Destinations Unique Northern CA Wine Country Inns

Hi,
I write a travel column "What a Trip" for a newspaper in Northern California and I want to share a recent road trip I experienced. Whether you live in California or are a first time visitor, I think you will enjoy the itinerary that I have put together.

Inn at Occidental, http://www.innatoccidental.com is located at 3657 Church St. A former Westin corporate guy, owner Jerry Wolsborn says, "This is not your typical Victorian with a lot of lace." Located in the town of Occidental, 20 miles from Bodega Bay, the Inn offers 13 unique theme rooms. The hearty breakfast was very good and Bistro Des Copains, 3782 Bohemian Highway, was lovely.
(I've include my Osmosis Day Spa experience in the Spas forum.)

Day two drive on Hwy. 101 North to Upper Lake County. A native Californian, I'm ashamed to admit that I had not previously been to this area. San Francisco residents Lynne & Bernard Butcher have sunk a small fortune into the renovation of the Tallman Hotel, http://www.tallmanhotel.com to bring this 1890's building back to life. Main Street next door neighbor, Blue Wing Saloon & Café, offers comfort food with a California twist.

Imagine my delight when I came upon a gorgeous lakeside winery. Located between the villages of Nice and Lucerne (what's that about?) on the north shore of Clearlake, Ceago Vinegarden, http://www.ceago.com is Jim Fetzer's baby. His wines are made from estate grown organic and biodynamic grapes. If you are running short on time you can also take a SeaPlane charter, http://www.seaplane.com from Sausalito directly to Ceago. Did I mention Ceago has its own private dock?

Day three drive one and a half hours on Hwy.29 South to St. Helena. Wine Country Inn, http://www.winecountryinn.com was designed with couples in mind. From the two person jetted spa tubs to an in-room massage, the Wine Country Inn is ideally located above the family’s vineyard at 1152 Lodi Lane. My favorite room is the Vintner’s Cottage.

That evening I dined at Cindy’s Backstreet Kitchen. Chef/owner Cindy Pawlcyn of Napa’s Mustard’s Grill, has put together an upscale eatery where the local winemakers hang out.

Day four continue south on Hwy. 29 or drive down Silverado Trail. Stop at the new Black Stallion Winery, opened in 2007 under the newly designated Oak Knoll District. Continue to 1801 First Inn, http://www.1801first.com located in downtown Napa. Owner Darcy Tunt, “saw a need in my travels for something different. I wanted to create a property in the boutique luxury inn.” Earning the distinguished Conde Nast Johansen’s recommendation, 1801 First offers concierge service, first-class hors d’ oeuvres and a gourmet breakfast prepared by their chef. The detached and private Carriage House with its two-way fireplace and two-person Jacuzzi tub is a great choice.

All good things must come to an end, but before you return home, stop at Napa’s Oxbow Market where local merchants offer “Farmstands” creating a daily farmer’s market atmosphere. Finally, visit COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food, and the Arts.

If you want to read more of Nancy’s travels, check out http://blogs.bootsnall.com/What-A-Trip/