Am to 5Pm

Visit our website for current events and programs

Hospitality center

from the Heart of Paso Robles Wine Country

2400 Highway 46 West • Paso Robles, CA 93446805.239.2233 • www.ninerwine.com

hours 10Am to 5Pm

Visit our website for current events and programs

Hospitality center

from the Heart of Paso Robles Wine Country

2400 Highway 46 West • Paso Robles, CA 93446805.239.2233 • www.ninerwine.com

hours 10Am to 5Pm

Visit our website for current events and programs

Hospitality center

from the Heart of Paso Robles Wine Country

2400 Highway 46 West • Paso Robles, CA 93446805.239.2233 • www.ninerwine.com

hours 10Am to 5Pm

Visit our website for current events and programs

Hospitality center

from the Heart of Paso Robles Wine Country

2400 Highway 46 West • Paso Robles, CA 93446805.239.2233 • www.ninerwine.com

hours 10Am to 5Pm

Visit our website for current events and programs

Hospitality center

from the Heart of Paso Robles Wine Country

2400 Highway 46 West • Paso Robles, CA 93446805.239.2233 • www.ninerwine.com

hours 10Am to 5Pm

Visit our website for current events and programs

Hospitality center

from the Heart of Paso Robles Wine Country

2400 Highway 46 West • Paso Robles, CA 93446805.239.2233 • www.ninerwine.com

hours 10Am to 5Pm

Visit our website for current events and programs

Hospitality center

Visit our website for current events & programs

CALIFORNIA WINE MONTHWeekend Cheese Flights during September

INDIAN SUMMER MOVIE NIGHTSeptember 24th - Enjoy a movie under the stars!

Wine Tasting

tasting room is of Hank and Sandi goofing around the day they met; someone just happened to snap a photo of the moment. Sandi says, “The whole winery is based on the airline theme because that is what we did our whole adult lives.”

Hank recalls the first vintage of wine that he made with fruit purchased from vineyards in Paso Robles as excellent wine. He says that at the time he thought that its quality was due to his innate talent as a winemaker, but later realized that much of the credit should actu-ally have been given to the grapes themselves. The old-vine Zinfandel that Hank was purchasing helped to form his opinion that the quality of the grape is very important to the quality of the wine it produces. Hank says that he considers himself a “wine watcher instead of a wine-maker,” and believes his duty is to shepherd the great fruit he starts with into becoming great wine.

In this initial foray into the world of grape buying in Paso Ro-bles Hank began to establish many relationships that he still maintains today. Hank says that one grower even insists on tasting each vintage

of the wines that Hank makes with his grapes, as he enjoys seeing what Hank does with his fruit.

Donatoni also has vineyards on its property, and the four-year-old vines are coming into their own now, and starting to produce more fruit. The Donatoni estate vineyards are made up of Zinfandel, Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah. Dona-toni Winery produces numerous wines, includ-

ing many blends. Hank says that they are known for their Cabernet and their Zinfandel.

Hank and Sandi run every part of the company themselves, and the winery is located steps from their home. Sandi runs the tasting room and business aspect of Donatoni Winery, and even designed their label. Hank makes the wine and does everything from crush the grapes, ferment the grapes and bottle the wine on their property. They have an annual production of around 800 cases, and enjoy the level of involvement that this small size allows them.

A trip to Donatoni Winery will most likely include some interesting stories, a little bit of “airline humor” and some great wine. Donatoni Winery: a destination that travelers of all kinds can enjoy.

Visit Donatoni Winery at their tasting room at 3225 Township Road in Paso Robles. Tasting hours are 12 - 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays, and by appointment, (805) 226-0620. Visit the Donatoni website for more information, www.donatoni-wineryandvineyards.com.

— Kate Joyce

Great Journeys Begin With Donatoni

3225 Township Road, Paso Robles, CA 93446805-226-0620 • [email protected]

Open Saturday, Sunday and by Appointmentwww.donatoniwineryandvineyards.com

Donatoni WineryEst. 1979

Donatoni WineryEst. 1979

Whether vacationing, celebrating or just winding down, begin your wine tasting adventure through the beautiful

rolling hills of Paso Robles with us. Flights offine hand-crafted, gold medal, best of class wines are

served with some airline humor and smiles. So buckle up, lean back and enjoy the ride.

farmhouseatmosphere

historic cupola caboose & boxcar

Open 7 days a week, 11:00-5:00 & by

appointment.

Hank Donatoni and Sandi Baird at their tasting room.

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Wine Tasting

7450 Estrella Rd., San MiguelGo to the end of Airport Road to RiverStar!

www.riverstarvineyards.com805-467-0086

OPEN FOR TASTING THURS-MON 11-5

AwArd winning wineswith

CHARACTERELEGANCE

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Visit

J&J Cellars

Premium Estate Wines • Picnic Area • Bocce Ball Court • Outdoor Fireplace

Open Fri. – Sun., 11 a.m. 5 p.m.

Estate-Grown Wines presented in the spirit of value and everyday enjoyment

2850 Ranchita Canyon, San Miguel, CA(805) 467.2891 • Visit www.jjcellars.com

Present this ad fordiscount on featured wine and

merchandise in our tasting room15%

SarzottiWinerybuiltonfamilytraditionsSarzotti Winery in Templeton is a

winery built on family traditions and run by a close-knit fam-ily. The Sarzottis moved to Paso Robles from Southern California, where they had farmed citrus and grapes for generations. Now, three generations of the family live on the property among the rolling hills and rows of grapes and run this “hands-on, family-owned” winery and vineyard.

Sarzotti Winery grows and makes Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Chardonnay on the estate. They also make wines from locally grown Syrah, Merlot and Petite Sirah, including a dessert Merlot and a late-harvest Zinfan-del. They make all their wine on the property, in their own produc-tion facility. They offer a generous tasting to visitors, and are currently pouring nine wines in their on-site tasting room, free of charge.

