EXPLORE SOLVANG
Settle into Solvang from The Marlo, your quiet boutique retreat near Danish bakeries, tasting rooms, windmills, shops, museums, and the rolling wine country of the Santa Ynez Valley. From here, the best of the region feels easy: stroll into town for pastries and coffee, spend the afternoon tasting local wines, take a scenic drive through neighboring valley towns, then return to the calm of our courtyards as the day softens.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a wine country escape, a dog-friendly getaway, or a seasonal trip around Danish Days, Julefest, or spring blooms, this guide is your starting point for exploring Solvang with a little more ease.
Solvang
A little Danish village with California light, Solvang is made for unhurried wandering. Spend the day finding windmills, tasting æbleskiver, visiting local museums, browsing boutiques, and letting the town reveal itself one block at a time.
The Marlo places you close to one of California’s most inviting wine country escapes. From downtown tasting rooms to vineyard estates in Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, Buellton, Ballard, and Los Alamos, the Santa Ynez Valley is easy to sip, explore, and savor at your own pace.
Nearby Places To Explore
- Old Mission Santa Inés – A historic Spanish mission with beautiful gardens and stunning views of the valley.
- Solvang Windmills – Iconic Danish windmills scattered throughout town, perfect for photos . . . find all 4
- The Little Mermaid Fountain – A replica of the famous statue in Copenhagen.
- Hans Christian Andersen Museum – Dedicated to the famous Danish author, featuring books, artifacts, and exhibits.
- Elverhøj Museum of History & Art – Showcasing Solvang’s Danish heritage and local art.
- Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum – A collection of rare and vintage motorcycles from different eras, including racing bikes, antique models, and unique designs.
- Wine Tasting – Explore local wineries like Buttonwood Farm Winery, Rideau Vineyard, and Rusack Vineyards.
- Danish Pastries & Bakeries – Try authentic Danish treats at Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery, Mortensen’s Danish Bakery, or Solvang Bakery.
- Solvang Trolley & Carriage Company – A charming, horse-drawn trolley ride through the streets of Solvang.
- Cycling the Santa Ynez Valley – Ride scenic trails through vineyards and rolling hills.
- Shopping in Danish Boutiques – Browse specialty shops for Scandinavian goods, clogs, and souvenirs.
- Nojoqui Falls Park – Hike to a beautiful seasonal waterfall just outside Solvang.
- Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort – Enjoy horseback riding, golf, and fishing in a luxury ranch setting.
- Hans Christian Andersen Park – A peaceful park with walking trails and playgrounds.
- Lake Cachuma – A great spot for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
- Solvang Danish Days (September) – A celebration of Danish culture with parades, dancing, and traditional food.
- Julefest (December) – A magical Christmas festival with lights, markets, and festive events.
- Taste of Solvang (March) – A food and wine festival featuring local flavors.
- The Hitching Post II – The famous steakhouse and wine bar featured in multiple scenes.
- Solvang Restaurant – Where the main characters eat aebleskiver (Danish pancake balls).
- Kalyra Winery – One of the wineries visited in the movie.
- Hans Christian Andersen Park – A scenic park often used for romantic moments.
- Solvang Trolley & Carriage Co. – Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride like the contestants
- Downtown Solvang – Where contestants strolled the streets and shopped
- Downtown Solvang – Many of the Danish buildings served as backdrops for this magical movie.
- This heartwarming Christmas-themed romantic comedy, filmed partially in Solvang, captures the town’s festive spirit during the holiday season.
- Solvang’s quaint streets and idyllic scenery make an appearance in this romantic comedy, adding to the charm of the film.
- The entire movie is set in Solvang highlighting the towns festivities. There are scenes in iconic bakeries like Mortensen's.
