Indulgent wines & Californian beauty in Sonoma

Cool, creative and vibrant, San Francisco is one of those legendary US cities shrouded in folklore; from the gold rush days of the Wild West to the cutting-edge tech of Silicon Valley. You’ll meet your fellow travellers and guide in the late afternoon, before heading out for your first activity: sailing by catamaran as the sun sets over San Francisco Bay. With the city unfolding before you, it’s a fitting way to settle into the adventure ahead.

This morning, we’ll drive you to the Pacific Coast, where you’ll enjoy a scenic hike through Sea Cliff neighbourhood down to Baker Beach. Then, you’re in for a unique gastronomic experience, as you arrive at Hog Island Oyster Co. Savour the taste of fresh, sustainably-caught oysters accompanied by a glass of wine, while overlooking Tomales Bay. After lunch, we’ll take you onwards to Bodega Bay (famous for its associations with Alfred Hitchcock), where you’ll have some free time to explore the beach at your own leisure. Later in the afternoon, it’s onto Sebastopol’s Barlow District. Here, you’ll find a vibrant neighbourhood lined with stylish cafes, distilleries, bars and boutiques – the ideal location, then, for an evening of craft beer tasting.

This morning you will start the day driving to your next destination: Chateau Montelena, a beautiful castle winery dating back to 1882. Enjoy an exclusive wine tasting in one of California’s most atmospheric vineyards, then we’ll drive you to Dry Creek Valley for a picnic lunch overlooking the hills. Later in the afternoon, it’s onto Quivira Vineyards, where yet another indulgent wine tasting awaits you – this time, complemented with a charcuterie spread. Bon appetit.

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll take you on a scenic stroll through Sonoma Valley Regional Park, followed by some free time in Sonoma Town. Explore the city sights, pick up some souvenirs or enjoy a coffee in one of the lovely cafes. Then, you’re off to the celebrated Ram’s Gate Winery. This is one of Sonoma’s most lavish wine estates; every bottle of wine is thoughtfully crafted, rich in flavour and filled with character. Savour your final taste of Californian indulgence with a selection of the finest wines accompanied by a light lunch, before making the journey back to San Francisco. We recommend booking a flight that departs after 16:00PM, to give yourself some time to enjoy today’s activities. Interested in California? Take a look at our Yosemite adventure here, or browse other US minibreaks just like this one here.