Things to do in San Diego - Part 2

Here are a few other things to enjoy about living in the San Diego area. I have ventured outside the immediate area to explore what other offerings there are. Here's a short list:

1. Mt. Palomar - about 50 miles inland. Fabulous views, as you can see from the photo which I took on a cloudy, foggy, rainy day, but near the summit (over 5000 feet above sea level) it was clear and you could see for miles out over the clouds. The temperature dropped about 15 degrees on the way back down. Want a challenge - ride your road or mountain bike up!!You can visit the famous Palomar Observatory too but call for hours. There is camping and a few other amenities, including a post office.

2. Wine Country in Temecula - it's not Napa, or Sonoma, or Paso Robles, but there are some nice wineries, great tastings and winery tours. A number of the wineries have terrific spots for lunch and/or dinner with pleasant vistas (my favorite is The Smokehouse Restaurant at Ponte Winery). A number of the wineries offer concerts and other events, especially during the summer. Check out Wine Country , Temecula Wines and Temecula 411 for more information.

3. Julian - small ('bout 500 people) historic gold rush town located in the mountains about 50 miles inland and at 4300 feet above sea level. Known best, perhaps, for Julian Pies (The Julian Pie Company) and its fall apple harvest. Because of the location they also get some snow in the winter (but remember, I left Boston to get away from the snow and cold). The Chamber of Commerce has an informative site; click here for another site with some nice photos to get an idea of the town. There are some touristy shops, a few nice restaurants, and several very respectable inns and B and Bs. I understand weekends in the fall is very crowded.

4. Anza Borrega Desert State Park - I haven't been there yet but plan to go. Supposedly a beautiful desert to visit with some great restaurants, inns and lots to do in Borrego Springs. Probably best to stay away in the summer where it generally is 100 - 115 degrees daily unless you REALLY like hot weather. The California State Park site also offers good information.

Stay tuned for more activities in San Diego and surrounding areas.