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Cuyama Buckhorn and the Spectacular Super Bloom in New Cuyama Valley

Cuyama Buckhorn offers a unique blend of rustic charm, artisanal cocktails, farm-to table restaurant, and a front row seat to the awe-inspiring super bloom in New Cuyama Valley. My recent visit to this hidden gem left me spellbound and rejuvenated, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.

As I drove down Highway 166, a scenic route through the picturesque Los Padres National Forest, I arrived at Cuyama Buckhorn. This historic lodge, dating back to the 1950s, has undergone a thoughtful renovation while preserving its rustic appeal. With comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and a welcoming staff, it’s the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The hotel exudes a sense of seclusion and tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere.

Cuyama Buckhorn’s bar is a true haven for cocktail enthusiasts. Scott Augat and Sam Seindenberg are true mixologists, crafting inventive concoctions that showcase the region’s flavors. I couldn’t resist trying their signature Buckhorn Old Fashioned, featuring local whiskey and a hint of citrus. The combination of expert craftsmanship and the warm, woodsy ambiance made each visit to the bar a memorable experience.

Cuyama Valley is known for its rich agricultural heritage, and Cuyama Buckhorn takes full advantage of the region’s bounty with its farm-to-table dining experience. The Buckhorn Restaurant offers a seasonal menu that highlights the freshest ingredients sourced from local farmers and ranchers.

One of the primary reasons for my visit was to witness the super bloom in New Cuyama Valley. This region is famous for its wildflower displays, which occur after a wet winter. The valley bursts into a riot of colors, with blankets of wildflowers stretching as far as the eye can see. From brilliant orange California poppies to delicate lupines and vibrant yellow goldfields, the super bloom is a sight to behold.

The most memorable experiences was hiking through the Carrizo Plain National Monument. The vast, undulating landscape was adorned with a carpet of wildflowers, and the sight of endless fields of color against the backdrop of distant mountains was nothing short of breathtaking.

Photography enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, as the super bloom provides countless opportunities for capturing stunning shots. Whether you’re using a smartphone or a professional camera, the New Cuyama Valley super bloom will reward you with spectacular images.

A Perfect Two-Day Getaway: Paso Robles Wine Country and Culinary Delights

Paso Robles, nestled in the heart of California’s Central Coast, is a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts and foodies alike. With its rolling vineyards, charming wineries, and a burgeoning culinary scene, this wine country destination offers a perfect two-day escape. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through a delightful itinerary, including visits to renowned wineries like Thacher, Tooth & Nail, Justin, Niner, and Clos Solene, as well as exquisite dining experiences at Della’s and Les Petite Canailles. Plus, I’ll top off your trip with a mesmerizing nighttime art exhibit at Sensorio Paso Robles.

Day 1: Exploring the Wineries

Morning: Thacher Winery

Start your day with a visit to Thacher Winery. Located on the west side of Paso Robles, Thacher is known for its sustainability-focused practices and exceptional Rhône-style wines. The picturesque setting of this family-owned winery, surrounded by oak-studded hills, sets the perfect tone for your wine country adventure. Enjoy a guided tasting of their limited-production wines while soaking in the breathtaking views.

Lunch: Tooth & Nail Winery

After a morning of tasting, it’s time for lunch at Tooth & Nail Winery, a unique and enchanting destination. The winery’s castle-like architecture transports you to another time and place. Enjoy your meal in their beautiful courtyard while savoring their delicious wines. The food menu offers an array of options, from charcuterie boards to tacos, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. My favorite wine here has to be the Stasis Gamay Noir.

Afternoon: Justin Winery

Continue your wine exploration with a visit to Justin Winery, a pioneer in the Paso Robles wine scene. Known for their Bordeaux-style wines, Justin offers a comprehensive wine tasting experience. My personal favorites out of all the reds were the Savant and Isosceles Reserve. Both of these wines are exceptional.

Dinner: Della’s

For dinner, head to Della’s, a charming Italian restaurant in downtown Paso Robles. Indulge in wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, and an extensive wine list featuring local gems. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service make Della’s a must-visit for food lovers.

