For the discerning traveller seeking a truly enriching and restorative getaway, Bindlestiff Tours, the award-winning adventure travel company, has unveiled its newest offering: “California Coastlines and Vineyards, Waves and Wine.”
This five-day small-group tour, departing from San Francisco, is meticulously crafted to blend exhilarating outdoor adventure with luxurious moments of relaxation, focusing on holistic wellness and sensory indulgence.
Designed for those 21 and older, this unique journey invites guests to experience the magical convergence of California’s rugged northern coastlines, ancient redwood forests, and world-class wine regions, promising an unforgettable escape that nourishes both body and soul.
Bindlestiff Tours, with 14 years of expertise in curating unforgettable experiences across the American West, Canadian West, and Alaska, brings its renowned commitment to experiential and immersive travel to this Californian adventure.
Known for their small group adventures and custom private tours, Bindlestiff ensures every guest feels supported, guided, and completely absorbed in their surroundings. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, part of a private group, or interested in their special women-only departures, this tour offers a deeply personal connection to the Golden State’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.
The carefully designed itinerary begins in San Francisco, setting a tone of awe and discovery from the outset. Guests embark on a scenic journey across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, a moment that symbolizes crossing into a realm of serene beauty and adventure.
Winding through the charming streets of Sausalito, the tour immediately offers a glimpse into California’s picturesque coastal towns. The first taste of local artisan craft comes with an exquisite lunch and tasting at Heidrun Meadery, an experience that delights the palate and introduces guests to unique, naturally fermented honey wines.
As evening approaches, the tour settles into waterfront accommodations before embarking on what promises to be an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon: a starlit bioluminescent kayak tour at Tomales Bay. Imagine paddling through waters that literally glow with every stroke, a truly magical and meditative experience that connects you deeply with the natural world, fostering a profound sense of wonder and tranquillity. This unique encounter with nature’s light show is not just visually stunning but also incredibly calming, providing a perfect start to a wellness-focused journey.
Day two continues the embrace of California’s breathtaking coastline. The morning blends invigorating scenic coastal hiking, offering opportunities for physical activity and fresh ocean air, with a delightful and fresh oyster tasting at Hog Island Oyster Co. This gourmet experience allows guests to savour the bounty of the Pacific in its purest form, connecting them to the region’s rich maritime heritage.
The afternoon culminates in relaxation in Bodega Bay, where windswept beaches provide a picturesque setting for unwinding, often accompanied by a glass of local wine to complement the coastal ambiance. This blend of active exploration and leisurely indulgence is a hallmark of the tour’s wellness focus.
From the coast, the tour gracefully transitions into the heart of California’s renowned wine country. Day three features a guided bike ride through the picturesque Russian River Valley. Guests pedal along peaceful vineyard roads, surrounded by lush grapevines, with curated stops at boutique wineries for tastings that introduce the nuanced flavours of the region.
A gourmet picnic lunch enjoyed amidst the vines offers a delightful sensory experience, combining delicious food with stunning natural views. The evening is spent in the charming riverside town of Guerneville, where cosy cottages nestled beneath the towering redwoods offer a perfect retreat for rest and rejuvenation, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. The serene environment of the redwoods is known for its calming effect, making it an ideal setting for mindful relaxation.
The journey continues on day four with a morning walk among the magnificent, ancient trees of Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. This experience is akin to “forest bathing,” where the towering presence of the redwoods evokes a sense of awe and quiet reflection, promoting mental clarity and reducing stress.
Following this grounding experience, guests are treated to an indulgent VIP chef’s table lunch at Capo Creek Winery, complete with expertly paired wines and sweeping vineyard views. This is not just a meal, but a culinary journey, honouring local ingredients and exquisite flavours in a luxurious setting.
The final day of the tour is dedicated to ultimate relaxation and exploration. Guests unwind at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn’s geothermal mineral pools, a highlight for any wellness enthusiast. Soaking in these naturally heated mineral waters provides therapeutic benefits, easing muscles, detoxifying the body, and fostering deep relaxation. It’s a perfect way to conclude the physical and mental explorations of the past few days.
Afterwards, guests have the opportunity to explore Sonoma’s historic shops and tasting rooms, enjoying a leisurely pace and perhaps finding unique souvenirs or additional wine country delights, before the return journey to San Francisco.
As Rachel Urban, owner of Bindlestiff Tours, aptly puts it, “We designed this itinerary to give guests a front-row seat to some of California’s most captivating experiences. From glowing waters and ancient redwoods to private tastings and luxurious spa soaks, every day is full of moments you can’t replicate.” This sentiment underscores the tour’s commitment to delivering unique, memorable, and restorative experiences that contribute to overall well-being.
The tour inclusion offers comprehensive value, featuring private transportation, expert local guide services ensuring insightful and safe journeys, four nights of comfortable accommodations, four breakfasts, five delicious lunches, and all major experiences.
These include the immersive wine tasting and bike tour, the fresh oyster tasting, the unique mead tasting, entry to the hot springs and use of the geothermal tubs, and the spectacular starlight bioluminescent kayak tour. Prices for this extraordinary wellness adventure start at $3,995 USD per person.
Bindlestiff Tours, truly named after the colloquial term for a “pack-carrying traveller,” enables guests to hike, explore, photograph, stargaze, and more, all while being supported by dedicated local guides who are experts in their fields.
Their adventures are designed to be educational, directional, and above all, fun. With various special interest tours available, including biking and photography, Bindlestiff Tours excels in providing custom, once-in-a-lifetime outdoor adventures that align perfectly with a wellness-focused approach to travel.
Their numerous accolades, including being named a “Best Adventure Travel Company” by USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards, further solidify their reputation as a premier choice for experiential travel.
To start planning your California Coastlines and Vineyards escape, visit their website.