If you are visiting Napa Valley, you should think about driving further north to Lake County.

This area was where the original vineyards were planted, long before Napa. It is far less touristy - with a beautiful clear lake.

Harbin Hot Springs is also a hidden gem of Lake County. It is a "clothing optional" spa with a laid back, new age feel, that is exceptional value - especially if you choose to sleep outside on the pool deck...

www.lakecountywinegrape.org
www.harbin.org

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This winery is worth a visit not only for its wine, but also for the unique way of getting from the vineyard to the winery.

The winery is perched upon a small hill overlooking the vineyards and the only way for visitors to reach it is by cable-car.

This short ascent provides marvellous photo opportunities on the way.

1111 Dunaweal Ln
Calistoga, CA 94515
(707) 942-3300

www.sterlingvineyards.com

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Nicholson Ranch is a recently established small family owned artisan winery located midway between Napa and Sonoma. We came across it last year after arriving to the wine region late in the afternoon. Most of the tasting rooms in the other wineries close to the public at 4.30 or 5.00pm. This one remains open until 6pm and despite arriving just half an hour before closing we were well looked after by the staff and enjoyed the great views from their Redwood Terrace.

www.nicholsonranch.com
4200 Napa Road
Sonoma, California

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A fantastic vineyard, winery and tasting room in the Carneros region at the southern end of the Napa Valley. Hidden away in the middle of 400 acres of their own Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vineyards. You have to book an appointment but you can do this from the car when you drive up to the entrance! They also have a more commercial tasting room in Calistoga at the other end of the Valley where you can just walk in (if you do, ask to see the barrel caves), but the brand new winery in Carneros is completely powered by solar and is definitely worth a look. The people are really friendly and it is a little more down to earth than some of the more snooty wineries further up the Valley!

www.cuvaison.com
1221 Duhig Road
Napa, CA 707.942.2455

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