A California destination resort that offers natural beauty, calm and gourmet cuisine can often be hard to find, one free of screaming kids and badly dressed adults. But we found one in Paso Robles at Allegretto Vineyard Resort and Spa, a peaceful European-inspired refuge that recalls a true Mediterranean escape with lush, rolling hills and Central Coast skies. This is an inspiring place that presents itself as unique to every guest as it offers all and whatever one seeks.

Allegretto is as Tuscan as it gets: 20 acres of vineyards and orchards, an oasis devoted to a rich tapestry of food, culture and endless beauty. We entered a lushly-landscaped courtyard in the center of which was a fountain and large olive trees. This is a gorgeous property with majestic columns, fascinating statues, spectacular art work and subtle lighting.

We were led to a beautiful and meticulously prepared accommodation, one of Allegretto’s 171 guestrooms and suites that feature tall ceilings, private terrazzas and custom bath amenities. The bed was as soft as kitten’s tummy. Our view was of the pool, vineyards, olive trees and a manicured explosion of green foliage. We enjoyed the large fire pits and relaxing by the picturesque pool surrounded by vines.

We pampered ourselves with one of Allegretto’s signature spa treatments then dined at Cello Ristorante. The Spa at Allegretto is a quaint boutique spa with six beautifully appointed treatment rooms, a gentle infrared-detox sauna and a lounge patio. There are no shower facilities or wet area adjacent to the spa, however all resort guests have access to the resort pool, jacuzzi, and fitness center. Our choice was a hot stone massage but we could have selected a vine-inspired aromatherapy massage, body scrub or any of dozens of treatments.

Executive Chef Eric Olson brings his global culinary experience to Cello, where his eclectic seasonal menu is inspired by the gardens, farms and vineyards of the wine country and the spices of his travels. Cello is about fresh ingredients and artisan cookery. The kitchen celebrates every farmer, rancher, fisherman, chef, and server who makes every guest’s dish possible. Allegretto seems delighted to share the bounty of Paso Robles and the Central Coast with one and all. We could not resist starting with a Burrata Martini, a refreshing salad of caramelized Anjou, mache, ginger, fresh Burrata, micro greens and toasted almonds. Some wood-fired flatbreads went well with the first glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Risotto with earthy foraged mushrooms followed. Criso and intense Saltimbocca prosciutto was next. Of course we relied on the team to select some fine local wines for us which they did admirably.

The staff at Allegretto is young and congenial. Nothing seems to faze them and they are eager to please. It is obvious management is committed to the highest levels of service. The teamwork at play is finely-tuned.

We worked off our calories doing yoga in the quiet French-inspired Abbey. We walked the meandering pathways through gardens, vineyards and inspired vignettes that invoke the luxury and warmth of the good life. We eschewed bocce ball though it looked and sounded fun, but we did swim a lot in the heated, crystal-clear pool.

This is a super spot for body and soul restoration, a magical, relaxed and peaceful oasis that has none of the chain-like atmosphere one often find but a rare private personality and character that is well worth a detour. Allegretto in musical terms means lively or happily, not necessarily quick or fast. This perfectly describes an experience at this special place. 2700 Buena Vista Dr, Paso Robles, CA 93446, (805) 369-2500. http://www.allegrettovineyardresort.com.