Solvang is your hygge dream come true!
Solvang is a Danish-inspired town in the center of California with all the charm of a European village. The drive from San Diego does take around four hours. However, that’s a lot less than a 14-hour flight to Copenhagen! You’ll surely love this town if you have a soft spot for old-world architecture, cottage-core aesthetic, or have fantasized about running away to a charming village. This beautiful town has all the coziness or Hygge you could ever want and it’s the perfect town to visit this holiday season!
Hygge is actually an integral part of Danish culture. According to Oxford Languages, “Hygge encompasses a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of well-being.” You’ll see this for yourself as you stroll through the idyllic streets and pick up the aroma of freshly made pastries and catch a charming windmill from the corner of your eye.
This is also the perfect place to go in preparation for or during the holidays! The gorgeous European architecture makes the ideal backdrop for holiday shopping as you pick out an ornate hand-made Christmas ornament from Jule Hus, Solvang’s Christmas House since 1967. You also have to try the famous Belgian waffles at the authentic Belgian Café!
Another lovely family-friendly activity you have to try is the Solvang trolley. The wooden horse-drawn streetcar looks like it came out straight out of a fairytale! This is the perfect way to enjoy Solvang’s cultural heritage while getting a unique tour of the city.
This unique weekend getaway also offers the best of the Santa Barbara wine country, with more than 120 wineries and vineyards to explore nearby! Where there’s excellent wine, there’s bound to be fantastic food, like Cecco Ristorante, where you’ll find delicious rustic Italian cuisine.
Solvang Grape Stomp is a mandatory event for wine lovers. Sadly, this year’s event was canceled, so we’ll have to be patient and wait for next year!
Before leaving, you have to check out the quintessential antiques in Edelweiss and A Piece Of The Past – Antiques & Vintage Mall. At Edelweiss, you’ll find collectible dolls, jewelry, and other fine goods. And A Piece of The Past has over 28 different dealers in their 4000 square feet of vintage and antique treasures!
If you’re looking for an out-of-print book, you should head over to The Book Loft. This independent bookstore has been around since 1970 and continues to be a staple of Solvang. The Book Loft is a dreamy bookstore and the ultimate spot to find hard-to-come-by literary treasures! Their knowledgeable staff can help you select the perfect gift for the bookworm in your life. They’ll ship your order to your destination and will even gift wrap for no extra charge!
If you have a sweet tooth, then you’ll love Downey’s Candy World. The shop may not look like Willy Wonka’s Factory, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find delicious treats! The store is lined with literal barrels filled to the brim with all kinds of classic candy. Amongst their bounty is delectable Rasberry Lemonade Saltwater Taffy, Old Fashioned Candy-Buttons, and your favorite lollipops!
Finally, if you want a fun souvenir to remember Solvang, we recommend Copenhagen T’s & Gifts. You can get goodies such as a Solvang t-shirt, magnets, key chains, tote bags, or other fun memorabilia. You can also get more traditional Danish fare like a Gnome or Dala Horses.
This enchanting town is an ideal weekend getaway that will make you feel like you’re on the other side of the world! Their rich traditions and its storybook looks will surely have you planning your next visit as soon as you leave.
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