Napa & Sonoma Valley Tours

Harvest season, known in wine country as “crush season,” is an exuberant time of celebration in Napa and Sonoma Counties. This is when winemakers decide that the grapes are ready to be picked. Depending on the weather, and the type of wine grape, this runs from early September through late October. (Many white grapes are left on the vine as long as possible so their sugar content rises.)

An entire palette of autumn colors rises and dips over rolling hills. Palest yellows, vivid oranges, and deep reds blanket more than 100,000 acres of vineyards. The region is energized with one goal: get in the harvest before the first freeze—and you get to peek behind the curtain. Join in the spirit with intimate tastings and local grape stomps. Enjoy farm fresh produce from the stands or served up in elegant cuisine.

Imagine vineyard hikes. Intimate tastings. Driving the wine country route. Menus that feature farm-to-table fresh ingredients, including figs, pears, apples, and dates. Orchards with fresh pies and jams. Handmade chocolates, cheeses, and sparkling wines under a perfect sky. A quick drive to the ocean, a picnic under the redwoods. Come, celebrate harvest in California’s wine country.

Northern California, specifically Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada’s, is one of the largest ski areas in the United States with 400” of snow each year. Winter adventures begin right around Thanksgiving and usually go through March. There are miles upon miles of wide-open, groomed trails, 1,600 foot plunges in the double-black diamond canyons, and audacious tree skiing. You can also snowboard, tube, or go cross-country skiing.

Your friends love to ski, but you’re not a fan? No problem. Imagine sledding, ice-skating, and sleigh rides. Lake Tahoe itself is a natural blue gem of crystalline water—ride a gondola for pristine views. World-class dining and shopping are near resorts and in the quaint town of Truckee. (Your lodging choices range from high-end resorts to historic cabins.) Want to see what the avid fuss is about? Take skiing lessons!

North Tahoe is a unique winter experience unified by 12 towns, and each has an adventurous spirit. South Tahoe has extraordinary areas such as Heavenly and Squaw Valley. (Squaw Valley has 42 lifts, 6,000 skiable acres, 270 trails, 60 restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries. Heavenly is similar, and both are good for all levels of skiers.) Want a real experience? Slap on some snowshoes and explore with a friend, then get into a hot tub surrounded by now. Heaven? Truly.

Inspired Winter Resorts: Sugar Bowl, Heavenly, Squaw Valley