Valle de Guadalupe

Valle de Guadalupe is a food and wine destination that’s a must for anyone visiting San Diego, Southern California, or Northern Baja. With its Mediterranean climate and mild temperatures moderated by ocean breezes, the region produces a range of grape varieties from Malbec to Sauvignon Blanc to Bordeaux.

Guide by Shanan Campanaro

“Valle de Guadalupe is an actual GEM – we San Diegans are so lucky to have it so close.”

— Shanan

Where to stay

  • Bruma

    Where we always stay takes the cake for beauty. The grounds are incredible, the architecture is stunning, the winery is beautiful, and there’s a tennis court, too. Breakfast – which is super yummy – is included. I love the suites at Casa 8, but there’s also a mercado with rooms above or villas you can rent as a group.

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  • Mira Earth Studios

    My friends really love this place. There are no amenities, but every room has a stunning view, a kitchen, and a hot tub.

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  • Clos de Tres Cantos

    Another friend who loves the region names this as her favorite place to stay.

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Where to sip

  • Finca La Carrodilla

    I think this might be one of the most beautiful wineries and also has some of the best wine.

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  • Anacronica

    This is next on my list of where I want to visit. I keep missing it but have heard really great things!

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  • Torres Alegre

    A very experimental yet seasoned winemaker with a ton of experience from working at larger wineries in the region. Some of the most interesting wines I’ve tasted.

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  • Lomita

    This winery makes some of my very favorite wines from the region.

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  • Mogor Badan

    This whole operation knows how to make things that just taste amazing. Book a wine tasting before a late lunch or early dinner at Deckman’s.

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  • Cafe conCiente

    If you’re looking for good coffee, go here.

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Cava

Vena Cava

A cool space made out of old boats. Fun and funky if you're into skin contact wines, plus some great classic whites.

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Where to eat

  • Lunario

    The chef here is inspired. I’ve been twice and both times got the larger tasting menu – worth every penny and some of the best food I’ve had in my life.

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  • Deckman’s

    Super fun and gorgeous with really, really fantastic food.

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  • Finca Altozano

    A great lunch spot. The food is excellent!

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  • Animalon

    A top restaurant in the region – everybody loves it.

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Fauna

Fauna

Many say Fauna is their favorite restaurant in the region. It’s so good and open Mondays, so if you happen to be in the area on a Monday, book it since a lot of other places are closed.

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Where to explore

Ensenada

In just half an hour you can get to Ensenada. It's not the prettiest town, but hey – it's fun to explore! We went to El Paisa, where the cabeza tacos are incredible.

Jacumba

If you’re driving over the border to or from San Diego, I suggest stopping for a night at Jacumba Hot Springs. It’s an old spot that has been refurbished by a team doing some wonderful design. The pools are all natural and heated, and they often have live music on the weekends. I would suggest trying to stay in one of the two suites, as they are huge, comfy, and not too expensive. The resort plans to expand their offering soon to include private jacuzzis outside every room.

Sample Itinerary

  • Day one

    1. Mogor Badan for an afternoon wine tasting
    2. Deckman’s for an early dinner
    3. Blood Lust wine bar for cocktails

  • Day two

    1. Finca La Carrodilla for a midday wine tasting
    2. Lomita for an afternoon wine tasting
    3. Lunario for dinner

  • Day three

    1. Vena Cava for a midday wine tasting 
    2. Anacronica for an afternoon wine tasting 
    3. Fauna for dinner

Collection coming soon