The business is run by Jim, Cheryl, James and Jenne Sarzotti,

day-to-day business of growing, making and selling wine. It is this family-orient-ed atmosphere that sets Sarzotti Winery apart from larger production winer-ies. Jim feels that “people appreciate the feeling of being in someone’s home” and says, “We make everyone feel like a part of the family.”

In keeping with their home-grown feel, the tasting room is actu-ally set up in their production and storage facility, and

the pouring bar is surrounded by stacked barrels of aging wine. Since they are totally family run, one of the Sarzotti family members is always on had to pour wine and tell

and while the work is loosely divid-ed up so that they each have their own area of responsibilities, as Jim says, they “all do everything.” Even the younger generation, though

not quite old enough to be fully involved in the business, are often on hand as the family works. The whole family lives on the property, and can often be found sharing the

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Wine Tasting

October 21-23, 11am-5pm • Mixed Grill Sunday, Oct. 23Harvest Weekend Open House

HW

Y 1

01San Marcos Rd.

24th St.

Nacim

iento Lake Dr.

N

I

Mahoney

Dra

ke

7340 Drake Road, Paso Robles(805) 467-2138

• Multi-YearZinfandel&BarberaTasting• SmokyJIm’sBBQChips&barrelproducts• 36°OliveOiltasting&sales• PrivateLabelArtisanCondiments• WineCountyArt,Booksand

CarvedGourds

Winery Tasting & Vineyard Tours most Sundays from 11am-5pm

and by appointment.

James and Jenne Sarzotti with Jim and Cheryl Sarzotti.

visitors about their winery. They currently produce about 700 cases annually, and though they have plans to gradually expand in future, they want to remain small so that they can continue to be family-run.

Visitors to Sarzotti Winery can find them in the tasting room year-round, but every year during both Harvest Festival and Zinfan-del Festival, they will discover a bit of excitement bubbling up at the winery. The Sarzottis prepare a complimentary Tri-Tip BBQ for visitors to celebrate the season.

Their wine is available locally, at Scolari’s and Spencer’s, as well as online, but they sell a lot of their wine out of their tasting room and through their wine club. They note that much of their business are return visitors and people who have had Sarzotti recommended to them by friends.

Jim sites the similarities of their land in Templeton to the Terroir of Tuscany when talking about what goes into making their wines. He relates the story of his Tuscan ancestors and how they immigrated from Italy to Rancho Cucamonga

to find new opportunity farming in the rich soils there. He says of his family, “We always made wine, we just never sold it.” Now that the Sarzotti family had begun to sell the

wine they make, they are sharing both their story and their heritage with all who drink Sarzotti wines.

Visit Sarzotti Winery from 11am-5pm, Thursday-Sunday and

by appointment at 180 Bella Ranch Road in Templeton. Call (805) 226-2022 or visit www.sarzottiwin-ery.com for more details.

— Kate Joyce

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Wine Tasting

Paso Robles

W

ine Glass Tours

2009©

Specializing in small handcrafted tours

Experience the mystique of Paso Robles wines

Walk among the vines ... sample the unique on a private, carefree adventure

A one-of-a-kind customized day, just for you! Wines, local gourmet fare, chocolate and fun!

Contact us to schedule your tour!www.PasoRoblesWineGlassTours.com

805-296-3802GeeGee Mainini

TCP# 002549240

Don Gould is the owner and operator of Wine Tours VIP. For the past four years, he’s been

offering guided tours or individually tailored chauffer services throughout the north county wineries, and now he’s added a new and unique tour to his arsenal. He calls it “California’s first and only walking wine tour”.

“There’s so much to do in downtown Paso

and it’s all walk-able,” said Gould. “I want to introduce people to the area and fill them in on our history.”

Gould’s walking tours will last for three and a half hours and will consist of five stops at locations that serve the very best of what this region has to offer. Groups of eight or fewer will meet under the gazebo at Paso Robles City Park and tour through wine tasting rooms, cheese and sweet shops, and an olive oil seller, linger-ing at each location for 35 minutes to enjoy free samples and discounted shopping. There are 4 different tours that each focus on three wineries of the 22 featured downtown.

Between stops, Gould and other guides will explain the history of several landmark buildings and offer suggestions for whatever shopping and dining experiences might fit a particular visitor’s preferences. Participants will also get a hand stamp that’s good for food discounts and free tastings all around town.

“A lot of people don’t know that Paso was originally famous for its mud baths and hot springs,” said Gould. “They don’t know about our almond and olive oil production or that we didn’t

really start making wine until 1986.”Gould said that within four years, Paso Robles

is poised to take over Napa Valley as the country’s most prominent wine producer, but added that there’s more to the town than just wine. Bon Appetit Magazine named the city the second best dining location in all of America, and Oprah recently declared San Luis Obispo County to be the happiest place on Earth. That obviously sounds enticing, but it can be difficult to navigate through a city on your own to find the treasures that warrant such accolades. Starting your trip with Gould’s walking tour is a great way to ensure that the rest of your stay in Paso Robles is top notch, and the tour only costs $29 per person.

“By the time we get done, you’ll know every-thing about downtown,” said Gould.

Gould loved the area for its wine and ambi-ance well before he chose to “retire” here five years ago. His career as an event organizer for dating services endowed him with a love for en-tertaining and meeting new people that he wasn’t able to let it go in retirement. He worked for a year as a chauffer for local limo services before deciding to strike out on his own. He purchased a one of kind Mercedes coach and hasn’t looked back.

“This vehicle is not like anyone else’s,” said Gould. “It’s tall enough to stand in, and it’s got lambskin interior, surround sound, and an

WinewalktourinDowntownPaso

Don Gould offers walking tours as well as driving tours.

