WALKING
TOUR #1
Assuming you have come by car from Highway 101, you will drive east along Highway 246 until it becomes Mission Drive edge of town.
Hadsten House Inn & Spa
www.hadstenhouse.com
One of the first motels on the right (south) side of Mission Drive is the Hadsten House Inn & Spa. It is newly renovated and is the only Valley motel that has a heated, indoor pool. You can also be pampered in their day-spa, or stay in one of their spa suites at some very special introductory rates. Their guest rooms feature luxury, custom mattresses and classic French furnishings. You can also savor their local wine tastings and hors d’oeuvres. The romantic dining room features original wine-country gourmet selections for your enjoyment, especially when paired with a deli-cious Santa Barbara County wine from their constantly changing wine list. For reservations, call 800-457-5373 and be sure to ask about their “One Night Dinner Special.”
News Flash: We have been just informed that Hadsten House, which is the only hotel in the Valley with both a full-service day spa and a restaurant, has been rated the “Number One Hotel in Solvang” by TripAdvisor.com and that Expedia.com has designated them in the top 1% of all hotels on their worldwide guest comments log. Congratulations Hadsten House! We are all proud when one of our Valley businesses excels in customer satisfaction ratings.
Now continue driving east on Mission Drive and at the corner of Fifth Street you will see the Solvang Conference and Visitors Bu-reau in the tower of the Strong Building. Make a note of where they are and continue driving east to turn right just past Fourth Place into a convenient public parking lot.
Solvang Inn and Cottages
www.solvanginn.com
Just before you get to Fourth Place, you will see the Solvang Inn and Cottages, a lovely and cozy (“hygge” in Danish) place to stay dur-ing your visit to Solvang. You can’t beat the reasonable prices and Old World hospitality you’ll find here. You can have your choice of a newly decorated room in the inn, or one of the romantic cottages. There is even a balcony suite overlooking the garden, and a special wedding package. Just step into their office and they’ll be happy to show you around and tell you what they have available. Or, if you’re reading this at home in a copy of the Guest that’s been sent to you, you can make your reservations on-line or by calling 800-848-8484.
Solvang Visitors Bureau
www.solvangusa.com
There is a crosswalk at the corner of Fifth Street and Mission, so you can walk back across Mission to go into the Visitors Bureau and pick up the most current calendar of events. Be sure to ask them about special events during your stay. You can also pick up some extra copies of the Santa Ynez Valley Guest to take home for friends and relatives who might want to visit our Valley.
Olsen’s Bakery
www.olsensdanishbakery.com
Just half a block to the east along Mission Drive, you will come to Olsen’s Bakery, owned and operated by Bent Olsen, who learned his trade in Denmark, where his family established their bakery in 1890.
Bent moved the whole family business to Solvang over 30 years ago—and he’s glad he did. “There is a lot more opportunity here,” he told us. “I love Solvang and this whole area—it’s been very good to me.” And Olsen has been good for Solvang, too. Bent and his family participate in all of the special events in Solvang with great enthusiasm and generosity. Bent makes delicious Danish butter cookies that keep well and are regularly sent all over the world as gifts. He also makes breads, cakes, a large selection of mouth-watering Danish pastries and hearty, Danish pumpernickel. This whole-grain bread freezes well and is wonderful for making open-face canapés for parties. A favorite of our family is his apple cinnamon bread, which has large chunks of real apples and real cinnamon. His Danish-style French bread is also great!
Honeywood & Old Mission Wine Company
www.oldemissionwinecompany.com
A couple of doors down the street, at 1539B Mission Drive, you will find Honeywood & Old Mission Wine Company. This tasting room and wine shop features an extensive selection of boutique Central Coast wineries. It is also the home of Heritage Valley Wines. For more information, please see our “Wine Tasting Tour of Solvang.”
TRIO Tastings
A short distance further west, at the corner of Mission and Fourth Street, is TRIO Tastings. This is Solvang’s newest and most talked-about tasting room. It features three labels, by two winemakers: BADGE and DiBruno are acclaimed winemaker Bruno D’Alfonso’s personal labels. The third label is Curran, named for winemaker, Chris Curran. For more information about the excellent wines of-fered under these labels, see the Solvang Wine Tasting Walking Tour.
