Solvang 2021 Travel Diary

Today, I am finally getting around to posting photos from our Solvang trip last August.  I had debated sharing this post because I had waited so long to share.  So, I decided to share it today.  Why? Because one, better late than never.  Secondly, summer is just around the corner, which means many people are scheduling trips and making plans for the warmer months.  Lastly, even though it’s a lot of work, writing these travel diaries has quickly become one of my favorite topics on the blog.  It’s nice to be able to look back at all the moments and relive these precious memories for years to come. That said, we were only there for four days, but I thought I would share highlights from our brief time including where we stayed, what we did and where we ate. So, without further ado, here is our Solvang Travel Diary! 

About Solvang

Located in the Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang is one of Southern California’s hidden gems.  This quaint little village is full of charm, culture, and history.  It is a city that is easy to fall in love with and the perfect place to escape for a change in scenery.  Everywhere you look, there is so much beauty.  The best part, it has a very down to earth vibe that makes you feel right at home.  

Solvang Downtown Photo of Windmill

Why We Chose Solvang

Like many families, we usually travel somewhere for summer.  We had originally envisioned traveling somewhere internationally.  Unfortunately, due to the current situation with COVID-19, we weren’t comfortable getting on an airplane.  But we still wanted to celebrate the little guy’s last hurrah before school started.  In the end, we figured a road trip was the answer and we decided to do a little vacation to Solvang.  Fortunately for us, it’s not too far of a drive and the perfect way to satisfy a bit of our wanderlust.  

Where We Stayed

For this trip, the hubby found a vacation rental in Hidden Valley through VRBO, and it was perfect for us! I love how it felt like home away from home and we had a pleasant stay.  There was plenty of room for two adults and a child – 1 bedroom, 1 bath, dining room area and a decent size kitchen that came fully stocked with all the essentials needed for us to cook all our meals in.  Additionally, there is a private deck that had unobstructed views of the valley.  On top of that, it had a great location.  It was less than 10 minutes from the downtown, so it was a quiet and peaceful place. 

What’s more, the little guy loves water.  So, one of our main stipulations when booking this trip was that we wanted to find a vacation rental that had a pool or at least a hot tub.  This place checked that box! 

Solvang 2021 Travel Diary Vacation Rental Photo E

What We Did

Day 1

This day was mostly a travel day.  

We set out Saturday morning after 11 am and the drive is about 5 hours.  However, we did stop by a couple of places along the way to help break up our time in the car and stretch out our legs.  So, by the time, we arrived at our rental home, it was almost 6 pm!  

Upon settling in, it was off to the pool for my guys while I made myself right at home.  Soon after, we made it to bed and slept like a baby for the next several hours! 

Day 2

The next day, we had plans to meet one of my friends and her family.  We began our adventures at Ostrich Land in Buelton.  It is a small ranch full of ostrich and emus! Up until our visit, we had never seen these incredible creatures up close, and I must say, it was a unique experience. 

Solvang 2021 Travel Diary Ostrichland Photo E

Jumpsuit | Chambray Shirt | Shoes | Sunglasses

If you’ve never seen an ostrich before, they are big in-person! I was shocked at how tall they really were.  Along those lines, they are also quite strong! So, if you do decide to feed them, make sure that you hold on to the food tray or they will knock the feeder out of your hands because they peck really hard and pretty fast.  Though there’s not a whole to do here, if you are in the area, I would recommend stopping by.  In my opinion, it’s worth a trip and a must do at least once! 

Solvang 2021 Travel Diary Ostrichland Photo H

Button down shirt | Tank top | Shorts | Shoes | Sunglasses

From there, we headed to downtown Solvang.  We didn’t have anything specific on our itinerary and just wanted to relax and go with the flow.  Of course, with restless kids in tow that often means running around!  Luckily, right across from the main parking lot, there is a park, so we spent some time here to let them expend their excess energy.  To say they loved it would be understatement! It was the perfect way to let them have their fun while the adults caught up for a bit.  

