Summary
- Introduction to Lake County: Learn about the less-discovered gem north of Napa.
- Why Visit Lake County: Discover its charm for fishing, boating, and wine tasting.
- Things to Do: Explore wineries, casinos, and water activities.
- Annual Events: Participate in the Lake County Wine Adventure.
- Tips for Visitors: Get practical advice for a smooth trip.
- Culinary Delights: Know where to enjoy local cuisine.
- Where to Stay: Find comfortable lodging options.
- Getting There: Navigate your way to this beautiful destination.
It’s located just north of Napa, but you may not have heard of it. Even if you have, it’s less likely that you’ve been there. Lake County lies due north of Napa Valley, its southernmost town just up the hill from Calistoga. It’s home to the largest natural freshwater lake within California’s borders, a beautiful body of water about 100 miles in circumference. Therefore, Lake County is one of California’s nicest, less-discovered spots.
Why Should You Go to Lake County?
- Lake County is especially popular with fishermen and boaters. It’s an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle, and it hosts an unpretentious summer wine weekend.
- The Lake County wine industry is growing yet remains small, allowing you to often meet the winemaker pouring for you in the tasting room. Properties in the area are beginning to be revitalized, but it remains a friendly place to visit, where shopkeepers and innkeepers warmly welcome you.
Best Time to Visit
The most popular time for visitors is July and August, ideal for enjoying water activities on the lake. However, spring sees fewer crowds and stunning wildflower blooms. Clear Lake sits at about 1,300 feet elevation, possibly making it a little cooler than your home. Nonetheless, its weather pattern aligns with the rest of California, featuring warm summers and rainy winters.
4 Great Things to Do in Lake County
- If you’re short on time, consider a tour at Eleven Roses Ranch for a glimpse of the countryside and an exceedingly relaxing outing.
- Wine Tasting: With around 20 wineries scattered across the county, many welcome tastings. Ceago, located between the villages of Nice and Lucerne on the north shore, offers an enchanting setting reminiscent of its European namesakes. However, for a charming group experience, visit the Lake County Wine Studio on Main Street in Upper Lake, which acts as a tasting room for smaller wineries that lack their own. Kelseyville also features several winery tasting rooms and delightful shops to explore.
- Robinson Rancheria: Located in Lake County, this is the premier casino, featuring bingo, slots, table games, and enjoyable entertainment options.
- Water Play: Clear Lake offers some of California’s finest bass fishing. For an exhilarating time on the water, consider renting a jet ski or boat.
Annual Events You Should Know About
In May, the Lake County Wine Adventure allows access to over 20 wineries across two days, including some not typically open to the public, and the cost is lower than wine tasting at one winery in Napa Valley. Lake County Wine Tours provides transportation packages, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience without needing to designate a driver.
Tips for Visiting Lake County
- July and August are peak months, and popular accommodations fill quickly. Therefore, it’s wise to plan ahead or consider visiting during the offseason.
- Some roads around Clear Lake are narrow and can cause motion sickness for some travelers. Take necessary precautions if this is a concern.
- For a picturesque drive along the lake shore, California Hwy 20 is ideal. It runs closely alongside the water between Upper Lake and Clearlake Oaks on the northwest side.
Best Bites
The locals around the lake are warm and helpful, making it easy to discover the latest dining gems. For instance, the meal we had at the Blue Wing Saloon adjacent to the Tallman Hotel in Upper Lake was exquisite, complemented by superb service.
Where to Stay
For comfortable and classy accommodations, the Tallman Hotel in Upper Lake is unbeatable. Check guest reviews and compare prices for the Tallman on Tripadvisor. To explore options in the rest of Lake County, read reviews and compare prices on Tripadvisor.
Getting There
The town of Clearlake is located at the southernmost end of Clear Lake. If you’re using an online mapping service, remember that California features more than one location named Clear Lake. The correct destination is north of Napa Valley and Calistoga. Upper Lake is approximately 130 miles north of San Francisco, situated north of the lake. Ultimately, the best route depends on your destination along the lake, so consulting a map is advisable.
