California’s Wine Country

Getting around is easy: take a ‘Sip and Cycle’ bike tour around the wineries stopping for a picnic lunch amongst the lush setting, or experience some of the finest scenery in the region by riding the Napa Valley Wine Train. A 36-mile round-trip journey from downtown Napa to the picturesque valley towns of Yountville and St. Helena, this 3 hour ride on the original 1864 rail line is a highlight of any California wine country holiday.

Autumn is the best time to visit as the grape harvest season or ‘crush’ happens every August to October and is widely celebrated during California Wine Month. But a trip any time of the year will prove fruitful with wineries offering numerous public events year round. You’ll find luxurious respite from city life in the charming inns and upscale hotels, as well as countless opportunities for outdoor pursuit and fine dining. From freshly baked morning pastries found at local bakeries to culinary classes at the renowned Culinary Institute of America, and dinner at one of the many local Michelin-starred restaurants, Napa and Sonoma are also a food-lover’s heaven.

While you are in the wine country region, don’t forget to travel up to Sonoma County’s largest city, Santa Rosa. Just 25 minutes from Sonoma Valley, this beautifully lush locale is not only off the beaten path but happens to offer equally fine wineries. Filled with the modern amenities you would expect of a city of its size, Santa Rosa also has more to do than just wine tasting. Explore one of Santa Rosa’s many outdoor parks or visit the Railroad Square Historic District to learn about the advent of the railroads in the United States.