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visit-eldorado · 7 months

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Discovering the Charm of Placerville Bed and Breakfasts: A Getaway to Remember

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Placerville, California, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a blend of historic charm and serene landscapes. Known for its pivotal role during the Gold Rush era, today's Placerville invites visitors to step back in time and enjoy the warm hospitality of its local bed and breakfast establishments. These quaint abodes provide an intimate and unique experience that stands in sweet contrast to the bustle of city life or the impersonal touch of chain hotels.

A Taste of History with Modern Comfort

Many of the bed and breakfasts in Placerville are historical buildings themselves, each with a story to tell. From restored Victorian mansions to cozy, rustic cottages, they offer guests a slice of history, coupled with the comforts of modern living. Imagine waking up in a four-poster bed, surrounded by period furnishings, and sipping a hot cup of coffee on a balcony overlooking the verdant hillsides of El Dorado County.

Personalized Experiences Beyond Accommodation

The charm of a bed and breakfast lies in its personalized service. Innkeepers in Placerville take pride in creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. They are locals with deep knowledge of the area, offering insights into the town's best-kept secrets, from hidden hiking trails to the most delightful wineries. Their attention to detail and dedication to guests’ comfort often turn a simple stay into a memorable experience.

Gourmet Breakfasts to Start the Day

One of the highlights of any B&B stay is the breakfast, and Placerville's offerings are no exception. Each morning, guests are treated to homemade meals ranging from hearty farm-to-table fare to delicate pastries, often featuring local ingredients and seasonal fruits. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that delights the senses and prepares you for the day’s adventures.

The Perfect Base for Exploring the Riches of Gold Country

Staying in Placerville puts you at the heart of Gold Country, making it the perfect base for exploring the region's rich history. Visit the Gold Bug Mine and Park, where you can venture into a real gold mine. Afterward, stroll down historic Main Street, lined with antique shops, artisan boutiques, and local eateries that evoke the spirit of the Old West.

A Retreat for Every Season

Whether blanketed in the golden hues of fall, the lush greenery of spring, or the snow-dusted charm of winter, Placerville is a year-round destination. Each season offers a different reason to visit, from summer wine-tasting tours to autumn apple-picking adventures at nearby orchards. A Placerville bed and breakfast provides the ideal setting for relaxation after a day of seasonal festivities.

Romance and Rejuvenation in the Foothills

For couples, the intimate setting of a B&B in Placerville creates the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. Many establishments offer special packages, including couple's massages, champagne, and private tours of the surrounding wine country. It's a chance to reconnect and rejuvenate amidst the tranquility of the foothills.

Conclusion: Embracing the Heartfelt Hospitality of Placerville

A stay at a Placerville bed and breakfast offers more than just a place to rest your head. It’s an immersive experience that captures the essence of the region. It's an opportunity to embrace the slower pace of life, indulge in the pleasures of gourmet food, and explore the natural and historical treasures of this quaint California town.

In Placerville, each bed and breakfast has its own personality, reflective of the town's eclectic spirit. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or simply in need of a peaceful retreat, the B&Bs of Placerville welcome you with open arms and a promise of an unforgettable stay. So pack your bags, set your sights on the Sierra Nevadas, and get ready for a getaway that will linger in your heart long after you've returned home.

#placerville bed and breakfast

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wineanddinosaur · 3 years

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Jennifer Reichardt Is Creating a Thoughtful, Accessible Lineup at Raft Wines

Jennifer Reichardt comes from a family of entrepreneurs. Her family has been in the food industry in California since 1901, instilling in her a passion for hard work, respect for agriculture, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Reichardt brings all those qualities to her own wine brand, Raft Wines, while continuing to work with her father at their family-owned Liberty Ducks, a purveyor of premium duck.

Raft Wines is based in Sonoma County, Calif., but Reichardt sources grapes for her wines from vineyards located all over California, including El Dorado, Sonoma, Mendocino, and Madera Counties. In an industry where quality is often believed to be synonymous with price, Reichardt has been thoughtful in creating wines that customers will enjoy, at price points that allow them to explore and enjoy wine on a regular basis.

VinePair talked with Reichardt about everything from how Raft Wines has fared during Covid-19, to how wine companies can appeal to millennials.

[Editor’s note: The interview has been edited for clarity.]

