Originally Posted by Pamestique

I've done this event a number of times and love it. The scenary is spectacular. Weather can be iffy but that's part of the appeal.

March is a great time to ride in Southern California - specifically from Orange County down to San Diego. I can also recommend central coast, say Santa Maria up to Cambria. Paso Robles, where the Great Western Bike Ralley is held each year is a wondrous place to ride (plus to you can drive out to San Luis Obispo, Cambria etc). Same type of terrain as Solvang, but cheaper lodging and quieter roads. Check out SLOBC.org website for rides and information on the area.

I am fortunate enough to live in a resort destination. I am 45 minutes by bike from Newport Beach and 45 minutes by bike to the local Santa Ana mountains. The weather is lovely right now but in March can be hot, up to 80 - 90 degrees or cold (down to 50's - yes that's our cold!). The weather in San Diego is even better but I don't know the area as well. If you do decide on OC, check out the bike club of Irvine web site (bikeirvine.org) and get their route slips. Let me know if you want any other information.