Los Olivos, California, Is the Charming Wine Country Escape You’ve Been Dreaming About
From lavender fields to wine tastings, this California gem is the budget-friendly escape you need
Key Takeaways
- Sip a glass of wine on the patio of Petros Winery and gaze at the scenery.
- Shop for soothing lavender soaps and shampoos at Clairmont Farms.
- Get to know the local culture at Los Olivos' many cozy art galleries.
Get whisked away to beautiful Los Olivos! The California town, which started as a stagecoach stop in the 1860s, was originally named for a nearby olive tree ranch. Today, it is a beloved spot for wine lovers thanks to its location in the Santa Ynez Valley—and it also offers art galleries, a wide variety of delicious restaurants and more.
Immerse yourself in beautiful lavender
Begin your visit at the family-owned Clairmont Farms, a working lavender farm home to 12,000 Grosso lavender plants. Learn about the process of lavender farming and peruse the gift shop’s homemade lavender soaps and shampoos. You can even enjoy a relaxing picnic in the lavender fields for lunch.
Raise a glass at Petros Winery
At dusk, head over to the postcard-worthy Petros Winery, where you can sip California wines on the patio and admire the stunning landscape. Pair them with Petros’ award-winning dips, soups and appetizers for a truly memorable evening.
Enjoy a guided horseback ride
Vinos Vaqueros is one of many local businesses that will lead you through wine country. During the unforgettable experience, you’ll travel on horseback on the renown Foxen Canyon Wine Trail.
Explore the area’s art galleries and studios
Welcoming spots like Gallery Los Olivos are home to more than 50 spectacular artists. Admire paintings, photographs, sculptures and more as you get to know the creators behind them.
Dine at Coast Range restaurant
This nearby favorite is known for its steak and seafood dishes, but there’s no shortage of great cocktails or appetizers either. Ask for a table on the patio for a lovely al fresco meal!
Bonus: Experience the city at home!
A refreshing sangria sip and a video of the town’s highlights will instantly transport you to Los Olivos.
Apple-Orange Sangria
Ingredients:
- 1 red apple (cored, diced)
- 1 Granny Smith apple (cored, diced)
- 1 orange (cut into wedges)
- 1 (750 ml) bottle of red wine
- 1 cup apple juice
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1 Tbs. lemon juice
- 3 cans ginger ale
Add ingredients to a pitcher. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least four hours. Before serving, stir in 3 cans ginger ale and pour into ice-filled wine glasses. Serves 8.
Virtual tour
Catch a glimpse of the cozy shops and tasting rooms Los Olivos has to offer. Watch the Discovering Wine Country Los Olivos video posted by Crushed Grape Chronicles on YouTube.
A version of this story first appeared in the April 13, 2026 issue of Woman’s World magazine.
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