There is so much to love about northern California, from its bountiful vineyards, rich history, and Pacific coast, to the towering redwoods. This region is truly remarkable with something for everyone, from long rides through the endless scenery of the coast and forests, to enjoying some of the world’s finest wines at lush vineyards.
Sonoma, the birthplace of the California's wine industry and home to over 400 wineries, including the state’s oldest, Buena Vista winery, was actually established in 1857. The first grape vines in Sonoma were originally planted in 1812, and has since grown to 18 appellations and 66 different varieties to produce 6% of all of California’s wine. The annual haul of grapes is staggering, coming in at just over 250,000 tons a year! That’s enough for over 200 million bottles of wine!
More often than not, we hear hotels being close to the top of the list. No wonder why. There is definitely something magical about hotels that make your stay an experience in itself. Our top guest favorite hotels are often described as such, with luxury accommodations that are designed for you to relax and unwind without a care in the world. These selection of hotels are almost a re-imagination of perfection: the attention to details, the passion in service, and the signature offerings make them one of the highlights of a spectacular getaway. Here is a small sample of some of the heritage properties we visit on our trips:
Sojourn bike tour guests tell us time and time again that our tour leaders are the best in the business. For those who have yet to travel with Sojourn, our bicycling vacations feature two world-class tour leaders who are truly jacks of all trades. In addition to ensuring guest safety and enjoyment while on vacation, our tour leaders also make for exceptional travel companions. Needless to say, we take great pride in these ‘curators of fun’ who are not just employees, but rather, like our guests, they are family.
Northern Arizona’s Prescott and Sedona region is the epitome of Southwestern charm. The vibrant culture and cuisine of the region is the result of a melting pot of Native American, Mexican, and wild West influences, which are prevalent throughout both of the cities. Adventurers are quickly introduced to the diversity of the region on our Northern Arizona Biking and Hiking Tour, with the trip’s first lodgings being held at the quaint Hassayampa Inn.
Low Country Boil, a staple of Gullah Geechee culture.
Though most scholars are not in agreement as to the origins of Gullah/Geechee, it is more or less established that the Geechee and Gullah community traces its roots to West & Central Africa and originally worked on the plantations in South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina and Florida. They have since settled in Lowcountry, a 200-mile stretch of coastal South Carolina and Georgia. While Gullahs are more within South Carolina, Geechees are folks who chose coastal Georgia stretching into parts of Florida. Regardless of location, the community as a whole is more commonly referred to as Geechee.
