Discover Californias Wine Trail

Arrive in Los Angeles, collect your car hire and drive to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at your hotel or get out and explore, maybe head to Beverley Hills and wonder the glamourous streets and enjoy some delicious food in one of the many restaurants. On day two why not enjoy a morning hike up to the Hollywood sign and then walk down the Hall of Fame in West Hollywood and see what stars you can spot. 

Overnight – Los Angeles

Today make the journey from the city to Santa Barbara. On route you might want to stop off in Santa Monica to see the famous pier or just get straight on the highway and head for the central coast. One there get your culture fix by visiting Old Mission Santa Barbara, an 18th-century mansion established by Spanish missionaries or simply just wonder the Mediterranean style streets, enjoy some Spanish inspired food and relax on the golden beach. 

Overnight – Santa Barabara

Driving Distance - 95 miles 

Your next destination awaits so carry on up the coast. We recommend stopping for lunch in Pismo Beach, a cute town on the coast which is known for its wineries and beaches. Paso Robles is a fertile region that boasts a bounty of craft breweries, distilleries, olive oil artisans, farm-to-table fare, and fine-dining in it's charming Downtown area. With more than 250 tasting doors and 40 varieties of grape you can take your pick, maybe even make two stops to get a real feel for the area.

Overnight – Paso Robles

Driving distance - 125 miles 

The quickest route to get to your next stop, Monterey, is inland but if your after views then head to Highway 1 and enjoy the coastal route. When you get to Monterey make your way through the many souvenir shops, boutiques and restaurants. Old Fisherman's Grotto is an award winning dining location that is also a great spot to see sea lions and coastal birds. Carmel is also just down the road so maybe pop there for a few hours and discover the chocolate-box streets which are home to 18th century buildings like Carmel Mission Basilica, there are also lots of art galleries to explore or head to the oceanfront and just relax. 

Overnight – Monterey

Driving distance - 117 miles

Head further north until you reach the metropolis that is San Francisco, with so much to do and see in this great city, we have included a two night stay here. A must do activities in San Francisco is seeing the Golden Gate Bridge, walk, drive or cycle across and admire its vast structure and the stunning views. We would also recommend heading over to Alcatraz, you'll need to book in advance but it's such a moving experience. Other attractions include the Walt Disney Museum where you can look into the life of Mickey's creator, ride on the cable cars and see the house where Mrs Doubtfire was filmed, and don't miss exploring Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. 

Overnight – San Francisco

Driving distance - 120 miles

It's time to leave San Francisco and your route up to Santa Rosa in the Sonoma Valley will actually take your across the Golden Gate Bridge. The Sonoma Valley is home to 400 vineyards so make sure you check one of those out whilst your here but you can also discover the giant redwood groves, go kayaking down Russian River or take a game drive through Safari Park. It doesn't stop there, other attractions in the areas include whale spotting, beaches and farm-to-fork restaurants. If you just want to stay local though you can explore Old Courthouse Square – Santa Rosa's central plaza – to browse book shops and boutiques, or sample local fare a laidback restaurant. 

Overnight – Santa Rosa

Driving distance - 55 miles 

Your last stop on this California Wine Trail itinerary takes you to Napa Valley, probably one of the better known winelands in California. With more than 400 vineyards are open for tastings across the region you can take your pick, we wouldnt recommend driving there though as you wont then be able to sample the wines. Lovers of red or sparkling wines should head to the grand Domaine Carneros – a French-inspired château. If modern tipples are more your thing, Luna Vineyards has grown into one of Napa Valley’s largest Pinot Grigio and Sangiovese producers in just 25 years. And if you want to try some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa’s signature grape – the Screaming Eagle Vineyard is a must-visit.

Overnight – Napa Valley

Driving distance - 40 miles 

Head back to San Francisco today to catch your flight home. If you've got a late flight make a stop in Oakland and enjoy one last lunch in the California sun. 

Driving distance - 67 miles