wine country safari napa valley

Wine Country Safari

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1876 Brown St

Napa, CA 94559

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Wine tasting tours in Napa and Sonoma, specializing in taking guests to private, cult wineries featuring exceptional wines. …

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My First Trip to Napa and myself and my buddy set up Bruce for our Saturday Tour . Picked us up timely at our Resort and proceeded to 4 local small "Cult Wineries" and a lunch stop in Calistoga at a local market. His Lincoln Navigator was perfect for the 2 of us but could have been up to 5 with no issue. Each winery we visited was off the beaten path and they knew him and treated us like special guests. We tasted only the best of the best wines througout the tour. His knowledge was in short REMARKABLE. He knew everything not only from the intricate way the valley was formed, but its history, and everything in between. I learned more in 1 afternoon from Bruce on growth, harvest, crush, barreling and to the bottle than I knew in all my prior years. Bought some quality wines that you won't see anywhere and I with my highest reccomendation tell you that if your going to tasting in Napa Don't hesitate not 1 second. BOOK BRUCE AND LET HIM HANDLE IT FOR YOU.. You will not be disappointed... SIMPLY STATED DON'T MISS THIS GUY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Great day with Bruce! We started off at Merry Edwards where we were treated to a lovely sit down tasting. Loved the Chardonnay! Then off to Benovia for another great tasting. Lunch at Chloe's which was ver yummy! Bruce is very knowledgeable about the Vineyards, the wines and the region. I learned more today about wine, than I had learned in the last 20 years. After lunch we were off David Coffaro. We ended our day at Acorn Winery with a lovely visit and tasting with the owners Betsy and Bill. A lovely day and a great experience!

Bruce is an unbelievable host. He's knowledgable, funny and charismatic. We had a great day with him in Napa and visited 5 wineries, from places open to the public to private tastings with owners. We walked in as complete novices and left believing we were experts. Definitely call him whether you're a beginner or a pro- he'll find the best vineyards for you!

Darioush vineyard

We were in Napa for the first time at the end of September and a friend had recommended that we contact Bruce. From the first email all that way to the big day,he was a great host. He stared out by recommending a few great places to stay and then we confirmed our tour date. I have never learned more about wine and literally every single winery was better than the one before. They were small private locations that knew Bruce well and treated us to tasting experiences that we never imagined. EVERYONE going to Napa needs to contact Bruce, really the best ever!

My boyfriend and I found Bruce on google when searching for an affordable wine country tour for two. I ended up choosing Bruce because he was the first to respond to my inquiry and sent a detailed description of what his tour would entail vice the other companies which sent one sentence replies. Bruce sent us detailed instructions on how to take the bus/ferry from downtown SF and picked us up in Vallejo. From the minute he picked us up Bruce entertained us with his humor and deep knowledge of the Napa Valley and its wine industry. All of our tastings were with private wine makers on small vineyards. We walked away with over 14 bottles of amazing wine and will happily remember each of the winemakers who personally hosted tastings for us when we eventually drink them years from now. I highly recommend Bruce to anyone who wants an off-the-beaten path and incredibly personal tour of Napa or Sonoma. We'll definitely be back to tour Sonoma with Bruce next time!

Bruce walking us through the entire wine-making process and V. Madrone.

Bruce is the most wine expert I've met in my life. If you plan go to Napa, you need to do this w/ Bruce.

I cannot believe that there is anyone in the business better than Bruce at wine country safari. He taught us not only about the history of the valley, but also about each winery's specialty as well as each wine's differences.. I have had multiple visits with Bruce but most importantly I won't go back to Napa or Sonoma without scheduling time with him. Please trust that you are in good hands.

This is an exceptional trip. It is goes well beyond the value you would get from larger corporate wineries. We saw the toured the Napa area. First off these are private tours. We had 5 people in our group, which makes it such a more personal experience. You also get more time to ask and learn more from your guide about the region, the history, and the wineries and wines themselves. Some of the wineries you are not even able to see without this tour. There is not a single wine I had that I didn't like, I was honestly wowed. Just when you think you know about wine, you experience so many wines of such extraordinary quality and you are awed yet again. This will change your outlook on what a quality wine actually is and it may sound silly to say to expect to buy at least a bottle at each place you visit, but expect to buy AT LEAST a bottle of wine from each place you are taken to. We ended up having to check an extra case on our flight back! This is truly a one of a kind experience and you will not regret booking it. We also got the experience to stop at a wonderful little olive oil shop and do some sampling there as well. Bruce is a guide who knows his stuff and isn't into the fluff of what many wines have succumb to. He brings you to a variety of places to make this a well rounded full day trip. This trip taught me so much and made me appreciate this area and the hard work that comes out of it more than I thought and I can honestly say this trip exceeded every expectation I had.