Best Western King Frederik
www.bwkingfrederik.com
Across Mission Drive and just before Solvang Park, you will see the Best Western King Frederik Inn. Family-owned and operated, it offers 45 rooms in the heart of the Danish Village. Guests can park their cars and follow one or both of the “Walking Tours of Solvang” in this magazine, especially after enjoying a breakfast of fresh Danish pastry, juice and coffee in the cozy lobby by the fireplace or in the patio area by the pool and spa.
The King Frederik offers golf, theater (in season) and wine tour packages. If you prefer to make your own arrangements, the Alisal River Golf Course is only a short distance away. For wine tours, you can follow the “Wine tasting Walking Tour” of Solvang’s tasting rooms in this magazine, or hire one of the many tour guides to outlying vineyard tasting rooms. For more information about the King Frederik Inn, or to make reservations, call (800) 549-9955 or visit them on line.
Quilts Galore and More
www.noddingplace.com
Now walk south on Atterdag Road to Copenhagen Drive, turn right and walk half-a-block to where you will see Quilts Galore and More. Owners Emily and Steve Sikes moved to Solvang from Texas to start a quilt store, and they have been so successful that they now have two stores. (We’ll visit their new store in Walking Tour #2.)
Quilts Galore and More has an enormous selection of hand-quilted items, including some Amish and antique quilts. In addition, they have place mats, table runners, vests, quilted bears, collectible Victorian dolls and other decorative items, some made from an-tique quilts. If you don’t find exactly what you’re seeking in this shop, you’ll probably find it in their other one—or ask the Sikes to order it and ship it directly to your address.
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WALKING
TOUR #2
You can start this walking tour by strolling through Solvang Park. If you’re lucky, one of the Solvang bands will be playing in the band shell or the Danish Dancers will be performing. At times, the park is the location for Renaissance players who reenact the Royal Court of Denmark’s King Christian. At other times, an actor depicting Hans Christian Andersen will tell stories in the park, but he is more likely to be seen at the nearby Book Loft bookstore and Hans Christian Andersen museum.
The Olive House
www.olivehouse.com
While you’re relaxing in the park, look across Mission Drive—to the left of the hardware store you will see The Olive House, where you can taste and buy olives, condiments and Casa Cassara wines. For more information, see our "Wine Tasting Rooms of Solvang"article.
The Book Loft
www.bookloftsolvang.com
Just across Mission Drive from the Olive House is one of our favorite spots in Solvang, The Book Loft. Their friendly and knowledge-able staff will be happy to help you find just the right book for yourself, or for the child, teen or adult on your shopping list. Lovers of old books should check out the impressive collection of quality used books upstairs. The Book Loft also regularly sponsors special events, such as poetry readings and book signings. During Danish Days, they will hold open house with refreshments. For more about the Book Loft’s special events, call (805) 688-6010.
Hans Christian Andersen Museum
www.bookloftsolvang.com
The Hans Christian Andersen Museum occupies several rooms in the upstairs part of the Book Loft, and you’ll want to see the mu-seum’s extensive collection of memorabilia pertaining to Andersen’s life, as well as hundreds of his books, letters, manuscripts and photos. A visit to this museum is mandatory for anyone with little children, or anyone who has fond childhood memories of read-ing Andersen’s stories. Group tours of the museum are available by appointment, and visitors are always welcome between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily. For more information, visit the website above or call (805) 688-6010.
Cabernet Bistro
www.cabernetbistro.com
As you exit the Book Loft, turn right and walk east to the corner of Mission and Alisal. Here is a large building known as Frederik’s Court, after the legendary Danish King Frederik. The building is built in the style of medieval castles, with a large courtyard that you enter through an archway off Alisal Drive. There are numerous small shops inside, and one of our favorite restaurants in the whole world, Cabernet Bistro, recently relocated here. Owners Jacques and Diane Toulet hope to see all of their old friends again at this new location, as well as many new ones.
