Chateau Montelena Winery in Napa Valley. Photography by Nathan Rose Photography
Northern California will always hold a special place in my heart. When my hubby & I began dating it was the first destination we visited as a couple, and more importantly, the very first of many road-trips we’ve since taken together. I’ll never forget that scenic drive, from the vineyards of Napa Valley, over the Golden Gate Bridge, and all the way down the picturesque coast to San Louis Obispo. I was especially excited to go back for a visit, and I must say that our trip back to the area did not disappoint.
Of course there were a few differences between that first journey, years ago, and this one, not least because of our accommodations. Back then (when I was still in college & he in law school) our budget allowed for cheap motels and staying at a friend’s houseboat in Sausalito (which was indeed romantic, just not very roomy). This time around we were pampered at the luxurious Farmhouse Inn, a resort located in the heart of Wine Country, Sonoma. From the rustic elegance of our room, down to the homemade soaps and fresh daily s’mores by the bonfire, no detail at Farmhouse is overlooked. I could not have asked for a more perfect (& spacious!) place to stay during our time in back in Sonoma.
Our cozy, rustic room at Farmhouse Inn
Making s'mores by the fireplace at Farmhouse Inn. Photography by Nathan Rose Photography
Homemade soaps at Farmhouse Inn
After a few days exploring the area - visiting Muir Woods National Monument, stopping at numerous wineries, and discovering one charming town after another, we made our way down to San Francisco for the remainder of our vacation. We drove across the Golden Gate Bridge (stopping of course for a few obligatory photos), and visited some of the city’s famous spots - Chinatown, Jack Kerouac Alley, Café Trieste, and Lombard Street to name a few. Each neighborhood holds its own unique charm, as well as an assortment of incredible restaurants, making the most challenging part of each day deciding where to have our next meal.
Muir Woods
Jack Keouac Alleyway in San Francisco
During our time in San Francisco we stayed at the contemporary Parc 55 Hotel. Our comfortable room had a great view of the city, and the hotel’s central location was ideal - both easily accessible to & from other neighborhoods, and a fun area to wander around on its own.
View from our room at Parc 55 Hotel. Photography by Nathan Rose Photography
Lobby of the Parc 55 Hotel. Photography by Nathan Rose Photography
Our trip seemed to go as most great ones do – all too fast. Northern California proved to be, once again, a magical place to visit. From its natural beauty to its vibrant city scenes and everything in between, it made for a great mix of fun and relaxation, and an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.
The spa at Farmhouse Inn. Photography by Nathan Rose Photography
Dramatic skies over the Golden Gate Bridge... Photography by Nathan Rose Photography