The Castello di Amorosa, located in Calistoga, is truly one of the most unique wineries in Napa Valley. This genuine castle took 14 years to build and opened in 2007. The castle has many features that make it truly unique, including a moat, a drawbridge, a chapel and even a torture chamber, complete with authentic instruments of inflicting pain like the iron maiden. Other than the exquisite craftsmanship, the castle offers several different wine tasting packages, although they do not have a winery on site. Visitors can also take horse-drawn carriage tours of the estate and attend church services in the castle.
The name "old faithful" is most closely associated with the Yellowstone Park geyser, but it is actually used to describe any geyser that erupts on a regular schedule. Boiling hot water shoots 60 feet (18.3 meters) into the crystal blue sky, while spectators gather casually around and witness this natural spectacle. Also don't miss the fascinating exhibit on geyser eruptions and earthquake predictions.
This restored grist mill, originally built in 1846, is still functional and visitors can see its massive millstones in action, where millers grind flour out of local wheat. Guided tours of the mill are highly recommended, and flour produced here can also be purchased as a souvenir. The verdant surroundings are a great addition to the historic charm of this site, with winding trails adding to the outdoorsy appeal of this park.
The Trione-Annadel State Park has more than one reason which makes it worthy of a visit. Spread across an area of 5,092-acre (2,061 hectares), the park is steeped in Native American history and is known for its volcanic rocks. Ecologically blessed with a diverse flora, the park is home to oak woodlands, maples, fir forests. Come spring, the park is blanketed in fully blossomed wildflowers.
Founded as Inglenook in 1880, the historic Rubicon Estate has the honor of being one of the few remaining family-owned wine estates of its magnitude in existence. It is comprised of 235 acres (95 hectares) of organically certified vineyards, and is located in Napa Valley's Rutherford appellation. Rubicon Estate is home to the region's most famous Chateau and Rubicon—the estate's flagship wine. Dominated by a special clone of Cabernet Sauvignon that can be traced back to the original vineyard plantings of 1880, Rubicon is a Bordeaux blend that reflects the unique terrain of this property. In addition to the collection of award-winning wines, Rubicon Estate offers an array of tours and tastings, some historical, others are hands-on and interactive. From guided walks through the vineyard to barrel sample tasting in the cellar, the property's tour guides are experts at creating dynamic wine experiences for all guests. The estate also is home to the Centennial Museum housing memorabilia from Francis Ford Coppola's movies.
The brainchild of the Carlo Marchiori, Villa Ca'Toga is a breathtaking piece of architecture which transports one back to Italy, and in particular, Venice. Enjoy the floor-to-ceiling murals, admire the sculptures which are replicas of limestone pillars and immerse yourself in the artist's shoes as you tour the themed rooms. There is also a river walk on the property adorned with trees, a pyramid and a hot tub, so be sure to catch all the attractions.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by discovering the flora and fauna at the Pepperwood Preserve. This preserve is located on the west coast in the Mayacamas Mountains and is managed by the Pepperwood Foundation. The area is properly maintained for research and tourist purposes. The vegetation in this area basically consists of grassland, woodland, chaparral and much more.
Started by the duo Timo and Ashby Marshall, Spirit Works Distillery is a reflection of their traditional roots and modern sensibilities. Located in the heart of The Barlow, this distillery offers a wide range of crafted spirits. Their Sloe Gin is quite a hit. Patrons can indulge in some fine tasting room experience and even rent the space for a private event. They also offer guided tours Friday through Sunday at 2 p and 4 p, in which visitors can learn about the entire journey from 'grain to glass'
The brainchild of the Carlo Marchiori, Villa Ca'Toga is a breathtaking piece of architecture which transports one back to Italy, and in particular, Venice. Enjoy the floor-to-ceiling murals, admire the sculptures which are replicas of limestone pillars and immerse yourself in the artist's shoes as you tour the themed rooms. There is also a river walk on the property adorned with trees, a pyramid and a hot tub, so be sure to catch all the attractions.
While most Bay Area visitors continue to flock to Muir Woods for their redwoods visit, Armstrong Woods in Sonoma County is a more serene alternative. The redwood grove is vast, inspiring and majestic; the oldest tree in the park, the Colonel Armstrong Tree, is a staggering 1400 years old. Visitors can also marvel at the tallest tree in the park, which is 310 feet (94 meters) tall. Trails winding through the extensive foliage of the reserve make for exhilarating hiking excursions and offer visitors a closer look at its diverse flora. While an entry fee applies to vehicles, pedestrians can enter the park free of charge.
Davis Estates offers some of the most classic offerings of wine country such as sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, fleur rose and more. The massive, classy estate can also be toured, offering curated wine tasting sessions in the spacious terrace with a sweeping view of the vineyards. The estate can also be booked for private gatherings.