When it comes to unique accommodations in Paso Robles, it doesn’t get any better than staying at a winery. Geneseo Inn at Cass Winery is a luxury boutique hotel located right above the vineyards. At this hip hotel, you can sip and stay at the exact same place.
Geneseo Inn at Cass Winery debuted its chic eight rooms in the Spring of 2020. Each individually designed with its own flare and named accordingly (The Beatles fans will love it), sit perched up over the vineyards. But what makes this hotel just a bit more unique is that they took it one step further. Using repurposed shipping crates, Ecotech Design created one of the most unique winery hotels in California.
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Paso Robles is known for its rolling hills, proximity to nearby destinations like San Luis Obispo and the coastal town of Cambria. The city itself is bustling — a lively restaurant scene, tons of adventure, and endless good wine. It’s one of the friendliest wine countries I’ve personally visited. I described it to one of my friends this last week as “elevated and approachable.”
So if you’re going to visit Paso Robles, why not stay at a winery? Take part in some of their incredible experiences located at the vineyards, and wake up with a serene view of the rolling hills of Paso Robles. Here’s a look at what staying at a winery in Paso Robles looks like.
A Review of Staying at the Geneseo Inn
Helpful Guide
For those looking for a complete itinerary in Paso Robles and surrounding destinations, check out The Design Lover’s Guide To A Central California Road Trip.
The Rooms
Each of the rooms are beautifully appointed. Modern furnishings and clean lines are the focus in each, providing a very bright space to call home while at the winery. The high ceilings like in room “Country Road” make the entire place just feel that much bigger. Set with plush linens and bathrobes, you can really settle in.
One of the best features of each of the rooms is the patio that sits off the back with views over the vineyards. As part of your stay, the Estate Breakfast is included which is a hot breakfast (changes daily, savory, or sweet choice) that gets delivered to your room. You’ll also get fresh coffee and juice, but if you need a coffee beforehand the Nespresso machine in the room is there.
(photos are of room “Country Road”)
The Property & Winery
The Geneseo Inn itself has a large common area off the back of the rooms. Set with hammocks, fire pits, and lounge areas, you can easily hang out there as well. As the Geneseo Inn is right above the Cass Winery, you will want to book an appointment down at the tasting room.
The Winery
A short stroll brings you down to Cass Winery and their cafe. Their wines are known as “French DNA and Paso Personality.” If you’re a fan of French varietals like Roussanne, Viognier, Marsanne, and Mourvedre like me, you’ll feel like you’re right in the heart of France through their wines. All of their wines are Estate Grown and ENTAV certified. ENTAV is a French government agency that overlooks winegrape clones to certify the quality and only three wineries in California have planted entirely ENTAV certified wines, and Cass Winery is one of them.
*Their tasting room does get very busy, so it is highly advisable to book in advance.
The Cafe
One great component of the winery itself is the cafe and food options here. Their cafe serves lunch and includes a wonderful menu with local and fresh ingredients. Their Benny Burger is a favorite, and the Gourmet Mac-N-Cheese is indulgently good. You can enjoy lunch down in the tasting room or order from your room and bring it back.
Unique Experiences at Geneseo Inn
Of course, it doesn’t just end with incredible rooms and an award-winning winery. Geneseo Inn has some more in-depth ways to truly experience the vineyards and winemaking. This summer they also launched “Camp Cass” and harvest retreats at the property.
Camp Cass
Camp Cass is essentially like an adult summer camp right on the property. Activities like horseback riding through the vineyards at sunset, beekeeping, olive oil pressing, and cooking classes are available to book during your stay. It’s the ultimate way to experience the area. Read more here.
Retreats & Other Events
For those looking for an all-inclusive experience that is tailored to winemaking, Harvest Retreats are available this fall as well as some beekeeping and olive oil retreats. Everything is included during your stay and rate (incredible value) and you stay at Geneseo Inn, take part in experiences, and dine on property. Find retreats here.
Other special events at the winery like their open-air vineyard yoga or their famous estate beef dinners are also available. We took part in their “Wednesdays Around the World” dinner which brought us to Italy and enjoyed some incredible wine and food from Chef Charles.
Overall
The Geneseo Inn is a one-of-a-kind hotel experience in California. When I think about what makes California such a special state, it’s hotels like this that go the extra mile. Their passion and dedication to creating an opportunity to experience local culture through a thoughtful space, through food, and through wine is something you don’t want to miss.
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