Solvang — Danish for “sunny field” — is a city in Santa Barbara County nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley, and was founded in 1911 on almost 9,000 acres of the Rancho San Carlos de Jonata Mexican land grant. This group of Danes who traveled west to establish a Danish colony far from the Midwestern winters ended up settling a city that is now home to a myriad of bakeries, restaurants and merchants offering “a taste of Denmark in California.” Thanks, in large part, to its unique half-timbered architecture, Solvang has become a major tourist attraction in the Golden State, with over one million visitors per year.

For locals, Solvang also represents a retreat by which to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday L.A. life, and for this purpose the city is an ideal choice when quick end-of-week romps are on the agenda. When planning the ultimate Solvang weekend getaway near Woodland Hills, consider the following spots when contemplating where to stay, what to eat and drink and which activities to indulge in.

Where to Stay in Solvang

Mirabelle Inn hearkens back to an era when service and elegance pampered the weary traveler by a staff well-prepared for the task…a bygone time where boutique hotels were specifically designed to provide the special details and touches to make you feel at home and well-attended-to. A lodging venue like nowhere else in the Santa Ynez Valley, Mirabelle Inn boasts a well-trained staff, proper service approach and other amenities that will make your Solvang weekend getaway near Woodland Hills memorable and comfortable beyond your wildest dreams. Situated at the foot of the Santa Ynez Mountains, this elegant European-esque hotel in Santa Barbara wine country is within walking distance of downtown and offers 12 guest rooms, each with distinctive décor and ambiance. Mirabelle Inn is located at 409 First Street in Solvang.

 

What to Eat and Drink in Solvang

First & Oak at the Mirabelle Inn has become legendary on Solvang’s wine country region scene and is located inside the uber-charming and aforementioned Mirabelle Inn. This premier dining establishment in the Santa Ynez Valley serves the best in local fresh fare, offering a selection of small plates emphasizing flavor and finesse as well as a menu that affords the opportunity and freedom to taste multiple courses – without being restricted by an appetizer and entrée format. First & Oak encourages every patron to create their own tasting menu, with restaurant representatives always suggesting one selection from each section for a “balanced experience.” First & Oak is located at the Mirabelle Inn at 409 First Street in Solvang.

 

What to Do in Solvang

Wine Tasting at Coquelicot is a fun activity to indulge in during your Solvang weekend getaway near Woodland Hills; this 58-acre vineyard is an organically-farmed property in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley where sustainable farming and gentle, meticulous winemaking techniques converge to yield hand-made, limited-production wines that are often described as “a true celebration of life.” Everything from 2016 Rieslings to 2011 Estate Sangioveses can be sampled at Coquelicot Estate Vineyard, so if you’re a vino connoisseur who appreciates a premium glass of wine, you’ll love sampling some of the best examples during your weekend stay in Solvang. Coquelicot Estate Vineyard is located at 2884 Grand Avenue in Los Olivos.

Solvang enjoys sunshine throughout the year with clear, warm days and cool nights, thus making for quite the destination for that quick weekend jaunt in the vicinity of Woodland Hills. If you are seeking a unique getaway, this historic Danish village offers the best of the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Barbara wine country in a relaxed and peaceful setting.