After about an hour of play time, it was time for refuel.  We ate at Osteria.  We showed up with no reservations, but they did not have any problem seating us.  They have plenty of outdoor seating available.   In fact, we had the entire back section to ourselves.  My travel companions and I had chicken sandwiches while the kids had their chicken nuggets.  It had been a while since I’ve enjoyed a chicken sandwich and it hit the spot! They also give you so much food that I could only eat half of my sandwich.  Unfortunately, I didn’t get any food pictures as we were visiting with friends, and it was important to me to be present.  

Bellies full, we made our way to Rideau! For those of you who are unfamiliar with the area, like me, Solvang is home to many wineries.  It is a wonderful place to spend a relaxing day sipping wine and enjoying the scenery.  They do offer tastings here, but we just got a bottle of wine and sat outside for the rest of the afternoon catching up.  Additionally, they have a huge grassy lawn area, so the kids were happy to play and run around.  After several hours, we said our goodbyes and went on our separate ways.  We ended the day by firing up the grill back at the house and unwinding in the hot tub.  

Rideau Vineyards in Solvang Photo A
Solvang 2021 Travel Diary Rideau Photo B

Day 3

On Monday, we headed to the beach in Santa Barbara! It is about a 45-minute drive from Solvang.  Not only were we blessed with beautiful weather, but it was calm and quiet.  There were only a handful of people, so we literally had the beach to ourselves.  We had packed a couple of my son’s beach toys and he spent some time building sandcastles, pits or whatever came to mind.  He also tried to swim in the ocean with the hubby’s help, of course, but it didn’t last long.  Unfortunately, the water was a bit cold.  So, the little guy settled for being buried under the sand instead!  

Santa Barbara Beach Photo A

Swimsuit | Sunglasses

After our beach shenanigans, we made our way over to the Funk Zone and stopped at Finney’s Crafthouse for lunch.  They did not disappoint! The atmosphere is laid back and this place has some seriously good food.  We filled up on pizza, hamburgers, sweet potato fries and tacos.  It was definitely yummy, and I would eat there again in a heartbeat.  My mouth is watering just thinking about it! 

Santa Barbara Downtown Photo C

T-shirt | Jeans | Shoes | Bag | Sunglasses

Santa Barbara Downtown Photo B

T-shirt |Jeans | Shoes | Sunglasses

Post-lunch, we decided to head back to the house, and we finished out the day super low key by lounging in the hot tub.  

Day 4

We kicked off Tuesday with a visit to Mortensen’s Bakery because have you even been to Solvang if you haven’t had Danish baked goods? I think not!

So, eating pastries at Mortensen’s Bakery was a must! They had lots of pastries to choose from which makes it very hard to pick.  Besides their wonderful pastries, they also offer cookies and coffee.  We eventually decided on the almond Danish as well as the custard one and it was delicious! They were very tasty, fresh and flaky.  Though it was a hot morning, we sat outside for fresh air.  

Mortensens Bakery Photo in Solvang

Once we were finished with our Danish treats, we spent some time just walking around the shops, exploring antique stores and taking in the beautiful architectures.  Since Downtown Solvang is quite small, everything was within walking distance, and it took us about two hours to explore from end to end.  In my opinion, just the right amount especially if you have a little one in tow.  Along those lines, if you are visiting Solvang in the late summer like we did, I would recommend visiting the downtown as early as you can so that it’ll be less hot.  It was in the high 80s at 9 am during our visit! 

Solvang 2021 Travel Diary Downtown Photo C

T-shirt | Shorts | Shoes | Sunglasses

Solvang 2021 Travel Diary Downtown Photo A
Downtown Solvang Fine Arts Photo

Dress | Sandals | Bag | Sunglasses

We then took a drive to Sunstone Winery for ambiance and wine tasting per the hubby’s request.  We spent some time in their courtyard area and it was the perfect way to just relax.  If you visit, make sure to bring a picnic and soak in the stunning view of this naturally beautiful area. 

Afterwards, we headed back to our place to relax a bit before dinner.  Once we got back to the apartment, everyone took a much-needed siesta.  Later, we decided to go back to Osteria for dinner as we really enjoyed their food the last time we visited.  Then, it was back to jumping in the pool! 

