Experience Ramona, California

Ramona looks like a great place for a relaxing weekend escape. There’s golf, wineries, antique shops, horseback riding, hiking, a variety of restaurants, and events throughout the year. Check the local lodging and make a reservation or look into camping.

 

Friday - A trip to bygone days

Set up a morning tee time at Mt. Woodson Golf Club ­— mountain course with target fairways, bring extra balls! — or San Vicente Golf Resort — scenic with great views of the mountainous Cleveland National Forest.

After golf, head to Old Town Ramona and absorb local history at the Guy B. Woodward Museum. Adobe house built in 1886, and other historic buildings from the 1800s — even a cowboy bunkhouse — all chock-full of historic items.

Stroll down Main Street to shop at the antique stores. Looks like I could spend hours browsing through the treasures and sure to find a memento to bring home.

Top off the afternoon by walking over to Pamo Valley Winery’s tasting room for some wine-tasting. Heard it’s a favorite of locals and visitors.

Pick a spot for dinner. Don’t forget to enjoy the clear starry night skies.

 

Saturday - Experience homegrown

Start the day with a cinnamon roll at Ramona Cafe & Bake Shop — they were featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.”

Venture down to the Ramona Certified Farmer’s Market in the Kmart shopping center. Besides produce, lots of handcrafted items. Pick up provisions for afternoon snacks and a Sunday picnic.

Have a hearty lunch in town.

Now for some wine-tasting. Wow! 18 boutique winery tasting rooms and patios. Where to begin? So many scenic views, unique spots, award-winning wines, and opportunities to visit with the vintners. Could drive or take a winery tour through the Transit Van Shuttle Service.

Spend the evening with a casual dinner and maybe some entertainment at one of the local bars or restaurants. Be sure to get enough rest for exercise on Sunday.

 

Sunday - Back to nature

Early morning hike. Pack a cooler with a picnic lunch, take plenty of water for the trail, and don’t forget sunscreen. So many trails to choose from. Try out the Ramona Grasslands Preserve’s four-mile loop trail ­— undeveloped former ranchlands, cut through by the Santa Maria Creek, and home to lots of birds and wildlife. Or, hike Barnett Ranch Preserve, another former ranch with four miles of trails and scenic views.

Drive over to Dos Picos County Park for a relaxing picnic by the pond. There’s more hiking trails if I still have enough energy before heading home!

 

Courtesy of the Ramona Sentinal