Spend the Holidays in Northern California’s Undiscovered Wine Country

Clear Lake State Park. Photo: @karenpavonephotography

By Trudy Wakefield

Sure, COVID has made 2020 anything but our average year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make great memories with a cozy, more intimate gathering. Head out of town and make Lake County your home away from home for the holidays.

Here are five ways to create a holiday you’ll always remember:

Stay in the Heart of a Small Town

Suite On Main in Kelseyville offers fully functional kitchens so you can have a perfect staycation. Combine that with its spacious rooms and location just above Kelseyville’s eateries and shops, and you’ll never want to leave. While you’re there, do some clothes shopping at Oak Boutique, pick up some unique antiques at Two Sisters Collectibles, and browse A+H General Store, where you’re bound to find a little bit of everything. End your day with dinner at The Saw Shop Public House. They’re all within two blocks of your room.

Have your Holiday Feast Catered

If cooking isn’t what you had in mind, Ripe Choice Farm and Catering gives you the same homemade goodness you’re craving without all the work. Chef Tammy Lipps has decades of experience cooking quality, gourmet food; you won’t be disappointed. And if you want to spend some time on the farm, check out their Airbnb.

Visit an Authentic French Bakery

Pascal Hue De Laroque, owner of Marcel’s Bakery, lives a commitment to quality. He only uses imported French flour to create his authentic pastries that will make your mouth water. And while you’re there, be sure to get some coffee. You might just have the best mocha you’ve ever tasted; it’s all because of their secret ingredient. Marcel’s has two locations: in Lakeport and Clearlake Oaks.

Get a Dose of Local Art

The Middletown Art Center isn’t your ordinary small-town art gallery. Nestled at the foot of Mount St. Helena and surrounded by the rugged Mayacamas mountains, The MAC showcases some of the best artists in the region and regularly holds shows. Between the sculpture garden outside and the continually updated gallery inside, you’re sure to please your inner artist.

Go Wine Tasting

You’re only a short drive away from some of Northern California’s finest wineries. Capture some of the county’s best views when you taste at Laujor Estate Winery, directly across from the hollow volcano Mt. Konocti. Just down the road is Boatique Winery, where you’ll find a showcase of beautiful wooden boats to enjoy with your wine. For a more rustic tasting experience, Visit Six Sigma Ranch and Winery. Hop on a WWII Pinzgauer and tour the working ranch and vineyards, a truly one of a kind experience. Be sure to plan ahead and make reservations before you visit.

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