My son jumping in pool at Solvang

Final Thoughts

All in all, our quick escape to Solvang was just the getaway that we all needed! We had a wonderful trip, and I honestly didn’t expect to love Solvang as much as I did! It’s unpretentious, kid-friendly and is the perfect place to spend a relaxing couple of days.  If you haven’t been, I highly recommend a trip.  You won’t be disappointed! Now if I can only convince the hubby to go back during the holidays.  I hear it’s decked out and pure Christmas bliss in December! 

Do you have any summer trips planned?

If you enjoyed this post, be sure to check out my travel page for more tips and vacation ideas!

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you).  

**Additionally, some items linked above are not the exact item shown because it is either old or sold out, but I linked similar items for those that are unavailable.  

46 COMMENTS

  1. Zandra I Castillo | 30th Mar 23

    I have been Solvang too! This brings back wonderful memories

  2. Renata Feyen | 27th Jun 22

    I love the special look of that village, it almost looks like it could be in The Netherlands

  3. Mosaic Art | 27th Jun 22

    The place is super super cool. I’ve never been to Solvang, it seems an amazing place to explore.

  4. Psychic Self Help | 27th Jun 22

    I love travel diaries. It lets me live vicariously through others and I don’t have to spend any money.

  5. Lyosha | 26th Jun 22

    I am glad you shared it anyway! The trip looks nice and I am glad to learn about the new place. It looks like you had tons of fun. Ostrich farm got me most interested really as well as the cute town and the beach. If you ask me Solvang has everything to be a perfect place for a shorter trip

  6. Jim | 26th Jun 22

    Such a wonderful place. Also, the food looks delicious. Thanks for sharing this with us!

  7. Kari | 26th Jun 22

    Wow, I’d say a hidden gem for sure! Looks like you guys had a ton of fun on your trip!

  8. Ruth | 25th Jun 22

    I’ve never heard of Slovang before. It looks like a cute European village! I enjoyed reading about your trip.

  9. Anna | 24th Jun 22

    Looks like a nice place to be and have fun 🙂
    https://lookingfabulousat50.blogspot.com/

  10. Donna B Reidland | 23rd Jun 22

    I grew up near Solvang so this brought back some sweet memories!

  11. Nish | 20th Jun 22

    I visited Solvang once a long, long time ago. I was so bemused to see this totally European-looking setting in the middle of California. Especially loved the windmill.

  12. Shea | 19th Jun 22

    That looks like it was such a fun trip! I’ve never heard of Solvang but it sounds like such a great place to visit. I’ve never been to CA but that city is added to my growing list of places I want to go when I finally make it there!

  13. Amy | 18th Jun 22

    Oh my goodness, what a darling town! I can’t believe it’s in California!

  14. Tameka H | 17th Jun 22

    Your son is so sweet! I have been wanting to take a vacation with my family without having to fly out myself. I may check this place out.

  15. laila | 17th Jun 22

    These photos are amazing and It seems like a lovely summer vacation!
    Laila
    http://www.lailanblog.blogspot.com

  16. NancyC | 16th Jun 22

    This looks like a beautiful place to visit! Thanks for sharing your photos! 🙂

  17. Laura Bambrick | 16th Jun 22

    What a fun place to visit! It looks absolutely charming and like there were a lot of great things to see and do. I’m glad you were able to get away and make some amazing memories.

  18. Jill | 16th Jun 22

    What a quaint little town! It looks like there is so much to do and was the perfect getaway!

    Jill – Doused in Pink

  19. Jodie Filogomo | 16th Jun 22

    OMG, what a fabulous place, and how lucky that it’s so close to you. It’s like being across the pond yet not having to fly so far!!
    OXOX
    Jodie
    http://www.jtouchofstyle.com

  20. Fransic verso | 15th Jun 22

    That’s unfortunate you didn’t get to travel somewhere intentionally, but this is actually a good place. Hope you guys enjoyed it.

  21. Marysa | 15th Jun 22

    What a neat place to visit and explore! Sounds like there are so many things to check out, and certainly lots of unique opportunities.

  22. May | 15th Jun 22

    Oh, it IS a pretty place to be at. I’d enjoy myself in Solvang, myself. It has a small town feel to it.

  23. Saïda | 15th Jun 22

    Wow! Such a beautiful place, happy to read you had fun!

