Encuentro Guadalupe
At just 90 minutes from the Tijuana boarder the Valle de Guadalupe is a hidden gem when it comes to wine country and Encuentro Guadalupe boutique hotel is the cherry on top. Set on an rugged hillside the eco-resort vibe is authentic and the beauty that surrounds breathtaking.
Arrival at reception greeted by delicious
The hotel’s reception, restaurant, tasting room and oyster raw bar reside in the main building just off the road. However, the bulk of the cabins are up and over the hillside 10mins by van where you’ll also find the pool, hot tub and bar & restaurant as well as a garden full of fresh veggies. This is also where you’ll have complimentary brekkie each day.
The staff is all excellent; quick to help and eager to please. They not only set up and personally took us on a full day wine tour, they also escorted us to dinner every night and organized both pick up and drop off at the Tijuana border via a slick Mercedes van. I simply can’t say enough good things about one employee in particular, Ivan. He was our personal chauffeur and tour guide for entire trip and truly made the experience beautiful and unique.
Afternoon fun in the sun.
The cabins are beautifully and minimally appointed. Blackout blinds and AC allow for you to snooze in if wanted and fresh water is supplied daily. Should you need anything from the main building walkie talkies are supplied for quick return on requests and each cabin comes with a chiminea on a personal patio. Which is a lovely way to enjoy a bottle of wine and take in the gorgeous sunsets across the valley view.
The view from our cabin patio.
Encuentro Guadalupe is the perfect West Coast long weekend getaway. Not too far that it’s a hassle by far enough in both distance and culture that you feel like you got away. The wine is great with some truly gorgeous options and the cuisine is incredible but only if you can pull yourself away from gorgeous views of Encuentro Guadalupe and poolside service.
Insider Tips
>>> Fly into San Diego and walk across the Tijuana border. All you need is your passport. Trust me is simple and fast! Encuentro Guadalupe will pick you up on the Mexican side of the Tijuana pedestrian crossing. From there is a 90 minute drive to the hotel.
>>> Book through Booking.com, the hotel prefers this and you’ll get fast confirmation
>>> The food in the valley is really outstanding. Make sure to make reservations at the following: Fauna, Animalon and Deckman’s
>>> Wine taste at Lechuza, Lomita and Hilo Negro
>>> Make sure to organize an in-room massage and morning poolside yoga
Happy hunting!
All images via She The Huntress