Learn a little local history, taste wine and sample food

“A lot of people don’t know that

Paso was originally famous for

its mud baths and hot springs,”

Guided Wine WalkDOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES

By Reservation Only

805.239.5920www.winetoursvip.com

Only $29 per personOffered Wed-Sun12:30 to appx 4:00pm

3 Wineries1 Chocolate Store1 Olive Store

VISIT

OVER 22WINERIES

Learn the history of Paso as

you walk!

Complimentary Wine Tasting, Chocolate, Ice Cream and Olive Tasting

{

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Tasting daily 10-5:30Extensive wine selection

Beautiful gardens & picnic areaIndoor & outdoor concerts

Dinners & Special EventsGift shop

1315 N. Bethel Rd. Templeton (off Hwy 46 West)

(888) Dam-Finewww.castorocellars.com

Making “Dam Fine Wine” since 1983

Wine Tasting

Taste our award-winning, small boutique wines at our newly-opened tasting room

Open DailyEnjoy a light lunch or snack from our gourmet kitchen

while taking in our spectacular views.

3745 Highway 46 West, Templetonaronhillvineyards.com • 805-434-3066

Open 11-5 Thurs.-Mon. or By Appointment2323 Tuley Road, Paso Robles • 805.226.8022

www.hugcellars.com • [email protected]

Hug Cellars hand crafts small lots of

ultra-premium wine, specializing in

Pinot Noir and Rhone Varieties

onboard bathroom. There’s no better way to see the wine country.”

Gould’s wine tours are the perfect way to celebrate a birthday, a bachelorette party, or a reunion. There’s room for eight in the coach, and Gould only charges $65 per hour on weekdays and $75 on week-ends. That’s as low as $8 per person when the coach is full, and he’s got 10 local wineries that give his clients free tastings. Those who know the area and have favorite wineries can create their own itinerary, and new-comers can let Gould show them around. He’ll pick you up and drop you off anywhere in the county, and he’s more than willing to prearrange a lunch spread to have waiting at one of the wineries, open doors, carry bags, and do whatever else he can to make you tour as effortless as possible.

“It’s a real VIP kind of tour, and I have fun doing it,” said Gould.

Offering tours via roadway and sidewalk might be enough for some companies, but Gould goes the extra mile to offer VIP tours by sea. He’s partnered with Papa Gallo, a 72 foot yacht that hosts Gould’s clients

for a five hour tour of the Morro Bay estuary. A five course lunch is prepared and served by the yacht’s talented chef, and each course is paired with a central coast wine that completes the dish and brings your palette to life.

“The chef ’s a real comedian, too,” said Gould. “He keeps groups laugh-ing the entire time.”

For more information about the many services of Wine Tours VIP, call 805-239-5920 or visit winetoursvip.com.

Wine TastingAugustRidgeCome enjoy the robust style of the best California wines with the classical elegance of Italian wines. These distinctive Cal-Ital wines emphasize the uniqueness of the Paso Robles region. Sangiovese, Nebbliolo, Barbera, Arneis and ‘Super Tuscan’ style blends. 8790 E. Hwy. 41, Creston. www.augus-tridge.com 805-239-2455.

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A boutique winery offering amazing wines and a tasting room atmosphere where you feel like family!

Complimentary wine tasting with wine purchase

UPCOMING EVENTS:Live Music on monthly followed by Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Pairings!

Visit our website for more information

1220 PARK STREET IN BEAUTIFUL DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES(805) 286 4028 | WWW.PARRISHFAMILYVINEYARD.COM

OPEN DAILY:

SUMMER HOURS SUN-THU 12-7PM, FRI & SAT 12-8:30PM, WINTER HOURS 11-6PM

Wine Tasting

The group of Paso Robles Wineries that calls themselves the “Far Out Wineries” come

together to offer a diverse set of qualities. The Far Out group is 17 wineries strong and spans across a good portion of the West side of the Paso Robles wine AVA. They’re award winning winer-ies that range from large producers to micro-boutique and they make everything from Rhone wines to Rose’ to Bordeaux to Italian varietals to Ports. There’s definitely something in the Far Outs for any palate. Adelaida Cellars

Sustainable vineyards, tons of awards for their wines, many of which are Estate grown. Adelaida does a wide variety of wines, focusing on Rhones and some Bordeaux varietals and blends. They have a beautiful site, perfect for a picnic or some exploring. Calcareous Vineyard

Perched up on the hills above Paso Robles, Calcareous has one of the most beautiful sites in the area. You can see forever from up there, and the views are made better by their wines – lots of Rhones as well as some great Zinfandel and Cab-ernet Sauvignon. This family owned and operated winery has a beautiful tasting room, featuring

lunch on the weekends and a bocce ball court. Carmody McKnight

Nestled in the oaks and olive trees of the Far Outs, Carmody McKnight is a quaint little tasting room on a beautiful property perfect for relaxing with some snacks and a bottle to share. Owned and operated by former Miss America, Marian McKnight Conway and actor Gary Carmody Conway, they focus on mainly Bordeaux varietals and even have a sparkling wine! Dunning Vineyards

Mainly Bordeaux wines, Dunning offers you tastes of their Estate crafted wines under the huge oaks and winding vineyards that adorn their property. Be sure to check out their Inn, a wonderful place to stay and enjoy the peaceful and serene setting at Dunning. Halter Ranch

A unique and wonderful place to wander…Halter Ranch has a huge Victorian, a covered bridge, a beautiful old barn and a grain silo, all on the property to compliment the beautiful tasting

room. They make a wonderful Sauvignon Blanc, Rose, and many rich and delicious Rhone and Bordeaux wines. Stop in, taste a little and take a stroll around. Justin Vineyards & Winery

