Celebrating New Year’s in Solvang: A Cozy Getaway

Our first New Year’s celebration as a married couple deserved something truly special. We were seeking a much-needed break for this momentous occasion, with no grand plans in mind other than basking in the warm winter sun on the charming streets of a cozy village.

So, why Solvang? Well, its location made it the perfect winter escape for us during the New Year holiday. Nestled in the southern part of California, approximately a 5-hour drive from San Francisco, Solvang is renowned for its Danish culture, established in the 1900s by immigrants from Denmark.

We opted for a slower but more scenic route, relishing the beauty of the drive. Having traveled along the Pacific Coast Highway numerous times before, we knew we would never tire of its breathtaking vistas. It’s a route we could take every year and still be in awe of its splendor. Starting from the San Francisco Bay area and culminating in Santa Maria (our overnight stop), this route includes enchanting places like Monterey, Carmel, the Big Sur Coast, Bixby Bridge, Hearst Castle, and more. As you traverse this path, you’re treated to the awe-inspiring sights of the ocean, dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and the sheer untouched beauty of the rugged coastline.

Around 8 PM, we arrived in Santa Maria, gearing up for an early morning journey to Solvang. Our initial impression of the town was nothing short of delightful; it felt like we had been transported to a quaint northern European village. The smoky, foggy morning greeted us with distinctive architecture, markets brimming with Danish bakeries, art shops, and a myriad of dining options.

For the better part of the morning and early afternoon, we strolled along the streets, marveling at the vibrant, picturesque villas, intriguing street names, and the lively atmosphere. Every nook and cranny exuded a burst of color, making our visit immensely enjoyable.

And now, the highlight of any trip: shopping! Numerous gift and souvenir shops dotted the market, housing a plethora of small treasures related to Danish culture, collectibles, magnets, antiques, apparel, bags, and more. Given that it was the post-festival season, everything was on sale, and we managed to strike some excellent deals.

Our Solvang getaway concluded with cherished memories, a lengthy list of New Year resolutions, and a fresh bucket list of places to explore in the coming year. We were ecstatic to have ushered in the New Year just the way we had always envisioned. On the journey back home, we made a quick stop at Avila Beach to relish the first sunset of the year.

Here are some pointers for your own Solvang adventure:

1. While the Pacific Coast Highway offers breathtaking scenery, be cautious when driving, especially in rainy conditions.
2. Consider I5 and 101 as faster options when traveling from the north.
3. A one-day trip is typically sufficient to explore the town.
4. Solvang is a pedestrian-friendly town, but you can also opt for cart and Segway tours if you prefer.

Travel Statistics:

• Starting Point: San Francisco Bay Area
• Miles Driven: 267
• Miles Walked: 2.6
• Time Spent: 5 hours