Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For conservative tastes, this classic American diner serves hearty breakfasts, giant burgers
and homemade pie (the summer selection of peach-blueberry pie is dreamy). For a more
exciting culinary adventure, try the wild game burgers, including boar with apple chutney
and elk with a bite of horseradish.
Clear Lake
With over 100 miles of shoreline, Clear Lake is the largest naturally occurring freshwater
lake in California (Tahoe is bigger, but crosses the Nevada state line). In summer the warm
water thrives with algae, giving it a murky green appearance and creating a fabulous habit-
at for fish - especially bass - and tens of thousands of birds. Mt Konocti, a 4200ft-tall
dormant volcano, lords over the scene. Alas, the human settlements don't always live up to
the grandeur and thousands of acres near the lake remain scarred from wildfires in 2008.
TOP CLEAR LAKE WINERIES
From north to south, the following four wineries are the best; some offer tours by appoint-
ment. Tastings generally cost $5 to $10.
Ceago Vinegarden
(
www.ceago.com
;
5115 E Hwy 20, Nice; noon-5pm) Ceago (cee-ay-go) oc-
cupies a spectacular spot on the north shore, and pours biodynamic, fruit-forward wines.
Brassfield Estate
(
www.brassfieldestate.com
;
10915 High Valley Rd, Clearlake Oaks; 11am-5pm
Mar-Nov, from noon Dec-Apr) A stunning, unique property in the remote High Valley appella-
tion, try the Eruption and Serenity blends.
Wildhurst Vineyards
(
www.wildhurst.com
;
3855 Main St, Kelseyville; 10am-5pm) The best
wine on the lake, but the place lacks atmosphere. Try the sauvignon blanc.
Langtry Estate Vineyards
(21000 Butts Canyon Rd, Middletown;
11am-5pm) The most
beautiful vineyard. Try the port.
Sights & Activities
Locals refer to the northwest portion as 'upper lake' and the southeast portion as 'lower
lake.' Likeable and well-serviced
Lakeport
(population 4695) sits on the northwest shore,
a 45-minute drive east of Hopland along Hwy 175 (off Hwy 101); tiny, Old West-style
