A guest here might be tempted to sequester him or herself in one of Allegretto Vineyard Resort's European-inspired guest rooms or suites, many of which have optional balconies or patios, that open to manicured gardens. The 14’ interior ceilings, hardwood floors, and Dream Sleeper pillow-top mattresses and custom linens are a few finishing touches that might compel you to linger lazily in bed until midday.

Douglas Ayres has designed and built the charming Allegretto Vineyard Resort, on the rural east side of Paso Robles, in the timeless style of an Italian vineyard estate. The architecture is exquisite. Beautiful artwork and statuary throughout the corridors and private spaces of the property serve to elevate the already classic atmosphere. This property, with its Old World undercurrent and 12,000 square foot courtyard, will transport you to another era.

 

    

    

There are other on-site diversions that might induce you to stay put as the resort works its magic—charming you into submission. The Spa at Allegretto Resort is open to both hotel guests and the general public. Guests who long for inner tranquility or rejuvenation can embrace their zero gravity chairs, infrared detox sauna, or simply enjoy various massage, facial, and body treatment options.

Dining at the resort’s Cello Ristorante & Bar feels upscale yet, as is the expectation in this laid-back Central Coast wine country, is a causal affair. The menu has a “rustic Northern Italian” bias, offering pasta, pizza, seafood and steaks. Guests can enjoy intimate dinner by candlelight, join the trendy communal tables (which I do recommend), or sit outdoors by the toasty flames of the “fire bowls”. The restaurant’s open kitchen design encourages curious culinary spectators. On one side of the restaurant is also a long bar with an extensive wine list, featuring Paso Robles and Central Coast selections as well as bottles from global producers.

The Ayres family brings a long tradition of putting together high quality properties in California dating back to 1905 when Douglas Ayres’ great-grandfather, Frank H. Ayres, moved to the Golden State from Ohio and established a land development company in Los Angeles County. In the 1920s, Frank’s son, Don Ayres Sr., joined the company and together they worked to develop multiple communities in the L.A. area. After WWII, a third generation, Don Ayres Jr., came on board the family business just as the postwar housing boom was underway. During the decades that followed, the company became recognized for building distinctive homes throughout Southern California. It is Doug’s father, Don Ayres Jr., who developed the concept of a European boutique hotel after his return from a trip to Europe. 

The company opened its first hotel property in 1984. Today, the Ayres brand remains a family-owned and operated business with 21 Ayres Hotels throughout Southern California. The corridors of the Allegretto Vineyard Resort display a time-travelers photo gallery of archival images showing the Ayres family’s early developments. Upon checking in, do take a moment to enjoy these historical images of early Los Angeles. I found them to be both inspirational and fascinating.