Welcome to the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn, a charming establishment with a story as rich and varied as the wines it celebrates. Nestled in the picturesque town of Los Olivos, California, the inn stands as a testament to the vision of its founder, Fess Parker. Known to many as a Hollywood legend, Parker found a second calling in the rolling vineyards of Santa Ynez Valley.
Fess Parker, famed for his roles as Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone in the mid-20th century, turned his attention to winemaking after his acting career waned. In 1998, he and his wife Marcella purchased what would become the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn. This was not just a business venture but a family legacy, deeply intertwined with the Santa Barbara County wine scene.
The inn, which was last renovated in 2012, offers more than just luxury accommodations. Each of its 19 rooms is adorned with personal touches that reflect the Parker family’s warm hospitality. Guests are often greeted with a complimentary bottle of Fess Parker wine, a nod to the inn’s deep-rooted connection to the vineyard just a few miles away.
The inn’s location in Los Olivos places it in the heart of a thriving wine region, attracting visitors from all over the globe. This small town, named after the olive trees planted by Alden March Boyd in the 1880s, has grown into a hub for wine enthusiasts, boasting over 30 tasting rooms, many housed in historic Victorian buildings.
One of the inn’s charming anecdotes involves its connection to the film industry. The Fess Parker Winery was featured in the 2004 film *Sideways* under the pseudonym Frass Canyon. This appearance, while humorous, highlighted the winery’s reputation and its role in the broader cultural tapestry of wine country.
As you walk through the inn, you may notice vintage photographs of Fess Parker and his family, reminders of the inn’s origins and its continued operation by the Parker family. With Amanda Parker White, Fess’s granddaughter, now at the helm, the inn continues to thrive, offering a blend of historical charm and modern comfort.
Today, the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn stands not just as a place to rest, but as a living monument to a family’s passion and the legacy of a man who wore many hats—from a coonskin cap to a vintner’s hat.