One of the more famous wineries in the area, Justin landed

on the map when they produced their “Isosceles” Bordeaux blend and received tons of attention and awards. Since then, they have continued to make great wines and have created a beautiful tasting room, restaurant, and deli, all on the property for your enjoyment. Le Cuvier

A unique and different tasting experience, they’ll take you into their barrel room and guide you through their unfined, unfiltered wines, all while pairing them with complimentary bites and snacks. Their wines are handcrafted from grapes found in the limestone hills to the west of Paso Robles and definitely demonstrate character and tenacity. Minassian-Young Vineyards

This husband and wife team create estate wines that focus on Rhones as well as dry farmed

TakewestsidetourofFarOutWineries

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Wine Tasting

Zinfandel. Their wines exhibit characteristics that come from the soils and the climate, result-ing in a natural and minimalistic style that allows the grapes to really come out in the flavors of the wines. Nadeau Family Vintners

A microwinery, created and run by the Nadeau family, they create small lots of hand-crafted wines. They specialize in big Zinfandels as well red and white Rhone varietals to create unique wines with a lot of character. You’ll taste the wines in their renovated little barn, situated up above Paso Robles, 4 miles west. Norman Vineyards

Growing grapes since 1971, the Norman family has a pretty good handle on how this wine thing goes. They’ve got a huge spread of wines to taste from Chardonnay to Pinot Grigio, Barbera, Syrah, Zinfandel, as well as some Bordeaux and Rhone blends. Their large site has beautiful grounds, perfect for a picnic! Opolo Vineyards

Known as one of the fun tasting rooms, Opolo has a huge list of wines to taste and an equally huge tasting room for you to try them in. Or, sit on the patio and enjoy the views of the rolling vineyards right outside the door. If you’re lucky, you might even get to sample some tri-tip or sausage hot off the grill. Their goal is to take the

snobiness out of wine, and they do a great job! Pipestone Vineyards

Tucked in the hills just west of Paso Robles, Pipestone is another family run winery, but one of the things that stands out about them is that their vineyards are sustainable and organic, all done in the ancient art of feng shui. The vineyards are right outside the tasting room and they encour-age you to do some tasting, wander through the vineyards, and talk to their farm animals. Their focus is on handcrafted Rhone varietals with some Zinfandel and blends thrown in to balance out the list.Poalillo Vineyards

A wonderful experience awaits you at Poalillo, with rich earthy wines, a beautiful new tasting room and patio, and live music amongst the vines. Try their flagship Zinfandel, or rustic Cab-ernet Sauvignon, but don’t forget to enjoy their Viognier and Chardonnay as well. Tablas Creek Vineyard

Modeled after their sister winery in France, Château de Beaucastel, you can count on the Rhone wines of Tablas Creek to impress every time. They’re situated in one of the many micro-climates of the West side Far Outs, the perfect place to plant and nurture the vines brought over from France. They handcraft their wines to ex-hibit the natural flavors of each varietal. You can

even buy vines cultivated in their on-site nursery. Thacher Winery

A boutique winery producing Zinfandels and Rhone blends, this winery is the embodiment of the casual charm. You can meander amongst the hay fields, oak trees and vineyards, all surround-ing the tasting room and 90-year old barn. Tolo Cellars

Set up in a renovated little red farmhouse, the tasting room for Tolo is definitely quaint and full of character. The wines are made from grapes found among the rugged hillsides in the area, perfect for hardy and distinctive fruit. Josh, the winemaker, makes it his goal to create wines that demonstrate their “terrior”. You’ll find some Rhone blends, Cabernet Sauvignon, and other interesting varietals to taste. Villicana Winery & Vineyard

This 72-acre winery tucked amongst the oak trees out Adelaida road is a great stop to enjoy the property and the wines. The quaint little tasting room is actually also their storage and winemak-ing facility, and if you’re lucky, they’ll show you around. The Villacana family works hard to produce their award winning wines. You’ll find delicious Rhone wines, Rose’ and Cabernet Sauvi-gnon open for tasting.

— Matt & Annie Brownewww.hootnannieblog.com

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Wine Tasting

Paso Robles Wine Country. The country roads of Paso Robles can be windy and narrow. Enough said.Lunch in the Vineyard

Many wineries, vineyards and tasting rooms have picnic areas, set on the gorgeous backdrop of Paso Robles. Plan to pack a picnic, or refer to your Paso Robles Tour Brochure to see who has light fare picnic items for sale in their tasting rooms. Many downtown restaurants also offer lunches to go. Plan for the Weather

Paso Robles often experiences hot days and cool nights during the months of May – October.

Remember that barrel rooms and cellars are tem-perature controlled, so bring a sweater.Drink plenty of water!

You will be walking and tasting a lot of wine, so staying hydrated is important. Although wineries often offer water, it is smart to take some along with you at the beginning of the day.Responsible Tasting

The four S’s are “Swirl, Smell, Sip and Spit.” This tip is very important, and this practice is a great way to taste a lot of different wines. Remember, you’re tasting, not drinking – and this is the only way to keep your palate fresh.

Visit www.pasowine.com.

The Paso Robles Wine Region is quickly becom-ing a hot spot for wine tasting and vineyard

tours, and autumn is one of the busiest times of year. Wine lovers from all over are able to take pleasure in celebrating a new vintage being born during this special time in Paso known as, Harvest!

One of the best things about touring Paso Robles Wine Country is the opportunity to converse and taste with the owners and winemak-ers themselves. If you’re lucky enough, you might even run into them fresh off the vineyard and chat with them about the latest vintage.

While spontaneity is encouraged in Paso Robles, planning ahead will ensure you are able to make the most of your wine country experience.

