With this sunny and laid back destination, come for the wine, stay for the food.

Carmel Valley, a rustic and rural inland retreat just over two hours south of San Francisco, is often confused with its better known neighbor, the European-style, seaside town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. But the valley, with its rolling hills lined with grapevines and endless sunshine, is a picturesque destination deserving of its own visit. Best known for its award-winning wineries, Carmel Valley packs in more than 20 tasting rooms in just 11 miles spanning from Highway 1 to Carmel Valley Village.

While the wine will draw you in—especially the world-class cabernet sauvignon and merlot—it's the fresh and surprising dining scene, reflective of the community's warmth and agrarian nature, that will leave you smitten. The area has a deep history rooted in ranches, farms, orchards, and dairies, so it's no surprise it was one of the first regions to embrace the farm-to-table mindset, long before it became the end-all catchphrase it is now. Today, the restaurant scene continues to thrive as area chefs innovate with organic and seasonal produce.

From farm stands to tasting menus, tacos to truffles, classics to newcomers, hit the road and explore the exciting California cuisine being whipped up in Carmel Valley.