The Report

This venue is VRV (Venue Report Verified); Venue Report Correspondent Harmony Loves has personally visited this venue. To continue our week of Mexico venues we now take you to Baja California, Mexico. According to us reporters, there can never be enough Frida Kahlo, Otomi prints, piñatas or Papel Picado. We are giant fans of Mexican art and handicrafts around here.

Venue correspondent Harmony Loves shares a similar affection for the Mexican culture and also resides in Mexico part time. She recently trekked down to the middle of the Guadalupe Valley to visit award winning Boutique Country Inn, La Villa del Valle. The scenic drive through the Mexican wine country is brimming with plump ripe grapes. The property consists of the Inn that was voted one of the most romantic, an award winning restaurant, and a winery. Perched on a hilltop in the heart of Mexican wine country, this is a secluded sanctuary with commanding panoramic views of vineyards, olive groves, rows of fragrant lavender and mountains.

Location. Wine lovers rejoice because this is Mexico's version of Napa Valley and one of the top hotspots for wine tasting. Along Route 3 in the Guadalupe Valley, Baja now has its own wine route. The quality of wine is delicious and is steadily building a BIG buzz within the wine community (pun intended). No longer just the stomping grounds of Tequilas and Tecates, the ideal climate for wine production is causing a stir and wine connoisseurs from around the world are coming to come sip, savor and socialize here.

HOW WILL MY GUESTS GET HERE: Only 1 1/2 hours away from San Diego, CA. You can easily get here from both the Tijuana and Tecate border crossings. You will have a scenic drive including views of the Pacific coastline. Bring money as there are a few paid tolls along the way.

The Scoop

The stunning setting of La Villa del Valle is graced with vineyards, lavender gardens, vegetable gardens a pool and award-winning restaurant Corazón de Tierra. The group of the Boutique Inn, winery and restaurant combined, make this an ideal destination for an intimate celebration, gathering, or group getaway.

With majestic views, excellent service and fine ''Mexiterranean'' cuisine, it sits on 70 acres with multiple spaces suitable for events. From discreet corporate meetings, workshops and seminars, to an elegant wedding of 100+, La Villa del Valle offers an experience to remember. The venue is very flexible and can accommodate a variety of events from small private dinners for 30 in the winery up to 250 guests in the outdoor locations. Weddings are typically hosted in 3 different locations (one for the cocktail reception, one for the ceremony and one for the dinner and dancing). Venue correspondent Harmony Loves was particularly fond of the the food truck area where it would be ideal for a cocktail hour or reception. She also loved the flexibility of the vast variety of venue spaces to choose from.

La Villa del Valle prides themselves on their flexibility and enjoy working with a number of different planners and designers. Additionally, the innkeepers are on hand to attend to every detail.

WHAT WILL MY GUESTS EAT? It is required that the food for an event here is crafted and created by the restaurant on the property,  Corazón de Tierra. This famous hotspot has been featured on a multitude of foodie blogs and shows like Anthony Bourdains No Reservations. It ishelmed by Chef Diego Hernandez and his talented team. They transform local ingredients into gourmet ''Mexiterranean''bliss. In addition to the delicious dining, the restaurant is beautifully designed! (refer to photos row 9)

Photos: Rows 1 - 8 Harmony Loves for The Venue Report // Row 9 Corazon de Tierra

Bonus

Pillow Talk. After your big fiesta you will not have to go far to sleep. You and your guests can lay your heads in one of 7 beautifully appointed rooms at the Inn. If you host an event here you will need to book all of the rooms, and why wouldn't you want to? Maximum privacy is the way to go. You will enjoy the entire experience on the property while wandering around, relaxing under the shade of the olive trees, walking the garden labyrinth, exploring fruit orchards, vegetable gardens, and visiting the vineyard. You can also choose to soak up the sun while laying poolside or relax while taking in the sweeping views from the loggia, and verandah.

Bragging Rights. The inn was voted one of the 50 most romantic hotels in the world by Travel and Leisure, the restaurant is one of the top 50 in all Latin America. The San Pelligrino Awards list voted Corazón de Tierrathe best hotel restaurant in Mexico and  best concept by Travel and Leisure.

STYLE FOR YOUR SETTING

The collection of the stunning Inn, restaurant and winery on the property creates an intimate and relaxing setting that blends into the scenery. We love the terracotta colors of the desert sand mixed with agave and cactus green for a pop of color.

1. Cactus Galore. The venue has glorious gardens and driving along the scenic route to arrive to the venue you will spot thousands of cactus peppering the landscape. Send invitations to your guests with photos of this spectacular desert scenery. We particularly love these invitations by Jackie Jonesspotted on 100 Layer Cake.   2. Salt Rimmed Delights. In addition to serving guests wine from the winery, you can also set up a Margarita bar with cute drink stirrers to evoke a festive feel. Ole! (Photo: Our Labor of Love)   3. Agave. Line aisles or tables with soft green agave plants that are native to Mexico. This is a creative alternative to other succulents more commonly infused into event decor. (Photo: Jose Villa)

Inside Scoop

For those looking to relax, each room has a bathroom stocked with bath products, made of pure, organic, essential oils and you will slumber upon 14-inch thick beds paired with overstuffed pillows for a heavenly nights sleep. Owners Eileen and Phil Gregory have also ensured utmost comfort. You can also opt to watch the staff plucking ingredients from the garden for your meal at the restaurant. For those looking for excitement, the property is equipped with a bocce ball area to indulge in a fun and competitive game with friends and family while sipping on spirits and wine.

Highlight Reel

Around Town

Corazon De Tierra:

The restaurant on the venue property is not to be missed. With a plethora of awards and raving online reviews, this architectural gem is only footsteps away from the Inn. The menu changes daily based on what’s delicious from the orchard and garden on property. You will delight in delicious seafood at this gourmet "Mexitarrean" gem.

The Famous Food Truck:

Famous for her street food, Güerita of La Guerrerense in Ensenada, has appeared in TV Shows hosted by renowned chefs, México: One Plate at a Time with Rick Bayless, No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain & NatGeo. Try the tostadas covered in urchin, ceviche, fish tacos and the spiced beer cocktail, Michelada. (Visit: www.laguerrerense.com)

Wine Tasting at Trevista:

One of the best wineries in Guadalupe Valley is Trevista Winery. We love the friendship tree that sits on the property and the family feel of the winery run by Hilda and Jim. There is a lovely hacienda that sits on the vineyard with panoramic views in every direction. Additionally, Trevista donates to 14 orphanages in Baja. (Visit: www.trevistavineyards.com)