1. What caused you to shift from focusing on your food-and-restaurant-focused family business to making your own wine?

After graduating from college, I knew I wanted to work in the food industry broadly, but I wasn’t sure what area I would focus on. I worked my first wine harvest internship in 2011 and really enjoyed the experience, but still wasn’t sold on whether wine was for me.

I worked my second wine harvest internship at Littorai Wines. I really enjoyed their winemaking process, philosophy, and their focus on agriculture and farming. It was similar to my background and how I grew up in the industry, and it helped me realize that I could make winemaking a career. So, I continued to learn and grow by working harvests in the United States and the Southern Hemisphere and passing my level two sommelier exam, all while working in the family business in between.

2. Did you always know that you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

It evolved over time. Truthfully, when I went to college, I wanted to be a doctor and was a pre-med major for two years before switching majors. While I enjoyed medicine, I wasn’t sure that I was passionate about it and switched majors after my sophomore year.

Around that time, I joined my dad at Terra Madre, an international Slow Food conference. The focus of the conference that year was re-engaging youth in farming, agriculture, and food systems. Being around youth from 120 different countries who were passionate about farming and preserving their heritage and culture through food really planted the seeds for me of pursuing my passion in this industry.

3. What is the best part of making your own wine versus working in a larger operation?

The flexibility to experiment with different winemaking techniques and grape varieties instead of needing to continue to hold to a particular formula or focus. Fortunately, my customer base is willing to try new things as well, so it provides me with a lot of freedom. That flexibility has been crucial in dealing with the unexpected. Because of the company’s size, I am able to experiment with different grape varieties and winemaking techniques, and if it doesn’t work, I can sell off the wine and try something different the next year.

4. Historically, you’ve made wines from obscure grape varieties from a wide range of California AVAs. Why did you decide to do this?

I want my wines to be consumer-friendly — both with respect to the price point and alcohol levels — and easily paired with a variety of dishes. I make natural wines, and I don’t add anything to my wines other than a little sulfur when bottling. So I also want my fruit to be organically farmed at minimum or more if possible.

Many of the traditional California grape varieties like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay have not been viable options for me, either due to price point or due to farming standards. But it led me to these relatively obscure grape varieties in great vineyards such as Counoise, Viognier, and Picpoul. As a result, I can offer high-quality wines to my customers in the $23- to-$38 range.

5. Describe Raft’s style.

I want Raft wines to be inclusive. There is something for everybody. We have several different wines available, so If you don’t like Syrah, you can try the red blend, or if you don’t like Viognier, you can try the Picpoul Blanc. You can open my wines on a Wednesday night and not feel like you are breaking the bank. They are also food-friendly and low-alcohol, which appeals to my customers.

I also typically like to make vineyard-designated wines so I can honor the farmers and the vineyard growers. I only have the grapes for a short amount of time, and they are growing them for the bulk of the year. I want to honor the sense of place of the vineyards and all that the vineyard growers and farmers bring to the wines.

6. How have you been impacted by the fires and Covid-19 this year?

I thought my business would have been disaster-proof, since I source grapes from six different counties in California. But many of those vineyards were hit by fires at different times during harvest. For example, the Counoise was lost in the Creek Fire, so I won’t be making that varietal this year.

As a result of the various losses, my production was projected to be down almost one-third for this harvest. That would have been devastating for my business. Thankfully, I can be flexible, so I quickly pivoted and found some additional grapes to help fill those gaps. There were a lot of grapes available in the market, so for the first time, I’m making some traditional California varietals. The Cabernet Sauvignon came from Narrow Gate Vineyards, whom I was already working with, and the Merlot is from Cole Ranch, which is the smallest American Viticultural Area in the United States.

I’m thankful that I started ramping up my direct-to-consumer business last year, not knowing that this year was coming. Prior to Covid, I was 70 percent wholesale, mostly California Bay Area restaurants, and 30 percent direct-to-consumer. Since Covid hit, I have flipped to 70 percent direct-to-consumer and 30 percent restaurants. Direct-to-consumer shipping has saved my business.

7. What is the future of Raft Wines?

This year marks my fifth harvest, and I feel like I’m in an awkward phase of the business. Raft Wines is too large to be an ultra-boutique winery, but it’s not large enough to be considered a small winery. Because I’m only making around 1,000 cases per year, it’s hard to get distribution. But I’d like to grow to 3,000 cases a year in the next few years. I will continue to target the $20-to-$30 price point, which I believe is the growth area of the wine market.