Cabernet Bistro offers fine European cuisine at surprisingly reasonable prices. In addition, Jacques and Diane Toulet are both fun, friendly people who enjoy running a restaurant and welcome customers as if they were coming into their own home. There is no stiff formality here, in spite of the linen tablecloths and mouthwatering food—Jacques himself often comes out of the kitchen to chat and joke with customers, making them feel completely at ease and relaxed. You can now also “dine under the stars” in Cabernet Bistro’s enclosed patio, featuring a retractable roof. They also have a wine tast-ing bar, where you can also purchase wine by the glass or the bottle.
We love to have dinner at Cabernet Bistro—it has become a tradition with us for special occasions. We know many other people who feel the same way. One person we know said, “Dining at Cabernet Bistro is literally a mini-vacation for me—the combination of delicious food and the friendly, relaxed atmosphere help me unwind the way nothing else can. I leave feeling like a new person.”
Le Studio Ceramic Studio
Just next door is a fun and interesting place where you and your children can go by appointment to paint a ceramic work of art to take home with you. Le Studio provides all the supplies, including an on-site kiln for firing the green ware, and you provide the creativity. You can make something for your home, as a gift for someone else or whatever you please. It’s up to you to decide.
Le Studio is the inspiration of Elizabeth Galvin, who wanted to create a fun and beautiful art center where people can go to express their creativity. She especially welcomes groups and parties, which do need to reserve space ahead of time. So call for information at 805-275-1606.
Solvang Antique Center
www.solvangantiques.com
Now walk west on Park Way to the Solvang Antique Center, which is widely recognized as one of the country’s finest multiple-dealer galleries. Owned by Ron and Julie Palladino, who have specialized in the sale and restoration of antique clocks for over thirty years, it features 65 exceptional antique dealers from around the world in a spacious, 7,000-square-foot museum-like environment. Promi-nently featured are quality 18th and 19th century furniture, decorative accessories, estate jewelry and fine art, as well as one of the finest collections of clocks and music boxes in the world.
Fine Wine Tasting Rooms:
Royal Oaks Winery Tasting Room
Lion's Peak Vineyards Tasting Room
Across First Street to the west, you will see two more of our featured wine tasting rooms. The first is the Lion’s Peak Vineyards Tasting Room, the next is Royal Oaks Winery Tasting Room. For more about them, see our “Wine Tasting Rooms of Solvang” article and special map.
Nodding Place
www.noddingplace.com
Now cross Copenhagen, to visit one of Solvang’s newer stores, Nodding Place. This is the third quilt shop opened by Steve and Emily Sikes, and this one specializes in quilts and everything you could possibly need for bedroom décor.
I purchased a quilted pillow sham there to serve as a quilt for an antique doll crib we got for our granddaughter. The staff was most friendly and helped me find just the right one to go with her bedroom colors and to fit the crib just right. It has been a great hit with her, and I plan to go back the next time I need something.
Bellissima Wine Bar
Returning to Copenhagen Drive, walk a few doors east to Bellissima Wine Bar. They feature tastings or wine served by the glass. For more information, see our “Wine Tasting Rooms of Solvang” article.
Solvang Restaurant
www.solvangrestaurant.com
Just a bit further to the east, you will see the Solvang Restaurant, which opens at 6 a.m. every day to serve hearty Danish and American breakfasts and lunches. This is where many local business owners gather for a cup of coffee and to catch up on local news before work each day. Many plans for the betterment of Solvang have been sketched out on the napkins here, including the original plans for the Solvang Theaterfest building. It is also the home of Arnie’s Aebleskiver, which they serve piping hot and covered with berry jam and powdered sugar. And if you like them (who doesn’t?) this is the place to buy your own pan and a bag of mix.
Gerda’s Iron Art & Gift Shop
Back across the street and a few more steps to the east, you will see Gerda’s Iron Art & Gift Shop, which is actually two shops in one. Ernst and Lil Pedersen opened the Iron Art Shop in 1950. Gerda’s Lace and Fabric shop opened next door in 1975, offering Danish lace, fabrics, place mats, jewelry, candleholders and gift items. In 1993, these two shops merged to provide a truly Danish assortment of useful and beautiful items. Their heritage lace is gorgeous and can be used to add that special touch to your home at any occasion.
