Search results matching tag 'tours'

Experience Norway in Lake Tahoe

Jennifer — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 17:22:00 GMT

Taking its inspiration from medieval Nordic architecture, Vikingsholm Castle was built in the late 1920's. The fortress is situated within the protective confines of Emerald Bay State Park, in South Lake Tahoe, California, and is considered a popular, summer attraction. The attraction is accessible by either private boat or traversing a steep, mile long trail. Visitors to this historic getaway will be awed by the majestic splendor of the grounds as well as the castle's magnificent construction.

Located in El Dorado County, the protected inlet of Emerald Bay and its steep slopes so inspired the owner, Mrs. Lora Knight, of the Fjords of Norway that she commissioned a relative by marriage to design the structure. The project was completed in 1929 and became the summer home of Mrs. Knight from mid June until the middle of September yearly.

Vikingsholm's exterior is silhouetted against massive evergreens of pine and cedar. Granite cliffs etch the background which is in stark contrast to the pink and red Columbine that speckle the sod seeded roof of the castle. In keeping with Nordic or Scandinavian tradition, the thirty-eight room interior of the castle welcomes sightseers to a glimpse into the past from its handcrafted carvings around the doors, Scandinavian antiques, to the Nordic fireplaces. There are two, authentic dragon beams that hang from the living room's ceiling, reinforcing the Norse belief of their symbol of power and strength.

Guided one half hour tours are available from mid June until the end of September, seven days a week, from 10 a.m. with the last tour of the day beginning at 4:00 p.m. Because of the limited parking at Vikingsholm, morning tours are strongly recommended. On the one mile hike to the castle, visitors can stop along the way at one of the several resting spots to enjoy the lush landscape dotted with wildflowers or perhaps catch a peek of a Bald Eagle. For your convenience, there is additional parking in the Day Use Area of Eagle Point State Park. Its 1.7 mile hike is longer but it is not as steep as the trail located at Vikingsholm. Comfortable footwear is advised for both locations

This tidbit of real Lake Tahoe travel advice was brought to you by Joanne Mansfield.

Wine Lover? Check Out Lake Tahoe!

Jennifer — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 02:50:00 GMT

The vineyards in the North Lake Tahoe area will amaze you so much, you'll want to "stomp your feet". Truckee, California is the prominent area for wine on the California side of North Lake Tahoe. Truckee River Winery ages their wine in a snowbound barn. It must age longer, but the winery says it gives it a fruity, mature flavor. Gary's Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands provides them with Pisoni clone Pinot Noir grapes. Their grapes used for Zinfandel come from Gribaudo Vineyard in Lodi, California. Last but not "yeast", the source for their Merlot wine is Bear River Vineyard in Chicago Park, California. They will be using their own grapes for new varieties of wine starting in 2009. Do you need proof that their wine tastes great? They would love to have you visit, but they ask that you call first at 530-587-4626.

Also in Truckee, there's an Annual Lake Tahoe Autumn Food and Wine Festival. If you're planning on visiting North Lake Tahoe on the weekend of September 11th (Friday) through September 13th (Sunday), you'll have barrels of fun at this festival! They are drunk with pleasure to announce that this will be their 24rd year. They will have a grape stomp, a wine walk, a chef cook off, wine tasting, food and wine pairing classes, and much more.

In Nevada, approximately 25 miles outside of Incline Village, is the Tahoe Ridge Winery and Marketplace. Located in a town called Genoa, Nevada, the vineyard was founded by Rick and Kathy Halbardier. They have planted over 20,000 grapevines and have researched over 35 different varieties of grapes. They were the first to produce the first Chardonnay wine made of all Nevada-grown wine. They have a cute little saying at their vineyard: "From the roots of the vine to your glass of wine, we are here for you every step of the way". Clever, isn't it? You'll sparkle and be tipsy with delight when you experience their tasting room and gourmet gift shop. Not only do they have a variety of wines, wine accessories, and food; but they also feature a library of their current and past varieties of wine. Their tasting room is open year round, but the hours of operation vary. You'll want to call them at 800-783-1566 to find out when they're open.