8. There is a lot of discussion in the wine world about how to attract millennials to the wine world. As a millennial winemaker, what do you think your peers are interested in seeing in wine, and where do you see the wine business going in the future?

Funny, I was just talking with a friend and saying that if I see another headline or panel talking about millennial wine drinkers that doesn’t include millennial winemakers, I’m gonna scream. It’s been frustrating to see articles on this topic and they keep interviewing the same more established voices over and over but not including millennial winemakers in those discussions. I’m selling lots of wine to millennials, so I definitely have a point of view.

Ultimately, millennial wine drinkers want to have something fun, easy to drink, and convenient. Branding is important. Millennials have grown up with things being convenient, and so they are always looking for that convenience factor. For example, wine in a can is exploding because it is easy and convenient and can be taken on a hike, to the beach, or to a cookout.

Wineries need to realize that millennials are in their second recession in their short careers, so they are not in a position to buy $60, $70, $80, or $200 bottles of wine on a regular basis. Wineries should consider how they are meeting that reality with what they are producing. Also, brand loyalty is perhaps not as strong for millennials. There are so many brands in the marketplace, and people like to try new things, so all of us need to be prepared for that fact. Just because someone buys my wines in one year, they may not buy my wines again next year. So it is important to make sure that your brand is attracting new customers, while still engaging your existing customers.

9. How can wineries appeal to millennial customers?

Even if wineries choose not to change their price point or wines, there is a lot that wines can do to engage with millennial consumers. They can expand their social media presence. They can reach out and engage the younger market. They can create new video content and engage with influencers. It is a whole new world, but I think a little bit of effort will go a long way.

The article Jennifer Reichardt Is Creating a Thoughtful, Accessible Lineup at Raft Wines appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/articles/jennifer-reichardt-raft-wines/

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johnboothus · 3 years

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Jennifer Reichardt Is Creating a Thoughtful Accessible Lineup at Raft Wines

VinePair talked with Reichardt about everything from how Raft Wines has fared during Covid-19, to how wine companies can appeal to millennials.

[Editor’s note: The interview has been edited for clarity.]

1. What caused you to shift from focusing on your food-and-restaurant-focused family business to making your own wine?

2. Did you always know that you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

3. What is the best part of making your own wine versus working in a larger operation?

4. Historically, you’ve made wines from obscure grape varieties from a wide range of California AVAs. Why did you decide to do this?

5. Describe Raft’s style.

6. How have you been impacted by the fires and Covid-19 this year?

7. What is the future of Raft Wines?

9. How can wineries appeal to millennial customers?

The article Jennifer Reichardt Is Creating a Thoughtful, Accessible Lineup at Raft Wines appeared first on VinePair.

Via https://vinepair.com/articles/jennifer-reichardt-raft-wines/

source https://vinology1.weebly.com/blog/jennifer-reichardt-is-creating-a-thoughtful-accessible-lineup-at-raft-wines

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perfectirishgifts · 4 years

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What Are The California Travel Restrictions?

New Post has been published on https://perfectirishgifts.com/what-are-the-california-travel-restrictions/

What Are The California Travel Restrictions?

As coronavirus hospitalizations rise across California, businesses and individuals are adapting to a new round of social distancing measures. There are new California travel restrictions to know about before traveling around the Golden State.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 07: In an aerial view from a drone, vehicles line up to enter a … [] COVID-19 testing site at Dodger Stadium on the first day of new stay-at-home orders on December 7, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. Under state order, 33 million residents of California have entered into regional shutdowns in an attempt to contain the spread of the coronavirus as ICU capacity has dipped below 15 percent in most regions of the state. Barbershops, hair and nail salons, museums, zoos, movies theaters are closed while restaurants are open for takeout or delivery only. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

California Travel Advisory For Non-Essential Travel

Despite the stricter regional restrictions, California has a statewide travel advisory effective November 13, 2020. This order applies to visitors and returning California residents.

The order strongly recommends a 14-day self-quarantine after arriving in California for non-essential travel reasons, including tourism and recreation. People who self-quarantine can only interact with their immediate household.

Also, Californians are encouraged to stay at home as much as possible. When travel is necessary, Californians should remain within their region to limit the potential spread.

In highly impacted regions, hotels will only offer stays for non-essential travel that exceed the 14-day quarantine period.