Here are some tips to consider on your next visit to Paso Robles… whether it is during harvest, or any other time of year.Tour Brochure

First and foremost, always bring your Paso Robles Wine Country Tour Brochure. It is a wonderful tool to use when planning an excursion. Wineries list hours of operation, special tours and tastings, as well as if they have picnic areas and light fare for sale. This piece lists over 110 tasting rooms with phone numbers and addresses, and has a tri-fold map.Vineyard & Winery Tours

Call 24 to 48 hours in advance to set up a special tour and tasting. This will make your visit unforgettable and give your palate a break between tasting rooms! Most wineries and vineyards are happy to accommodate you and this is an exciting way to learn about Paso Robles while you taste wine. Make an Appointment

When visiting multiple wineries, it is recom-mended that you make an appointment so the tasting room is prepared to accommodate you. This is especially important when you have groups of seven or more. If you are going to be late, make sure to call the next winery. Most tasting rooms will allow you to use their phone if you do not have cellular reception.Transportation in Advance

Always remember to designate a driver or plan for a taxi, limo or tour bus to take you through

Planaperfectwinecountrygetaway

From your cell phone, iPad or mobile device you can use an app to scan the QR code below and browse the Visitors Guide online. Or visit slovisitorsguide.com

Visitors Guide goes mobile!

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SPRING 2011 1

VisitorsGuideVisitorsGuide

San Luis Obispo County

San Luis Obispo County

Maps • Dining Wine TastingAttractions • SpasLodging • ShoppingCalendar of Events

AccessAccess

Experience Sycamore Mineral SpringsKayak on the coastTake a wine tour

DIRECTIONS INSIDEslopoker.com

Paso Robles 805-226-0500 • Grover Beach 805-474-8500

FREE Hat for 1st Time Visitors!*DETAILS AT CASHIERS CAGE. PLAY RESPONSIBLY: 800-GAMBLER

*

Spring2011

Ride the Dunes

See wildflowers

Go to wine events

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Hotels & Lodging — Visitor Guide’s Favorite PlacesArroyoGrandeAbella Garden Inn B&B 210 Oak St. 805-489-5926

Aloha Inn 611 El Camino Real 805-473-8318

AtascaderoBest Western Colony Inn 3600 El Camino Real 805-466-4449

The Carlton Hotel 6005 El Camino Real 805-461-5100, 877-204-9830

Holiday Inn Express & Suites-Atascadero 9010 West Front Road 805-462-0200

Oak Hill Manor B&B 12345 Hampton Ct. 805-462-9317

Rancho Tee Motel 6895 El Camino Real 805-466-2231

AvilaBeachAvila Lighthouse Suites 550 Front St. 805-627-1900, 800-372-8452

San Luis Bay Inn 3254 Avila Beach Dr. 805-595-2333

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort 1215 Avila Beach Dr. 805-540-3326

BaywoodParkBack Bay Inn 1391 Second St. 805-528-1233

CambriaBest Western Fireside Inn 6700 Moonstone Beach Dr. 805-927-8661

Blue Bird Inn 1880 Main St. 805-927-4634

Blue Dolphin Inn 6470 Moonstone Beach Dr. 805-927-3300 or 800-222-9157

Cambria Pines Lodge 2905 Burton Dr. 805-927-4200

Cambria Shores Inn 6276 Moonstone Beach Dr. 805-927-8644

Captain’s Cove Inn 6454 Moonstone Beach Dr. 805-927-8581, 800-781-2683

Creekside Inn 2618 Main St. 805-927-4021

Fog Catcher Inn 6400 Moonstone Beach Dr. 805-927-1400

Little Sur Inn 6190 Moonstone Beach Dr. 866-478-7466

Moonstone Landing 6240 Moonstone Beach Dr. 800-830-4540

Pelican Cove Inn 6316 Moonstone Beach Dr. 805-927-1500

Sand Pebbles Inn 6252 Moonstone Beach Dr. 805-927-5600

Sea Otter Inn 6656 Moonstone Beach Dr. 805-927-5888

The Pickford House 2555 MacLeod Way 888-270-8470

White Water Inn 6790 Moonstone Beach Dr. 800-995-1715

CayucosCayucos Pier View Suites 14 N Ocean Ave. 805-995-0014

Cayucos Sunset Inn 95 S Ocean Ave. 805-995-2500

Highway One Rentals 148 N. Ocean Ave. 805-995-3678

On The Beach B&B 181 N. Ocean Ave. 805-995-3200

The View Studio Suites 3302 Ocean Blvd. 805-995-0500

GroverBeachHoliday Inn Express 775 North Oak Park Blvd. 805-481-4448

Sea View Inn 150 North 5th St. 805-473-1433

MorroBayAnderson Inn 897 Embarcadero 805-772-3434 or 888-950-3434

Best Western El Rancho 2460 Main St 805-772-2212

Best Western San Marcos inn 250 Pacific St. 805-772-2248

Best Western Tradewinds 225 Beach St. 805-772-7376

Blue Sail Inn 851 Market Ave. 805-772-2766 or 888-337-0707

El Morro Masterpiece Motel 1206 Main St. 805-772-5633 or 800-527-6782

Embarcadero Inn 456 Embarcadero 805-772-2700

Fireside Inn 730 Morro Ave. 805-772-2244 or 800-444-0562

Holland Inn Motel 2630 Main St. 805-772-2650

Inn at Morro Bay 60 State Park Rd 805-772-5651, 800-321-9566

La Serena Inn 990 Morro Ave. 805-772-5665, 800-248-1511

Marina Street Inn B&B 305 Marina St. 805-772-4016, 888-683-9389

Morro Bay Luxury Rentals 805-704-1169

Morro Bay Vacation Rentals 1910 Hill St. 805-459-8460

Morro Crest Inn 670 Main St. 805-772-7740, 800-613-2007

Morro Shores Inn & Suites 290 Atascadero Rd. 805-772-0222, 800-575-4095

Rodeway Inn 540 Main St. 805-772-7503

Sea Air Inn 845 Morro Ave. 805-772-4495

Sundown Inn 640 Main St. 805-772-7381 or 800-696-6928

The Bayfront Inn 1150 Embarcadero 805-772-5607

The Breakers Motel Corner of Morro Bay Blvd & Market 805-772-7317 or 800-932-8899