Bruce is impressive, with the level of knowledge on wine, the industry, the process, the vineyards and inspiring with his passion! To preface, I have never taken the time to write a review, however our experience with Bruce was phenomenal! Bruce offered not only a memorable wine day of touring in Napa for 3 of us, taking care of every logistics, even providing schedules of public transport options from San Fran, but offered an experience that will always stand apart. Having had other 'tour' experiences in Napa, we each were very pleased with Bruce's knowledge of the cult wineries and relationships in Napa, however impressed with his level of knowledge on all aspects of the industry, his passion and desire to share it with us, despite likely falling amongst the 'average' consumer with a joy! My friend lives in San Fran and plans to use Bruce again. We plan to use Bruce again for our next trip, if we are blessed again with Bruce's availability. Book Bruce and you will can count on your experience being the best! In addition to Bruce's passion, he is witty and enjoyable. Enjoy!

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WINE COUNTRY SAFARI (Napa) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Safari West Animal Park: Africa in Napa Valley

If you've ever wanted to rest in the lap of luxury while surrounded by nature in Napa Valley , Safari West Animal Park may be just the right place for you. Safari West is home to more than 800 wild animals, but it's not a zoo. Instead, the 400-acre wildlife preserve in Sonoma County is part bed and breakfast and part safari adventure. It's closer to home (for most of us) than Africa, located between Santa Rosa and Calistoga, just north of Napa Valley.

You can stay overnight in their luxury tent cabins or take one of their guided tours. It's a fun experience for families and for anyone who loves to see wild animals. You even can sip champagne with giraffes and go on safari under the warm California sun.

Wildlife Tours

Safari West's jeep tours are open to the public, even if you aren't staying overnight. If you're visiting Napa Valley for a weekend, think about taking a break from the wineries to tour, as Safari West puts it, "the spirit of Africa in the heart of wine country." 

You can take a three-hour Safari Adventure. You may see zebras, blue wildebeest, cape buffalo, watusi cattle, and kudu. These are only a few of the more than 800 animals that live on the Sonoma Serengeti at Safari West. In addition to their standard tours, Safari West also offers private tours and themed tours, including a Valentine's Day tour that focuses on the mating habits of the animals, as well as more traditional photo safaris and sunset safaris.

For the classic adventure tour, children must be at least 4 years old. Toddlers under the age of 4 can join their party on the walking portion of the tour only.

Staying Overnight

Safari West is open for overnight stays March through December. They offer a few styles of luxury tents and serve breakfast. A night at Safari West will cost about as much as a luxury hotel in nearby Calistoga, but on selected dates, they offer discounted rates, which are listed on their website .

The accommodations are "glamping" (glamorous camping) at its best, with plush beds, hot showers, polished wood floors, copper basins in the private bathrooms, and one-of-a kind hand hewn furniture. It's the perfect destination for families looking for a bit of adventure and luxury, and friends who want to escape into the wilderness, but want to have a porcelain throne nearby. 

Children of all ages are welcome. If they're less than two years old, there's no additional charge for them to stay. Visit Safari West for a memorable birthday celebration or just to treat your family to the real inspiration behind the neighborhood jungle gym.

Necessary Information

Tours are given daily. Reservations are required for both overnight stays and safari tours. Visit the Safari West website for more information.

For both your pet's safety and that of the animals, no pets are allowed at Safari West at any time. Service animals aren't allowed on the Safari Tour and they can't stay behind in your private vehicle while you go without them, but there is a crate available to kennel your service animal while you're on tour. Contact Safari West ahead of time to make arrangements.

Travel Tips

Location:  Even though Safari West's address says Santa Rosa, they're actually closer to Calistoga. You can get there from either town. 

Napa With Kids:  Napa Valley can be kid-friendly, especially with places like Safari West and  kid-friendly wineries . Although your little ones shouldn't have any trouble staying interested while at the park, it may be fun to create a scavenger hunt for them to play with during the wildlife tours. Enjoy your trip to the park and surrounding areas with this  guide to a family vacation in Napa Valley .