If you're a wine lover or would just like to do something different, put your foot down and tell your family that you want to go to North Lake Tahoe for the wineries and festivities.

This guide to Tahoe wineries was brought to you by Nicole Williams.

Fanny Bridge: North Lake Tahoe's Greatest Gag

Jennifer — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 02:39:00 GMT

In North Lake Tahoe, where the lake spills into the Truckee River, is an unusual feature: Fanny Bridge. Travel guides have often instructed visitors to take advantage of their nature-viewing trip to the bridge and look around, very closely, and see how the bridge gets its name. The famous Mushroom Rock in Kansas may come to mind, if, like some other tourists you start looking around for the giant derriere-shaped land mass. Fanny Bridge must have been named for its surrounding natural resemblance to fannies, right?

Wrong. One of the best photo ops in the city occurs when the sightseers peer down into the Truckee's waters to see the masses of glittering rainbow trout below. Step back a few feet, where you'll see in full view the rounded backsides of the gawkers leaning over the bridge's rails. Aha! Fanny Bridge. UK travelers are somewhat more confused, as they use the word to describe a different part of the anatomy. Be sure and snap a shot if you see a head-scratching Brit.

Fanny Bridge isn't just an elaborate punchline, though. Besides the view and the massive trout - which you can feed - raft rentals are available close by so you can travel downstream yourself along with the fish. The self-guided raft tours allow you to cool off, relax and float the Truckee River for a full five miles, ending at River Ranch Pond. The run takes about two to four hours, and although it's more of a leisurely rafting experience, there are some small rapids. Time your outing just right and you can cap it off with dinner and a drink at the River Ranch's bar and restaurant.

If you want to exert yourself just a tad more, bike rentals are right next to the bridge. The trail is four miles, also ending at river Ranch, and is fairly flat and easy (your whole family can make this ride without complaint). You can return your bikes and pick up your car right at the same spot.

A stop at Fanny Bridge is a no-brainer for travelers who want to spend some time outdoors, but aren't up for backbreaking sports or steep hikes. Plan to spend an afternoon biking or rafting; don't forget to feed the trout, and be sure and make as many jokes as possible about the "view" at Fanny Bridge. Here's one for grandpa: tell him the bridge was designed by Seymour Butts.

This guide to your thirteen-year-old boy's best day in Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Elizabeth Kelly.

Emerald Bay: South Lake Tahoe's Scandinavian Jewel

Jennifer — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 02:31:00 GMT

Emerald Bay State Park isn't just the most scenic spot in Lake Taho e; it may be the most scenic spot in the country. In fact, visiting the area might convince you that someone conked you on the head and dragged you to Europe. The bay is an inlet, reminiscent of an Icelandic fjord, carved by glaciers back when mastodons were vacationing in Tahoe. Granite cliffs, towering cedars, plus the only waterfall directly flowing into the lake make this National Natural Landmark the most spectacular camping and hiking destination in the area.

If the view itself weren't enough, the park has some surprises up its pine-scented sleeve. Take a one mile uphill hike to Vikingsholm, and you will be greeted by a sight that appears to have dropped out of the sky: a Viking castle. A 38-room estate, built by serial-millionaire-marrier Lora Knight in 1929, is oddly not incongruous in the woods here. Built of local materials, the fortress seems at home in the Scandinavian-looking bay area.

Knight spared no expense on this project with awe-inspiring features like Nordic fireplaces and dragon's head beams. The whole thing is topped off with a sod roof that sprouts wildflowers every Spring. Inside are Scandinavian antiques -both real and painstakingly crafted museum reproductions - and ceiling paintings. You'll be acting out your favorite scenes from the 13th Warrior with a real Nordic backdrop. Half-hour tours are available, so you can harass the guide with questions like "Where's Beowulf?" or "Do you sell mead?" After the tour, have a picnic at a nearby table. Food lockers are all around the park, so you can stash the makings of a warrior feast for later.

