guide Valle de Guadelupe

My love affair with the country of Mexico continues in the wine country area of Valle De Guadelupe. This travelers gem is nestled approximately 30 mins from the beach town of Ensenada and 1 1/2 hours just past the San Diego/Tijuana border crossing. My first visit back in 2019 was a magical experience that truly exceeded my expectations. If you’re anything like me and love good wine, enjoy great food and incredible views without the pretentiousness of American culture then this is your place.

I’ve listed my top recommendations for accommodations, restaurants, and wineries for your next visit to the Valle that are not to be missed.

A few pieces of advice.

• Come with no expectations. Bring an open mind and let yourself be pleasantly surprised.

• Let go of the fear of driving through Mexico. Don't worry you’ll be just fine.

• Make dinner reservations in advance. Do the tasting menus and wine pairings!

• Take the coastal route and factor in extra time to stop by the beach towns of Rosarito and Ensenada.

• Bring cash for the toll roads.

• Drive an SUV. Most streets off the main road are not paved and to get to many of the wineries and restaurants require you drive down windy, dusty unpredictable roads.

• Purchase Mexican insurance ahead of time. Approximately $20-$50

• Prior to check out. Make sure to check the border crossing wait times in advance. Plan on leaving early first thing to avoid the long lines. The Tecate border crossing usually has the least amount of wait time.

• Make sure to bring someone special to join you.

• Have fun!

Hotels

1. Bruma Casa 8- This is my top pick to stay when in the Valle. There are only 8 suites to choose from allowing for privacy and an intimate experience. Each room blends the best of traditional and contemporary. Not to be missed their onsite garden winery and award winning restaurant Fauna.

2. Encuentro- When you arrive to this eco-hotel prepare to be shuttled to your personal room nestled on the hillside over looking the Valle. The views are amazing!

3. Campera Bubble Hotel- Looking for a unique stay then look no further. Ever wanted to sleep under the stars in a bubble? Comes complete with air conditioning, toilet, shower and all the amenities.

4. Hotel Cuatro Cuatros- This place offers a glamping option in a safari tent or take the option we chose and book the room that’s situated on the hillside of the property. A unique feature allows a wall to completely open up giving you beautiful views of the vineyard from the comfort of your bed.

5. Airbnb- A good choice if you plan on traveling with a big group.

Restaurants

1. Animalon- This seasonal restaurant is only open during specific times of the year so make sure to check their website for updated information. Dine under a beautiful and majestic oak tree, while enjoying a multi-course dining experience not to be missed.

2. Cabañas Cuatro Cuatros- This recommendation is more for the views than the food. Come for sunset appetizers and drinks. Stay for the music and people watching.

3. Corazon de Tierra- Unfortunately, this restaurant has closed but keep a look out for a future reopening!

4. Deckman’s en el Mogor- What more can you ask for? Deckman’s has it all. Come for lunch and enjoy wine with great views

5. Fauna- This restaurant will always hold a special place in my heart. This dining experience is one for the books. Make your reservation ASAP.

6. Finca Altozano- Looking for somewhere to go after dinner? Enjoy late night bites, a nite cap and live music.

7. La Cocina de Doña Esthela- A local’s favorite. Good for breakfast or brunch. Traditional mexican food.

8. Laja- Another favorite on the list. We love their farm to table approach using fresh local ingredients.

9. Lunario- A new favorite from our last visit. Make sure to do the tasting menu along with wine pairing. The cooks and sommelier are experts in their craft.

Wineries

1. Bruma- A high-end wine tasting experience

2. Decantos Vinicola- It gets lively over there. Grab a table outside, order a bottle and enjoy the live music, people watching and amazing views.

3. Finca la Carrodilla Agricultura Orgànica- Choose from an amazing selection of organic wines

4. Hacienda la Lomita- A beautifully designed modern wine tasting room with views.

5. Cuatro Cuatros- Don't forget to stop by their mezcal bar for a tasting.

6. Monte Xanic- One of the more upscale wineries in town.

7. Vena Cava- A great stop to enjoy natural wines and snacks from their on site food truck.

8. Vinicola 3 Mujeres- Woman owned and operated. Make sure to do the wine tasting in the wine cave.