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Wine Country Safari

• ( 707) 812-2541
• 1876 Brown Street, Napa CA 94559

Wine Country Safari 1876 Brown Street, Napa CA 94559 ( 707) 812-2541

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• Where is Napa Valley? Napa Valley wine country is located in Northern California, one of the world's famous wine regions, with stunning landscapes, incredible views and exceptional wines. Just 50 miles northeast of San Francisco, a short drive from several airports in the San Francisco Bay Area including San Francisco International Airport. Other great options include Oakland International Airport, 63 miles away and Sacramento International Airport, 75 miles away. Sonoma County Airport is just 34 miles from the north end of Napa Valley.
• What is Napa Valley known for? With more than 400 wineries, Napa Valley is known for world-class wine, as well as beautiful countryside, some of the most stunning views and near perfect weather year-round. It is also known for Michelin-star restaurants, luxurious accommodations and spas.
• Which wineries will I visit? We work with a handful of off-radar wineries that offer a unique experience to our guests. It is important that each property we work with provides a memorable tasting including unmatched views and amazing wines. Our partnerships can change season-to-season ensuring you will visit properties complimentary to the weather/season and those you would not have otherwise found on your own. We do offer partnership experiences that are not open to the public, exclusive to our guests. Please contact us directly to learn more about some of our exclusive wine partnerships, seasonal experiences and upgraded tour options.
• What is the pick-up location? Our general pick-up location is in Downtown Napa at the First Street Napa property in front of the Archer Hotel - 1230 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 Hotel pick-ups can be arranged from select hotels in Downtown Napa only.
• Are tasting fees included? Tasting fees are NOT included in our pricing. Tasting fees average between $45 and $75 per person and can be waived with a minimum purchase of wine. Please note, we do offer upgraded tasting options which include a curated itinerary visiting properties with small production wines and vintages for those looking for a more intimate tasting experience. For additional information please contact us directly.
• What is included? 5+ hour adventure departing at 11:30am in an electric, open-air tuk-tuk vehicle Local host and tour guide for the day Welcome snack box and sparkling Immersive, off-road vineyard safari Chef prepared lunch hosted in various private locations exclusive to laces+limos Please note that driver gratuity is not included and can be added at your discretion. Please note, there is an 18% service fee that will be automatically added to your original booking on the day of your reservation.
• How long is the tour? Our tours run daily beginning at 11:30am and we're back into Downtown Napa between 4:30/5pm
• What is your cancellation policy? For ALL bookings, you will receive a full-refund, minus a 20% administrative fee with at least 14 days notice prior to your experience. Please note, all reservations can be rescheduled without incurring any addtional change fees. Cancellations made less then 14 days prior to your reservation are non-refundable. For bookings that require a deposit, including special group pricing, shuttle service and event rentals will receive a full refund of any amount paid outside the deposit. Deposits and ALL discounted bookings are non-refundable. A full refund will also be given in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Please note, no-shows will be charged full price. For e-commerce purchases, we do not accept returns or exchanges unless the item you purchased is defective. If you receive a defective item, please contact us at contact@lacesandlimos with details of the product and the defect.

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Wine Country Safari

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WINE COUNTRY SAFARI (Napa) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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Experience a Taste of the Good Life in Napa Valley

The best things in life are the experiences we share, savor, and discover. nowhere is that more apparent than in napa valley, where anyone – and everyone – can experience a taste of the good life., get inspired, #visitnapavalley, towns of napa valley.

Yes, there's more to Napa Valley than just Napa — we have 5 distinct towns and 4 regions for you to dine, shop, sip and stay

With hundreds of wineries and miles of the valley to explore, we want you to know there's no wrong way to enjoy Napa Valley  

How many wine tastings can we do in one day?

We recommend 2 or 3 winery visits , but not more than that as most experiences take a minimum of 90 minutes and there is travel time in between. You can also hire a driver or tour company to drive you to the wineries, and they can even plan your day of tastings.

What should I wear in Napa Valley?

Spring/summer = sun dress with a cardigan and sandals . Fall/Winter = denim, sweater, scarf and boots. Denim is acceptable year round, if it is a fancier scene wear dark denim. Always bring a light jacket for the nighttime breeze from the bay.

Where is Napa Valley?

Napa Valley wine country is located in Northern California, 50 miles northeast of San Francisco , which makes it a short drive from several airports in the San Francisco Bay Area. Napa Valley is one of the world's famous wine regions, with stunning landscapes and exceptional wines .

What is Napa Valley known for?

With more than 400 wineries open for tastings and 90 urban tasting rooms , Napa Valley is known for world-class wine , as well as beautiful countryside and near perfect weather year-round. It is also known for Michelin-star restaurants, and luxurious accommodations and spas .

Napa Valley is such a beautiful part of the world. Everyone is warm and friendly and as you drive to the wineries through the valley and up into the mountains, you know it's a special place.

St. Louis, Missouri

Napa Valley is heaven on earth... or at least in the same zip code for sure!

