Arrive into San Francisco International airport, collect your bags and hire car. It’s just over an hour’s drive to your hotel in Santa Cruz.

San Francisco Airport > Santa Cruz | 62 miles

Hotel Paradox, Santa Cruz or similar

Begin your day with a scenic drive south along Highway1 to explore the Corralitos Wine Trail. Start at Bargetto Winery in Soquel, then visit Lester Estate Wines or Storrs Winery & Vineyards for more tasting. Along the way, stop at Corralitos Market & Sausage Co. for a delicious local sandwich. Wind down the day at Windy Oaks Estate, where you can savour their exceptional Pinot Noir. In the evening, head to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for some classic fun by the sea before retiring for the night.

Hotel Paradox, Santa Cruz or similar

Enjoy a beautiful drive through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Stop at Beauregard Vineyards for a wine tasting surrounded by redwoods, then venture to Big Basin Vineyards. If you’re up for a hike, detour through Big Basin Redwoods State Park before reaching the winery. Continue to Ridge Vineyards, a historic estate known for its award-winning cabernet sauvignon. Enjoy dinner in the charming town of Saratoga at Plumed Horse, a Michelin-starred restaurant. Relax and unwind at your overnight stay in Saratoga or nearby Los Gatos.

Santa Cruz > Saratoga | 36 miles

Best Western The Inn of Los Gatos or similar

Your day begins in San Jose with a visit to the J. Lohr Wine Centre for a tasting of their pioneering California wines. For lunch, explore the vibrant San Pedro Square Market, offering a wide variety of globally-inspired food. Then, head to Livermore Valley, where you can sample wines at Murrieta’s Well, Concannon Vineyard, and Wente, some of California’s oldest wineries. Afterward, enjoy a memorable dinner at Range Life, a top-rated neighbourhood restaurant. Spend the night in Livermore, soaking in the wine country atmosphere.

Saratoga > Livermore | 45 miles

DoubleTree by Hilton Livermore or similar

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at Denica’s Real Food Kitchen before heading to Lodi. On the way, make a stop at the San Francisco Premium Outlets for some retail therapy. Once in Lodi, begin your wine adventure at the Lodi Wine Visitors Centre. Spend the afternoon enjoying a spa treatment at Wine & Roses Spa to relax and rejuvenate. For dinner, savour authentic Mexican cuisine at El Pazcifico Mexican Grill & Cantina, a local favourite. Overnight in Lodi, where the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

Livermore Valley > Lodi | 63 miles

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lodi or similar

Today is all about exploring the renowned wineries of Lodi. Start at Acquiesce Winery, famous for its white and rose wines, then head to Peltier Winery & Vineyards. Finally, visit the legendary Michael David Winery, where you can enjoy a casual lunch featuring locally sourced meats and produce. The beautiful outdoor patio makes for a perfect afternoon. For dinner, indulge in classic Italian dishes at Pietro’s Trattoria, a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. Stay another night in Lodi to continue soaking in the laid-back charm.

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lodi or similar

Depart Lodi for the historic town of Murphy’s in Calaveras County, stopping at Ironstone Vineyards to enjoy wine and explore the winery’s museum, which showcases local gold mining history. Stroll along Main Street in Murphy’s, filled with charming shops and tasting rooms. Sample wines from local family-owned wineries, each offering unique experiences. For dinner, visit V Restaurant, Bar & Bistro, where you can choose between casual and upscale dining options. Spend the night in Murphy’s or nearby Angels Camp, where the quaint atmosphere and historic charm make it a memorable stop.

Lodi > Angel’s Camp | 50 miles

Best Western Cedar Inn & Suites or similar

Kick off the day with coffee and pastries at Aria Bakery Cafe before heading to Sutter Creek, a picturesque town known as “The Jewel of the Mother Lode.” Explore antique shops and taste wines at Bella Grace, Uphill Vineyards, and Baiochhi Wines. Pick up local picnic supplies before continuing to Plymouth. Once there, visit wineries like Deaver Vineyards and Andis Wines to discover the rich offerings of the Shenandoah Valley. Enjoy a cosy dinner in Plymouth, either at the sleek Taste or the rustic Plymouth Hotel Kitchen & Bar.

Angel’s Camp > Jackson | 29 miles

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jackson or similar

Start your day with a classic American breakfast at Marlene & Glen’s Dead Fly Diner before making your way to Lincoln. Along the way, stop at El Dorado Hills Town Center for a quick break and some shopping, then take in the fresh air at Folsom Lake. Begin your exploration of the Placer Wine Trail with visits to Twin Rocks Estate Winery, Lone Buffalo Vineyards, and PaZa Estate Winery. Enjoy a delicious dinner at Wise Villa Winery & Restaurant, known for its gourmet food and wine pairings. Stay the night in Lincoln or Auburn.

Jackson > Lincoln | 60 miles

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lincoln-Roseville Area or similar

Your final day takes you to Grass Valley, a charming former mining town. Visit Lucchesi Vineyards & Winery for a relaxed tasting before exploring the town’s artistic shops and murals. Head to neighbouring Nevada City for more wineries, including Nevada City Winery and Szabo Vineyards. In the evening, dine at the historic Golden Gate Saloon, located in the Holbrooke Hotel, the oldest operating saloon west of the Mississippi. It’s the perfect end to your road trip, where you can reflect on your adventures in this beautiful part of California.

Lincoln > Grass Valley | 36 miles

Best Western Gold Country Inn or similar

Today drive back to San Francisco airport and return your hire car. Why not ask your consultant to extent your holiday and stay in San Francisco?

Grass Valley > San Francisco Airport | 155 miles