Those traveling for essential reasons, even across state lines, do not have to self-quarantine.

Whether traveling for essential or nonessential reasons, there is a statewide mask mandate. Any person above the age of 2 years must wear a mask in public settings.

Regional Stay Home Order

The newest travel restriction is the Regional Stay Home Order that first went into effect on December 3, 2020. Instead of statewide restrictions like in the spring, the newest order applies to specific regions of California.

Regions with less than 15% ICU bed capacity have stricter restrictions under the new guidelines. Counties going below the 15% threshold must observe the Regional Stay Home Order guidelines for at least 3 weeks. After the initial 3 weeks, the region will assess the situation weekly. The restriction will lift when the capacity projects to meet or exceed the 15% threshold.

When the order is in effect, private gatherings of any size are prohibited, except for critical infrastructure and retail. Masking and physical distancing require 100% compliance at all times.

Non-essential travel is impermissible in regions with a regional stay home order. If exercising outside, one can only participate with those in the same household.

California’s Governor Gavin Newsom describes that regional approach as “pulling the emergency brake” to halt coronavirus spread.

Stay Home Order Business Restrictions

Critical infrastructure including schools and non-urgent medical and dental care remain open. Remote contact is encouraged whenever possible. For businesses that cannot offer remote access, additional restrictions are in place besides the 100% masking and social distancing rules.

Below are some of the select sectors that can operate during a regional stay home order.

Retail: Operation at 20% indoor capability (35% for standalone grocery stores)

Shopping centers: Up to 20% capacity

Restaurants: Delivery and takeout only

Outdoor recreational facilities: Outdoor operation only and exclusively for personal health and wellness through exercise. Also, no sale of food, drink or alcohol.

Entertainment production: No live audiences

Hotels and lodging are open to out-of-state visitors. However, those traveling for non-essential reasons must have an itinerary for the entire 14-day self-quarantine period to book a stay. Once at the hotel, non-essential travelers must self-quarantine before going into public.

Non-Essential Business Closures

While restaurants, shops and outdoor recreational facilities can operate under a regional stay home order, select locations must close their doors until the regional shutdown ends.

Indoor and outdoor playgrounds

Wineries, bars, breweries and distilleries

Museums, zoos and aquariums

Movie theaters (except drive-in)

Family entertainment centers

Cardrooms and satellite wagering

Limited services

Live audience sports

Amusement parks

Certain operations within these business types may still be in operation if they provide a “critical infrastructure.”

California Regions

Each California county falls into one of five regions. One can also browse restrictions by county to quickly see the current county risk level and business closures.

Each county has one of several risk levels: widespread, substantial, moderate and minimal. Regions that implement a Regional Stay Home Order have a “widespread” risk rating that closes most non-essential indoor business operations.

Northern California

Del Norte

Glenn

Humboldt

Lake

Lessen

Mendocino

Modoc

Shasta

Siskiyou

Tehama

Trinity

Bay Area

Alameda

Contra Costa

Marin

Monterey

Napa

San Francisco

San Mateo

Santa Clara

Santa Cruz

Solano

Sonoma

Greater Sacramento

Alpine

Amador

Butte

Colusa

El Dorado

Nevada

Placer

Plumas

Sacramento

Sierra

Sutter

Yolo

Yuba

San Joaquin Valley

Calaveras

Fresno

Kern

Kings

Madera

Mariposa

Merced

San Bonito

San Joaquin

Stanislaus

Tulare

Tuolumne

*The San Joaquin Valley is under a region stay home order (as of December 7, 2020)

Southern California

Imperial

Inyo

Los Angeles

Mono

Orange

Riverside

San Bernadino

San Diego

San Luis Obispo

Santa Barbara

Ventura

As of December 7, 2020, two of the five regions have active regional stay at home orders. Those regions are San Joaquin Valley and Southern California. Twenty-three counties are in these two regions with 27.9 million people.

The Bay Area, Greater Sacramento and Northern California regions only have the statewide non-essential travel advisory and county-specific restrictions.

Limited Stay Home Orders

Counties with a “widespread” risk rating also have an evening curfew from 10 pm to 5 am, where one can only be out for essential work and medical reasons. This policy went into effect on November 21, 2020 and applies to counties across any California region. Nearly every county has a “widespread” risk rating at the moment.

A county with a widespread risk rating has more than 7 new daily cases per 100,000 over a 7-day average. Or, the county can have a positivity rate greater than 8% over a 7-day average.

