Napa & Sonoma

Flying into San Francisco, we’ll head out of the Bay and into the Valley. A short drive later and we’ll arrive at Calistoga Ranch, a luxury resort nestled amongst acres of oak trees, and our home for the next two nights. Dotted with secluded lodges and boasting a tranquil spa, this is a place to check-in and switch off. In the evening, we’ll get our gourmet escape off to a start with dinner at The Lakehouse. Overlooking the peaceful waters of Lake Lommel, the four-course set menu emphasises organic and local produce and is the perfect introduction to Napa’s rich food and wine culture. Tomorrow, we’ll get to know this world-famous wine region as we sip and cycle our way between vineyards. Yes...cycle! Pedaling along the quiet back roads of Calistoga, it’s the perfect way to take in Napa’s beautiful scenery. Stopping off at four unique vineyards, we’ll be treated to a Grapes 101 as we learn to sip, swirl and taste the Valley’s best wines. There's a Caribbean varietal that is a particular rarity... The perfect accompaniment to a vineyard cycle, we’ll also tuck into our gourmet wine country picnic lunch along the way. Perfectly balancing wine with wheels, we'll certainly try, our private guide-come-sommelier can customize our ride according to how leisurely or high-octane we want it to be. The only octane I suggest is the high-octane varietals in the glass...

Before leaving Napa, I’ve got one more trick up my sleeve. Waking up before sunrise (not sounding like much of a treat so far, but bear with me), we’ll head out for one of the best vantage points of the valley. Up in the air. Boarding a hot air balloon, we’ll float over the valley in total peace as the sun rises up over the horizon. It’s an unbeatable view. Touchdown and enjoy a less boozy champagne breakfast before jumping in the car and heading off to Sonoma. Arriving at Farmhouse Inn, we’ll immediately feel at ease. Spend the afternoon poolside, yes please, or indulging in a farm-to-spa-table treatment before enjoying a Michelin-starred evening at the Inn’s iconic restaurant. Tomorrow, we’ll cross over to Sonoma’s more active side on an aptly-named - private crossover tour. Redwood hikes, Pacific coast views, bakeries, cheese tastings, gourmet picnics – and, of course, wine tastings!, it’s the tour that’s got it all. Take it all in in a classic combination of driving and cycling. We can more driving than cycling if you prefer. After all, some of the best routes are those that take you off the road and into the valley - a happy on eat that. Who knew wine tasting could be such an adventure? Finishing off this culinary getaway in style, cosy up around Farmhouse Inn’s firepit and toast some gourmet s’mores before heading into Healdsburg for dinner at one of the outstanding local restaurants. In the morning, our gourmet getaway comes to an end as it’s back to San Francisco for our flight home. One thing’s for sure though, weekend takeout on the couch will never be the same again. Let's get lost...