The Point Cabrillo Lighthouse just north of Mendocino

Mendocino and wine romantics

This is how to combine wine, wine country and romance into a getaway weekend. We call it “Mendocino and Wine Romantics.” Mendocino at this time of year is a true getaway. No crowds and a lot of solitude are included in this wine country adventure. The photo above is of Point Cabrillo Lighthouse just a short drive north of the romantic town of Mendocino. It is one of the many things to do in and around Mendocino.

Plan your Mendocino and Wine Romantics

Begin by booking your B&B in the town of Mendocino on the Pacific Coast. Book a restaurant reservation in Mendocino at two different restaurants, one for Friday night and one for Saturday night. Get away early on Friday and head to the Anderson Valley on Highway 128. If the weather is good, hit one of the delis in Boonville and purchase goodies for a picnic lunch at one of the wineries. Navarro Vineyards is always our first choice. There are several wonderful boutique wineries to visit on the Anderson Valley Wine Route. Stop in and choose wines to bring for dinner for both nights. This is Pinot Noir country, and Pinot Noir is always a safe bet for a match with many different dinner entrees. After visiting a couple of wineries, head west to the coast and the beautiful town of Mendocino. Once settled into your B&B,  head to the boutique shops for a quick look at what these stores have to offer. We always take a walk along the Mendocino bluffs. It is inspiring and rejuvenating. The old Mendocino Hotel is worth a sit down with a glass of wine. Perhaps the next day, you’ll be up for an early morning or mid afternoon two-mile hike. Van Damme State Park is just to the south and has a great hiking trail. At the end of the two-mile stretch along the creek are picnic benches. Each time we have done this, we are the only ones there, and that is just the way we like it. Heading back home on our final day, we like to take a different route back and stop in Hopland on Highway 101. We take Highway 253 in Boonville. It is a very pretty ride and the Hopland Wine Route has several great wineries to enjoy. Our favorites are the Saracina Winery and the Terra Savia Winery. Happy travels!