Travelodge 1080 Market Ave. 805-772-1259

NipomoKaleidescope Inn & Gardens 130 E Dana 805-929-5444 or 866-504-5444

OceanoPacific Plaza Resort Hotel 444 Pier Ave. 805-473-6989

PasoRoblesCourtyard By Marriott Paso Robles 120 South Vine St. 805-239-9700

Best Western Black Oak Motor Lodge 1135 24th St 805-238-4740

Budget Inn 2745 Spring St. 805-239-3030

Chanticleer Vineyard B&B 805-226-0600

Dunning Vineyards Guest Villa 1953 Niderer Road 805-238-4763

Hampton Inn & Suites 212 Alexa Ct. 805-226-9988

High Ridge Manor 5458 High Ridge Rd. 805-226-2002

Holiday Inn Express & Suites 2455 Riverside Ave 805-238-6500, 877-449-7276

Hotel Cheval1021 Pine St. 805-226-9995 or 866-522-6999

La Bellasera Hotel & Suites Jct 101 & 46 West 805-238-2834, 866-782-9669

La Quinta Inn & Suites 2615 Buena Vista Dr. 805-239-3004

Paso Robles Getaways 805-226-2002 or 805-239-9680

Paso Robles Inn 1103 Spring St 805-238-2660, 800-676-1713

Paso Robles Vacation Rentals 805-423-9174

Travelodge 2701 Spring St. 805-238-0078

Zenaida Cellars B&B 1550 Hwy 46 West 805-227-0382

PismoBeachBeach House Inn & Suites 198 Main St. 805-773-7476 (PISMO)

Beachwalker Inn & Suites 490 Dolliver St. 805-773-2725

Best Western Shelter Cove 2651 Price St. 805-773-3511, 800-848-1434

Best Western Shore Cliff Lodge 2555 Price St. 805-773-4671, 800-441-8885

Cottage Inn by the Sea 2351 Price St. 805-773-4617 or 888-440-8400

Dolphin Cove Motel 170 Main St. 805-773-4706

Edgewater Inn & Suites 280 Wadsworth Ave. 805-773-4811

Ocean Palms 390 Ocean View Ave. 805-773-4669

Pismo Lighthouse Suites 2411 Price St. 805-773-1508, 800-245-2411

Quality Inn Monarch Shores 230 Five Cities Dr. 805-773-1841

Sandcastle Inn 100 Stimson Ave. 805-773-2422 or 800-822-6606

Sea Crest Resort 2241 Price St. 805-773-4608

Sea Gypsy Motel 1020 Cypress 805-773-1801 or 800-592-5923

Shell Beach Inn 653 Shell Beach Rd. 805-773-4373

Shelter Cove Lodge 2651 Price St. 805-773-3511

Spyglass Inn 2705 Spyglass Dr. 805-773-4855, 1-800-824-2612

Valentina Luxury Vacation Villas 911 Price St. 805-773-1234

SanSimeonCourtesey Inn 9450 Castillo Dr. 805-927-4691 or 800-555-5773

The Morgan – San Simeon 9135 Hearst Dr. 805-927-3878 or 800-451-9900

Sands By The Sea 9355 Hearst Dr. 805-927-3243 or 800-444-0779

Sea Breeze Inn 9065 Hearst Dr. 805-927-3284 or 800-927-3316

ShellBeachThe Palomar Inn 1601 Shell Beach Rd. 805-773-4204

Shell Beach Inn 653 Shell Beach Rd. 805-773-4373

SanLuisObispoComfort Inn & Suites Lamplighter 1604 Monterey St. 805-547-7777

Courtyard by Marriott-SLO 1605 Calle Joaquin 805-786-4200

Days Inn 2050 Garfield St. 805-549-9911

Embassy Suites 333 Madonna Rd. 805-549-0800

Garden Street Inn 1212 Garden St. 805-545-9802

Holiday Inn Express-SLO 1800 Monterey St. 805-544-8600

La Cuesta Inn 2074 Monterey St. 805-543-2777

Peach Tree Inn 2001 Monterey St. 805-543-3170

Petit Soleil Bed & Breakfast 1473 Monterey St. 805-676-1588

Rodeway Inn 1001 Olive St. 805-544-0400

San Luis Creek Lodge 1941 Monterey St. 805-541-1122 or 800-593-0333

Sands Inn & Suites 1930 Monterey St. 805-544-0500 or 800-441-4657

TempletonHoney Oak House 2602 Templeton Rd. 805-434-5091

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Calendar of Events — see more at slovisitorsguide.comAllAugust

Templeton Concerts in the Park, Wednesdays 6:30-8:30pm West of Main St. between 5th & 6th. 805-434-4900.

AllAugustGrover Beach Sizzlin’ Summer Concert Series. Sunday nights, 3pm - 6:30pm. Free. Held in conjunction with the farmers market. Ramona Garden Park Center, 993 Ramona Ave.

August5&19Paso Robles Concerts in the downtown park. Friday nights. 5:30 to 7:30pm. Free. 805-238-3988.

August12,19,26&September2San Luis Obispo Concerts in the Plaza at the Mission. Friday nights. Free. 5:30pm-7:30pm. 805-541-0286.

August14-21Paso Robles. The National Stock Horse Association will honor the vaquero tradition as they host their 6th annual Snaffle Bit Futurity and World’s Richest Stock Horse Competition at the Paso Robles Event Center in Paso Robles. (800) 511-5157.

August19Paso Robles Pre-Olive Festival Social Mixer. Paso Robles Inn Ballroom. Olive tasting, wine tasting, and more. 6:00pm-8:00pm. $25. Call Main Street for more info 805-238-4103.