If Vikingsholm puts you in mind of plundering, go jump in the lake -literally- and have a look at some booty. Emerald Bay was designated an Underwater State Park in 1994. SCUBA diving is an archaeological adventure here, where you can view the remains of the shipwrecked boats and barges from over a century ago. Artifacts from the heyday of Emerald Bay resort are also in abundance. With refuse ranging from abandoned sinks to a Model A Ford, you can play underwater I Spy. Keep in mind that this is an archaeological site, so while touching is okay, actual plundering is not. An underwater panel gives further instructions on conserving the area.

When you come up from the crystal clear water, take some more time to explore the park. While the strange surprises in Emerald Bay State Park may distract you momentarily, they still can't compete with the simple beauty of this showcase area.

This guide to Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay was brought to you by Elizabeth Kelly

Bring on the Grapes: A Guide to Wine in North Tahoe

Jennifer — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 03:00:00 GMT

North Lake Tahoe is an area which offers wonderful cultural events and premier entertainment. Of all the things to do there, however, few things beat the simple joys found in attending a winery tour or one of the local wine festivals. The following events and places are all ones at which you can taste a few (or perhaps more than a few) great wines, relax with friends and family, and generally enjoy yourself.

The Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival

The 2009 Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival will be the 24rd incarnation of this magnificent event, which takes place each year in the Village at Northstar. The event takes place over the course of an entire weekend, beginning on Friday, September 11th and ending that Sunday evening, the 13th. In between, festival-goers are offered wine tastings, a "grape stomp", tours, celebrity chef demonstrations, a wine walk, classes on the pairing of food and wine, a gourmet marketplace, and much, much more. For wine connoisseurs and beginners alike, this is an ideal opportunity to enjoy fine wine and fine culture.

Uncorked in the Village at Squaw

Uncorked, which is located on First Street in the Village at Squaw, is a wine bar and shop which is geared towards those who are serious about their love of wine. This establishment offers wine tasting, wine by the glass, and special weekend events at which customers can meet and interact with local winemakers.

Trio in Truckee

Trio is a beautiful wine bar which is located in Truckee. Along with offering a stunning array of different wine selections from around the globe, this place also features small plate appetizers, delicious champagnes, and is basically just a very cool, chic place to visit.

Time for Wine in Tahoe City

This interesting wine shop, which is touted as a more "common man's" establishment, is a good choice for those who aren't as familiar with wine, or educated about it. The employees at Time for Wine are very willing to explain things and make beginners feel welcome.

The Pour House in Truckee

The Pour House, located in Truckee, is a great wine-tasting bar and wine shop. Unfortunately, however, it has extremely limited hours. The prices here, though, make up for any other element that's lacking.

Grapes and Grounds in the Village at Northstar

Grapes and Grounds, as its name implies, is a wonderful wine and coffee specialty store. A visit to this place is made worthwhile by the smell of the interior all by itself. The prices here, however, are a bit on the higher side.

The Truckee Village Winery

This winery, which offers year-round wine tasting, is of absolutely premier quality. Of especial brilliance are this winery's merlots, which make up some of the best the area has to offer. All in all, this is a great winery to visit for beginners and veteran connoisseurs alike.

This guide to some of the gorgeous grapes in and around North Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Geoff Weed.

North Lake Tahoe: Three Different Experiences in One Vacation Adventure

Jennifer — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 02:41:00 GMT

North Lake Tahoe, located on the California-Nevada border, is one of the most beautiful natural spots in the world. The water here is crystal clear. In fact, a dinner plate lying on the bottom at a depth of 75 feet would be clearly visible. The ultra-clean waters are actually 99.9% pure - amazing in this day and age of pollution and acid rain!

The lake itself is 22 miles long and 11 miles wide, and the surrounding forests and mountain peaks cover a huge area, each with its own personality. Many visitors prefer to visit North Lake Tahoe, in California. According to the locals, this area is more laid back, more refined, and less hectic.

The best towns for lodging on your visit to North Lake Tahoe are Truckee, Kings Beach, and Tahoe City, all located in California. All three are beautiful locations, and each offers a little different adventure, unique in its own way.

