Temecula is a city in Southern California that is known for its professional golf courses, hot air balloon adventures, and award-winning wineries. But that's just the beginning. The Temecula Stampede is the largest western country music venue on the West Coast, and it's a great place to enjoy some good old-fashioned country music. The scene here is eclectic, so you can also listen to rock and roll and other genres.
Lake Vail was once a stopover on the Butterfield Overland Stage bus line and now encompasses more than 1,000 acres of water. It's a great spot for bass fishing and camping. Other activities include mountain biking and hiking along one of the many trails. Just outside Temecula is Skinner Lake, also known as Skinner Reservoir.
This lake covers an impressive 1,400 acres of water and 300 acres of land, so there's plenty to do here. Horseback riding, swimming, boating, and camping are all popular activities. Temecula is also at the center of Southern California's wine region. The winery has an illustrious history since it first opened its doors in 1988. It combines traditional wines with the taste of the new world to create delicious varietal wines.
The winery is located in a castle with views of the vineyards and you can also contemplate the wider valley of Temecula from this point of view. Galway Downs first opened in 1968 and used to be called Rancho California Track and Training Center. This property covers 242 acres and is known as an equestrian center of excellence in the Temecula area. There are several different areas for the public to enjoy, such as the recently opened Village which is known for its beautiful views and excellent places to eat and drink while enjoying the Temecula countryside.
You can also ride a horse here and there are paddocks and meadows all over the property that allow you to experience all the local flora and fauna first-hand. The Dripping Springs Trail crosses the 18,000-acre Agua Tibia desert near Palomar Mountain and is a great place for hiking. The woods along the trail are covered with Coulter pines and Douglas fir trees, as well as different species of oaks. As you make your way along the trail, you'll see spectacular canyons, picturesque streams, and brush-covered lowlands. The trail spans 14 miles and takes about 8 hours to complete. If you want to get an idea of what Temecula would have been like back in the day, then you have to go to the old town of Temecula.
There are definitely some fun things to do here and it's a must on any trip to the valley. At Temecula Olive Oil Company, located right in the old town, you'll find a wide variety of olive oils to try while the selection at the olive plantation is a little more limited and short-lived. This small studio is perfect for a couple or a single traveler looking for a cozy stay with mountain views away from tourists in Temecula. While many visitors take wine seriously, people here just want to have fun. If you join a tour in Temecula, they'll also provide you with local transportation so you don't have to worry about driving between tastings. Famous for its “great red wines”, Wiens Winery should be visited by those looking for the best artisanal red wines in Temecula.
There are also other attractions and activities if you want to spend some time away from the vineyards exploring the local area. Starting in September, wineries in the Temecula Valley will begin to harvest their grapes until October. Originally founded by the Temecula Indians, this area is one of the most historic in Southern California. If you've been undecided about Temecula, I'll show you why you should consider visiting Southern California's wine country, and I'll also share some of the fun things to do here.
