6. Courtland: California Delta Tour
Spend a half day discovering the hidden gems of the historic Delta with a professional guide. Known as the ‘heart’ of California, the Delta is a network of intricate waterways, canals and sloughs, charming small towns steeped in lore, over 50 islands, national historic landmarks, nature reserves and agricultural abundance tucked away just a stone’s throw from the Bay Area and Sacramento. The day begins at family owned Hemly Cider in Courtland, hidden away among pear orchards and fields of corn. After a tour of their historic pear packing shed head over to Hemly’s outdoor, picturesque tasting room built from an old airplane hangar. After a guided tasting of their seasonal ciders and a food pairing, you will move on with a pint and a tour of the cidery to learn how this popular beverage is made. Next up, a short, scenic drive up the road to historic Husick's Taphouse for a lunch of house-smoked tri-tip sliders (veg/vegan options available), slaw and their famous maple bacon cornbread pudding accompanied by a drink pairing of local cider, beer or wine. Then head to another hidden treasure, family owned Silt Winery in Clarksburg. There you will learn about the terroir of The Delta wine region and enjoy a private guided wine tasting with pairings of cheeses, jams and chocolate, in their converted barn turned tasting room. The area is home to legacy towns that were established along the Sacramento River along with the steamboat trade. The famous ‘Delta breeze’ cools the land in the evening on even the hottest days, and its rich soil make it the perfect home to farms and wineries. The Delta is rich and mysterious, a labyrinth of draw bridges, legendary watering holes and even a haunted mansion.