San Francisco, California

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Calistoga Wellness Week

Discover coombsville grand tasting event, eric roberson: the 30th anniversary tour, mr. pink patio party, wellness week - saturday retreat, napa spring half marathon & 5k, taste of oakville, street food napa valley – chinese menu, the we11ness experience: physical we11ness, cambium vertical winemaker dinner, plan your trip to napa valley.

Let’s raise a glass, because our legendary Napa Valley wine country has only grown better with time. Offering world-class wine, winemakers, and wineries, Napa Valley is ready to...

Tasting Rooms & Wine Bars

Otherwise known as urban wineries, downtown tasting rooms offer similar wine-sampling experience as a winery, just without the production facilities or vineyards onsite

Where To Stay

From intimate boutique inns to full-service luxury resorts, and everything in between, Napa Valley properties welcome you with world-class hospitality.

Restaurants

Napa Valley restaurants invite you to delight in a taste of the good life. With farm-fresh cuisine ranging from casual food trucks to Michelin-Star fare, you’ll find unforgettable...

Wine Tours & Transportation

Sit back and let the professionals take care of the planning and the driving. Your options range from private tours in a town car, limo or party bus with your friends, to riding...

Things To Do

Napa Valley is better than ever, and we’re excited to invite you to explore all that our legendary valley has to offer. Discover hot air balloons, outdoors, shopping, art walks,...

BOOK YOUR STAY

Boutique inns.

Nestled among rolling hills, charming neighborhoods, and storied vineyards are the most charming boutique inns

From impeccable design to lavish landscapes, Napa Valley hotels have the creature comforts and amenities for you and your loved ones

A wonderland for grown-ups, Napa Valley resorts cater to outdoor and fitness enthusiasts, bon vivants and those seeking serenity

Need more travel planning tips or recommendations for your Napa Valley trip?

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Uncover Mexico's Affordable Wine Escape: The Napa Valley of Mexico

Post may contain affiliate links; we may receive compensation if you click links to those products. This has no impact on how offers are presented. Our site does not include all offers available. Content on page accurate as of posting date.

While some travelers fight for space on Cancun beaches or are jam-packed like sardines on a Mexico City subway, there is one region of Mexico with wide open spaces calling your name.

A cold cerveza or Tajin -rimmed margarita always hits the spot on a Mexican vacation , but wine sets the mood for an idyllic getaway.

Easier to reach than ever before, the vast, beautiful area of Baja California, deemed the ‘Napa Valley of Mexico,' is full of surprises.

Stretching from the border town of Tecate to the coastal town of Ensenada, Valle de Guadalupe is an underrated destination that should be far more mainstream than a local's favorite day trip.

Don't Dismiss This Border Town

Do any destinations have a worse reputation than border towns?

Often pre-judged as dirty, rundown, and unsafe, travelers tend to skip any city backed up against U.S. borders.

Of course, more and more television shows like Contraband showcasing their findings from smugglers certainly don't help.

Tecate just fits the mold here. It's not Juarez or Nueva Laredo. Quite the contrary, actually. This charming town should be viewed as the gateway into Mexico's wine country, although ironically, it's the headquarters for one of Mexico's most popular beer brands.

You guessed it – Tecate!

This blip on the map is easier to reach than ever. While you can certainly fly into San Diego and drive the 55 minutes through gorgeous landscapes to the border, the first-ever American Airlines flight to Tijuana has launched as well.

Plus, there's a fun newly opened train taking tourists from Tijuana to Tecate. While this safe, small town shouldn't highlight your trip to wine country, a stay at Baja's best-kept secret, the 4-star Santuario Diegueño, is the perfect place to recharge without the crowds.

Pay a visit to the festive Hidalgo Park, tour the massive Tecate brewery and get a free beer, or stop in classic dive bars like the decades-old Bar Diana for a sense of real Mexico without all the shiny allurement.

Venture Into Mexico's Wine Country

While you would certainly be missing out, you don't have to travel to Tecate to make your way into wine country.

There are multiple Valle de Guadalupe tours from San Diego to put all the border-crossing hassle into a professional's hands.

Although Tecate is so chill and welcoming, sometimes they don't even bother checking your passport! Of course, not every border agent takes the Olive Garden approach of ‘when you're here, you're family.

To play it safe, it's best to hire a verified tour guide, from which there are multiple options.

But unlike Tijuana's sketchy reputation, this side of Baja is widely considered safe, so travelers shouldn't hesitate to come on their own.

The Ruta de Vina is easy to follow and passes through gorgeous scenery with vineyards, resorts, and upscale Airbnbs for a comfortable stay.