Truckee You've probably heard of the tragic Donner Party. Their ordeal took place just a few miles from downtown Truckee. An old logging village, Truckee is now one of the gateways to Tahoe's North Shore. The town is all about skiing, mountain biking, and rock climbing, and it's a favorite haunt of Paul McCartney. You might even catch a glimpse of him performing an impromptu concert! In Truckee, you'll find plenty of shopping, several ski resorts, and lots of restaurants and entertainment. Bring along a jacket: Truckee has some of the coldest summer temperatures in the continental U.S.

Kings Beach Kings Beach has a super laid-back atmosphere, with a dash of hip and trendy style. There's a public beach downtown, if that gives you any indication of the feel of the town. The beach here is in such a geographic position that it enjoys the sun's rays from morning through afternoon. This is a fun-loving town, with street vendors, cool shops, and interesting restaurants. The folks in Kings Beach are warm and friendly, too, happy to share their community with visitors.

Tahoe City This is the place for history buffs and active families. Located at the head of the Truckee River, the town offers an extensive system of paved trails, perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, and skating. Water sports are king here, but families will find all kinds of enjoyable activities like beach-side movies, outdoor concerts, hiking, camping, fishing, haunted houses, and a wide range of winter sports. This is the spot for four-star dining, art galleries, museums, great shopping, and historic sites.

Vacationers will revel in the beauty of Lake Tahoe, no matter which area they choose. But if a laid-back atmosphere with a leisurely pace and a rich heritage is your idea of a great getaway, North Lake Tahoe, California fills the bill!

This guide to the hot spots of North Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Holle Abee.

Experience Incline Village in North Tahoe

Jennifer — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 23:09:00 GMT

The recent closing of North Lake Tahoe's Ponderosa Ranch may have left some tourists feeling left in the lurch, but Incline Village isn't just a one trick pony when it comes to attractions. How much sarsaparilla can a person really drink anyway? Here's a novel way to spend the day in Incline Village: see what it's like to be a rich guy as well as a regular Joe.

Start your day at the top of the heap. A man known to his friends as "Captain" George Whittell built the Thunderbird Lodge in 1936, but don't let the name of the place fool you. It's not another knotty pine hotel. The house is an architectural beauty, sitting on part of the 40,000 acres the Cap'n acquired with visions of building a million-dollar casino and hotel. Before you start thinking of the man as the Mr. Burns of Tahoe, look around you: he obviously changed his mind. A developing interest in nature and conservation refreshingly outweighed his desire for big bucks, and he held on to the huge estate for the rest of his life. Present-day tourists can now essentially step through a time tunnel into the Tahoe of the past, when only the ultra-elite had property here and built opulent homes worthy of envy.

Guided tours include the stunning main house (plus behind-the-scenes areas such as the cooks' quarters) as well as its unusual additions, such as a lighthouse and a glass-enclosed bridge. Take a gander at the fancily embellished elephant garage, which housed - you guessed it - an Indian elephant that once lived on the estate. The card house is supposedly one of the few remaining examples of its type of building: a spot where men and their best pals supposedly played cards, but just as readily smoked, drank and otherwise caroused. Something about the atmosphere will make you suddenly crave a single malt Scotch.

If you make plans to coincide with one of Thunderbird Lodge's ritzy wine and dinner events, you can have that drink after all. Don't despair if you miss a special event, as there is plenty yet to do, including the simple marvel of trying to imagine this place if Whittell's original vision had panned out. Play the "I'm a developer" game while viewing the pristine landscape and see if you can pick out the best spots for neon signs and diners.(5000 Hwy. 28, 775-832-8750 Tour costs vary from $25 for a bus tour to $110 for boat tours. Tours dates and times are seasonal, so check ahead.)

After seeing how the rich half live, contemplate the pleasures of being an ordinary working class stiff with the best that lowbrow Americana has to offer: bowling. Bowl Incline is a comfortable place to get away from the chi chi tourist restaurants and the ski snobs, with 16 lanes for laid back bowling bliss. Practice your best Fred Flintstone imitation while having a cold beer and mingling with the locals. Try out the golf simulator and redeem yourself for all of your real-life golfing gaffs on the greens. Test the theory that each beer improves your score.(920 Southwood Blvd., 775-831-1900 $3.75 per game with $2.25 shoe rental.)

