Plan A Wine Tasting Weekend

03/18/24

Pleasant Hill is the ideal destination for access to all of the area's best wineries.

Explore the exceptional wine scene within the Pleasant Hill area with the help of our guide for planning a perfect wine tasting weekend. Whether you're heading out on a romantic getaway, girls trip, or a solo adventure to learn more about wine culture and production, a visit to some of our local wineries is sure to make for an unforgettable experience.

Credit: Visit Napa Valley

1. Reserve a Place to Stay

The most important part of planning your wine tasting trip is making sure you have a place to stay that's close to all the action. Pleasant Hill's central location to all the best wineries (and tons of other unique attractions) makes it the perfect spot to book a room for the weekend. Some hotels even offer shuttles to and from certain wineries and vineyards during peak season. A few notable lodging options include Hyatt House, Sonesta Select, Homewood Suites, and The Pleasant Hill Inn. Each Pleasant Hill hotel offers its own unique set of amenities, room types, and vacation packages, so there are plenty of options for you to choose from and ways to customize your getaway. It's important to note that rooms get booked up quickly during peak season, so try to book in advance to ensure you're getting the most out of your stay in Pleasant Hill!

2. Set a Budget

If you're planning to hit more than one winery, it helps to set a budget for each day of your trip. Wine tastings and vineyard tours often charge fees, and many wineries have shops where visitors can purchase a bottle or two to bring home. It is essential to plan ahead so you can enjoy each activity without worrying about going over budget or missing out on the next day's adventures. There are also plenty of ways to cut down your spending so you can see and do more while in Pleasant Hill. Many hotels and tour operators offer discounted packages and bundles with tons of amenities to make your trip extra special.

Credit: Napa Valley

3. Book Your Reservations

Now it's time to book! While some wineries are flexible with walk-ins and last-minute appointments, many require reservations and tend to get filled up quickly during peak season. We recommend booking at least a few weeks in advance to make sure you get to experience everything the area has to offer and make the most of your trip. If you are going the self-guided route, figuring out a schedule and booking reservations may sound overwhelming. But don't worry. Most wineries allow you to book online, making the process hassle-free. If you are unsure where to start, consider adding Viano Vineyards, Bhachu Vineyards, Boaventura de Caires Vineyard, Shadowbrook Winery, and Rock Wall Wine Company to your itinerary.

4. Transportation & Tours

Whether you're hoping to head out on a self-guided tour of the region's wine scene, or you're looking for an expert-led excursion, there are plenty of options for you to choose from. While self-guided tours tend to be more laid back and less hurried, they require visitors to do much more planning and driving. Tour operators and transportation services offer a convenient and safe way to enjoy each wine tasting to its max without worrying about getting to your next destination. Services such as Vines 2 Vino, Napa Valley Wine Country Tours, and All Day Wine Tours are ready to take you on a comprehensive journey through California's wine country with knowledgeable tour guides and unique opportunities. If you are set on planning your own itinerary, transportation services like Apex Limousine Service and Starline Airport and Limousine Service are worth utilizing so you can focus on the wine and take in all the sights as you drive through town.

When you stay in Pleasant Hill, you have access to all of the region's best attractions and sights. Stay Pleasant Hill is here to help plan your next unforgettable outing. Head to our About page for more information.