CA Notify App

Californians and out-of-state visitors may soon be using the CA Notify contact tracing app to receive exposure notifications. This app becomes available statewide on December 10, 2020, and works with Android and Apple devices.

No personal information is shared and this app is optional at this time. California is continuing to use its contact tracing program where healthcare workers check in with those who test positive or came into close contact with affected people.

Summary

While the California travel restrictions are not the strictest in the United States, they are some of the most extensive for the West Coast. It’s best to only visit California for essential reasons due to the 14-day travel quarantine that went into effect on November 13, 2020. The regional stay home orders also limit activities for those not in self-quarantine.

FAQs

Can Out-Of-State Visitors Come To California?

Out-of-state visitors can come to California by car, plane or train. However, nonessential travel is currently discouraged across the state. Upon arriving in California, a 14-day self-quarantine is highly recommended.

Hotels in counties under a regional stay home order may require non-essential travelers to book a stay of at least 14 days for the quarantine period or may only offer rooms to those traveling for essential reasons. These visitors will need to self-quarantine at the hotel for that entire period. Essential travelers can waive the quarantine period.

Counties under a regional stay home order have most non-essential businesses and outdoor locations closed. It’s best to check the county travel restrictions before visiting to decide if it’s worth traveling to California.

Does California Require Quarantine?

A quarantine isn’t mandatory for incoming visitors or returning residents but is strongly recommended. Since November 21, 2020, the expanded California travel restrictions strongly encourage a 14-day self-quarantine for all out-of-state visitors and returning residents.

Those traveling for essential reasons don’t need to quarantine but are expected to practice masking and social distancing at all times.

Californians traveling within the state are expected to remain within their region and avoid non-essential travel whenever possible. A quarantine isn’t necessary when traveling between state regions.

Are California Hotels Open?

Most California hotels are open but have operating restrictions. The widest-reaching active restriction are the Regional Stay Home Orders.

According to the California State Government website, hotels and lodging in affected counties “cannot accept or honor out-of-state reservations for non-essential travel, unless the reservation is for at least the minimum time period required for quarantine and the persons identified in the reservation will quarantine in the hotel or lodging entity until after that time period has expired.”

Hotels under a regional travel advisory may only offer lodging for essential workers, COVID-19 mitigation and providing housing solutions including to the homeless population.

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mikeelgan · 5 years

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Nobody doesn't love the Stone Crusher

Donkey & Goat's amazing Stone Crusher is easily California's best "orange wine" (white wine fermented with the skins).

Made with Roussanne grapes (from the Rhone region of France) grown in El Dorado County at the foothills of the Sierras and aged 10 months in neutral French oak, Stone Crusher is refreshing like a white, substantial like a red and yet pairs with all kinds of hard-to-pair-with foods. (Full disclosure: I'm a minor investor in the winery.)

Orange wines are trendy now, but the 2017 vintage is the 8th year Donkey and Goat has been making Stone Crusher.

For God's sake do yourself a favor and join the Donkey & Goat wine club!

Get the newsletter from https://ift.tt/2Y9HZ9v

#Mike Elgan

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facultyloungecosplay · 7 years

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What was your first alcoholic beverage when you became of age

Hah, so curiously enough, I didn’t drink at all until I was almost twenty-two.

I began with wine. I did quite a lot of research and was interested in wine because of the potential for food pairing; I knew whites were the best starting point and to graduate slowly to reds as my palette grew more refined.

Now I’m a snooty wine-club member at a number of wineries in El Dorado/Amador county and Qrow says it’s cute when I “get all pretentious and shit” about wine.

I also once bought a variety pack of beer when I was young and did zero research and ended up starting with a porter, which are notoriously bitter. It may have affected my taste buds, because now I strongly prefer porters and IPAs.

I also once attended a “college party” where they had nothing but spiced rum and coke. It’s been ten years and I still cannot stand spiced rum because of that night.

#ask the faculty lounge #Ozpin replies

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pubcapscott · 5 years

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The 2019 Amgen Tour of California will be the longest and most challenging in its 14-year history, with details announced today by AEG, owner and presenter of America’s only UCI WorldTour race.

