Napa Valley, California
While San Fransisco is the city that most often gets associated with the “Golden State” moniker, your next trip to the Bay Area should include a visit to Napa Valley - the area which really makes this state Golden.
The drive out of San Francisco to Napa Valley will certainly take your breath away, with incredible 90-degree inclines along the way. Be sure to check out the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf, too.
Once you’ve made your way out of the city, it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy the rolling hills and numerous vineyards as far as you can see. You can’t help but feel as though you’re in Tuscany!
Napa Valley and Sonoma County are both charming areas. While the wineries may seem similar, the vibe of the towns is much different. Downtown Napa is hip and trendy with boutique hotels, tasting rooms, and upscale wine bars and restaurants. Sonoma exudes that old world charm, surrounded by shops, bakeries, and of course, wine tasting establishments.
Sonoma Plaza is a historic spot where the history of Californias was shaped. The early settlers raised the Bear Flag and declared the area the Republic of California, which served to influence the flag of the state of California.
And now, it’s time to start touring some of the worlds best wineries. An absolute visit and must-stay is Francis Ford Coppola’s Winery. The director of the famous Godfather trilogy has put as much passion and love into his winery as he did his movies. The winery has a pool, restaurant and even a unique director’s gift shop.
