California vineyard ventures

Aside from the defining sights of the Golden Gate Bridge and views of Alcatraz Island, San Francisco is a city full of surprises. Ride the historic cable cars chugging through the neighbourhoods and explore the waterfront marketplace of Fisherman’s Wharf – all fishing boats, basking sea lions, clam chowder and sourdough French bread bakeries. Shoppers will be in their element at Union Square, where evenings are spent dining in trend setting Michelin starred restaurants and world renowned opera and ballets.

The self-drive foray begins after collecting your car to head to Sonoma Valley. The quainter sibling of Napa Valley, Sonoma entices visitors with its rustic wineries, undulating hills and remarkable coastline, dotted with lilac meadow fields, waterfalls and secluded beaches. Here, enjoy sommelier-led wine tours, nightly wine tastings and Michelin-starred dining. Explore the galleries and boutiques of Sonoma Plaza, discover an idyllic picnic spot by bike or experience kayaking in the Californian sunshine.

Continue the drive to Napa Valley, where the vines have religious roots going back to the 1700s. Showcasing a taste of France to some delightful views, here you will enjoy privileged access to some of the most sought-after and exclusive tours, tastings and dining experiences in wine country.

Swapping rippling hills for sandy beaches, head to the picturesque Pismo Beach on the central coast. Retro in its charm, a stroll down the wooden pier or catching a wave is the done thing, but there’s also the throwback bowling alley to visit, the chance to see Monarch Butterfly Grove in the winter months, and of course wine tastings with a sea breeze.

Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, the lovingly nicknamed ‘American Riviera’ – Santa Barbara – is home for the last two nights. The region’s Mediterranean climate, fertile valleys and historical roots, combined with the growing culinary scene of the Funk Zone and Urban Wine Trail, make the city the pinnacle of Californian cool.