Discovering “The Alps” of Southern California
With its peaceful San Bernardino Mountain setting featuring exclusive holiday homes, local shops and restaurants, the charming resort community of Lake Arrowhead has long been a favorite under-the-radar escape for SoCal locals in the know. Take a break from the beach this summer and plan a day trip to “The Alps of Southern California” for a weekend of outdoor hiking, eco-adventures, fresh air, great food, wine tasting, shopping and scenic views. Lake Arrowhead Itinerary
Lake Arrowhead Itinerary
8 a.m.
Stylish Staycation
Emerald Lake House
Modern California meets Scandinavian chic at the swoon-worthy Emerald Lake House Airbnb. Originally remodeled by LA tastemaker Jenni Kayne, this three-story cabin enjoys Emerald Bay views from every room.
EXP 11/27
Lake Arrowhead Itinerary
10 a.m.
Breakfast Food Favs
Belgian Waffle Works
Fuel up for the day at long-standing local favorite Belgian Waffle Works. Menu must-trys at the dockside eatery include its decadent Monte Cristo waffle sandwich with ham, turkey and melted cheese and the Belgian Breakfast.
11 a.m.
Take a Hike
Heaps Peak Arboretum
A haven for nature enthusiasts, the 30-acre flower and wildlife-filled Heaps Peak Arboretum and its botanical garden are home to the Sequoia Trail, an almost mile-long loop that rewards hikers with a grove of giant sequoias.
12:45 p.m.
Adventure Awaits
SkyPark at Santa’s Village
The holiday spirit might be strong year-round at SkyPark at Santa’s Village, but a range of activities—from mountain biking and axe throwing to ziplining and fly fishing—are also available at this outdoor adventure park. Bring the whole family for a unique outing.
2 p.m.
Espresso Yourself
Higher Grounds Coffee House
Post up at Higher Grounds Coffee House in Crestline for single-origin pours, mixed blends, blooming teas or a raw local wildflower honey latte. Be sure to try a cookie or chocolate cream puff from the pastry case!
EXP 10/15
2:30 p.m.
Gifts and Goodies
Hearth & Sage General Store
The hipster-chic Hearth & Sage General Store is well stocked with ethically made gifts and goods, local apparel, pottery lines, home decor, gourmet pantry staples and natural apothecary items for people and pets.
Lake Arrowhead Itinerary
3 p.m.
Uncorked
Sycamore Ranch Vineyard & Winery
Wine tastings, which clock in at 90 minutes, are by appointment only at Sycamore Ranch Vineyard & Winery, whose owners specialize in Rhône- and Bordeaux-style wines, several of which are produced from their onsite, 3.5-acre vineyard.
Lake Arrowhead Itinerary
5 p.m.
Heard It Through the…
The Grapevine
With an outside deck framed by sparkling Lake Arrowhead views, The Grapevine is a destination wine bar, ideal for happy hour drinks and gourmet bites before dinner. Try the tasty bacon-wrapped dates and traditional Swiss cheese fondue.
7 p.m.
Those Views Though
The Lakefront Tap Room Bar & Kitchen
Next, stroll over to The Lakefront Tap Room for (more) gorgeous views, great cocktails and microbrews with dinner. Gastropub menu favorites include the bar’s namesake American Kobe Wagyu burger and a new addition: vegetarian falafel gyros.
Lake Arrowhead Itinerary
[mappress mapid=”118″]
Keri Bridgwater is a freelance writer covering travel and lifestyle. Her work has been featured in Fodor’s Travel, Marie Claire, Matador Network and InsideHook, among other outlets and publications.