August19Atascadero. Hot El Camino Nite. El Camino Real. 6:30pm-8:30pm. Free. 805-462-8490.

August20Atascadero Lake Park. Annual Mid State Cruizers Car Show . 10am-4pm. Free. 805-462-8490.

August20Paso Robles. Olive Festival at the Downtown City Park. 10am-5pm. Free. 805-238-4103.

August21&September4,18Arroyo Grande Summer Concert Series at Rotary Bandstand in the Old Village on Nelson St. Sundays 1pm. Bring your lawn chairs, snacks, beverages ... then sit back and enjoy the music. 805-473-2250.

August22Los Osos. Guided Walk through the Elfin Forest 9:30am-11:30am. North end of 15th St. off of Santa Ysabel. 805-528-0392.

June8–August31Templeton Concerts in the Park, Wednesdays 6:30-8:30pm West of Main St. between 5th & 6th. 805-434-4900.

August27Paso Robles. Vina Robles Winery. British Invasion- A Tribute to the 60s British Rock and Roll. 5:30pm, carshow at 6pm, concert at 7pm. 1960s attire encouraged. Lawn seating. 805-227-4812.

August27Paso Robles Niner Wine Estates. Meet the artist, sample the wines, enjoy a fantastic cheese display and view the sculptures of Kevin Bohner, all for the price of tasting! 805-239-2233.

August27Paso Robles. Old Fashioned Threshing Bee. Vintage tractors and farm equipment will be on display as well as an early day gas engine shoe. Free apple cider and honey tasting, a hay maze and hay stack for the kids, farm animals and smoked baby back ribs. 5000 Highway 46 West. Free. 805-238-3799.

August27&28Grover Beach. 18th Annual Stone Soup Music Faire at Ramona Garden Park. 993 Ramona Ave. Entertainment, food, drink and craft booths. Includes a 5K and 10K Dune Fun Run. 10am. Free. 805-489-9091.

August28Paso Robles. Wedding Expo at Eberle Winery. Meet the professionals behind your wedding service needs and

tour the winery vineyards and caves. 3810 Highway 46 East. Free. 805-238-9607.

AllSeptemberGrover Beach. Sizzlin’ Summer Concert Series. Sunday nights, 3pm - 6:30pm. Free. Held in conjunction with the farmers market. Ramona Garden Park Center, 993 Ramona Ave.

AllSeptemberandOctoberCambria. Hearst Castle Evening Tours. On most Friday and Saturday evenings. The Living History Program emphasizes the bygone lifestyle of this great estate. $36 for adults and $18 for youth ages 6 through 17. (800) 444-4445.

September2-4Paso Robles. Labor Day Car Show Kick Off Labor Day Weekend with a Cruise downtown Friday night from 6pm–8pm. Come to the beautiful downtown Paso Robles City Park where car enthusiasts will show off their shiny rides with a Classic Car Show featuring cars from 1979 and earlier from 9am-4pm. Enjoy cars, vendors, raffle prizes, and more! Sunday Poker Run 11am.

September3Cambria Pinedorado Days with parade on Main Street; Annual Art Show on Sat. 12pm-5pm, Sun. 10am-5pm, Mon. 10am-4pm at Vets’ Hall; Pinedorado Grounds on Main Street with music, concessions, game booths, barbecue, beer & wine. 805-927-3624

September3-5Cayucos Peddler’s Faire. Take a stroll along the many ven-dors selling antiques, homemade products, flea market items, clothing, jewelry, and more. Bring an appetite. Cayucos Creek Lot, between Hardie Park and Ocean Ave.

September3-5Morro Bay Art in the Park. Vendors come from all over the state to display their wide variety of arts and crafts in the City Park. Morro Bay Art Association. 805-772-2504.

September4Templeton. Castoro Cellars. Free outdoor concert series. 1315 N. Bethel Road. (888) DAM-FINE.September4,October2andNovember6Art in the Park at Dinosaur Caves Park, Corner of Shell Beach Rd. & Cliff Ave., Shell Beach. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 70 artists and craftsmen. Live music, hands-on children’s activities, fresh flowers and plants, BBQ. 805-704-8128.

September10Paso Robles. Airport Day 2011- Aviation Expo. 9am-3:30pm. Aviation demos, food, raffles and much more, 4912 Wing Way. 805-441-3633.

September10-11I Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival, San Luis Obispo. An Italian tradition of street painting for 400 years. Artists of all ages are invited. Free. 10am-6pm at Mission Plaza.

September119/11 Memorial Event & Art Show, Free. Grover Beach, Ramona Garden Park 993 Ramona Ave. Art show 10am, memorial ceremony 5:30pm.

September14Taste of San Luis, Downtown SLO’s gourmet dining event! Elegant attire. Table seating, music, and danc-ing. The Taste of SLO will include more then 60 local restaurant and beverage vendors! 6 pm Mission Plaza 805-541-0286.

September16Cracked Crab of Pismo Beach. Please join us for our first Crab Feast on the panoramic deck at Eberle Winery! Chef Mike McGourty to create amazing menus to showcase crab and other delicious seafood with fresh seasonal ingredients. Tickets (805)238-9607.

September16&17Paso Robles. Cigar Conference West- Crush and Roll. Cel-ebration of premium cigars, premium wine and the good life. In addition to sampling cigars and wines, attendees

will learn the finer points of both from expert vintners and cigar manufacturers. www.crushandrollwest.com

September16&17Paso Robles Indian Summer Night at Niner Wine Estates. A night under the stars enjoy several short films from this years SLO Film Festival. Wine sampling, small bites, raffles and much more! 805-239-2233.

September17Los Osos Guided Walk through the Elfin Forest 9:30 am. North end of 15th St. off of Santa Ysabel. 805-528-0392.

