Discover the Best of Valle de Guadalupe – A Delicious Wine & Food Escape

Experience the best of Valle de Guadalupe – from cliffside cocktails and Michelin-star dining to luxurious stays at Mira Earth Studios and Banyan Tree. Your ultimate guide to Baja California’s wine country.

For years, I’d been wanting to visit Valle de Guadalupe, the heart of Baja California’s wine region. After reading a compelling feature in the latest issue of AFAR Magazine, I finally made my way down to this rustic yet sophisticated haven, with the added benefit of insider connections like Karina Campos, the founder of Wine Eat & Travel, and Nicolas Kendall, the creative force behind MIRA Earth Studios. Their local expertise made our experience feel deeply connected to the essence of the Valle.

Our first stop was the Banyan Tree, a strikingly modern hotel that just celebrated its one-year anniversary. The property is a serene sanctuary, the perfect place to unwind before diving into the region’s culinary scene (*caveat that the service is a bit disjointed).

First up, we headed to Cuatro Cuatros, a cliffside bar perched high above the Pacific with jaw-dropping views and equally impressive cocktails. The rugged landscape and panoramic vistas made it clear why this spot is a local favorite for sunset drinks. Beyond the view, a highlight was the local sing along on the bus ride up with tunes and disco lights — a perfect way to kick off the weekend and get a taste of the area vibes.

Next, we made our way to Lunario, a Michelin-recognized gem led by Chef Sheyla Alvarado. The eight-course pairing experience was nothing short of sensational, each dish more artful and flavorful than the last. The entire staff exuded warmth and hospitality, making the night feel as intimate as it was indulgent — a must-do culinary experience in Valle de Guadalupe.

The following day, moody weather set the tone for a cozy lunch at Vena Cava, where we dined among barrels in a rustic tasting room. The house cat, Cava, curled up in my lap as we savored a selection of local wines and bites — the pumpkin seed dip, shrimp ceviche and cabbage were the tasty highlights. There’s a hacienda on the property up the hill that would be ideal for group stays or couples, complete with its own pool and fireplace — a perfect retreat for a weekend getaway.

From there, it was a short jaunt over to Bruma, a striking winery and restaurant where we met Lulu, a winemaker who honed her craft in Bordeaux for nearly two decades before returning to her roots in Baja. The winery was abuzz with the launch of a new art exhibit, adding yet another layer of cultural richness to the setting — another reason to visit Valle for both wine and art lovers.

Dinner that night was at Fauna, where Chef David Castro orchestrated a multi-course feast that seemed to flow endlessly from the kitchen. The vibrant atmosphere brought about by long banquet tables, community-style seating and exquisite flavors made it clear why this restaurant is the hottest reservation right now — a culinary gem that defines the evolving food scene there. With several boutique lodgings on the sweeping winery grounds, you can make it a whole weekend affair without ever having to leave with other culinary outlets at the Mercado, equipped with a bakery, wine bar and restaurant.

Our final day was 'industry day' on a Monday with Karina at Villa Torel, where the chef welcomed us with fresh, inventive dishes and generous pours of wine by our fellow diners sharing a bottle. Before dusk, we made our way up a winding dirt road to MIRA Earth Studios — a boutique retreat with 10 suites designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. Each suite is its own sanctuary, complete with a hot tub, sauna, and an elevated bed facing a movie projector for a cozy night in. The next morning, a bountiful breakfast arrived in a beautifully curated basket, the perfect send-off before heading back to San Diego for a travel conference with my Cadence Travel team.

Sustainability is at the heart of everything in the area, which is apparent from every local ingredient used to the women-led wineries like Bruma with Lulu Martinez Ojeda. The emphasis on community, local sourcing, and eco-conscious practices make this wine country a standout for travelers seeking authentic, responsible experiences. It hasn’t been overrun with outsiders yet. It has a very local vibe and English less likely to be heard on the lips of visitors.

Valle de Guadalupe is so much more than a wine destination — it’s a place where food, art, and community intersect in the most delicious way. Whether you’re a wine aficionado, a foodie, or simply looking for a serene escape, this Baja gem deserves a top spot on your travel list.

For those looking for an insider itinerary, reach out to begin your own tailored adventure!