Placerville, CA: Placerville Brewing Company

Placerville Brewing Company of has a cozy but spacious, family run brewpub and restaurant, renovated inside and out during the summer of 2005. Come and enjoy the fantastic food and of course the beer. Big screen TVs for sports fans, excellent wines from our local neighbors, and a few delightful ciders for those who like a citrus in their drink. Placerville Brewing Company has longstanding relationships with the highest quality grain suppliers and locally owned hops suppliers that insure freshest quality, consistent beer, and the innovative brew-pub only beers never disappoint.

For a place to stay nearby go to the Historic Cary House Hotel.  Conveniently located in the heart of Northern California wine country and directly on the way to Lake Tahoe, it is a quiet spot at the Sierra foothills. Each room has antiques and vintage furniture. Nearby is a café, Wine tastings and a gourmet cheese shop.

If you are looking to get out of the hotel for the day there is a nice 3 hour cruise you can take through the scenery. Start in Placerville Ca on U.S.50 head east, toward S. Lake Tahoe, about 22 miles and as soon as you cross the American River make a left on Ice House Rd. This road is maintained year round and is well marked. Once you get to Georgetown, at the end of Old Town make a left on HWY 193 and you will take that south down to HWY 49 where you turn left and take 49 back to Placerville. Watch out for squirrels or even rare cases of bears. There are great views of the American River Canyon.

For more information visit Placerville Brewing Company and The Historic Cary House Hotel online. 

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Temecula, CA: The Palomar Inn Hotel

The Palomar Inn Hotel is a 10 room historical landmark hotel built in Old Town Temecula in the 1920's. Two rooms have private baths and full kitchens. In the Hotel is the Temecula House of Wine exclusively offering local wines. The unique setting combines the ambiance of "Old Town Temecula" and that of a small family run inn. Temecula Valley's natural beauty, mild climate, rich history, and convenient location make it a destination worth exploring. The Palomar is located in the heart of what is considered the cultural and historic center of Temecula.

Also in Old Town Temecula is the Garage Brewing Co. It is a state-of-the art 10 BBL brewery and fast casual restaurant serving fast fired pizza in an old automotive center at the edge of town. They offer up to 10 different types of fresh beer with seasonal or specials rotated in. There are also 20 other rotating tap handles so there's always a nice selection of other craft brews along with a few domestics to choose from. 

For a great route into town start in Palm Desert, right off the Route 111 and Highway 74. Keep traveling until it turns into the 371. This route gives you great scenery and a change of pace from riding the highway while still giving access to the wooded areas of Southern California. While riding through Palm Desert, it is primarily desert. At the bottom of the 74 there are switchbacks that are great for sportbikes and cruisers alike. Further in, you will come upon lush trees and foliage surrounding the road. The 371 takes you through the hills and down into the flat lands of Anza as well as bringing you to the hills just outside of Temecula. It is a great route for those who are bored of seeing the desert and like a calm ride.

For more information, visit The Palomar Inn Hotel and Garage Brewing Co. online. 

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Wofford Height, CA: Kern River Brewing Company

For a Kern Valley cruise, start in Bakersfield, California, near the Meadows Field Municipal Airport on the corner of 7th Standard and Airport Dr. Head North through the grassy scenery until there is a Y split about 12 miles out. Go left, you only have one decreasing radius turn, but it's a dangerous one. The first half has very bad road conditions whereas the latter half has great road conditions and is one of the grippiest roads. Other than that Y split, everything else has signs and is pretty obvious. You will finish at Lake Isabella in Wofford Heights.

If you want to stay a night in Wofford Heights, the Mount and Lake Hotel is a mile off the lake and offers some of the amenities of an upscale hotel, but in a cozy, intimate setting. Each room is rustic and different and kitchenettes are available. There are great fishing and hiking opportunities. Less than 5 miles from the hotel is the Kern River Brewing Company Brewpub. KRBC is Kernville's first brewpub.  This makes KRBC much more than just a restaurant; it's an attraction in itself. Keeping the names of the beer local, they provide a simple yet diverse menu.  Kern River Valley residents and visitors alike have found themselves at home.

For more information, visit Mount and Lake Hotel and KRBC online. 