September17Paso Robles Taste of Downtown & Art de Tiza at the Downtown City Park. Come taste food samplings from the many local restaurants. Tickets 805-238-4103.

September17Paso Robles. Pre-Pioneer Day BBQ and Dance. Paso Robles Event Center. 6pm. Tickets 805-550-1078.

September17Paso Robles Taste of Downtown & Art de Tiza at the Downtown City Park. Come taste food samplings from the many local restaurants. Tickets 805-238-4103.

September17Morro Bay Avocado & Margarita Festival. Sample guacamole till you see green! Quench your thirst with margaritas by Margarita Man. 714 Embarcadero. Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce. 805-772-4467.

September18San Luis Obispo. Central Coast Book & Author Festival at Mission Plaza 10am-4pm, 805-744-7662.

September18-19Cayucos 32nd Annual Central Coast Woodcarver’s Show at Vet’s Hall. 10am-4pm. 805-927-3951.

September23&24Arroyo Grande 73rd Annual Harvest festival & parade. Old fashioned family fun. Fri. 5-9pm, Saturday parade begins at 10 at Halcyon & Grand straight into the village, where the festival continues until 5pm. 805-473-2250

September24&25San Luis Obispo Jazz Festival.

September29-October2San Luis Obispo “Sunset’s” Savor the Central Coast celebrates the beauty and bounty of the coastal region in an incredible 4-day experience. The event showcases area winemakers, chefs, and artisanal food producers. Don’t miss the Winemaker Dinner at Mission Plaza on Oct. 1 at 6pm

September24&October29San Luis Blues Concerts at SLO Veteran’s Hall.

AllOctoberArt on the Beach, Avila Beach Promenade.

October1Oktoberfest in Cambria at Vets’ Hall 1000 Main St. 12pm. This annual party offers German food, beverages, music, dancing and singing. 805-927-3065.

October1&2Harbor Festival in Morro Bay. Centered around the main fishing pier and waterfront area. Wine and seafood, arts and crafts and a wide variety of live entertainment. Morro Bay Harbor Festival. 805-772-4467.

October8Paso Robles Pioneer Day Parade on Spring Street. Starts at 10am. Free bean feed in the City Park at noon.

October8-9Cambria Historical Society sponsors the Harvest Festival. 11am-4pm. Corner of Burton Drive and Center St. just off Main.

October9San Luis Obispo to Pismo Beach. “City to the Sea” Half-Marathon & 5K Walk/Run Join in, or cheer on, the runners and joggers in a half marathon (13.1 miles). Concert and free buffet for race participants.

October6-10Central Coast Railroad Festival a variety of family friendly

events and activities will take place at various venues and railroad locations to please both the casual train buff and the avid rail fan. 805-773-4173.

October15Atascadero Colony Days at the Sunken Gardens in Atascadero. Pancake breakfast at 7am, parade at 10 am. Vendors, entertainment, dancing at the historic Tent City of 1914 all day long. 805-462-0177.

October15-16Pismo Beach. Annual Clam Festival. A parade on Saturday morning kicks off this annual event. Followed by a clam dig, music and food. Famous Clam Chowder Cook-off.

October15-16,22-23,29-30San Luis Obispo 13th Annual Open Studios Art Tour. Countywide “Encore Weekend” for visitors and artists to come together from all over the state and explore the diverse talents local artists. 805-544-9251.

October16Cayucos Antiques & Collectibles Street Sale. Two blocks off Ocean Ave. 7am-4pm.

October16SLO CultureFest. Cultural outdoor family event with ethnic foods and performances. Noon-5pm. Mitchell Park in San Luis Obispo. 805-756-1405.

October21-23Paso Robles Harvest Wine Weekend. Three days combine events at over 100 wineries. Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance. 805-239-8463.

October23Paso Robles Golden Oak Festival at the City Park. 9am-3pm. Arts, crafts, antiques, music, cars and food. Admission is free. 805-238-4103.

October27-30Pismo Beach. Jubilee By The Sea Jazz Festival. New Orleans-style jazz, big band performances, dancing, food and beverages are available. 805-481-7840.

October28Grover Beach. Carved pumpkin contest and Halloween activities, free. 5pm-7:30pm. Ramona Garden Park 993 Ramona Ave.

October29Pismo Beach. Pumpkins on the Pier. 10am-1pm. Trick or Treat from 12pm-2pm in downtown businesses. If it rains, the event will be held at the Shell Beach Veteran’s Memorial Building, 230 Leeward Street. Costume contest starts at 12:30pm. 805-773-7063.

AllNovemberArt on the Beach, Avila Beach Promenade.

November4-6SLO County. Annual Harvest Celebration Weekend. Events at many participating wineries and restaurants around San Luis Obispo. Grand Tasting in Avila Beach 1:00pm – 5pm. Call the San Luis Obispo Vintners As-sociation. 805-541-5868.

November5Cayucos 20th Annual Car Show Ocean Ave. BBQ 9am-4pm, downtown Cayucos. Cars, music, Beer Garden. 805-995-3809.

November5&6Cambria Craft Fair. 9 am-5pm. Vets’ Hall Parking Lot, 1000 Main Street. Free.

NovemberTBACayucos Wine & Food Festival. 4-8pm, Vets Hall, 5pm.

November10-13Paso Robles Paderewski Festival. Concerts of solo piano and chamber music, celebrations of local young musicians, an exhibit of Paderewski memorabilia and lectures by experts for the composer’s 150th birthday. 805-237-2620.

November13Paso Robles Elegant Evening downtown. 805-238-4103.

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1266 N. Bethel Road, Templeton, CA 93465 ph: 805-434-0319 www.veriscellars.com

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Page 108: San Luis Obispo County Visitors Guide

108 FALL2011 www.slovisitorsguide.com