Trade rolling vineyards and crowded tasting rooms for towering redwoods, rugged coastlines, and the laid-back charm of Northern California wine country. This four-day escape through Anderson Valley and Mendocino blends scenic drives, incredible food and wine, cozy boutique stays, and plenty of time to slow down and soak it all in. From sparkling wine tastings and farm lunches to ocean bluff walks and misty forest trails, every day offers a balance of adventure and relaxation.

We’ll begin in Anderson Valley, one of California’s most underrated wine regions, known for its world-class pinot noir, rolling vineyards, and peaceful atmosphere. After winding through some of the state’s most beautiful backroads, we’ll spend our days sipping wine at intimate wineries, enjoying locally inspired meals, and unwinding in charming countryside accommodations.

As the trip continues toward the coast, the scenery shifts dramatically from vineyards to redwood forests and crashing ocean views. In Mendocino, we’ll explore scenic coastal trails, wander through storybook seaside towns, and enjoy fresh coastal cuisine while staying in cozy inns overlooking the Pacific. This trip is perfect for travelers who love good wine, beautiful scenery, and a slower pace that still leaves room for adventure.

This trip is designed to be relaxed with light activity throughout, making it approachable for most travelers. Guests can expect easy walks through vineyards, coastal trails, and redwood groves, along with a few scenic nature stops and leisurely exploring in small towns. Most days focus on wine tasting, good food, and soaking in the scenery rather than strenuous activity, with plenty of downtime built into the itinerary.

Early April in Anderson Valley and Mendocino is cool, fresh, and beautifully green from the winter rains. Guests can expect daytime temperatures generally ranging from the upper 50s to mid 60s, with cooler mornings and evenings that are perfect for cozy dinners and wine tastings. The inland wine country is usually slightly warmer and sunnier, while the coast around Mendocino can feel misty and breezy at times. Light layers and a rain jacket are recommended, as spring weather can occasionally bring passing showers.

All the excursions listed in the itinerary are included. Bring cash/credit cards for purchasing souvenirs, additional snacks/meals, alcoholic drinks (wine-tastings will be included), extra activities, and other items. 

All gratuities are included in your adventure, with the exception of tips for your Chicas Abroad Tour Leader. While tipping your Tour Leader is entirely optional, it’s a meaningful way to show appreciation for the care, energy, and behind-the-scenes magic they bring to your trip.

If you’ve had an exceptional experience, a typical gratuity for a trip of this length ranges from $200–$250. In cases where more than one Tour Leader is present, you’re welcome to give your tip to one of them—they’ll ensure it’s shared among the team.

A custom packing list will be emailed out prior to departure.

Our Northern California adventure begins with a scenic drive from Santa Rosa into the heart of Anderson Valley, one of California’s most charming hidden wine regions. We will have a scenic drive to our first destination - Anderson Valley. Once settled in, we’ll ease into the slower pace of wine country with a cozy welcome dinner surrounded by rolling vineyards and redwood-lined backroads.

Plan your flights to arrive in Santa Rosa (airport code STS) by 3:00pm.

Accommodations: Hotel near Anderson Valley
Meals: Welcome Dinner 

Today is all about slowing down and savoring the best of Anderson Valley wine country. We’ll spend the day exploring a handpicked collection of wineries known for scenic vineyard views, sparkling wines, and elegant pinot noirs, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the experience at an unhurried pace. Between tastings, we’ll gather for a farm-to-table lunch surrounded by rolling countryside before ending the evening with another memorable dinner in the heart of wine country.

Accommodations: Hotel near Anderson Valley
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we leave wine country behind and make our way toward the dramatic Northern California coastline. The drive itself is part of the adventure, winding through towering redwoods, lush spring forests, and scenic backroads before arriving in the charming seaside town of Mendocino. Along the way, we’ll stretch our legs with easy nature walks beneath the redwoods before spending the afternoon exploring coastal trails, ocean overlooks, and the relaxed beauty of this iconic coastal region.

Accommodations: Hotel in Mendocino
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We’ll spend our final morning soaking up the peaceful coastal atmosphere of Mendocino with a relaxed brunch and one last scenic stop among the redwoods or along the ocean cliffs. Whether enjoying a quiet forest walk or sipping wine overlooking the Pacific, the day is designed to leave you feeling refreshed before our drive back to Santa Rosa. As we make our way south through Northern California’s stunning landscapes, there will be plenty of time to reflect on the unforgettable scenery, delicious meals, and memories made throughout the trip.

Plan your flights to depart Santa Rosa (airport code STS) at 3:00pm or after.

Meals: Breakfast