The wide open spaces are a far cry from where everyone else seems to be visiting in Mexico, making for the ultimate place to reset and enjoy the finer things in life.

From the small town charm of Tecate to the end of the wine route, Ensenada, there are highly rated vineyards to enjoy, but many have Monte Xanic at the top of their list, although Xecue Vinicola is a TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice winner.

Level Up Your Stay This May

Mexico's ‘Napa' has some incredible stays, from stargazing domes to spacious, pet-friendly stays.

Come May, your stay can be even better at the new Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe set to open May 1st with online bookings available now.

Home to 30 incredible villas, now may be the best time to book as promotional offers include breakfast and wine tastings for two.

These sleek new digs will also have a world-class spa on-site for the ultimate relaxing trip as if you aren't already living your best life winery-hopping around some of Mexico's most underrated scenery.

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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The post Uncover Mexico’s Affordable Wine Escape: The Napa Valley of Mexico appeared first on Travel Off Path .

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Sign up for essence newsletters the keep the black women at the forefront of conversation., a black girl’s guide to napa valley.

Napa Valley has been an opulent bucket-list destination for many years. Also known as Wine Country, the valley is roughly an hour outside of San Francisco and Sacramento, and is a popular destination for unlimited wine tasting from some of the best vineyards and vintners across the globe. It’s the prime destination for girls trips, engagements, as well as quick weekend getaways. 

As wine tourism is a large economic driver for the area, in recent years, the wine country is attempting a demographic shift, wanting to skew much younger, expand their nationwide reach, and diversify their offerings to bring more people to the valley. “Many people make Napa Valley a bucket-list destination, and we really want to change that,” says Jenny Toomer, the General Manager of River Terrace Inn. 

Some may find the price point of a trip to Napa to be a deterrent, but it’s more affordable than many would presume. However, the rather glaring reality is that more than anything, Black women should experience the luxe Cali destination.  A visitor report on Napa found that Black people make up only 2.7 percent of the annual visitors to the wine country – and the presence of that statistic was felt. However, Napa Valley is both attainable and approachable for Black women in particular. 

Today, Napa Valley embraces the opportunity to welcome fresh visitors, inviting them to immerse themselves in the myriad delights the wine country has. To close the widened gap of Black people visiting Napa, we’ve compiled a Black girl’s guide to the region, to help navigate where to eat, play, and stay. 

Napa Valley Wine Train

One of the premiere offerings in Napa is the Napa Valley Wine Train, which provides both a picturesque view of the wine country, while also helping break down the stigma and pretentiousness that wine varietals are associated with. 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Napa, the Wine Train stands as the epitome of wine country’s most unforgettable culinary journey, invoking the timeless allure of luxury rail travel through its newly restored rail cars. The inaugural clean energy locomotive of the Napa Valley Wine Train, affectionately named the “1864” in homage to the rail line’s inception year, heralds a new era of sustainable travel. Boasting a cutting-edge, American-made EPA Tier-4-compliant engine crafted by Rolls-Royce and orchestrated by the esteemed Knoxville Locomotive Works, the “1864” symbolizes the train’s commitment to the environment and innovation.

Experiences

On the Wine Train, there’s a multitude of experiences to choose from. I took both the Legacy Experience and the Vista Dome experience. The best part of the wine train is that you’re joined by seasoned sommeliers who can recommend the best wine pairings for your meal, as well as suggestions on wine flights including selections from Far Niente, Opus One, and Beaulieu Vineyard’s Georges de Latour Private Reserve. 

Legacy Experience

Sign up for the Legacy experience if you’re more adventurous – starting in the morning, the train makes stops in St. Helena for two seated tastings at some of the most popular wineries in the area, including seated tastings at the iconic Charles Krug and V. Sattui , as well as a stop at the popular ‘Welcome to Napa Valley’ sign. At Charles Krug you’ll be whisked away into a winery that was modeled after Tuscan architecture with tastes of great California wines and scenic views of the countryside that make you question if you’re actually in Napa Valley. Here you’ll get tastes of their 2023 limited release rosé, 2019 family reserve generations as well as their 2019 limited release malbec. With fruits strong in the region, each wine has notes of different berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and even boysenberries.