Pavlov Gallery
www.pavlovgallery.com
Just around the corner and a few doors down on Alisal Road, you will find the Pavlov Gallery, featuring the work of Solvang artist Chris Pavlov, as well as original artwork and giclée prints by several artists whose works range from impressionistic to contemporary.
Pavlov was born in Radovis, Macedonia. At the age of 18, he moved to Salzburg Austria, where he studied German and worked as an artist. In 2004 he joined the Santa Barbara Arts and Crafts Show and in 2007 he opened the Pavlov Art Gallery in Solvang. Pavlov uses bold color, shape and design to create landscapes filled with playful expression and deep somber moods. His use of color and line give a unique modern twist and artistic turn to his landscapes. His works are filled with expression, emotion and movement. His use of impasto enhances the moods he conveys.
This is a place we highly recommend that you visit. It is an adventure unto itself.
Alisal Cellars
www.alisalcellars.com
Now cross Alisal Drive and walk north to the Paaske Building, where you will find Alisal Cellars, the oldest and largest wine cellar and tasting room in Solvang, with over 450 wines featured. For more information about them, see our “Wine Tasting Rooms of Solvang” article.
5 Wine Bar
www.alisalcellars.com
This new wine tasting venue is located in the patio just above Alisal Cellars. It is also the place to enjoy a gourmet snack or light lunch. “Wine Tasting Rooms of Solvang” article.
Viking Garden Restaurant
Almost next door, you will find this charming restaurant, which features patio dining, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. It has been in operation since 1970. You will find this a charming place to enjoy a meal, and the menu is truly international. While it offers a complete range of Danish specialties, the menu also features both American and Mexican meals. It is definitely family-oriented and welcomes children.
They are especially proud of the wide range of locally made sausage they offer, including Danish, German Sicilian and even Swiss bratwurst. They also claim to have “the best potato pancakes in town.” Their charmingly European beer bar offers the widest selection of beer on tap in Solvang, including Firestone-Walker. They also offer over 80 foreign and domestic bottled beers. If you prefer, you can have a glass, liter or half-liter of white or red house wines, which are top quality chardonnay, chablis, cabernet, merlot or blush.
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TOUR
Now is the time to return to your car and start your driving tour of the interesting places on the edge of the Solvang Village area.
Vintage Motorcycle Museum
www.motosolvang.com
Going south on Alisal Road about half a mile from Mission Drive you will see the Solvang Village Square on the left, just after the Royal Scandinavian Inn.
You can park diagonally in front and then walk a few steps to the Vintage Motorcycle Museum. Here you can see displays of classic and vintage motorcycles, such as a 1906 FN and a 1979 Honda CBX, to name just two.
The featured motorcycle this spring is the Britten V1000, one of only a few of these high-powered racing motorcycles ever made. The one on display is also unique in that it was still in its original crate when purchased and had never been raced. It is therefore in absolutely pristine condition.
Also on display is one of the four Vincent Grey Flashes entered in the 1950 Isle of Man TT race. It’s definitely worth making a stop to catch a glimpse of these rare motorcycles.
Elverhøj Museum of History and Art
www.elverhoj.org
Now proceed half a block further south to Elverhoy Way, turn right and walk two blocks west along Elverhoy Way to the Elverhøj Museum of History and Art in the restored home of Viggo and Martha Brandt-Erichsen. This artistic Danish couple built their home in the authentic Danish style, with tremendous attention to every detail, including original wood carving on the front door, stone sculpture on the fireplace and hand painted tiles in the kitchen. “Elverhøj” means “Elves on the Hill” and refers to a Danish fairy tale that the couple used as a theme for their home, which was a center for art instruction and many gatherings of artists while the Brandt-Erichsens lived there. Viggo unfortunately died young, but Martha lived in the house for many years and arranged for it to be given after her death to the City of Solvang to form the basis of a museum of Solvang history and culture, as well as an art gallery.
