Yesterday was another travel day for us. Happily it was without the hideousness that characterized our trip west!
We left Buellton at 9:30. While I was at the light waiting the signal change so I could enter the freeway I spotted the windmill that marked the hotel the guys in Sideways stayed at.
We were meeting Palma and Brad in Santa Barbara for brunch at 11:00. It was only about a 50 minute drive so we had lots of time to stop. The drive south from Buellton starts off by going through some rugged terrain as you cross through the mountains. Once the mountains have been left behind the road hugs the ocean, offering up some brilliant sights.
Because we had plenty of time we pulled off and wandered about.
Even with all of this stopping we were early when we got to Santa Barbara. We have briefly stayed in the city a few years ago and didn't really care for it. This tim we were further away from the beach - we were amazed at what we had missed during our last visit. Santa Barbara is now high on the list of places we want to return to!
The restaurant was well-known for it's local seafood. Paul and I ordered the fish tacos and a glass of prosecco . . . the perfect way to start a sunny day in CA!
After brunch we hopped back into the car and headed southwest over the mountains to Palm Desert. We stopped for a spell at the outlet mall where I was the picture of restraint and arrived at Palma and Brad's house by 5:30.
It was great to meet Luigi, the new addition to the family. He loved 'Mr. Lobster' every bit as muchas Max did when we delivered one to him in Piemonte last fall.
After we were settled we nibbled Palma's treats, chatted, laughed, drank wine, and played with Luigi until we could no longer keep our eyes open.
Another wonderful day in California.
Prosecco and tacos are the perfect way to end a day in California.
Posted by: bellini | February 06, 2012 at 09:43 PM
Today it started to cloud over and they are predicting rain on our side of town. I cannot believe how perfect the weather was for our weekend getaway. Your photos of the beach were beautiful. Can you believe this is Feb? Enjoy your days in the desert. PS Those fish tacos look fab!
Posted by: Barb Cabot | February 07, 2012 at 01:22 AM
These are some really great pictures. I am planning to have a holiday here soon and I'll be visiting all these places. So exited!
Posted by: villas costa blanca | February 08, 2012 at 03:57 AM
I agree belini - a great way to enjoy California!
I thought that California was always like that Barb? Thanks for bringing out the best weather for us!
Enjoy villas costa blanca.
Posted by: JDeQ | February 20, 2012 at 08:34 AM