This California Wine Region Has Lush Vineyards, Redwood Trees, & Mountain Views

If your idea of the perfect getaway involves a combination of mountain views, gorgeous hikes, and afternoons relaxing at elegant wineries, then you'll fall in love with Anderson Valley, California. Located less than three hours north of the bustling city of San Francisco, it is one of the state's best places to visit for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. California's wine country is world-renowned. It's one of the most popular places in the United States to visit for wine tastings. Anderson Valley is located in Mendocino County — one of the state's most iconic wine producing regions.

Anderson Valley was originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, but it was named after the Anderson family, a group of pioneers who settled there in the mid-1800's. It is said that when they came across the valley they thought it resembled the Garden of Eden. Today, it is a thriving wine region that boasts a cool Mediterranean climate due to its 2,500-foot elevation and its proximity to the sea. Pinot Noir thrives in the unique terroir. Chardonnay, Rosè, Zinfandel, Gewürztraminer, and Sauvignon Blanc are also produced in Anderson Valley.

It's the perfect place to visit if you're in search of a romantic getaway, or a destination where you can connect with family or friends. On a trip to Anderson Valley you can soak up the natural beauty as you wander through groves of ancient Redwood trees, savor the flavor of locally produced wine by booking a tasting at one of the many vineyards, dine on delicious food, or simply relax with a good book at your elegant accommodations.

To reach Anderson Valley, you'll have to first travel to one of the larger cities in Northern California. San Francisco, a foodie-favorite city that was named the Culinary Capital of America, may be the easiest option. San Francisco is home to a few major international airports; San Francisco International (SFO), Norman Y. Mineta San José International Airport (SJC), and Oakland International Airport (OAK). After flying into San Francisco, you can rent a car for around $50 per day.

The driving distance to Anderson Valley from San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Bridge is approximately two hours. If you don't want to drive quite so far, you can fly in to the small airport in Sonoma County, California which is about an hour away from Anderson Valley.

There are plenty of lovely accommodations to choose from in and around the area. The Madrones is an estate located right in the middle of Anderson Valley that has two wine tasting rooms, lodging, and a cannabis apothecary. The elegant estate house has nine different rooms all outfitted with luxurious amenities. The Brambles Hideaway, a sister property nearby, has funky rooms with steampunk design elements as well as some private cabins. The price for rooms starts at around $300 per night. Anderson Valley Inn is another great option with a prime location and room prices starting at $150 per night.

There are over 30 different wineries in and around Anderson Valley, and each has its own unique charm. Navarro Vineyards is one of the most popular and you don't need a reservation to visit. Guests can also book a tour of the vineyard for $10 per person. If you're looking for something with plenty of historic charm, head to Husch Vineyards. It's the oldest winery in Anderson Valley and has remained in the same family for three generations. If you fancy sipping organic wine with beautiful views, head to Seawolf Wines where you can enjoy a mountaintop wine tasting and vineyard tour for just $25 per person.

Balance out your wine consumption with some healthy organic food from Boont Berry Farm. The deli menu offers classic sandwiches along with Mexican, Mediterranean, and Asian-inspired cuisine. Pick up ingredients for a picnic lunch or a takeout dinner to enjoy at your accommodations. If you prefer a nice sit-down meal in a romantically rustic setting, head to Wickson where the cuisine is created from local ingredients.  

Carve out some time between your wine tastings to enjoy the natural beauty of Northern California. Hendy Woods State Park is a gorgeous place to go for a hike. The park is 850 acres total and runs along the length of the winding Navarro River. There are two groves of old-growth redwood trees -– some of them have lived for around a thousand years. The discovery trail takes you through the larger grove, and a wheelchair-accessible path is just over a half a mile long. On a warm summer day you can cool off with a swim in the river after your hike. If you have a free morning during your visit, it's only about a 45-minute drive to the rugged Mendocino coast for a beach day.