At V. Sattui, you also get some of those same gorgeous views, however here, you’re met with even more approachability – you’ll see fellow Napa Valley visitors casually sitting outside enjoying a glass of wine and the beautiful weather. The seated tasting includes three of their best wines, a 2022 Los Carneros Chardonnay, 2021 School House Zinfandel, and a 2019 Vittorio’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. As an added bonus, Sattui saves the best for last, and allows guests to get a taste of their Madeira, a Solera-made, wood-aged wine, fortified with brandy. Strong yet sweet, the dessert-wine has flavors of caramel, toffee, and orange zest. Outside of just purchasing one of your favorite wines at Sattui, the winery is complete with its own market filled with artisan cheeses, meats, breads, and chocolates (just in case you are looking to take some back home). 

Pro-tip: Come hydrated and prepared to drink. The Legacy experience offers a three course meal and dessert, but to make it throughout the day, you’ll need a healthy balance of food and water to conquer the day.

Vista Dome Experience

Take the Vista Dome lunch experience if you’re looking to have the awe-inspiring views of the wine country without ever leaving the rail car. Here is where you can indulge a little bit more and really get into the wine. Add the Vista Dome experience to your itinerary if you’re not looking to pack your day, but still get to enjoy some of the wine country’s best. The experience begins a little later in the day, so you have ample time to embrace slowness before tackling another boozy afternoon. 

The plus to this experience is that the newly renovated rail car makes for the best photo shoot with your girlfriends. There’s multiple photo-worthy areas that best capture the beauty of Napa Valley on this train. 

Similar to the Legacy experience, Vista Dome also includes a three course meal with dessert, and you have downtime to socialize with friends before you disembark at the train station. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll be celebrating alongside other guests who are celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or even engagements–even more reason to say cheers.

Pro-tip: Vista Dome is where you should dress to impress. More laid back than the legacy experience, you’ll get to eat, drink and be merry, and also pose for the camera.

If you’re a morning person, a hot air balloon ride through Napa Valley is an absolute must to add to your itinerary. You’ll be up as early as 5 AM in the morning, but the lack of sleep will be well worth it when you take in a breathtaking view of the rolling hills wine country. You’ll pass over the coastline fields of crops, see animals grazing plus the gorgeous mountains that overlook the valley. You’ll spend roughly an hour in the air, and get in-depth insights from your tour guide who will give you the inside scoop on all the crops being grown in the area, plus the experiments and happenings on different fields that look over the Napa. 

Pro-tip: Dress warmly, as all hot air balloons take flight early in the morning.

Where To Stay

If you want to stay close to the different experiences Napa has to offer, the River Terrace Inn is your best bet. A Noble House property, the hotel is a sister estate to the Wine Train, so it makes sense that the two are across the street from one another. The quaint property has stunning views of the valley from anywhere in the hotel, so even when you’re not out and about exploring, you still get to take in the beauty of the valley. If you’re looking to take part in some of the activities Napa has to offer, the inn is at the nexus of tourism. It’s at the train station where you can sign up for train experiences, hot air balloon rides and more.

Inside the hotel are gorgeous hotel suites that just feel like they were intentionally curated for and by women. Spacious rooms include vanity mirrors, televisions where you can use Chromecast to watch your favorite shows, bathroom mirrors that connect to bluetooth and a separate vanity mirror to prep for a day full of wine tasting. 

Eat & Drink

You would think that after dining on the wine train, you would be all wined out–but there’s still so much more to the wine country. Vineyards are just one facet to Napa. There are also collectives that provide tastings for wines that you won’t get on the wine train, like the wines at the Vintner’s Collective, which is a quaint tasting room that maintains the integrity of the original building–a converted brothel. Inside, you find a select group of small, family-owned Napa wineries. While many other tasting rooms will offer some of their most popular wines to offer, Vintner’s is a great boutique place to zero in one of your favorite varieties. It’s great for a crash course in wine, and you can take your skills back to your hometown, when it comes to tasting, analyzing, and pairing wines. 

For a casual dinner, Kitchen Door is just a stones throw away from Vintners Collective, and a certainly walkable dining spot. If you’re planning out your girls trip, Kitchen Door is a must stop after a day of wine tasting. It’s great to soak up all the delicious wine, and the tasty shareable apps such as the garlic cheesy bread, teriyaki wings, and deviled eggs. The menu is mixed with a variety of cuisine, where you can find delicious Italian offerings as well as pad Thai and Korean barbecue. You’ll certainly leave happily stuffed.

As a Black girl in Napa, you can’t visit Napa without paying a visit to some of the Black-owned stalwarts that are making waves in the vino industry. We recommend Vin En Noir, which features minority owned, and women owned winemakers. Expect snacks to pair with your wine like charcuterie and popcorn. Moreover, their selection of rosé is unparalleled. 

