Small-Group Giant Redwoods and Russian River Wine Country Trip

Imagine immersing oneself in the breathtaking beauty of the ancient Giant Redwoods before indulging in the charm of Russian River Wine Country. This small-group tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural wonder of Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve and savor the unique flavors of two renowned wineries. Complemented by a gourmet picnic lunch in Santa Rosa, this excursion blends the best of nature and wine exploration, providing an unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking to discover the hidden gems of Northern California.

Key Points

• Small-group tour exploring the towering ancient redwoods of Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve and the wineries of Russian River Wine Country.
• Visits to two wineries for tastings and a picnic lunch in the charming city of Santa Rosa.
• Scenic views at Marin Headlands included in the itinerary with round-trip transportation from select San Francisco hotels.
• Guided tours with facts about the redwoods’ ecology and history, and insights into local terroir and wine pairing.
• Combination of nature exploration and wine indulgence with a maximum group size of 15 guests.

Overview of the Tour

This small-group tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the majestic Giant Redwoods of Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve and the picturesque Russian River Wine Country from San Francisco.

Travelers will visit two distinct wineries for tastings, enjoy a provided picnic lunch in Santa Rosa, and take in scenic views at the Marin Headlands.

With round-trip transportation from select San Francisco hotels, this 197-review, 96% recommended tour provides an excellent way to experience the beauty of Northern California’s natural wonders and vibrant wine region in a comfortable, small-group setting.

Exploring the Armstrong Redwoods

The tour begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, where towering ancient coastal redwoods stand in serene splendor. Guests wander the peaceful trails, marveling at the impressive size and age of these giants, some over 1,000 years old. The guide shares captivating facts about the redwoods’ ecology and history, enhancing the experience. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil forest, finding a moment of solace and wonder. The largest tree, the "Icicle Tree", measures over 200 feet tall and 16 feet in diameter, a true testament to nature’s grandeur.

Tree Species	Height	Diameter	Age	Bark Thickness
Coast Redwood	200+ ft	16 ft	1,000+ yrs	12 in
Douglas Fir	300 ft	12 ft	800 yrs	6 in
Giant Sequoia	250 ft	20 ft	3,000 yrs	24 in

Tastings at Two Wineries

After exploring the serene Armstrong Redwoods, the tour transitions to the renowned Russian River Wine Country.

Travelers embark on a tasting journey at two distinct wineries, each offering a unique experience. At the first winery, they savor a selection of award-winning varietals, learning about the region’s winemaking traditions.

The second winery provides a boutique feel, allowing guests to appreciate the nuances of small-batch productions. Throughout the tastings, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the local terroir and the art of pairing wine with the provided picnic lunch.

This portion of the excursion offers a delightful balance of nature and indulgence.

Picnic Lunch in Santa Rosa

Midway through the excursion, the group arrives in the charming city of Santa Rosa, where they pause for a delightful picnic lunch.

Under the shade of towering redwoods, the travelers unpack a spread of gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and local seasonal fruits. As they savor the flavors, they engage in lively conversation, exchanging stories and recommendations.

The peaceful setting allows them to recharge before continuing their exploration of the Russian River Wine Country. The guide provides insights into the region’s history and culture, enhancing the overall experience.

Refueled and rejuvenated, the group sets off to the next winery on the itinerary.

Scenic Views at Marin Headlands

As the tour winds down, the group makes a stop at the Marin Headlands, offering breathtaking vistas over the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline.

Perched atop the rugged coastal hills, the Headlands provide panoramic views of the city, the bay, and the iconic bridge. Travelers can take in the sights from scenic overlooks, snap photos, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

The tour guide shares insights about the area’s history and natural beauty, heightening the experience. This final stop allows the group to savor the day’s highlights and take in the grandeur of the Northern California landscape.

Transportation and Accessibility

The tour provides round-trip transportation from select San Francisco hotels, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience for travelers.

Pickup is available from popular locations like Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, Civic Center, and the Financial District.

The tour departs at 8:00 am, with a maximum group size of 15 guests.

The vehicle is wheelchair accessible, and infants can join the tour by sitting on laps, while car seats are required for children 8 years and below.

This thoughtful transportation arrangement allows guests to fully enjoy the natural wonders and wine tastings without worrying about logistics.

Traveler Feedback and Ratings

A total of 197 reviews have been left for this Giant Redwoods and Russian River Wine Country Trip, with an impressive 96% of travelers recommending the experience.

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, enjoyable wine tastings, and the serene beauty of the redwood forest. Travelers appreciate the small group size, which allows for more personal connections.

The picnic lunch and the overall pace of the tour have also received positive feedback. With an average rating of 4.8 stars, this trip appears to be a must-do excursion for those seeking a perfect blend of nature and wine tasting.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Though the tour price starts from $189.00 per person, travelers have the flexibility to reserve their spot now and pay later.

This convenient option allows guests to lock in their preferred date without the immediate financial commitment. Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, providing ample time to adjust plans if needed.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. With these flexible booking and cancellation policies, guests can book this immersive Giant Redwoods and Russian River Wine Country trip with confidence and ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need to Bring My Own Wine Glasses?

You won’t need to bring your own wine glasses. The tour includes all necessary glassware for the wine tastings at the two wineries you’ll visit as part of the experience.

Can I Purchase Wine During the Tastings?

Yes, travelers can purchase wine during the tastings on this tour. The tour includes wine tastings at two wineries, allowing guests to sample and purchase any wines they enjoy throughout the experience.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for this tour. Guests are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes, as the tour involves walking in the redwood forest and visiting wineries. Casual attire is recommended for a relaxed, enjoyable experience.

How Long Will We Spend at Each Winery?

The tour generally provides approximately 60 minutes at each winery for wine tastings. This allows guests to sample a variety of wines and learn about the winery’s unique offerings in a relaxed setting.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration. The itinerary is fixed at visiting two wineries and the redwood forest within the specified 8-hour tour time. Extending the trip would require booking a separate, longer tour.

Recap

This small-group tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the natural wonder of the Giant Redwoods and the charming allure of Russian River Wine Country. From the towering grandeur of Armstrong Redwoods to the intimate winery tastings, this experience seamlessly blends the best of nature and wine exploration. With round-trip transportation, a gourmet picnic lunch, and expert insights, this tour provides an unforgettable day of discovery and breathtaking scenery.