PASO ROBLES, CA—I remember the days, not so very long ago, when there wasn’t much in terms of upscale lodging in this part of the Golden State. Inexpensive motels catered to north/south travelers on their way to and from the glamorous destinations of Carmel, Pebble Beach, Santa Barbara, or San Francisco. After a quick recharge with “40 winks” such visitors were back out on the road in the early morning.

I’ve made it my business to visit most of the luxury and upscale hotels in this part of California and I am very pleased to announce that the current crop of overnight accommodations are playing a large part in transforming the once sleepy cowboy and ranching town of Paso Robles into one of California’s most charming wine destinations.

One of my favorite hotels in Paso Robles, California, is La Quinta Inns & Suites. Though you’ve certainly heard of this national chain, I MUST emphasize that this particular location is quite unlike the others. Out of 100 rooms, 44 are suites (seven 2-room suites; thirty-three 1-room suites). Some have balconies and jacuzzi tubs.

Here’s what helps to set this property apart:

• The upgraded beds are FANTASTIC. I love them! You will sleep well.
• I have found the bathroom towels to be soft, plush, and new. (That’s refreshing!)
• The general manager and his staff UNDERSTAND HOSPITALITY. You will feel welcome. Many of their guests here are, in fact, regulars for this very reason.
• The rooms are spacious, well decorated, and clean.
• The hotel has free wireless high-speed Internet access.
• The hotel has a small fitness center, plus a business center.
• They have a free hot buffet breakfast each morning.
• They have a heated swimming pool and whirlpool.
• From Monday-Thursday the manager sponsors a WINE & GOURMET CHEESE RECEPTION in the lobby. Don’t miss it.
• They have a great location in the heart of Paso Robles just off East Hwy 46 — minutes from Hwy 101 and dozens of world-class Central Coast wineries.

EXCELLENT BEDS: While housekeeping was still in the process of cleaning this room I asked management if I could take a few photos.

This was one of their new suites. Very spacious and comfortable. All the amenities that the discerning visitor to California Wine Country has come to expect. Yep, there’s even a mini-fridge in the rooms.

Very nice bathrooms… The housekeeping staff was working on the sink area and so I was limited in the shots this time. Whenever I stay here, it’s like coming home.

Just off to one side of the lobby area is an amazing wine and gift shop. In addition to some excellent Paso Robles wines, they also carry a local apple cider that is really quite good.

As I recall, their self-serve breakfast includes scrambled eggs (hard boiled as well), sausage, make-them-yourself waffles, yogurt, cereals, fruit and juice/coffee/tea. Most larger area hotels have begun to offer similar fare.

After hours and hours of driving — I am thankful to have a heated pool available for some exercise.

I’ve been told that his La Quinta has been voted as one of the best in the entire nationwide chain. This doesn’t surprise me. It is 100% non-smoking; a very good value and gets my highest recommendation.