We have been traveling to the Paso Robles wine country since 1999. From that first trip to the present, the Paso Robles wine region has changed remarkably. First and foremost, the wineries have increased in number from just a handful to over 100 wineries. The downtown area now boasts fancy and chic restaurants, boutique shopping, and several lavish tasting rooms around the famous City Park plaza. The earthquake of December 2003 was devastating but a rebuilding has resulted in a chic little downtown area reminiscent of Healdsburg in Sonoma County. We visited again in March 2008 and found more wineries and restaurants to explore and visit. Based on our travels to Paso Robles wine country, here are our recommendations.
Where to Stay in Paso Robles
We always stay at the Paso Robles Inn. The rooms are clean and well-equiped. We stay in the new area of the Inn that was rebuilt after the earthquake. The prices are very reasonable especially during the week. Best of all, you can walk out your door to enjoy your breakfast and dinner at one the several gourmet restaurants around the City Park downtown area. There are no worries about drinking and driving.
There is also a new fancy hotel in the downtown area by the name of Hotel Cheval Inn. This is a totally upscale place to stay and the room rates are above $300 per night.
The Marriott just opened a new Courtyard hotel, but it is not within walking distance to the downtown area. Take a look at the lodging list on Wine Country Getaways for more lodging listings.