Central Coast Gables, Grapes & Guesses

Day 1 – Coastal Train Ride, Welcome to the Madonna Inn (Sunday, October 11)

From our departure points this morning we’ll travel aboard a deluxe motorcoach to downtown Los Angeles’ Union Station. All aboard Amtrak’s renowned Coast Starlight train for a spectacular, five-hour rail journey along California’s dramatic coastline and through its fertile valleys. We’ll travel along Point Conception and through Vandenberg Space Force Base, offering views of launch complexes and pristine, undeveloped coastline only visible by train. Enjoy an included boxed lunch onboard, with additional snacks and drinks available for purchase in the snack bar. Relax in your reclining seat or check out the view from the Observation Car (all group seats and observation car seats are located on the upper level of the train with stairs required), featuring floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows providing unparalleled views. Upon arrival in San Luis Obispo, we’ll reboard our motorcoach and continue the short distance to the world-renowned Madonna Inn. This flamboyant landmark known for its exuberant, maximalist design is a masterclass in "more is more" design, blending 1950s glamour, Alpine kitsch, and rugged Western charm into one of California’s most unique hospitality experiences. Everything here is a deliberate delight – from the custom-patterned carpets to the signature pink sugar. It manages to feel both luxurious and playfully unpretentious at the same time. The most famous aspect of the inn is that no two of its 110 rooms are alike with each having its own specific name and a completely unique decor scheme. Essentially, it’s a collection of 110 distinct art installations you can sleep in! You might find yourself in “Paris Violets,” featuring bright yellow walls and violet carpets paired with replicas of old Parisian street lamps and "lighted" paintings of the Eiffel Tower. “The Old Mill” is fairytale-inspired with a working waterwheel and whimsical hand-painted murals. “Mount Vernon” is a stately, patriotic tribute to early American history, featuring crisp red, white, and blue decor, elegant floral wallpaper, and traditional furnishings that evoke the classic charm of a colonial manor. The evening is yours to explore the property including the boutique shops and the Terrace Pool, featuring a 45-foot waterfall, two hot tubs, and sweeping valley vistas. Enjoy dinner on your own at one of its two restaurants. Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House is the hotel's crown jewel and features enormous pink leather booths, elaborate gold chandeliers, and a massive rock-waterfall. The Copper Café is a more casual, diner-style spot with intricate wood carvings and copper-topped tables. Cap off the night with music and dancing on the Madonna Inn dance floor – from live Big Band music, to swing, salsa, and piano music, every night of the week features a unique entertainment experience. While your room will feature modern amenities like wi-fi, flat screen television and a refrigerator, as an historic property, the Madonna Inn does not have an elevator. While we’ve reserved a number of ground level rooms, we also have rooms on the second and third level which can only be accessed via stairs. The inn rooms are located in detached, hillside wings behind the main building where the restaurants are located, and guests must walk along a scenic, winding outdoor pathway between the two. (Lunch)

Day 2 – Surprises & Wine Tasting (Monday, October 12)

Following an included breakfast at the inn, we’ll set out to explore the San Luis Obispo Valley, a region where timeless Central Coast charm is tucked into every rolling hillside. Our morning features a guided tour and catered lunch at a unique destination – a hidden gem never featured on a Good Times Travel tour. This afternoon we’ll transition to the rustic elegance of the Edna Valley, California's southernmost cool-climate wine region. This "transverse" valley funnels in refreshing Pacific breezes and morning fog, creating an extended growing season that yields world-class Burgundian varietals with a distinct volcanic minerality. We’ll visit an intimate, family-owned estate celebrated for its exceptional Alsatian-style wines. A behind-the-scenes tour of the vineyard and barrel room, followed by a curated wine tasting during the vibrant harvest season, will provide for a memorable experience. We’ll return to the Madonna Inn late this afternoon, leaving the evening at your leisure. Enjoy a relaxed dinner on your own at the inn or take advantage of optional motorcoach transportation to historic downtown San Luis Obispo. Enjoy time at leisure to wander the charming streets near the 18th century mission and discover local flavors at an array of celebrated restaurants. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 3 – Surprises, Journey Home (Tuesday, October 13)

After an included breakfast at the inn enjoy a relaxed morning with a late departure, allowing ample time to soak in the property’s whimsical atmosphere at your own pace. For a truly unforgettable experience, take advantage of an optional Madonna Inn Trail Ride led by experienced wranglers on gentle horses. This 1-hour trail ride by horseback utilizes the hillside paths behind the Madonna Inn, offering stunning views of the local landscape. This optional experience is available (based on availability) for an additional $125 per person (inclusive of taxes, fees and customary gratuity) and is payable at the time of booking. All riders must be in good physical condition with a maximum weight limit of 230 pounds fully dressed. Late this morning we’ll begin our southward journey with two additional “surprise” stops for an included lunch, and a sweet treat. We’ll return to our drop-off points this evening with many fond memories of the hidden gems and vibrant character discovered on this charming Central Coast getaway. (Breakfast, Lunch)

While we make every effort to operate our tours as outlined in the itinerary, we ask for your patience, understanding and flexibility and to retain a sense of adventure while traveling with us. Situations may arise that necessitate changes to the itinerary. Should we need to adjust the itinerary either prior to or while on tour, these changes will be communicated to you and only done when absolutely necessary.