If you’re looking to break away from the wine a bit and opt for cocktails instead, Wine Girl Napa Valley is where you’ll get the girly Instagram aesthetic you’re looking for, plus the boozy Sunday Funday brunch vibe all under one roof.

Wander Like A Local

The heart of Napa’s infrastructure is built like an old town, with family run restaurants and buildings that have stood the test of time, which adds to the character of the wine destination. When you’re not tasting the country’s best wines, you can peruse through the town, it’s where I stumbled upon Oxbow Public Market , a food hall that has a variety of goods from Jewish cuisine to fresh preserve and honey for your next charcuterie board, a bookstore (and so many more treasures). A lover of books, I stumbled on a small haven with everything from science fiction, to encyclopedias of Banksy, and even autobiographical works on artists like Tupac. 

At Oxbow, I also found Model Bakery, a local spot beloved by locals and visitors alike. Based on the number of people devouring their baked goods from outside the shop, it’s a safe bet for breakfast. I tried the chocolate croissant, and the bakery truly lives up to the hype.

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California’s Rincon Point Is a Surf Haven With a Wine Country Neighbor

The Central Coast surf spot and adjoining beach town, Carpinteria, offer space, privacy, a magical setting and hundreds of wineries a drive away

By Tracy Kaler Originally Published April 27, 2024

Photo: Jim Bartsch

One could imagine the classic Beach Boys tune “Surfin’ Safari” blaring as they approach Rincon Point. In fact, the storied California surf break, “Queen of the Coast,” is featured in the 1962 hit song. 

Situated along Highway 101 and straddling Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties, Rincon Point is one of the state’s prime locations to cruise the waves. It often ranks high on lists as enthusiasts travel to experience this Central Coast surfing destination.

“Rincon Point has three different surf breaks,” said Jason Streatfeild, a real estate agent at Douglas Elliman in Santa Barbara. “In the winter when the swells are large enough, all combine into one and you can surf for a quarter of a mile,” he said of the reason Rincon Point receives recognition from across the globe.

The Santa Barbara County side of Rincon promises a long, sandy coastline vs. the shorter, rockier beach on the Ventura County side. Despite public access from both directions, Streatfeild, whose family has roots in the area since 1872 and grew up in adjacent Carpinteria, explained that Rincon Point’s Santa Barbara side allures surfers, spectators and beachgoers.

The Quintessential Beach Town

Carpinteria could be considered Santa Barbara’s rural cousin––the two downtowns are just 11 miles apart––but it’s no secret that the enclave of about 13,000 people holds its own in terms of desirability. “Carp”––the abbreviated name locals use––is a reminder of simpler times. 

“Carpinteria is a throwback to a 1950s beach town,” Streatfeild said. “Not much has changed since then.” Dotted with surf shops, cafés and restaurants, Linden Avenue is the main drag and leads to Carpinteria State Beach.

The “World’s Safest Beach” slogan, coined by the town’s Chamber of Commerce in 1912 to boost tourism, still holds true, according to Streatfeild. This vast stretch of shore has no undertow, and with lifeguards on duty, the beach remains ideal for families.

“People love Carpinteria because it’s unpretentious, and there’s a lot of open space, beautiful beaches and a stunning backdrop,” said Eric Haskell, a southern California real estate agent with the Agency. Haskell explained that new restaurants are popping up in Carp’s downtown, but overall, growth is minimal. “Some groups are working to develop boutique hotels, but the area is hyper-protective about expansion,” he said.

Ernest and Sue Chamberlain, originally from the Midwest and East Coast, respectively, traded cooler Belvedere Island, by San Francisco, for sunny Carpinteria in 2018. The couple discovered the town one year during its annual Avocado Festival––a weekend fete of food and live music––and stayed after the tourists left. The enclave was precisely what the couple was searching for.

“Carpinteria is one of the last remaining beach towns on the California coast that isn’t overdeveloped,” Ernest said. “We wanted a place that wasn’t growing like crazy, a small town kind of charm that would stay that way for years.” 

Sue imagined a quaint coastal community similar to Cape May Point on the South Jersey Shore, where she spent time as a child. “We were always looking for that small authentic beach town––the one with sandy beaches and white dunes and downtown restaurants and coffee shops,” she said. 

While a walkable town, mild weather, and a pristine coastline were essential, so was nature. The Chamberlains were attracted to Carpinteria and greater Santa Barbara County for the abundance of outdoor recreation, including hiking and biking. Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve, Rincon Nature Preserve, and Rincon Beach County Park provide opportunities for outdoor adventurists, and they’re minutes apart.

“We have the Santa Ynez Mountains behind us and the ocean in front, the hills and farms and spectacular beauty all around,” Ernest said of the couple’s adoptive home. 