Afterward, further celebrate the simple life with a big fat burger at Rookies, a popular neighborhood sports bar nearby. Now this is the good life! Savor each bite with thankfulness that you don't live on a mansion on a hill where you have to eat tiny arugula salads and sip wine from a dainty flute. It's good to be Joe.

This guide to the best of both worlds in North Lake Tahoe's Incline Village was brought to you by Elizabeth Kelly.

South Lake Tahoe: The Traveler's Must List

Jennifer — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 02:09:00 GMT

Ready for a vacation? Try South Tahoe, where there is something to do 365-days a year. Never heard of South Lake Tahoe? Well...

South Lake Tahoe has a population of approximately 35,000 and is the lakeside's largest community. This population is not just seasonal, as most of the residents are full-time and call the area home.

South Lake Tahoe is an exceptional recreational area and boasts sunny beaches, fishing, boating, horse-back riding, and miles and miles of the best hiking trails one could hope to find anywhere. A really great example is the Eagle Fall's Hike that boasts spectacular views of Lake Tahoe as the hiking trail winds its way through the majestic forests.

For winter activities, you can find world famous Heavenly Valley and Kirkwood very close by for all types of snowy activities, including cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

If it's around-the-clock action you prefer, Vegas-style casinos are nearby and often draw top performers and big name entertainment from around the world.

South Lake Tahoe also provides numerous first class restaurants for those who appreciate fine dining. The Swiss Chalet Restaurant located on Lake Tahoe Boulevard has had the same chef owner-operator for almost 50 years. This romantic restaurant gives diners the feeling they are in the French Alps. With a choice of authentic European and American cuisine, this is one gourmet stop that every visitor to the area should have on their list!

For some real Tahoe charm another great culinary choice is the Evans American Gourmet Cafe. It certainly gives one that warm, cozy feeling as the restaurant is actually an authentic mountain cabin. They have an excellent menu of reasonably priced appetizers and main courses and stock superb wines in a wide range of prices.

If you happen to be in the mood for some Asian food, Mandarin Garden can also be found on Lake Tahoe Boulevard. This is a more casual eatery and is the choice of many families after a day at the beach. The menu is full or interesting, moderately-priced menu choices that will appeal to the entire family.

For many years the top choice for breakfast in South Lake Tahoe has been Heidi's Pancake House. Heidi's is very well known and much-loved by the locals. Although skiers often stop by for amazing sandwiches and burgers, Heidi's is best known for it's delicious breakfast menu.

To work up an appetite you might want to join the Tahoe Mountain Milers on their weekly Tuesday and Thursday evening runs. All runners have a standing invitation for the out and back run along Tahoe Keys, which is the largest of Lake Tahoe's many marinas.

For history buffs, a visit to Vikingsholm Castle is not to me missed. Found on Emerald Bay Road, the construction of this estate began in 1928 by Lora Josephine. It's said that 200 people were hired to carve the intricate designs found through-out the estate. Interestingly enough, much of the estate was put together without the use of nails or other fasteners. If one is a fan of fine craftsmanship, antiques, and the very best examples of Scandinavian furnishings, then Vikingholm Castle should be at the top of the list of places to visit in South Lake Tahoe.

For a truly unique and diverse holiday destination, South Lake Tahoe is full of Summer and Winter recreation opportunities, fine food, and numerous other attractions that make it the perfect choice for a fun-filled, relaxing vacation.

This quick guide to South Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Ray Fauteux.

Golfing in Paradise, Lake Tahoe Style

Jennifer — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 01:50:00 GMT

Imagine this - you're the golfer who can't miss a game but need a respite from the humdrum golf courses, the nitpicking of a golf widow, and stressed-out kids. You'll get your wishes in North Lake Tahoe, California. Scenic vistas, relaxed games, a suddenly romantic wife and kids too busy you won't hear them caterwauling for a change.

Golf in Paradise

If you're a golf-picked husband, think about golf in paradise. Yes, golf in paradise and select your course - tree-lined golf courses, mountain or valley - every golf course in this part of Lake Tahoe offers you a memorable game of golf. Swinging the iron in the magnificent outdoors will help your get over your yipping, duck-hooking shots and missed cuts.

