Visit the towering redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument and enjoy the California Wine Country on this relaxing two-day getaway. The first day visits Muir Woods, the quaint town of Healdsburg and wineries in the Alexander, Dry Creek, and Russian River Valley appellations. Day two concentrates on the vineyards and wineries of the Sonoma Valley. From Kenwood and Glen Ellen to the Carneros region we will taste our way down the "Valley of the Moon" visiting a variety of wineries thoughout the day. This two day tour is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed pace to appreciate both the wine and cuisine of the famous Northern California Wine Country.
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Pick-up
Time |
Duration |
Price (USD) |
08:15 |
2 Days |
See table
below
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Tours
depart San Francisco Monday Through Thursday |
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Highlights |
Inclusions |
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* Healdsburg Area |
* Hotel pick-up/drop-off * Accommodations * Select wine tastings * Transport in Biodiesel Van |
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This tour is not appropriate for people under the age of 21.Tour price does not include
Muir Woods entry, gratuity, or meals unless otherwise stated.
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We reserve the right to cancel tours due to lack of participation, vehicle breakdown, or weather or road conditions. |
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4 Stars (Very Good)
The wine country tour was a nice experience. Our guide was very professional and fun. He had a good sense of humor and was knowledgable. He tried to adapt our tour to the participants. Great experience. Our accommodations at the Best Western in Sonoma, CA was exquisite. Our suite was terrific.
----Dale B. 06/13/2010
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 This wine lover's tour begins with a hotel pickup between 8 and 9 am. A quick stop in the Presidio provides a view of the Golden Gate Bridge and a chance to learn about the history of this iconic landmark (fog permitting). After crossing the Golden Gate we head into the Marin Headlands to the Muir Woods National Monument. Muir Woods is one of the last old |
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growth coastal redwood forests in the San Francisco Bay Area. The marine layer fog provides the cool, moist environment that supports an amazing abundance of plant and animal life, from the coastal redwood to the slimy banana slug. After an hour and a half in this tranquil preserve, we make a quick detour for an impressive view of the rugged California coastline with San Francisco in the background (once again, fog permitting). |
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Next we head north into the Sonoma Wine Country. We will stop for lunch in the quaint town square of Healdsburg, where you will have the chance to sample everything from olive oil and fine cheeses to gourmet chocolates. The lush valleys that surround Healdsburg are home to some of the oldest names in California winemaking. |
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Wine appellations such as Alexander Valley, Chalk Hill, Dry Creek Valley, and Russian River Valley abound with delicious varietals. The Alexander Valley alone boasts over 30 grape varieties, 28 local wineries and over 200 independent farmers. The Healdsburg area includes over 90 world-class wineries and tasting rooms, from palatial European-style villas to rustic family-run operations where you are made to feel like a member of the family. |
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In the afternoon we will visit at least three wineries. At these wineries you will be able to sample flights of 3-4 wines (some tasting fees may apply), browse the small gift shops, and learn about the local varietals and the winemaking process. After a full day we will check in at our hotel. This elegant, Tuscan-styled hotel surrounds a luxurious courtyard pool with jacuzzi and sundeck, the perfect locale to enjoy a bottle of California wine. The casually elegant guest rooms are spacious yet cozy and provide all the comforts of home, including high-speed Internet access and a fitness center. For dinner you can indulge in some fine cuisine at the hotel restaurant (not included). |
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Day 2 The second day begins after a late breakfast (around 11 am). We will visit at least 4 wineries on this day, starting in the northern Sonoma Valley regions of Kenwood and Glen Ellen. Our journey south through the “Valley of the Moon” will include lunch in the historic Sonoma Town Square. In the town square you will have the chance to |
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taste cheese samples at the Sonoma Jack Cheese Factory, visit the Mission San Francisco de Solano, the northernmost mission in California, or peruse the boutique shops that surround this center of commerce. On our way out of Sonoma Valley we will make a final wine tasting stop in Carneros. |
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The Carneros appellation is ideal for growing chardonnay and pinot noir varietals, and as such is home to no less than three champagne houses. If time permits, a stop for a glass of sparkling wine can easily be integrated into this tour (optional). On the way back we will stop for a late afternoon view of the Golden Gate Bridge, with the city illuminated in the background. The tour will conclude with hotel drop-off at approximately 6pm. |
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