California wine country is known for its scenic landscapes and diverse attractions. Travelers can explore the region in a variety of ways, ranging from hot-air balloon rides to motorcycle sidecar tours.
Visitors interested in aerial views can book trips with Napa Valley Aloft or Napa Valley Balloons, which offer both group and private flights over the vineyards. For those who prefer to stay on the ground but still want a unique experience, the Napa Valley Wine Trolley and Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley provide all-day tours using replica streetcars, including stops at top wineries and gourmet lunches. Evening options include dinner on the Napa Valley Wine Train.
Adventure seekers have options such as tandem skydiving with NorCal Skydiving in Cloverdale, where participants can choose jumps from 8,000 to 15,000 feet. Other alternatives include exploring Napa Valley by electric tuk-tuk through Laces & Limos or horseback riding through vineyards with Triple Creek Horse Outfit and Sonoma Valley Trail Rides.
Paso Robles offers motorcycle sidecar excursions via Third Wheel Tours, allowing guests to visit local wineries while learning about the area’s history and climate. In Sonoma, West Wine Tours takes visitors on wine-tasting trips in vintage Volkswagen vans.
Sterling Vineyards in Calistoga features an aerial tram that transports guests to a hilltop tasting room 300 feet above the valley floor. Cycling enthusiasts can use the car-free Napa Valley Vine Trail, stretching 12.5 miles from Yountville to South Napa; bikes are available for rent from local shops like Napa Valley Bike Tours.
For those seeking less physical exertion, Glidesdale Adventures offers electric Glide bike tours along a similar route with winery stops included. At Dry Creek Vineyard in northern Sonoma County, farm tours take visitors through sustainable vineyard practices aboard a 4WD vehicle.
Shorter visits are accommodated by Big Bus Tours’ half-day option departing from San Francisco. This tour includes round-trip transportation across landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and visits two acclaimed wineries for tastings and behind-the-scenes estate tours led by knowledgeable hosts.
Families visiting Belden Barns Farmstead & Winery near Santa Rosa will find activities for children such as nature scavenger hunts equipped with backpacks containing field guides and magnifying glasses.
Hiking opportunities are also available through Active Wine Adventures’ guided hikes past vineyards and redwood forests in Sonoma Valley, followed by outdoor wine tastings and lunch.
“Whether you want to channel your inner equestrian, thrillseeker, or Phileas Fogg, there’s something to suit your particular taste,” states the announcement regarding these curated experiences designed for travelers looking for less conventional ways to enjoy California wine country.
