Wine lovers’ California
A grand tour of California’s wine region
This route is ideal for wine lovers or those who want to go off the well-beaten track. Start by taking in the sights of San Francisco before heading into wine country where you can sample the best of Sonoma and its once Mexican colonised town--not forgetting to stop off at John Muir Woods to see its giant redwood trees. Go on to enjoy the world-renowned wines of Napa Valley as well as some of the area’s finest cuisine. The lush valley is also great for cycling, trail walking and kayaking on the river. Complete your journey back in San Fran.
Key information
 Destinations |
Western USA |
|---|---|
 Activity |
Nature & Wildlife, Culture, Culinary, Wine |
 Physical Level |
Easy |
 Season |
January - December |
Suggested itinerary
Walk the hills of San Francisco
Day 1–3 in San Francisco
Crammed into less than 50 square miles and with a population of less than a million, small San Francisco packs a mighty punch. Its patchwork of different neighbourhoods -- Mission District, Haight-Ashbury, Chinatown and many more -- all offer a different side to the city, while the big attractions -- Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf -- are all worth the visit.
This is also a city of culture. There are Michelin-starred restaurants. There are pop-up diners and incredible food trucks. There is a world-class music scene and plenty of outdoor adventures, from whale-watching at Land's End to hiking in Mount Diablo. Just watch out for the earth tremors -- San Francisco's proximity to the San Andreas faultline means it experiences several hundred tremors a year.
Don't miss
Enjoy the coastline of San Fran
Take a stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf, explore the Marina District before experiencing the lively city at night. Stop at the spectacular Golden Gate bridge that connects San Francisco Bay with the Pacific Ocean to enjoy a classic view of the skyline. Perhaps even take a boat to the infamous Alcatraz.
Sample California's best wine
Day 4–7 in Napa Valley
Napa Valley is filled with lush vineyards that can be visited on foot or with the vintage railcars of the Napa Valley Wine Train which covers 36 miles. The family owned wineries offer guided tours, and some hotels even have their own. When you’re not drinking wine, enjoy kayaking on the Napa River and enjoy the region’s famous cuisine.
Don't miss
Sonoma wine tasting
Sonoma Valley’s vineyards produce some of California’s best and most varied wine. Spend a couple of days here wine tasting and exploring the town which dates back to Mexican colonial times. Closeby are the John Muir Woods where you can marvel at rare giant redwood trees.
Return to San Francisco
Day 8 in San Francisco
Head back to San Francisco for your onward departure.
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