A Wine Country Neighbor

Hobby vineyards pepper the plots surrounding Carpinteria, but Santa Barbara County, one of California’s most esteemed wine regions, lies within a drive.

Providing seven AVAs (American Viticultural Areas), the region is home to more than 300 wineries and 75 grape varieties and has seen a growth spurt in the past two decades. The 2004 film “Sideways” starring Paul Giamatti and Thomas Haden Church––the story of two quirky middle-aged men and their road trip adventures in California wine country––put Santa Barbara County on the state’s wine map.

“A lot of growth happened between ‘Sideways’ and the late teens,” said Debra Eagle, general manager at Alma Rosa Winery in Solvang. Eagle said the film altered the landscape of wine, with Pinot Noir, one of Santa Barbara’s dominant grapes, seizing the spotlight.

“The Sta. Rita Hills, west of 101, is predominantly Pinot and Chardonnay,” Eagle said of the AVA where Alma Rosa’s vineyards are located. The two Burgundy grape varieties occupy the most acreage due to the appellation’s cooler climate, thanks to the wind chill from the Pacific. However, according to Eagle, Santa Barbara vintners are crafting wines from an assortment of European varieties, including Bordeaux grapes.

“People are growing some German varieties like Gewurztraminer and obscure Italian varieties, in addition to Santa Ynez varieties in Happy Canyon [a more inland AVA] like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot,” she explained. Alma Rosa also plants Syrah and Grenache, two Rhone varieties. Beyond the location and esteemed vineyards, the region is appealing on multiple levels.

“It’s a beautifully rugged and somewhat less developed area than Napa,” she said. “There aren’t a lot of big producers in this region, and there are more female winemakers than anywhere else in the state.”

Image captions

Photo: Ciro Coehlo

The Quiet Luxury Lifestyle

While Rincon Point and Carpinteria have long attracted East Coasters, that tide has shifted.

“People are discovering it from all over the world,” said Marsha Kotlyar, a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in Montecito. Space and privacy, not to mention the magical setting, are the draw. Historically, ranching and farming were the lifeblood of the area.

“People are moving here and building estates on old agricultural properties,” Kotlyar noted. “Those have evolved into multigenerational family estates. There’s been a huge boom in architecture and housing.”

Even some celebrities prefer Carp to Montecito. “They want the quiet luxury lifestyle. There’s no paparazzi here,” Kotlyar added.

While some areas have become hot spots for the rich and famous, the area’s prices and housing run the gamut. “In Carpinteria, there are $250,000 trailer homes to $100 million beachfront estates,” Haskell said. But listings are few and far between.

Photo: Andrew Bramasco

An Ongoing Competitive Market

The region’s real estate craze beginning a few years ago aligned with others around the country, due to the pandemic. Streatfeild purchased a typical California cottage in Carpinteria two miles from the sand for $880,000 in 2018. He renovated it and sold it for $2.4 million in 2021. “Somebody from Pasadena that always wanted to live in Carpinteria bought it,” he said.

The gated neighborhood at Rincon Point is highly coveted, offering 72 homes ranging from quaint cottages to beachfront mansions, with 36 properties on the Pacific Ocean. According to Streatfeild, about one home sells yearly in this exclusive community, as many houses remain in families for generations.

This year, an entry-level off-beach cottage in Rincon Point needed a renovation and sold off-market for $4 million, Streatfeild said. An off-beach, five-bedroom home built in 1965 that was completely remodeled sold for $8.175 million. Properties on the water garner much higher prices, but they’re tougher to come by.

“Of all the beach markets I’ve worked, which is about 13, this one is the hardest to get into,” he said of the gated development.

Kotlyar recently listed a four-bedroom property on Shepard Mesa Road, a street in Carpinteria’s foothills showcasing sweeping Santa Barbara harbor and valley views. It’s on the market for $6.495 million. Haskell currently has an $18 million listing on Casitas Pass Road, a desirable locale sandwiched between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the ocean.

However, owning a home on Padaro Lane––the idyllic oceanfront strip alongside Route 101, where Kevin Costner, Ellen DeGeneres, and Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have purchased property––is owning a home in the area’s most prestigious location. In 2022, Streatfeild sold a Padaro estate with 66 feet of ocean frontage for just under $30 million, and Haskell traded a property for nearly $70 million.

“There will always be a market for great properties that are priced correctly,” Haskell said. “The demand remains strong in Santa Barbara County, not as crazed as the past three years, but still strong.”

Photo: Zach Brown of Atlas Imagery

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