A Weekend in Carmel

If it isn’t already, add the forested fairytale village of Carmel-by-the-Sea to your travel bucket list. The quaint seaside village is on the California coast just two hours south of San Francisco and offers loads of shopping, art, scenic views, and seafood. Here’s everything my friend Eric and I did, ate, and saw during our…

Folktale Winery

I could not possibly love Folktale Winery any more. The estate is situated on fifteen acres of sustainably-farmed vineyards just ten minutes outside of town in Carmel, California. The patio is beyond perfect to sip the day away. Imagine sipping the best rose you’ve ever had on comfortable couches in 70-degree weather, roses swaying in…

Refuge Spa in Carmel

Once upon a time, eighteen year-old me traveled to Germany and was blown away by the outdoor spa that had a lazy river, eucalyptus caves, steam caves, waterfalls, and other incredibly relaxing activities. I was told it was a normal spa for European standards but I’d never seen anything like it before or since, until…

Hofsas House Hotel

This weekend I vacationed in picturesque Carmel, California, a forested European village by the sea. I visited when I was a little girl and have long wanted to return as an adult. The Monterey peninsula just so happens to be my dad’s favorite place on the planet! I’ll tell you more about Carmel later but…

Flaherty’s Seafood

Come for the oysters, stay for the bread pudding I was blown away by Flaherty’s Seafood. My friend Eric and I dined at Flaherty’s one balmy Friday night on a weekend trip to Carmel, California. It’s well situated right in the middle of the action in the charming seaside village of Carmel-by-the-Sea and within walking…

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is one of the finest resorts in the California wine country. Known for its world class spa, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn is conveniently located just minutes from Sonoma Plaza and hundreds – that’s right, hundreds – of wineries. It’s also home to a Michelin-rated restaurant, complimentary fitness and wellness…

Benziger Family Winery Partners Tour

A step above organic, this Biodynamic vineyard is a sight for sore eyes Wine Spectator called Benziger’s tour “the most comprehensive vineyard tour offered by any winery in California.” Now I can’t speak to every single wine tour in California but I can confirm that Benziger’s Partners Tour is incredible. You take the trolley around…

Buena Vista Winery Tour and Tasting

Old world European glamour found in Sonoma, CA If you’re looking for a little piece of Europe in Sonoma, Buena Vista Winery has you covered. Founded in 1857 by a Hungarian winemaker known as The Count, Buena Vista was California’s first premium winery and proudly showcases history all over the property. The experience begins right…

BR Cohn Winery Tour and Tasting

Come for the wine, stay for the oysters BR Cohn Winery is idyllic. Located just minutes from Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn, BR Cohn is as known for their French olive grove and olive oil as they are for their wine. Plentiful with roses, storybook cottages, wine barrel tables, and sweeping views of California vines, BR…