There are several golf courses in this part of Lake Tahoe. To miss one would be a pity but you have the option to go greens hopping by day and bar-hopping by night, not to mention the biking excursions in-between to strengthen those golf-punished leg muscles of yours. And remember--this is a vacation not a golf tournament, so no need to be uptight about missing a birdie.

If you are up with your shot-making skills, hie off to the greens and try out your 3 iron at the Incline Golf course and outdo yourself at the 18 holes of Championship Course and Mountain Course.

The par 72 Championship Course has the slopes and the inclines to challenge whatever golfing skills you have mustered. With 144 rises, the highest of which is 6,500 feet, you have a command view of the lake, forests, and sky.

The Mountain Course dares everyone to maneuver the bunkered greens and the water hazards. If you're up to it, better go to the golf course early in the day before you get edged out by other equally rabid golfers. If you want a romantic twilight backdrop, you can have it, but be warned that no night-vision goggles are rented out.

In the valleys, the 18-hole championship Squaw Creek Golf Course provides another spectacular golf vista. Wherever you play, you'll enjoy the amenities - club rentals, snack bars and golf clinics.

Time for a break? In this side of paradise, a game of golf should relax you, not threaten your next hurdle at the semis in your hometown. My advice is to remember that you're on vacation too, so shoot for a 9 hole game a day. You can't miss the (other) fun out there, so you might as well schedule your game to fit in other activities to spend "daddy time" with the kids.

Make your golf vacation one of your most unforgettable. Forget the Bahamas and the Seychelles. The best time for golf is in May so better make some inquiries and save up for that golf holiday this year, one you'll never forget. Just make sure your partner warms up to the idea before May rolls around the corner. Happy teeing!

This guide to your perfect Tahoe Golf Holiday was brought to you by Carolina Araos.

Stay at Shipwreck Plantation For an Amazing Hilton Head Getaway

Jennifer — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 02:53:00 GMT

Island resorts are typically luxurious, but Shipwreck Plantation, on Hilton Head Island, still managed to blow my expectations out of the water. My husband and I couldn't have planned a better weekend trip. Not only are we nature junkies, but we also happen to be (not-so-talented) sports fiends.

Golfers unite! The Shipyard Golf Club offers 27 championship-worthy holes. Putt-Putt is also on the menu. For those who would rather compete on the court, there is the Van der Meer Racquet Club, which is ranked among the best worldwide. Watersports such as kayaking, parasailing, and scuba diving are at the fingertips of the adventurous. Miles of bicycle paths are open to avid riders and joggers. These awe-inspiring nature trails are also great for hiking and bird-watching.

Wildlife is plentiful at the Shipwreck Plantation. Crocs may not lurk in the fresh water lagoons, but alligators certainly do. They also nap out in the open quite a bit. Ten pound bass and turtles are also swimming about. Dolphins playing in the Atlantic are visible from the beach, but the sight of them is exponentially better from a boat. The best view from the glimmering white sand is definitely sunset, though Shipwreck Plantation is a lovely setting altogether.

Wherever one wanders, the landscaping is impeccable, which is impressive for an 800 acre resort. Businesses have been built at a distance so the serenity of the resort is maintained. Wherever one chooses to stay overnight, birds will likely be heard chirping outside in the morning. Though the Crown Plaza Hotel and vacation homes are usually available, most guests choose to simply rent a villa. Villas come with kitchens, couches, peace and quiet. Renting one is like having another home for a short while. Besides, if a craving for a home-cooked meal hits, an oven is ready and waiting to help.

Speaking of food, it doesn't hurt to know what restaurants are nearby. A grand selection of hundreds of shops and eateries means plenty of options. With so many different restaurant choices, it's a chance to experiment and take risks. Plantation Cafe has surefire breakfasts and lunches. Dinner is a great opportunity to try somewhere new. Whether it's for dining, shopping, or recreation, Shipwreck Plantation is the place to go!

This guide to a vacation at Shipwreck Plantation in Hilton Head was brought to you by Shannon Beineke