In vino veritas and, in truth, wine is an almost magical beverage. Of that, it’s doubtless you need no convincing. Less known, however, is the power of wine to create unforgettable vacation experiences. The best of these involve not only drinking the libation but exploring its origins.
Temecula is the jewel of southern California’s wine country. A hilly land between San Diego and Los Angeles, it is an excellent destination for any kind of trip. The area has over 50 active vineyards but wine is by no means the only attraction. The landscape itself is simply stunning. On top of that, the area boasts over a dozen golf courses and is also a center for equestrian activities and hot air balloon recreation. The Old Town is full of fine restaurants and shops serving the region’s upscale visitors. The Pechanga Casino is another attraction. It is host to a constant stream of events and concerts as well as gambling tables of every kind. There are even a few breweries challenging the established vineyards at their game and some of the state’s nicest beaches are just an hour away.
Fittingly for such a desirable location, Temecula is home to many fine rental properties in the form of opulent villas and rustic cottages on the grounds of vineyards. To ease your decision-making process, here is a list of eight Vrbo rental houses in Temecula.
Rancho Del Vino Estate$278/night avg
At Rancho Del Vino Estate, you will be transported to a wine-lover’s paradise. The tan hues of the exterior are complimented by the unique interior decor. Sleeping six people, it features three bedrooms, three bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and add-on services such as a private chef, housekeeping, and a chauffeur.
Rancho Del Vino is in the perfect location to explore nearby vineyards. With Wiens Cellars, Ponte Winery, and Danza Del Sol Winery all within 3 miles, you might even want to take a beautiful California stroll to and from your tastings.
Villa Cabernet$1,770/night avg
Relax and appreciate the good things in life (wine, obviously, but also so much more) at this grand French-style villa in Temecula. It is the perfect place to enjoy the (fermented) fruits of the land. The outdoor area is suitably luxurious. It has a large pool (complete with a waterfall and slide), hot tub, day beds, and an abundance of lounge chairs. The interior is equally grand, from the imposing swirling wrought-iron staircase to the spacious bed and bathrooms. Despite the large size of the villa, no space has been overlooked. Each bedroom and all of the many common areas and workspaces are furnished and decorated with fittingly rich trappings.
French Country Home$399/night avg
Given the country’s strong associations with wine culture and cultivation, it’s no surprise that many California vintners have adopted elements of the French style in their wine country homes. This country house is a fine example of the trend. The interior is dominated by immaculate swathes of white, from the furnishings to the walls. The property has inviting outdoor spaces with verandas, games, a hot tub, a classic Bel Air street lamp, and views of the nearby vineyards (which, along with hiking trails, can be reached in 5 minutes on foot). The land also abuts an orange orchard.
Villa Vigna$812/night avg
There are moments in life when everything in the world falls into place. Such moments are known to transpire when, wine in hand, you stare out at the mountains above and vines below from the comfort of an infinity pool. Such are the gifts offered by Villa Vigna, a luxury home in wine country. With grand views on all sides, sumptuous decor, and fantastic wine to be found all around, guests are hard-pressed not to enjoy their time in Temecula. The property has a variety of bedrooms and is suitable for any kind of gathering.
Evelyn’s Cottage In The Vines$287/night avg
Evelyn’s Cottage In The Vines fits right in at the vineyards that surround the property. With modern touches inside, beautiful vegetation on the exterior, and breathtaking views of the rolling California hills, make this your home base on a wine-filled getaway. It has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and plenty of room to accommodate the entire family, sleeping seven people in total.
Explore local wineries such as Wilson Creek, Doffo, and Avensole all within 5 miles, and others within walking distance. And when your day winds down, enjoy a local winery vino from the comforts of the outdoor patio and watch the California sunset.
Stylish Barn On A Vineyard$292/night avg
Wine lovers always know where to go to get their next bottle, whether it’s their own cellar or the local distributor. Guests staying at this swank new barn-like structure need simply exit their front door to find grapes growing on the surrounding hills. Trees bearing other fruit not destined to be turned into wine are even closer at hand. The space is essentially a studio, complete with a king-size bed, sparkling bathroom with a freestanding tub, and stocked kitchenette. There is also an outdoor space with a fire pit and grill. Four other similar structures sit on the 4-acre property. The local grape is Tempranillo, but many others are to be found in the area’s other vineyards (which amount to over 50), all reachable after a few minutes of driving.
Cottage At Namaste Farm$450/night avg
Wine isn’t the only industry in Temecula. The agricultural scene is much more diverse than that, consisting of fruit growers and ranchers. One example of the latter is Namaste Farm, an active farm with a cottage available for rent. The farm is filled with sheep, peacocks, horses, and chickens and was featured in Nat Geo Wild’s TV show Shear Madness. Guests are free to explore the grounds and observe the timeless practice of animal husbandry. You can even bring your own horses and enjoy the area’s many equestrian trails (well-behaved dogs are also welcome). The cottage is a cozy studio with antiques and eccentric decorations. There is one bed in a lofted area with lush oriental decorations and a murphy bed for extra guests.
Del Vino Country Cottage$361/night avg
Take in the joys of wine country from this delightful cottage. The building is located on a 3-acre vineyard, meaning grapes flourish not only on the surrounding hills but in the front yard as well. Syrah is grown on the property, but every conceivable varietal and vintage is available from the area’s many growers and sellers. The home has three comfortable king beds, a nice outdoor area with a hot tub, and a full kitchen. Humbler than many of Temecula’s grander villas, this cottage is nevertheless an excellent way for a couple or small group to experience life among the vines.
To discover the best things to do, wineries and otherwise, during your stay in Temecula, check out: