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Temecula

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About Temecula

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?

Best Hotels in Temecula

  • The Inn at Europa Village Temecula (California) 10 rooms from AU$277

    Wine tasting  -  The winery produces European-style wines. There are many tastings and wine-related events on property as well as in the area
    Local exploring  -  Should you wish to venture out, Temecula wine country is worth exploring; enjoy rolling hills, lakes and mountain views
    Romantic Break  -  The rooms are quiet, private and feel romantic. Stay here for a weekend away a deux; dine, drink wine, rest and relax
    Great walks  -  Enjoy a walk in the scenic Lake Skinner Park or jog around the Little Free Library at Harveston Lake
    RestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Rustic Mediterranean-style accommodation set amongst three wineries, each inspired by France, Spain & Italy. The romantic resort houses one-of-a-kind suites combining antique furniture, wood paneling and lofty terraces; some have vineyard views & jetted tubs. Private luxury well-suited to couples. See More

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  • Ponte Vineyard Inn Temecula (California) 90 rooms from AU$308

    Total relaxation  -  There's no need to venture out as everything you need is on-site; pool, hot tub, in-room massages, restaurants and valley views
    Weddings  -  A wonderful venue for outdoor weddings with vineyards and wine country views - as well as mountain vistas in the background
    Wine tasting  -  This is proper wine country; It's walking distance to 3 local vineyards, including the property's working winery, Ponte
    Local exploring  -  Should the 3 local vineyards not be enough, explore the wider Temecula Valley Wine Country by car
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Mediterranean monastery meets California chic at this brand new boutique resort. Rooms are comfortable and spacious; interiors are contemporary classic in style with antique touches. Large balconies come with sit-out furniture & scenic valley vistas, while the outdoor pool has views over the vines. See More

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  • Domaine Chardonnay Temecula (California) 3 rooms from AU$459

    Wine tasting  -  Staying on a working winery, you can arrange for a private tasting — it would be rude not to!
    Local exploring  -  A good base for exploring other vineyards and the glorious countryside surrounding Temecula
    Total relaxation  -  Unwind in this delightful quiet, calm and peaceful retreat
    Birdwatching  -  A short distance away, Lake Skinner is a paradise for birdwatchers
    Air conditioningGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Unique B&B on an exclusive private 5-acre estate 11km from Temecula's old town. The three suites are beautifully appointed with neutral decor and ornate touches. Certain rooms feature high ceilings, elegant chandeliers and breathtaking views from every door and window. A magical place to unwind. See More

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