Napa and Tuscany have a way of hogging the spotlight for those who want to spend their days off tasting cabernets or sipping riesling. For good reason: They deliver on location, ambiance, activities, and—well—damn-good wine. But if you’re looking for something different, there are plenty of outstanding travel destinations for wine lovers (both near and far).
These locales stand out for their wine-focused events, scenic vineyards, and more; they’re a clear excuse to enjoy a glass.
Best Travel Destinations for Wine Lovers
Santa Barbara, CA
If you’re not a Cali native, a neighborhood called the Funk Zone might seem off-putting, but it’s actually Santa Barbara’s art, culture, and culinary hub. Within it, you can walk a chunk of the Urban Wine Trail to visit over 20 tasting rooms offering Santa Barbara County wine. Or, you can drop by the urban luxury resort Hotel Californian‘s new signature tasting room, The Society: State & Mason. The airy space is an intimate way to experience world-class wines. Go for the flight with complementary food pairings. And if you’re an out-of-towner, definitely book a stay: The stunning property boasts Spanish Colonial Revival architecture with Moroccan influences—and it’s just a short walk to the beachfront and pier.
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