In addition to the Elverhøj’s permanent displays, there will be a number of special events at the museum through the next few months. The first is an exhibit in the gallery entitled “Merv Corning Retrospective,” which will run through September 21. It is a display of original work from an accomplished and renowned painter with close local ties. It will include nearly 40 original paint-ings, as well as pencil studies, publications featuring his work and mementos from his career of more than 50 years.
On Sunday, August 3rd at 2 p.m. Louis Gadal will speak on the “Life and Work of Merv Corning.” Free.
On September 20-21, the Elverhøj will present its annual “Living History Festival” in conjunction with Danish Days. There will be demonstrations of Old World arts and crafts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. The public is invited and there is no charge for admission. Along with other crafts, docents in colorful, authentic Danish costumes will craft Danish Christmas items such as woven paper hearts and stars, which will be available for sale. There will also be free, docent-led tours of the Elverhøj’s historical, cultural and art exhibits.
For more information about these and other events at the Elverhøj, call 686-1211 or visit their website.
Alisal River Course
www.rivercourse.com
Now return to Alisal Road and drive south half a mile to reach the entrance to the Alisal River Course on the left, one of the most beautiful golf courses in California that is open to the general public. They have a well stocked pro-shop to supply you with anything you might have forgotten at home. You can also choose to walk the beautiful course or rent a golf cart equipped with a GPS system. PGA professionals are also available for individual or group lessons.
Old Mission Santa Inés
www.missionsantaynez.org
Return to Solvang and turn right on Mission Drive (Highway 246) to reach our next suggested stop, especially if you have children or an interest in California history. Old Mission Santa Inés is a gem of the California missions and was founded in 1804. This was the 19th in the chain of California missions founded by the Catholic Church in the 18th and early 19th centuries.
The interior of the church, where mass is still celebrated every day at 8 a.m., has many of the Mission’s original paintings and decorations on its walls. The Old Mission Gift Shop has a fine selection of books and pamphlets containing historical information about the California Missions, as well souvenirs, religious books and other devotional items. They also have “Fourth Grade Mission Project Packets” available to teachers and parents. We suggest that you take time for a tour of the mission and its grounds. Among the interesting things to see is a rare collection of vestments dating from the 1700’s, as well as Spanish Colonial artifacts
The big event of the summer will be the Old Mission Santa Inés Fiesta on August 12th through the 14th. The proceeds from this fun event go towards the Mission’s Restoration Project. For more information, please see the Calendar of Events.
Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital
www.cottagehealthsystem.org
Next return to Alamo Pintado Road and turn right, proceeding north a few blocks to Viborg Road. Turn right again and at the end of the street you will find the Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital.
We sincerely hope you do not have to visit this fine facility during your stay in our Valley. But if you do, we can assure you that you will receive the very best of care from their cheerful, well-trained staff and the very latest in medical technology.
Several times this past year, we have utilized their emergency room and/or lab facilities for various family members—we are grate-ful for their excellent medical staff and professionalism throughout each of our visits. We are grateful to have this excellent facility in the Santa Ynez Valley when so many small hospitals have gone out of business.
Solvang Lutheran Home
www.peoplewhocare.com
Now go back on Viborg and cross Alamo Pintado Road to wind through a beautiful residential area with streets that all have Danish names. You will end up at Fredensborg Canyon Road, where you should turn left and proceed to Atterdag Road, which is another left turn, drive along it until you see Hans Christian Andersen Park, which is a wonderful place to picnic and take a break.
Just opposite the park, you will see the Solvang Lutheran Home. This nondenominational, non-profit, continuing-care retirement community has offered safety, comfort and companionship to its residents since 1953. Almost all of our Guest magazine staff members have–or have had–friends or family members residing at the Lutheran Home, at one time or another. Friends and family members are encouraged to visit as frequently as they can and local churches and non-profits send visitors, too.
You are invited to drive around the Lutheran Home’s pleasant campus any time, and you can schedule a complementary luncheon tour on their website or by calling (805) 688-3263.
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