June 13, 2008

Yakkity Yakima

Yakima Valley Road Trip Guide

They call it the Palm Springs of Washington. You call it guaranteed sunshine, a mecca for wine and Mexican food, and the mellowest place on the planet.

FRIDAY
Search for treasures at the vast Thorp Fruit & Antique Mall on the way to Yakima. Grab a casual dinner at Salsita Antojitos Mexicanos (902 South Fair Avenue; 509-452-9515) then shack up at Prosser’s new Desert Wind Winery, where Southwest-style rooms come with wine and a breakfast basket.

SATURDAY
Hit small, friendly Prosser wineries Chinook and Airfield Estates. Then head to Red Mountain’s Hightower Cellars and Hedges for panoramic views. Tuck in at a taco stand or new tapas spot Picazo 7 Seventeen, then crash in cozy tepees at Cherry Wood Bed Breakfast and Barn.

SUNDAY
Sleep late, linger over homemade Swedish pancakes and lingonberry butter, and mosey to Rattlesnake Hills for Wineglass Cellars, Sheridan, and Bonair. Schedule a Pacific Rim treatment at Ummelina International Day Spa, then guzzle artisan pastries and chocolates at Essencia Artisan Bakery.

With relaxation like this, who needs a nap-a?

For Yakima Valley maps and winery information, go to winecountrywashington.org.

Photo Credit: Jackie Johnston