Hollister, California

Situated at the top of the Coast Range, the 6,890-acre Pacheco State Park, California is a stunning wilderness space that people of all ages will enjoy exploring. You’ll see scenic vistas and beautiful displays of spring wildflowers as you hike through the 28+ miles of trails that loop through the park. In addition to hiking, the multi-use trails are also perfect for mountain biking and horseback riding. Animals that are commonly seen throughout the park are deer, elk, fox, hawks, golden eagles, coyotes, bobcats, and cattle, which can be found grazing on the ranch during winter and spring.

Address: Pacheco State Park, 38787 Dinosaur Point Rd, Hollister, CA 95023, Phone: 209-826-6283

The Panoche Hills Ecological Reserve was established in 1990 by the Fish and Game Commission as a way of protecting the wildlife habitats that reside there. The 596-acre space is open to the public and is popular with visitors who enjoy wildlife viewing as well as seasonal hunting.

You’ll be able to hike through interior coastal foothills and grasslands that are filled with an array of flora and fauna. Some unique trees and shrubs you’ll be able to see include buckwheat, saltbush, juniper, and Mormon tea. The abundant wildlife that thrives there gives you the opportunity to come across coyotes, snakes, quails, hawks, doves, rabbits, deer, and lizards.

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

The Calera Wine Company is the brainchild of Josh Jensen who spent years in France learning the craft of winemaking under many of his mentors, all of whom were adamant that the best of chardonnays and pinot noirs must be grown in limestone-rich soil. Upon returning to California, he searched for the perfect location to start his vineyard and found a piece of land that has several million tons of limestone deposit within it.

The wines that you taste today are all the product of the effort and passion that Jensen put into producing each of his wines. Head over and take a tour of the stunning vineyard and their one-of-a-kind seven level gravity flow winery, all of which is surrounded by stunning views of the Diablo Mountain Range.

Address: Calera Wine Company, 11300 Cienega Rd, Hollister, CA 95023, Phone: 831-637-9170

A part of one of the most unique conglomerates in the country today, the Casa de Fruta enterprise came to be with a single orchard that was purchased by an immigrant Italian family in 1908. Orchards then evolved into stalls, stores, restaurants, and so much more. Stop by their location in Pacheco Valley to browse and purchase an array of items from fresh-off-the-farm fruits and vegetables to unique home-styled condiments.

They have aisle after aisle of gourmet groceries which are perfect to take back as souvenirs for friends and family back home. If you’re hungry, check out their full-service deli which is sure to serve a lunch that won’t disappoint.

Address: 10021 Pacheco Pass Highway, Hollister, CA 95023, Phone: 408-842-7282

Established in 1849, Eden Rift Vineyards can be found in the San Andreas Fault under the shadow of the Gavilan Mountain Range. It is the oldest, continually-producing estate vineyard in the entire state of California.

Visitors are invited to come explore the stunning estate, where you can spend time in their tasting room inside the historic Dickinson House or walk through the expansive vineyard. Some of the estate wines that can be found in their extensive portfolio are the Reserve Pinot Noir, Rose of Pinot Noir Magnum, Estate Pinot Noir Magnum, Dickinson Block Zinfandel, Terraces Chardonnay, and the Griva Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc.

Address: Eden Rift Vineyards, 10034 Cienega Rd, Hollister, CA 95023, Phone: 831-636-1991

Flanked by Lake Leal and rolling hills, Leal Vineyards can be found on the northern foothills of the Central Coast region. The lush region ensures that they produce superior quality wine grapes, making Leal Vineyards one of the area’s premier producers of Bordeaux varietal wines. When in Hollister, be sure to stop by and tour the private estate and vineyard, where you can pair their award-winning wines with picturesque views of the surrounding.

Try something traditional or go for something a bit more innovative; no matter if you prefer red or white, Leal Vineyards has something perfect for you.

Address: Leal Vineyards, 300 Maranatha Dr, Hollister, CA 95023, Phone: 831-636-1023

DeRose Winery can be found nestled along the rolling foothills of the Gabilan Mountains. The land has a history of winemaking, one that goes as far back as 1851. Visitors are invited to visit the vineyard on a sunny day and experience the rich soil that produces the flavorful premium grapes which go into all of their wines.

Afterwards, head over to their tasting room which has an array of delicious wines to try such as their full-bodied Carmenere, the chocolatey Cabernet Sauvignon, or the rich and fruity Syrah. The vineyard also hosts many events throughout the year such as library tastings and other get togethers.

Address: DeRose Vineyards, 9970 Cienega Rd, Hollister, CA 95023, Phone: 831-636-9143

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

Swank Farms is a family owned and operated endeavor that has been a part of the Maggini family for over three generations. The 60-acre ranch originally started with acres of prune and peach trees; over the years it has expanded to include several fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, carrots, and celery. Today, it is much more than just an organic farm but rather a family-friendly place that is filled with seasonal attractions and events. Kids love wandering through the Spookley Maze while adults try to maneuver their way through the Maniac Maze. You can also try your luck at the pumpkin slingshot, give a shot at gemstone and fossil mining, or explore the bee garden. With so much to see and do, you’ll never want to leave Swank Farms.

Address: Swank Farms, 4751 Pacheco Pass Hwy, Hollister, CA 95023, Phone: 831-637-4704

The Northern California Renaissance Faire is an annual month-long event that will bring the fantasy-filled renaissance era back to life. There’s so much to see and do at the faire including concerts, crafts, games, activities, and shows. You can participate in all the fanfare by renting out your very own authentic costume whether you choose to be peasant or princess. There are over 200 artisans at the faire, all of whom sell handmade goods such as jewelry, sculptures, clothing, toys, perfumes, and much more. Make sure to allocate time to watch shows such as Shakespeare’s musical comedies, jousting world tournament, and the Queen’s royal reception.

Address: Northern California Renaissance Faire, Casa De Fruta: 10031 Pacheco Pass Hwy, Hollister, CA 95023

Hollister is home to several parks and outdoor spaces for families to enjoy, and Brigantino Park does not disappoint. You’ll have everything you need for you and the family to enjoy some time outdoors taking in the sun and fresh air without it being overly crowded. There’s a large expanse of grass field that’s perfect for a game of soccer or frisbee, while the mile-long walking trail looping through the park provides unobstructed views of the Diablo Mountain Range, Flint Hills, and the San Benito River. Amenities and features that can be found within the park include fenced-in parking, scattered picnic tables, clean portable bathrooms, and shaded benches for you to sit and relax on.

Address: Brigantino Park, 2037 San Juan Road, Hollister, CA 95023