Tucked away in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Los Gatos is a charming town that many breeze past on their way to more famed destinations like Sonoma or Monterey. Yet, this quaint community, with its Victorian allure and Spanish Revival architecture, demands more than just a passing glance for those looking to unwind close to San Francisco.
Visitors typically start their adventure by checking into the Toll House Hotel, a place where modern comfort meets historical charm. Positioned perfectly in the heart of downtown, the hotel allows its guests to explore the town’s vibrant shops and restaurants with ease. As you settle into your room, perhaps with a fireplace or balcony, you might begin to feel Los Gatos slowly revealing its magic.
Evening plans might lead you to Hapa’s Brewery—an easy stroll from the hotel. This locale serves up a variety of beers, from Pilsners to hazy IPAs, along with an inviting selection of comfort foods like Bavarian pretzels and pizzas. Following this, Oak & Rye offers an unforgettable pizza experience with inventive toppings, best enjoyed with a craft beer or cocktail. Its popularity might encourage an early visit or, at least, waiting with a drink in hand.
With the morning sun on Saturday, guests are encouraged to take advantage of the hotel’s gym facilities, both indoors and on the outdoor deck. Grab a complimentary Starbucks in the lobby to kick-start your day. Later, a visit to Los Gatos Roasting Company, known for its darker roasts and pastries, provides a taste of the town’s local charm.
Your Saturday continues with a culinary journey to Manresa Bread for mouthwatering pastries. The gingerbread loaf here, paired with Verve’s coffee, is known to inspire admiration. With pastries in hand, it’s time to explore the natural beauty surrounding Los Gatos. Sanborn County Park and Castle Rock State Park offer hiking trails with rewarding views of waterfalls and redwood forests.
As the afternoon unfolds, a wine tasting adventure awaits at Gali Vineyards, focusing on local appellations like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. When evening calls, The Bywater is a delightful choice, offering Southern-inspired dishes like seafood gumbo and broiled oysters, all complemented by a classic Sazerac cocktail.
Sunday morning arrives with a visit to Croissante, a bakery delivering traditional and innovative takes on the French pastry. With a pastry in hand, wander through the quaint streets, perhaps stopping at a retail favorite before heading back to the hotel.
Finally, no visit is complete without one last walk among the redwoods at Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, providing a magical closure to your Los Gatos weekend journey.
In just 48 hours, Los Gatos offers a blend of historic charm, culinary delights, and natural escapism, challenging the notion that great destinations can’t be discovered near home. This hidden gem beckons those willing to take a detour off the beaten path.
Source: Forbes
