paso-robles

Peace, Love, and Pismo

/ Charlotte / Leave a comment

Back in November 2024, Nanook and I escaped to San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach for a little getaway—my second trip since retiring, and I’m loving this new chapter. We stayed in this incredible loft apartment tucked inside a handcrafted timber-frame barn. The place was full of artistic details—think cozy vibes with unique touches everywhere. It’s surrounded by sprawling oak trees and stunning scenery, making it the ideal spot to kick back and relax.

The barn sits on a 50-acre ranch, with 10 acres dedicated to Tuscan olive trees. The owners craft award-winning olive oil from them and even left us a sample bottle to enjoy. The barn itself is a work of art—authentic timber-frame construction, all held together with wooden joints, no nails. Will, one of the owners, made the handrails and windows himself and had a big hand in building it. Simply gorgeous!

San Luis Obispo on a weekday hums with energy, especially with all the Cal Poly students buzzing around. The streets feel alive—people heading to class, grabbing coffee, or just soaking in the laid-back Central Coast vibe. Downtown SLO has this charming mix of small-town warmth and college-town spirit, with shops, cafés, and that famous Thursday night farmers’ market vibe lingering in the air even midweek.

Then there’s downtown Pismo Beach, especially near that big iconic sign. It’s got a classic beach-town feel—think salty air, the sound of waves crashing nearby, and a relaxed crowd strolling along the main drag. You’ve got cute little shops, seafood spots, and places like Woolley’s, where Nanook and I stopped in. I went for a juicy hamburger paired with an IPA from a local brewery—maybe something from Firestone Walker or SLO Brew, both solid picks in the area. Nanook chowed down on a grilled hotdog, looking pretty content.

One day, we took a short drive out to Kelsey Winery in See Canyon. Man, was it beautiful—rolling hills covered in vines, basking in the golden sunlight. Nanook and I had the best time just chilling there, sipping some wine while watching peacocks wander around nearby. It was one of those peaceful moments that sticks with you, perfect for a retired girl like me taking life a little slower these days.

Back at the loft, I cooked us a homemade meal one night. Afterward, we stepped out onto the balcony and caught a meteor shower—stars streaking across the sky, just the two of us taking it all in. The sunsets were absolutely fantastic, painting the horizon with fiery oranges and soft purples—hard to beat that kind of beauty. Mornings were my favorite, though. I’m a breakfast gal at heart, mostly because I’m lazy and love sipping coffee in my pajamas. One day, I whipped up pancakes and crispy bacon, the smell filling the loft while Nanook waited patiently. Another day, we took a walk along Pismo Beach—sand between our toes, waves rolling in, the perfect way to start the day. Retirement’s treating me well, and this trip with Nanook was pure bliss.

~Peace Out, Charlotte & Nanook

Magical Paso Robles

/ Charlotte / 1 Comment

In October 2024, Nanook and I made our way to Paso Robles wine country, and it was everything we hoped for—and more. While I had my eye on wine tasting and exploring the area, Nanook was all about the new smells, the sun-drenched napping spots, and meeting new friends along the way.

The real highlight of the trip, though? Casita Oliva. This little gem, perched on a hillside surrounded by olive groves, was the perfect mix of cozy and cool. From the moment we arrived, I knew we had found a special place. Inside, there was this amazing Moroccan-Spanish vibe, with light fixtures that made the place glow, a built-in queen-sized bed, and a super chill bathroom with a shower I couldn’t wait to use after a long day. But for Nanook, it was all about the outdoor space—wide open courtyards, fresh air, and endless places to lounge in the sunshine.

Sunrises, Sunsets & Olive Grove Bliss

Our mornings started early—Nanook, eager as always, gave me the “it’s time to get up” look, and we headed out into the fresh air. I had my coffee while he sniffed around the courtyard, and we both took in the breathtaking sunrise—the sky lighting up with soft pinks and golds as the hills and vineyards slowly woke up.

And the evenings? Even more stunning. As the sun set behind the hills in a blaze of orange and purple, I sat on the patio with a delicious pumpkin ale, soaking in the peaceful surroundings and watching the colors change across the sky. It was the perfect way to end the day. It felt like a scene from a movie.

Exploring Paso Robles (With Nanook Leading the Way)

Paso Robles is all about wine, and I couldn’t resist hitting up a few wineries. Still Waters Vineyards was a favorite—set on 60 acres of vineyards and olive trees, it was the perfect peaceful escape. I enjoyed their Cabernet Sauvignon while Nanook got tons of love from the staff (and a few treats, of course).

Downtown Paso Robles Stroll

We also spent some time wandering downtown Paso Robles. The historic town square is full of dog-friendly patios, cute boutiques, and of course, new spots for Nanook to explore. We strolled the tree-lined streets, enjoying the crisp fall air and soaking up the small-town charm.

Then, in a surprising twist, I stumbled upon a bar that welcomed Kansas City Chiefs fans. As a Chiefs fan for over 25 years, I couldn’t resist stopping for a drink and chatting with some fellow fans. Nanook, of course, was happy to curl up under the table and catch some Zs.

A Magical Night at Sensorio

Paso Robles isn’t just about wine and food—it’s also home to Sensorio, an incredible light installation by Bruce Munro. I visited the Field of Light, where thousands of glowing orbs covered the hills in a beautiful, ever-changing display of colors. The Light Towers were just as stunning, and it felt like I had stepped into another world.

Casita Oliva: Our Favorite Place

Between wine tasting, strolling downtown with Nanook, discovering a Chiefs-friendly bar, and checking out Sensorio, our time in Paso Robles was one for the books. But, hands down, the highlight was Casita Oliva—the sunrises, the sunsets, and the peacefulness of being surrounded by olive groves.

For me, it was the perfect escape. For Nanook, it was a doggy paradise with plenty of adventures, cozy nap spots, and new friends.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a dog owner looking for a getaway, or just someone who wants to enjoy the beauty of Paso Robles, this place will steal your heart. I know Nanook and I will be back soon.

~Peace Out, Charlotte & Nanook