  24. Patrick Weseman | 14th Jun 22

    What a beautiful place. I want to visit.

  25. Joanne | 14th Jun 22

    It looks like such a cute town; I had never heard of Solvang before!

  26. PaulaShort | 14th Jun 22

    I enjoyed your Slovang travel diary log tour. Great photos seems like you all had a great time. Thank you for sharing. Blessings.
    Visiting today from Inspire Me Monday #1&2

  27. Ivan Carlo Jose | 14th Jun 22

    What an enjoyable adventure. Love all the beautiful things that you can do here.

  28. Ntensibe Edgar | 14th Jun 22

    Aaawwww…you and the young man had a fantastic time, I see! I hope you saved a slice of that pizza, eh?! Plus, I would love to visit the Solvang Fine Art shop.

  29. Melanie Edjourian | 14th Jun 22

    Even though you couldn’t get on a plane and go on holiday it sounds like you still had a great time where you did go. The beach sounds great, perfect for when on holiday. I love the sound of ostrich land my kids would enjoy that too.

  30. mireille | 14th Jun 22

    I’ve been to Solvang once quite a long time ago, probably 25 years ago or more! This looks like a really fun trip and my boys would have really enjoyed the ostrich.
    http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com

  31. Colleen | 14th Jun 22

    One of the good things about the Covid restriction is going local and being able to explore our own towns. This is such a great place to visit. I think my family will have so much fun here.

  32. Michele Morin | 14th Jun 22

    A quaint and lovely destination!

  33. Kathrine Eldridge | 14th Jun 22

    What a beautiful and quaint place to visit! I love that pool and pretty winery you visited. Thanks for sharing this wonderful trip. I have never heard of this place before!

    https://www.kathrineeldridge.com

  34. Lovely | 13th Jun 22

    Sounds like a wonderful getaway. I enjoyed seeing these pics from your trip.
    xoxo
    Lovely
    http://www.mynameislovely.com

  35. Eileen | 13th Jun 22

    This look like such a fun trip! I’m glad you shared them even it was later! And maybe it’s more fun this way too because you get to relive your memories!

    Eileen | yesmissy.com

  36. Krystle | 13th Jun 22

    The town especially the windmill is just picture perfect. The bakery looks amazing too.

  37. Kelly Bolen | 13th Jun 22

    What an amazing place! I am going to southern Cali in September. I will defintely check it out!

  38. Carrie @ Curly Crafty Mom | 13th Jun 22

    This is such beautiful place for a vacation! I have never heard of it! We just got back from San Diego and I would love to see more of California eventually!

    Carrie
    curlycraftymom.com

  39. Mica Away From Blue | 13th Jun 22

    It looks like such a fun trip! I love your matching tees with your son on day 3 too – so adorable! 🙂

    Hope you had a good weekend! It was a fun one here with a birthday party each day!

  40. Heather | 13th Jun 22

    I’ve never heard of Solvang before, but based on your photos and experience, it sounds like a place that my family would enjoy visiting!

  41. Shauna | 13th Jun 22

    There is SO much I could write about Solvang! We’ve been going every year since I was little! The best time to go is definitely during December, so I agree that you must talk your Hubby into going back! You feel as though you’re in a true Christmas Hallmark movie 🙂 Looks like you had a great trip, and what a pool! Great find on the house.

    Shauna

    http://www.lipglossandlace.net

  42. Beth | 13th Jun 22

    That is such a pretty village. I love the beautiful colors there. I’d love to go there one day.

  43. Nina | 13th Jun 22

    Looks like you guys had a blast. Loved all the photos. Have an amazing week!
    -Nina
    http://www.stylingwithnina.com/2022/06/travel-diary-miami-2022.html

  44. Stephanie | 13th Jun 22

    Looks like you had a great trip! I would have never guessed such a cute little village was in California. When I saw your first photo I thought it was somewhere in Europe!

  45. Maureen | 13th Jun 22

    Have visited Solvang a few times. Have always enjoyed. Glad you shared the places you visited.

  46. Jennifer | 13th Jun 22

    This looks like such a fun trip!

    Jennifer
    Curated by Jennifer

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