San Francisco and surrounds

Yesterday and today was spent exploring more of San Francisco. First stop was a walk over the Golden Gate bridge. Equipped with a camera and lots of clothing layers (it was very windy!), I ventured across with mum and most of the family. Once again the bridge was enveloped in a layer of fog but it gave it an almost mystical appearance. The walk took about 40 minutes and was well worth it for the amazing views of the bay along the way.

After the crossing, the next stop was the Sonoma Valley for a spot of wine tasting. The vineyards around this area were on the smaller side and had a more quaint feel to them. They were all in close proximity to the cute little town of Sonoma, full of lots of gourmet treats. I tasted lovely tiramasu icecream and not so lovely lavender cheese (it reminded me of either soap or drawer liners, I can't work out which!) We then travelled to Ravenswood winery and tasted an amazing Zinfandel, amongst others. We then continued along to the Napa Valley, this felt like the richer older brother of Sonoma Valley. Many of the vineyards were much grander and had a more sophisticated feel to them. We went to the gorgeous Castello di Amarosa (Castle of Love?); it was a real castle built into the vineyard! According to the tour, the castle is a mere 10-20 years old, but is made out of bits and pieces of old castles from Germany and France. The owner must have gone to a few "garage" sales! Despite its relatively young age, the caste has a surprisingly authentic feel to it. The highlight of the winery was sampling some wine direct from the barrel.


Mum and I also visited a Farmer's Market early on Sunday morning. It wonderful sights, sounds and tastes were definitely worth the early wake up and vigorous walk! The market had lots of fruits and gourmet breads and foods. I dined on fresh peaches and banana bread muffins. Among the interesting sights was a shitake mushroom farm that you could take home and cultivate yourself. If only Australian custom's department would allow us to bring this home!

Sour dough aligator (or crocodile?)