Mission grounds

After breakfast we went for a stroll on the grounds of Mission Santa Inés. This lovely land is such a contrast with the streets of Solvang. The morning cloud cover was also a welcome contrast in this often hot, sunny valley.

"Best Breakfast" revisited

While my "Best of 2025" list didn't single out Craft House as the "Best Breakfast" of the year, it was. (It does show their Avocado Toast as the best in that category). On this morning I opted for the Eggs Benedict - also memorable - while Mrs. had the GF Breakfast Sandwich which looked simple but had a surprisingly complex and delicious flavor. A side of Breakfast Potatoes made everyone happy.

morning coffee

I'm of the opinion that "morning coffee" should be a separate meal from breakfast, one that precedes breakfast by as much as an hour. And though I call it "morning coffee" it could alternatively be called "morning liquids" since it can include juice, water, and any other liquids (or supplements) that help start the day. Anyway getting my "morning coffee" at Hotel Corque took a bit of work, but it was worth its weight in coffee.

Mezzanine revisited

The famous Mezzanine at the Hotel Corque. I think last year we just called it the "lobby". Now we know better. Still a great place to read and do crosswords.

Craft House 2026

 

I remember being in a pizza mood and this Pizza Bianca with multiple kinds of cheese plus roasted garlic and herbs seemed to be a winner. The crispy-thin gluten free crust was perfect in my book and the flavor was good but could have had a touch more umph. Side salads and a Strawberries Wild mocktail rounded out the meal.

an excellent balcony

 

The only flaw with this otherwise excellent balcony was the near total lack of privacy if your neighbor chose to enjoy it at the same time. But I guess if you were eager to meet others that could be a good thing. Can't argue with the scenery though...

an excellent pool revisited

 

The second best pool of 2025, the way it looked in 2026. Hotel Corque in Solvang, CA.