Creston is located 13 miles east of Atascadero, just off Highway 41. It is fast becoming a popular destination for tourists and bicyclists, hosting the western state’s annual wildflower bike ride each spring and a regional rodeo in September. The beautiful vineyards, rolling hills, horse ranches and back country roads, make and ideal setting for cyclists or motor touring. From Creston continue to Highway 229 south to Highway 58 west on a beautiful country winding road through the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains which takes you to the small town of Santa Margarita. A stroll around Santa Margarita reminds you of America small towns everywhere with restaurants, grocery store, post office and numerous antique stores. If you wanted to visit Santa Margarita Lake or the famous Pozo Saloon which dates back to the 1800’s you would take Pozo Rd for approximately 16 miles. Once you are finished with the Santa Margarita area you may return to Atascadero by turning right onto El Camino Real for 10 miles.

 

 

Take Highway 41 West to Morro Bay where you can see a fishing village amongst shops and seafood restaurants. Take Main Street out to Highway 1 north and drive past Cayucos, a small beach town past the tiny town Harmony, population 18, noted for its winery and artist shops. A few miles ahead is Cambria, nestled amongst the Monterey pines, noted for art galleries, shops and dining. Continue north to San Simeon where newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst built his castle way atop the mountains overlooking San Simeon. Built between 1919 and 1947, the castles rich history is preserved by the State of California as one of the popular tourist attractions open for daily guided tours. Visit www.hearstcastle.com for tour reservations. On your return to Atascadero, you may choose to travel on Highway 46 west to Paso Robles where you can hook up to Highway 101 south.