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Santa Monica, CA: The Bella Vista

For great views of the beach and the mountains, take a cruise from Santa Monica, on the Pacific Coast Highway to Las Flores Canyon Road through the Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu Creek State Park. See the Valley and the ocean from a whole new perspective. There are lots of twists and turns and some residential traffic on this short, 17 mile ride, but it is so beautiful.

In the center of the mountains, there is a beautiful bed and breakfast to spend a night or weekend. The Bella Vista is a relaxing California bed and breakfast, located in Malibu Canyon, just five miles from the Pacific Ocean coast. They pair stunning views with comfortable accommodations to give you an unmatched vacation experience in this Ranch style home. Three rooms are available and all are kid and pet friendly. All rooms have satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and each guest receives breakfast in the morning.  The meals include fruit, fresh baked scones, cinnamon-raisin waffles or breakfast crepes.

For more information, visit The Bella Vista online. 

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Carlsbad, CA: The Pelican Cove Inn Bed and Breakfast

Start in Murrieta at Clinton Keith Rd which is off Interstate 5 just north of Interstate 5 and 15 junctions. This route covers a rise from the freeway up and through the Cleveland Forest then down a very steep hill to winding roads through orchards and ranches of Fallbrook. Continue on to more hilly, winding roads all the way to Carlsbad on the coast. This road is suitable for all bikes but is best enjoyed at a leisurely 40-50 mph.

Carlsbad is a relaxing vacation destination with a quaint Village which offers numerous unique shops and restaurants for you to experience. The Pelican Cove Inn Bed and Breakfast is located two blocks from the beach and three blocks from the Village of Carlsbad.  There are 10 guest rooms, all with fireplaces, featherbeds, private entrances and private bath. They serve a hot breakfast every day during your stay and you are welcome to eat in the inside parlor, take a tray to your room, the garden-patio or the sun porch.

Spend some quality time at the Coyote Bar and Grill right up the street in the Village of Carlsbad. Come and enjoy the live entertainment every night; bands, DJs and karaoke on Mondays and Tuesdays. Delicious lunch special and an extensive dinner menu are prepared nightly. Happy hour is from 4pm to 6pm every day.

For more information, visit Pelican Cove and Coyote Bar andGrill online. 

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San Luis Obispo, CA: Petit Soleil Bed and Breakfast

For a gorgeous ride through some beautiful rolling hills, start in Bakersfield and head west on CA Highway 58. Gas up in Bakersfield because there are no stops along the way. Take the Highway up through the hills. Giant sweepers with multiple changes in elevation run through pastoral farmland for more than an hour. Cross roads and driveways are few and far between and traffic is always light. Near the end of the highway comes up to the east side of San Luis Obispo.

When you reach San Luis Obispo, otherwise known as SLO, be sure to visit the Bubble Gum Alley. This tourist attraction is known for its accumulation of used bubble gum on the walls of an alley. It is a 15-foot high and 70-foot long alley lined with chewed gum left by passers-by. Located in the beautiful downtown district at 733.5 Higuera Street, it's a must see.

For a great nights rest, visit Petit Soleil, Bed and Breakfast, an unforgettable delight only five blocks from downtown San Luis Obispo. Step inside the cobblestone courtyard and find yourself transported to the rustic charm and colors of Provence. The hosts have tried to recreate a feeling of European comfort and ease, with touches of whimsy, in the newly remodeled Bed and Breakfast. Freshly brewed coffee and a full gastronome breakfast will be served to you each morning in the inviting dining room, or in the sun filled back patio. Every evening you can relax and enjoy a tasting of Local and French wines paired with delectable appetizers.

For more information, call Patit Soleil at 805-549-0321. 

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Healdsburg, CA: The Honor Mansion

Right off the 101, just past Sonoma and deep in the heart of wine country in Sonoma County is the beautiful city of Healdsburg, CA. Take a stroll around Healdsburg and discover the riches and treats of small town individuality that make it so special.  Drop in on some of the world class shopping, renowned art and sculpture, wines and cheeses, independent bookstores, treasure troves of antiquing and so much more. There is truly something for everyone.

