Was I born to live in California? It’s quite possible… I mean, we did get married there! In case you guys missed it, a few weekends ago I was sipping vino and gallivanting with some great ladies out in Los Gatos, California. Most times when I’m in Northern California I’m up in Napa or Sonoma. So, it was really nice to venture out and head south of San Francisco to Los Gatos. I have to say the city really captured my heart.
Outside of the stunning Tuscan-inspired property we stayed at, Hotel Los Gatos, the downtown area reminded me of something out of a Hallmark movie and the people were just so friendly. And, I mentioned there are wineries, right?! The crisp Fall weather was also a nice change from the humidity of South Florida. In this post, I’ve rounded up where to stay, what to do and where to eat in Los Gatos.
Shop My Looks
Girls Weekend – Things to Do in Los Gatos
Day 1 Outfit
Sweater Dress: Free People // Boots: Goodnight Macaroon // Bag: YSL Clutch
What a weekend! I flew into San Jose and just 20 minutes later I’d arrived at the idyllic town of Los Gatos. I had the best time with all the babes – Camille from Charmed by Camille, Crystal from Obsessions Now, and Abby from Clothes and Pizza. Be sure to check them all out!
Where to Stay in Los Gatos
So, this is an easy one – Hotel Los Gatos is the premier place to stay in the area. It’s just down the hill from some of the wineries and a short drive from downtown. I’m going to gush about the spa and their restaurant, Dio Deka, a bit further below. But, the hotel is really just so charming. From the oversized rooms to the balcony views (check me out below!), the hotel is welcoming and feels like your own private villa. If the weather permits, be sure to spend some time poolside too!
Day 2 Outfit
Pajamas: Eberjey // Dress: DRA // Jacket: Maje // Boots: Atlantic Pacific x Halogen // Bag: Chanel (similar here and more affordable here) // Bangles: Julie Vos // Sunnies: Givenchy
What to Do in Los Gatos
We barely scraped the surface of all the fun things to do in Los Gatos!
- Enjoy a massage at the Verde Touch Spa – if you followed along, you’ll remember me ranting and raving about my massage. It was honestly 80 minutes of pure bliss. Girls weekend or couples trip – it doesn’t matter. Book yourself a massage!
- Visit Testarossa Winery – just 10 minutes up from the hotel and the center of town is this sprawling vineyard that offers amazing views and stellar wines. They’re known for Chard and Pinot. But, I have to tell you that they should be known for their chocolate covered Pinot Noir cherries too! I brought home a bottle of Red Blend (and some cherries…). If we’d had even more time, I would have sat outside on the terrace for a bit. There’s lots of seating and covered patios.
- Go shopping! – No girls weekend is complete without some shopping. There are lots of cute boutiques in Los Gatos proper. Or, you can always hop over to San Jose and take in Santana Row too.
Where to Eat in Los Gatos
If you stay at Hotel Los Gatos, you honestly never need to leave the property (we didn’t the first night!). But, there’s no shortage of fabulous places to eat in Los Gatos overall. In fact, the short list we came up with before the trip… wasn’t so short! Since Abby is local, she knew just where to go!
- Dio Deka at Hotel Los Gatos – this is the onsite restaurant at Hotel Los Gatos and it was delicious. They offer a blend of Greek and Mediterranean dishes that are so tasty. I highly recommend getting the Assortment of Spreads as an appetizer (I could have eaten all the pita bread myself) and either fish or the filet for your main course. Eat outside if you can. They have string lights that add to the ambiance and charm.
- Grab pizza at Oak & Rye – this was Abby’s recommendation for dinner our second night and sadly we weren’t able to eat here (they don’t take reservations, so go early!). But, due to it’s popular appeal – it’s a must do!
- Visit Icing on the Cake – I can’t tell you how often this place came up! The banana cake is near the top of the list. But, I’m sure they’re all delicious.
Whether it’s a quick weekend or a day trip down from San Francisco, it’s well worth your time to head over to the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains to Los Gatos!
