Arrival and Race Prep – DAY 1
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Getting here:
Flying, driving, or taking the train there are no obstacles (unlike on the racecourse) to getting here. Once you arrive in town check-in at your accommodation. Your San Luis Obispo Spartan Itinerary starts now. Looking for a historic victory? The Carlton Hotel in downtown Atascadero was originally built in 1928 and much of that charm is still on display for guests, especially when you select the French period inspired Carlton Suites. If you prefer something a little more coastal to get you in the right headspace for the race, check out the new Hampton Inn Morro Bay. Located along Highway 1, it’s the perfect spot to rest after you take on the Spartan challenge. For a complete list of SLO CAL accommodations click here.
Settling in:
Now that you've unpacked your bags, it’s time to double check you have all the gear necessary for the race. If you need a last-minute item, head to Running Warehouse, The Mountain Air or the local REI in San Luis Obispo. For more great shopping options click here. Once your gear is set, it’s time for carb loading! Buona Tavola in Paso Robles is a local favorite. You can find a full list of restaurants for delicious pasta and more here. Don’t holdback – go ahead, try a couple dishes before indulging in a restful night’s sleep.
Navigate the Course at Santa Margarita Ranch – DAY 2
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Pre-race:
Kick off race day with a gentle yoga class at Dharma Yoga Loft or Vin Yoga. A good way to stretch your muscles and gain mental clarity before heading to the racecourse. When you arrive at Santa Margarita Ranch, check-in for your heat and take advantage of the race festival. At the festival you’ll find merch, food, drinks, giveaways and more. Be sure to visit the SLO CAL booth for even more information about can’t miss activities to add to your itinerary during your racecation. With a lay of the land, it’s time to take on the course!
Post-race:
The fun doesn’t end after you complete the Spartan challenge. Keep the momentum going with an easy stroll. Head to Montaña De Oro State Park’s Bluff Trail for an oceanfront gaunt or enjoy the path at Paso’s Centennial Park. Alternatively, you can focus on your after-race recovery at Sloco Massage and Wellness. They offer message therapy, infrared sauna, cryotheraphy and more. Central Coast Floats is a flotation therapy spa where you can book a private tub with over 1,000 pounds of Epsom salt dissolved in the water. The salts allow your body to be buoyant and have been shown to assist with muscle recuperation after strenuous exercise. Or you can discover more health and wellness options here.
Rest & Recover – DAY 3
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Cheers:
Celebrate a job well done by raising a glass. Wine tasting among the wines or on the beach – SLO CAL has a variety of tasting room locations, wineries and varietals to choose from. Enjoy a bold red from a Paso AVA or a lighter Pino Noir or Chardonnay from SLO Coast Wine region. If beer is more your speed, kick back at Ancient Owl Beer Garden where the beer is always flowing. Or take in the scenery at Three Stacks and a Rock Brewing Company’s bay-side patio with uninterrupted views of Morro Rock. Click here for a complete list of wineries, distilleries, breweries, and more.
Treat yourself:
Muscles feeling sore? Time for a pamper session. Pick up Life Elements' CBD Muscle Relief products, made right here in Atascadero, and select a treatment from one of the best day spas in San Luis Obispo. Spa Cerro offers over eight massages to choose from, all of which can be enhanced with the addition of an aroma therapy foot bath. Sol Spa offerings include reflexology and salt stones – known for their healing properties. You can also book a soak in the natural mineral waters at River Oaks Hot Springs in addition to your massage. Want more options? Click here.
Adventure Your Way Back to Training – DAY 4
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Thrilling:
Outdoor adventures are plentiful in SLO CAL. Kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing, paragliding, ATVing, ziplining, horseback riding, rock-climbing and more. Elevate your adventure by soaring over the hills and vines at Santa Margarita Adventures. Your booking includes 6 ziplines and endless thrills. Hit the iconic waves in Morro Bay – book a lesson with Cal Coast Adventures (a WSL endorsed surf school) or rent equipment at AzHiAzIAm surf shop, and head down the street to the ocean. For mountain climbing, check out The Pad, a local indoor climbing gym, or for more experienced climbers, trek out to Cabrillo Peak. You can explore all outdoor activities here.
Heart pumping:
When you are ready to return to a training routine, there are swimming, biking and trail running options nearby. Mountain biking in Los Padres National Forest or road biking along Highway 1 are top-notch. If you’re looking for more of a cruise, take a sightseeing or wine tasting excursion on a bike with VineCycle Tours. You’ll find numerous trails in the area perfect for hiking and trail running. Black Hill is a 2.5-mile trail that rewards hikers with panoramic views at the top. The Irish Hills Open Space trail loop is just under 9-miles and is a wonderful choice for those looking to log greater distances.
