Located in southwestern California, Temecula offers gorgeous weather year round, making it a great destination for a family vacation. Many visitors enjoy visits to the Temecula Valley wineries that dot the countryside. Other activities include hiking, cycling, shopping and eating scrumptious meals at fantastic restaurants. No matter where you choose your vacation rental, you’ll enjoy beautiful vistas and plenty of fresh air. Find a small family home to enjoy during the holiday season, or choose a charming villa with views of the valley. Here are a few towns in the valley to check out on during your quest for the ideal Temecula vacation rental.

1. Temecula

Choose a condo in downtown Temecula and enjoy strolls through the city streets, unique shopping, and farm-to-table dining. Your family can also settle into a villa on the outskirts of town to enjoy a more peaceful, tranquil setting. Pack the little ones in the car for a trip to the Pennypickle’s, a children’s museum where they can touch and explore science exhibits. If you’re craving some fresh air, hop on one of the bikes in the garage of your vacation rental, and hit one of the numerous bike trails in the area.

2. Lake Village

The Lake Village area of Temecula sits to the northeast of the downtown area. There, you can find small vacation rentals featuring one and two bedrooms or larger villas. In the area, your family can enjoy one of the small local parks, including Ronald Reagan Sport Park. Pack a picnic lunch at your vacation rental, and spend a day kicking a soccer ball around the field while the youngest members of your family play on the playground.

3. Rainbow, California

Just down the road from Temecula is the town of Rainbow, where you can find a condo with a view or secluded hideaway that is close to all the shopping, restaurants and casinos in the area. During the day, drive around Temecula Valley, and stop at the various wineries for a tour and tasting, including Callaway Vineyard and Winery or Lumiere Winery. In the evenings, take the older members of your family out for an evening at the casinos where you can play the slots or show off your skills at one of the card game tables.

4. Murrieta, California

To the northwest of Temecula is the city of Murrieta, which offers your family an urban experience and peaceful setting with fresh air. Choose a vacation rental with acreage so you can enjoy outdoor time with your family, or select a home with a pool in the yard so your kids can splash around on warm afternoons. Take the family for a day of fun at the Mulligan Family Fun Center. There, you can enjoy a round of miniature golf or crown a winner at the go-karts. The baseball lovers in your family can practice their swings in the batting cages.

5. Dutch Village, California

Located northeast of Temecula, the town of Dutch Village features beautiful views of the valley. Vacation rentals in the area give you a choice of comfortable, quaint family homes or luxury getaways with hot tubs and pools. This neighborhood nestled inside Winchester features several parks and paved trails, so your family can enjoy evening walks and outings. Take a ride over to the Regal Hemet, which features 12 screens, to catch the latest blockbuster movie. You can even let the kids play a couple of video games at the theater’s arcade area.

6. Valle de Las Caballos

Experience small town life when you choose a vacation rental in Valle de Las Caballos. Located northeast of Temecula, this town provides your family with wide open space while being close enough for you to drive to all the wineries and other sights. Horseback riding is popular in the area and provides a great way to explore. At the Southern California Equestrian Center, you and your family can spend an afternoon on a trail ride through the 2,000 acres.

7. Skinner Reservoir

Find a vacation rental with a lake view out the back window when you bring the family to the Skinner Reservoir. This small lake backs up to the Skinner State Park, which offers plenty of outdoor activities, including fishing to hiking. If you’re looking for a unique experience, schedule a hot air balloon ride for the family or a romantic date with your sweetheart. California Dreamin Balloon Adventures offers stunning sunrise experiences where you can see the entire Temecula Valley from one place.

8. Lake Skinner Park Area

On the east side of Skinner Reservoir sits the Lake Skinner Park. There you can find cabins and cottages with lake views. While enjoying your vacation, spend a couple of days out touring the local vineyards. If you want to spend some time outside enjoying nature, check out the park or a walk around the lake. In June, your family can check out the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival that occurs around the lake annually.