In Spanish the word “soledad” means solitude. And back when the area was populated by cows and Spanish friars it was an accurate description. But today, Soledad is a vibrant community that can surprise the uninitiated. Area vineyards provide the oenophile with options galore, and recreational activities abound at the nearby Pinnacles National Monument, the Seco Wilderness Area and the splendor of the Monterey Peninsula.