Romantics agree, experiences make the best gift for Valentine’s day. If you are looking for a few ways to surprise your loved one with a memorable gift to celebrate Valentine’s Day, here are a few suggestions that just might put you in good favor with your partner. Healdsburg, in northern California’s wine country is easily one of the most romantic destinations for any occasion, and we have put together some great ideas and resources to get you started.
This perfect little wine country town, just about an hour north of San Francisco has the best of food, wine, shopping, galleries, and a beautiful landscape of fabulous vineyards that surround it for as far as the eye can see. Maybe not as familiar to many as Napa, but definitely worth a visit! As one of the most idyllic small towns in Sonoma County, Healdsburg has received recent accolades from food, wine and travel writers from all over the world. So now that I have your attention here are a few ideas for food, wine, and lodging to make a great getaway for you and your sweetie:
A great getaway starts with lodging and Healdsburg has a host of small boutique hotels, quaint bed and breakfasts, some very nice hotel chains nearby and for a little more privacy there are several cottage and home rentals in and around town. It’s smart to book early because they can book up fast. Within just a few blocks of the town plaza you will find many great options and price ranges. And one that has been noted as a favorite by many for a “romantic getaway” is Honor Mansion. This beautiful wine country resort has 13 luxurious rooms and modern cottages spread across a four-acre property and is within a few blocks of downtown. Known for their gourmet breakfasts, and evening wine and appetizers it’s a perfect spot for a romantic weekend. And among their amenities are a host of spa services that will make for a perfect Valentine’s gift.
The food and wine scene in Healdsburg is full of so many great choices. There are over 30 tasting rooms in Healdsburg and the town is surrounded by some spectacular wineries, with epic landscapes, gardens and views just a few minutes outside of town. Two great resources for wine tasting are Wine Walk Healdsburg, which features many of the wine tasting destinations in downtown Healdsburg and WineRoad, which is an association of wineries and lodgings in the Alexander, Dry Creek, and Russian River Valleys of Northern Sonoma County. Both sites will give you great information on upcoming events, wines, lodging and helpful tips to plan a special trip. And speaking of food and wine, here are a couple of activities to consider:
Gourmet Activities to consider for a special Valentine’s surprise:
1. The Art and Science of Food and Wine -A Delicious Sensory Experience of food and wine pairings presented by Portalupi’s Winemaker, Tim Borges, and Sonoma County’s renowned Chef Matt Paille. This lively, tasty, and informative hands on experience will feature an exploration of the art and science of food and wine, great conversation, and you will leave with recipes and other take aways for your next dinner party. Space is limited so reserve your spot today by signing up here.
Where: Portalupi Tasting Room, 107 North Street, Healdsburg, CA 96448
When: Saturday, February 2o, 2016 from 1-2:30 pm Cost: $75 per person
2. And, to taste some of the best of Healdsburg’s restaurants, food artisans, and desserts book a Savor Healdsburg Food Tour. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of this world-class foodie destination in a small, entertaining, progressive dining journey through six of Healdsburg’s top spots! If you’re going to be here a couple of days, the tour is a great introduction to Healdsburg and the food and wine scene. If you book it early you’ll get the scoop on all the latest and greatest of food, wine and other fun things to do in and around the area to make your stay even better!
For dinner you have so many choices from casual and lively to upscale and romantic. For small and intimate, a local favorite is Scopa. This quaint little spot is situated right across the street from the town plaza and features a simple menu of rustic Italian dishes that will knock your socks off! Warm, comforting and filling, the selections celebrate Chef Ari Rosen’s Italian roots, with handmade pastas, Nona’s chicken (a favorite), and local, seasonal salads, pizzas and main dishes that are to die for! Book well in advance or you may not get a table!
So plan your trip now for a fabulous February trip to Healdsburg. With these suggestions you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable experience and the best gift for Valentine’s Day! Whether it’s for a romantic Valentine’s weekend, a trip after taking in Superbowl 50, or just for fun, Healdsburg is definitely worth putting on your trip list. No matter what time of year!