Last Updated on February 15, 2025
There’s always something special about waking up among the vines. At Allegretto Vineyard & Resort by Ayres in Paso Robles, California, guests are treated not only to enchanting accommodations, but acres of sprawling vineyards and orchards, and a Tuscan-inspired place bathed in beauty and peaceful harmony.
When owner Douglas Ayres created Allegretto Vineyard Resort, his inspiration was visits to Tuscany, Italy wine country. After 13 years of looking at property in Paso Robles, the 20-acre resort opened in 2014 designed to offer a luxurious blend of fine wine, art, nature and sustainable dining. The development also created a destination for enjoyment and relaxation amidst the scenic rolling hills of the vineyard landscape.
Situated in Paso Robles, the renowned Central Coast California wine region, the name Allegretto is a musical term that means light, graceful and moderately fast. The luxury resort is definitely a symphony that blends elaborate luxury with peace and tranquility with the perfect Mediterranean influences. And of course, outstanding, award-winning wines.
Populated with art and artifacts from Ayers travels through Asia, Europe, South America and beyond, the resort celebrates global cultures and traditions through its impressive statues, fountains, artwork and artifacts.
Allegretto Vineyard Accommodations
Allegretto Vineyard Resort features 171 total rooms on three floors, a mix of guest rooms and suites. All accommodations are designed with Mediterranean-inspired style, offering a comfortable yet elegant experience with views of the vineyard or gardens surrounding the property.
My premium king room overlooked the vineyards and to our surprise, we were welcomed each morning by alpacas, sheep and goats, housed on the grounds to graze the vineyards. Guests can also get up close and personal and meet and interact with George the friendly alpaca with the groundskeeper as a guide.
Gardens and Grounds
Everywhere on property, you’ll find international gardens, plants and trees including native, tropical and Mediterranean varietals. Outdoor seating in the open courtyard area invites guests to sit and relax with a creative cocktail, glass of wine or a cup of coffee and celebrate nature.
The Star Garden Trail is like taking a spiritual journey to discover 12 stations of meditation associated with a Zodiac sign along with unique art installations and a labyrinth. Maps are available in the lobby to explore other spiritual paths that include themes on life, meaning, purpose and intuition.
Indoors, the stunning lobby has multiple massive fireplaces with warm, comfy seating near a roaring fire. The awe-inspiring marble staircase splits into two different wrought-iron topped directions while an eclectic lighted chandelier provides the visual centerpiece for the room.
Dining at the Resort
Guests can savor “La Dolce Vita” at the resort’s signature restaurant, Cello Ristorante & Bar. The upscale yet casual Mediterranean restaurant features creative Northern Italian dishes made from regionally-foraged ingredients from local gardens and waters.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant’s setting is as impressive as the rest of the resort with indoor and outdoor patio dining with firepits and heaters along with bar seating.
My husband and I had the opportunity to dine here for dinner, enjoying the seductive cuisine created by Chef Giardino. Guests can choose between aperitivo (small plates), l’insalata (salads) and soups along with a variety of pizza and prime beef, lamb and pork sourced from local Niman Ranch and cooked in an oak pit, and organic-raised chicken.
Chef specials and multi-course dinners are also offered including Allegretto Library Wines dinner with five courses accompanied by paired estate-grown wines.
Amenities and Other Engagements
Spa Allegretto offers a full menu of massage and body treatments in a relaxed, upscale Zen-like setting. One outdoor pool with cabanas, sun loungers and pool umbrellas, a hot tub and 24-hour fitness center are on site.
Guests also have complimentary access to cruising bikes available by reservation. Valet parking runs $20 per day, though there’s no charge for self-parking.
Complimentary engagements include Olive Oil Tasting and Art Tours led by owner Douglas Ayres on weekends. Reservations are required.
Vineyard Tours are available on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays with a discount for resort guests.
Allegretto Vineyard Wine Tasting
Willow Creek Tasting Room offers indoor and outdoor seating for its classic tasting events with a discount for guests as well, though reservations are highly recommended.
On our visit, we thoroughly enjoyed an impressive selection of award-winning red and white wine selections but those without a reservation ended up have a long wait or booking at another day and time.
It’s been a long time since we enjoyed so many highly selective small-lot vineyard wines on the menu with prices that were well in line with the quality of the varietals and highly knowledgeable wine stewards.
Final Thoughts
When visiting a renowned wine region like Paso Robles, it’s great to spend a few days relishing in the beauty of nature, celebrating the fruits of the vine and enjoying relaxation in a wonderful wine destination like Allegretto Vineyard Resort.
Here’s to great wine, great places, and great memories!
