Lodi, California: An Outdoor Paradise for Wine Lovers
If you consider yourself a true wine lover, then you already know that California is a prime destination for wine enthusiasts. But did you know that some of America’s favourite grapes come from Lodi, California? Approximately 20% of California’s wine grapes come from Lodi, according to the Lodi Winegrape Commission. In addition to wine tasting opportunities, Lodi offers natural beauty, outdoor recreation, temperate weather, and fewer crowds, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.
One of the best places to stay in Lodi is Wine & Roses, a locally-owned resort hotel that offers luxurious rooms amidst the beauty of jungle-like surroundings. The resort’s location is perfect for wine enthusiasts as it is nestled in the heart of wine country. You can learn about and taste regional wines without ever leaving the resort by visiting the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center located on the resort’s grounds.
The property is absolutely stunning with overflowing hydrangeas in every hue, canopies of trees, leafy ferns, and fountains. It also offers excellent dining options such as the Towne House Restaurant, which is open for weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner. The Towne House Restaurant, along with the adjoining bar, offers fine dining and hand-crafted cocktails that are sure to delight your palate.
The resort offers special events throughout the year, with their Easter Brunch kicking off spring in style. The gardens of Wine & Roses, which can be accessed by taking a stroll around the resort’s grounds are nothing short of beautiful and will leave you feeling incredibly tranquil.
Wine & Roses’ central location makes it easy to get to everything you want, from wine to cycling to kayaking. Just a short drive will take you to your choice of outdoor recreation. Lodi Lake is one such destination that cannot be missed. You can dip your toes and your paddles into Lodi Lake’s beautiful lagoons and kayak or paddleboard your way through the picturesque scenery.
Headwaters Kayak will hook you up with classes and everything you need to see the waterbird life, tall grasses, turtles sunning on rocks, and beautiful resident homes that pop up at various portions of the lake and its lagoons. Paddlefest on April 15th should also be on your list of must-do activities while you’re in Lodi.
Cycling through Lodi’s quaint town and out into the vineyards is also an absolute joy. You can rent bikes from local shops like Lodi Cyclery and take a spin on routes that can challenge or are a pure breeze. Oak Farm Vineyards is a must-visit destination while cycling through wine country. The estate boasts of a restored white colonial home that was built in 1876, surrounded by ancient oak trees, and includes a breathtaking tasting room.
When it’s time to take a break from all the outdoor activities, you can recharge your batteries by visiting the completely unexpected and incredibly impressive Micke Grove Japanese Garden. The garden is located across a red arched bridge and beckons you to meander along a babbling brook. The garden is the perfect place to relax and recharge before your next winery visit.
Wine tasting in Lodi is an experience in itself. Bokisch Vineyards, Michael David Winery, and Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards are some of the places to visit to sample a variety of grapes. Bokisch Vineyards offers hilltop views of the vines and the perfect place to sit back and sip their signature Alberiño. Michael David Winery, on the other hand, offers wine for varying tastes and Inkblot Petit Syrah under a covered, pond-side cabana. Acquiesce Winery & Vineyards produces small batches of Roussanne 2020 and Grenache Blanc 20202, which has won Best of Class awards.
Lodi is a hidden gem in California that marries wine with the great outdoors. A trip to Lodi, California is the perfect opportunity for a relaxing and memorable getaway. Don’t wait too long to visit as Lodi’s charm is only growing, and it won’t be a hidden gem for long.