Day 2: More Wineries, Culinary Delights, and Art

Morning: Niner Winery

Begin your second day at Niner Winery, known for its sustainability efforts and exceptional wines. Enjoy a seated tasting experience where you’ll sample a variety of their wines, including their outstanding Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, as well as the flagship blend Fog Catcher. The winery’s modern architecture and beautiful surroundings make it a fantastic place to unwind. Enjoy a seasonal lunch sourced straight from the Chef’s garden and local farms while taking in views of Heart Hill.

Special THANK YOU to Andy Niner for spending your time with me and sharing your story. It was truly an honor.

Afternoon: Clos Solene Winery

Complete your wine tasting extravaganza with a visit to Clos Solene Winery, where you’ll experience the artistry of winemaking. This boutique winery is known for its dedication to producing small-batch, handcrafted wines with a French touch. Their passionate winemaker, Guillaume Fabre, will guide you through a tasting that showcases the elegance and complexity of their wines. Be sure to inquire about their limited releases for a truly special experience.

Afternoon: Art at Sensorio

Spend your late afternoon exploring Sensorio Paso Robles, a mesmerizing art exhibit featuring thousands of illuminated fiber-optic spheres. As the sun sets, the landscape transforms into a magical, otherworldly experience. This unique art installation is a visual delight that provides the perfect transition from a day of wine tasting to an evening of wonder.

For tickets: https://bit.ly/3QP8Th7

Dinner: Les Petite Canailles

Wrap up your two-day journey with dinner at Les Petite Canailles, a French bistro known for its authentic cuisine and extensive wine list. The intimate setting and attention to detail in both food and service create a memorable dining experience.

Paso Robles is a destination that offers a perfect blend of wine, art, and culinary pleasures. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a delightful getaway, Paso Robles will leave you with cherished memories and a longing to return to this captivating wine country haven. So, pack your bags and embark on a two-day journey to Paso Robles, where every sip, bite, and sight will enchant your senses.

Where I stayed: La Quinta Inn

Shiseido’s launch of Urban Environment Vita-Clear Sunscreen SPF 42 at Underwood Family Farms

Shiseido, one of the world’s leading beauty brands, has just launched its new Urban Environment Vita-Clear Sunscreen SPF 42, a part of the Urban Environment Collection. To celebrate the launch, Shiseido hosted an exclusive brunch at the Underwood Family Farms; a beautiful organic farm located in Moorpark, California. The event was attended by beauty industry experts, influencers, and media professionals who came together to enjoy a day of farm-fresh food and learn more about the new product.

Shiseido’s Urban Environment Vita-Clear Sunscreen SPF 42 is more than a sunscreen. It’s Vitamin C meets SPF 42 for lightweight yet powerful protection that feels as comfortable as your skincare. The formula Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid help to improve the skin’s overall health, while also preventing the appearance of dark spots and blemishes. Your skin should be brighter with 2 weeks of use. The sunscreen is perfect for everyday use and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

At the brunch event, we were treated to a delicious farm-fresh meal that showcased the beauty and simplicity of organic ingredients. The menu included pastries, fresh salads, charcuterie, cheeses, and citrus fruits, all of which were sourced directly from the Underwood Family Farms. The meal was accompanied by a selection of The Paring wines, mimosas and fresh juices, which were also made with organic ingredients.

Overall, the launch of the new sunscreen and the brunch event at Underwood Family Farms was a huge success. We were able to enjoy a delicious meal while learning more about Shiseido’s latest product, and the event served as a reminder of the importance of protecting our skin from the harmful effects of the sun and other environmental factors. With its innovative formula and commitment to sustainability, the Urban Environment Vita-Clear Sunscreen SPF 42 is sure to be a hit among beauty lovers everywhere.

Recap video of this event can be found HERE

Photo credit: Jen Johnson | @jenjphoto

HYLETE

There’s a lot of fitness apparel options on the market these days but my recent discovery is HYLETE. They’re based out in San Diego, California. HYLETE offers a line of comfortable yet fashionable fitness wear that’s designed to be sweat-wicking. I love this because I sweat SO much during my workouts!

My experience with the compression pants, tanks, shorts, and sports bra has been nothing but amazing. They are without a doubt the most comfortable training pieces. I love the how durable and lightweight the fabric is and allows me to run, jump, squat and do lunges freely.

Fitness apparel brand, HYLETE, is celebrating the holidays with a Black Friday promotion. HYLETE is offering 30% off all inline products plus free shipping on HYLETE.com with promo code BLK30, now through December 20th. Making holiday shopping easy and safe.