Just an hour from San Diego, and within easy day-trip distance of Palm Springs and Los Angeles, Temecula is a gorgeous spot for a Californian wine country escape. Accommodation options range from tranquil little inns to larger boutique hotels catering to a whole array of tastes and budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Temecula promises laid-back properties surrounded by vineyards — ideal for romantic couples or active families eager to explore.

Once a ranching outpost and later a stop on the California Southern Railroad, Temecula has grown into a thriving 21st-century city, home to California’s largest casino and surrounded by almost 50 wineries. Tour the vineyards which dot the Temecula Valley for tastings and an expert insight into the wine-making process. The area’s rich soil and Mediterranean climate make for unique vintages using Spanish, French and Italian grapes. Many small-batch bottles are only distributed locally, making this a particularly exciting place for wine aficionados to experience in person.

In Temecula itself, stroll through the charming Old Town, savour delicious fare in classic Californian farm-to-table restaurants, and catch a brilliant array of annual events — including a film festival, and a wine & hot air balloon festival. Don’t miss visiting the Temecula Valley Museum, and head further afield to the Palomar Observatory or to the striking Palomar Mountain State Park. Outdoorsy adventurers will adore hiking, cycling and horse riding, whilst there are also some great golf courses to play and the chance of an amazing hot air balloon ride!

Meaning ‘place of the sun’ in the language of the Luiseño — the region’s original inhabitants — Temecula is a sun-drenched city filled with things for wine lovers and nature-focused travellers to discover. The best places to stay in Temecula fill up especially fast during the summer months — book your stay well in advance to avoid missing out!

The Best Places to Stay in Temecula

For Romance

• The Inn at Europa Village is a pint-sized hideaway with ten rustic, romantic guestrooms. Pick this property for a tranquil stay amidst the vineyards, with a laid-back Mediterranean feel and plenty of privacy. Great for couples.

For Boutique Chic

• Ponte Vineyard Inn promises an elegant fusion of old-world charm with contemporary chic interiors for a luxurious couples' or family escape. Indulgent rooms and suites offer gorgeous views across the surrounding vineyards, and the four onsite restaurants are excellent. Kids will love splashing around in the pool, and grown-ups can stroll to three nearby wineries or unwind with a massage!

FOR AN APARTMENT OR Holiday cottage

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly into Palm Springs International Airport or San Diego International Airport and travel to Temecula by bus or taxi. The journey from Palm Springs should take around 1 hour and 20 minutes, and the trip from San Diego about an hour.
• California is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Temecula is hottest in July and August, when the average temperature reaches 33°C. Travel during the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for cooler temperatures and to see the harvest.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in San Diego.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in California.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.