For a place to stay the night, visit The Honor Mansion. Vacation in one of the thirteen luxurious rooms spread over a four acre property. Every morning there is a breakfast buffet for all guests to delight in. If you are looking to stay on the property for the day, enjoy the lap pool, competition croquet, PGA putting green, tennis, basketball and bocce ball courts as well as spa services.

But being in wine country gives many opportunities for fun. Stroll through some of the art galleries in town or take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards. There are a multitude of wine tours for tasting and food pairings. If you want some beer instead, visit the Bear Republic Brewing Co. Brewpub in Healdsburg. They have signature burgers and their beer is used in many of the recipes on site. Appreciate the locally produced artisan cheeses and charcuterie plates as well.

For more information, visit The Honor Mansion and Bear Republic Brewing Co. online. 

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Livermore, CA: The Purple Orchid

Right off the 580 Freeway, near the end of the Mt DiabloSummit Run, is a beautiful wine country in Livermore, CA. There you will find Concannon Vineyard celebrating their 130^th Anniversary of making award winning wines.  Come and enjoy their newly-renovated tasting room and historic winery. Taste some of the most delicious and elegant wines in California during a guided private tour of the winery, barrel room and historic vineyards. Their wine bar patio offers a global cuisine in a casual ambiance overlooking the vines.

If you prefer the taste of hops over grapes, you can visit Eight Bridges Brewing also in Livermore. The tasting room is there for you to enjoy their beers, tour the brewery, meet the brewer and even take beer home for later. From time to time they hold special events and have special beer releases that will be available only in the tasting room. Eight Bridges Brewing focuses on providing both your favorite brews and a variety that will keep you coming back for more.

After a long day of riding and drinking, you will want to rest at The Purple Orchid. They have ten modern country suites complete with fireplaces and private Jacuzzi tubs, with breakfast the next morning included. Take a walk through the beautiful rose garden or socialize with others in the common areas with wine and cheese. Their spa has a large selection of services to help relax your body and mind.

 For more information, visit Concannon Vineyard, Eight Bridges Brewing and The Purple Orchid online. Pictures courtesy of their websites. 

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Diablo, CA: Mt Diablo Summit Run

Take the Mt Diablo Summit Run, starting at the North Gate entrance of the mountain right off of Ygnacio Valley Road, and ending at the south gate in the town of Diablo near the 680 freeway. It is filled with twists and turns for the more advanced rider.The Summit Run offers a stop off at the top for a beautiful 3800 feet view of the Bay Area. On a clear day you can see the Golden Gate Bridge. This 22 mile ride will take you about an hour and on your way up and down, watch out for rapid altitude changes.

You also have the option to take the Marsh Creek Road around the back side of the mountain for a casual cruise.  The Marsh Creek Road has some tight 5mph turns for a short 7 mile ride from Clayton to Livermore.

 

And while in Livermore, stop off for a taste at the Working Man Brewing Company. Working Man Brewing Company is a micro-brewery dedicated to hand crafted artisan beers. The tasting room is officially open to the public and visitors are able to sample a variety of beers and have growlers filled fresh while you wait.

For more information visit Working Man Brewing Company online.

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Hollywood, CA: Hollywood Wax Museum

The world famous Hollywood Wax Museum is located off of Hollywood Blvd, near Mulholland Drive and is a great place to go for a pit stop. It is the only wax museum in the country devoted entirely to celebrity figures meaning it puts you face to face with some of your silver screen favorites. Everything from Hollywood stars, television personalities to characters from your fa

vorite movies. There are also sets devoted to the scariest and most memorable horror movie villains and blockbuster moments from the top 100 movies of all time.

When you are done there, take a walk across the street to the Pig N’ Whistle for a drink or two. One of the few remaining staples in Los Angeles that still offers patrons a true taste of “Old Hollywood” since opening its doors in 1927, the Pig ‘N Whistle has remained a cultural landmark. In addition to the comprehensive menu and bar, they feature Live Entertainment every Wednesday through Saturday in the Back Room along with Karaoke in the Main room every Wednesday and Thursday.

For more information on these places and special events, visit their websites. Pictures courtesy of Pig N’ Whistle. 

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