The "New" Solvang

After the movie "Sideways" was released, Solvang was invaded by wine

aficionados and tourists who wanted to experience a meal at The Hitching Post

and see the movie landmarks throughout the town. Solvang still has a Danish bakery

on every street, however things are

changing in an exciting way.

As I sat down in the lovely English garden with Paul Navratil, owner of the Solvang Gardens Lodge, I learned that the city recently hired an outside consultant to create a study on how to direct the quaint and charming old fashion town of Solvang to become more progressive in today's ever changing world.

One recommendation: Attract a more affluent clientele. The Chumash Indians bought the old Royal Scandinavian Inn and renovated it into the premier boutique hotel Corque. Then they lured acclaimed chef from Caesars Palace in Vegas, Bradley Ogden and opened root 246, a restaurant unlike any other
in Solvang.

While Danish meatballs and red cabbage are tasty, the area longed for Ogden's simple approach of using the freshest ingredients in the region to make simple farm-to-table dishes. With decor like no other in the quaint village, this restaurant is packed every weekend.

Across the street from root 246 is Paul's charming Inn. He purchased this property three years ago and maintains this intimate European bed and breakfast beautifully. Each room is unique and filled with antiques. Outside guests can hear the trickle of water from fountains throughout the property. Flowers, gardens and mini-waterfalls create a park-like setting.

Paul shared with me that he is booking more weddings this year, due to the economy. “Instead of having a wedding at a big hotel, couples are looking at properties like mine to have a more intimate wedding.” His wife is a wedding planner and transforms the gardens into a magical setting. Guests may reserve a wing of rooms for their guests. A cozy honeymoon suite is located upstairs.

The property also has a Spa Cottage for guests to relax and unwind with a soothing massage.  Located at: 293 Alisal Road ,Solvang CA 93463 - Phone: 805-688-4404 - Toll Free: 888-688-4404 or info@solvanggardens.com