Throughout seven stages over seven days (May 12-18, 2019), the world’s elite professional cyclists will contest mountain roads, highways and coastlines from Sacramento to Pasadena. The 773-mile course through 13 Host Cities will ante up 14 Sprints, more than 68,000 feet of elevation gain and 25 King of the Mountain (KOM) climbs, the most in race history, and a fan-favorite Mt. Baldy summit finish. More than half of the seven stages feature 120+-mile courses.

With seven new courses between them, the Amgen Tour of California Women’s Race empowered with SRAM will run concurrently May 16-18, using many of the same routes as the men’s course. Also the longest women’s race in event history, the 177.8-mile, three-stage road race course will see the athletes climb more than 20,800 feet, including eight QOMs.

The Amgen Tour of California is designed to cover varied terrain, with opportunities for sprinters, climbers and general classification riders to shine throughout the week. Presented by Visit California, a visual overview of the men’s and women’s courses is viewable at www.amgentourofcalifornia.com.

“The Amgen Tour of California is the pinnacle of cycling in America. The 2019 race course is incredibly demanding – there’s more climbing and more long road days than ever before. With the best of the best in cycling coming to California to contest it, we are in for another memorable race,” said Kristin Klein, president of the Amgen Tour of California and executive vice president of AEG Sports. “We look forward to shining a spotlight on the beauty of California and the dedication of these athletes for fans, in person and via the worldwide broadcast, in what will be one of the most exciting sporting events in the country this year.”

2019 AMGEN TOUR OF CALIFORNIA ROUTE ANNOUNCEMENT

PRESENTED BY VISIT CALIFORNIA

MEN’S ROUTE: 773 miles / 1,244 km WOMEN’S ROUTE: 177.8 miles / 286 km

May 12-18 (7 Stages) May 16-18 (3 Stages)

KOMs: 25 QOMs: 8 Elevation Gain: 68,374’ Elevation Gain: 20,803’ Sprints: 14 Sprints: 3

STAGE 1 PRESENTED BY AMGEN – SUNDAY, MAY 12, 2019 – SACRAMENTO

88.9 miles / 143 km

KOMs: None Elevation Gain: 200’ Sprints: Winters, Sacramento

Expected Outcome: Field sprint

Sacramento is known as one of the most sports-friendly cities in the country, and this year will mark its 10th time hosting the race. Stage 1 will begin with the men rolling out of Sacramento across the iconic Tower Bridge, passing through West Sacramento, then hugging the Sacramento River into the city of Woodland. From there, the race will travel across several rural roads in Yolo County. A quick dash and sprint in the Town of Winters will see the race turn east and heading back downtown for the fast finish.

This 88.8-mile stage is a sprinter’s paradise, and a rare day of no KOMs and no elevation gains. Race fans waiting near the finish in the shadow of the State Capitol Building will be rewarded with the peloton barreling down L street for three loops around the infamous Sacramento circuit. Sacramento has never failed to deliver one of the most exciting race finishes on the World Tour Calendar.

STAGE 2 PRESENTED BY VISIT CALIFORNIA – MONDAY, MAY 13, 2019 – Rancho Cordova to South Lake Tahoe

120.9 miles / 194.5 km

KOMs: 6 Elevation Gain: 14,522’ Sprints: Placerville, Luther Pass

Expected Outcome: Select group

The Amgen Tour of California welcomes the City of Rancho Cordova as a new stage host. While the start is just a 15-minute drive from the Stage 1 finish, this day of racing will be the polar opposite of Stage 1. The stage will start at sea level. By the end of the day, the racers will have amassed nearly 15,000’ of climbing over 121-miles of racing. Heading east from the start, the route will follow White Rock Road through El Dorado Hills then connect with the Stage 6 course from 2018. Once again, racers will enjoy the huge crowds and warm hospitality in Placerville before heading onto the picturesque Mormon Emigrant Trail and Hwy 88, one of the most beautiful roads in California where the peloton will zip through lush forests and past bass-laden lakes.

They will also encounter some serious elevation. The KOM at Carson pass tops out at 8,620’, the highest point the race has ever reached in its 14 years. A long descent will allow the riders a short rest, but a left turn onto Hwy 89 will take them to the top of Luther Pass and into South Lake Tahoe. For those that have raced to South Lake Tahoe in previous years, they know that a brutal finish up the steep roads to the Heavenly ski area finish looms ahead.

STAGE 3 PRESENTED BY TAG Heuer – TUESDAY, MAY 14, 2019 – Stockton to Morgan Hill

128.6 miles / 207 km

KOMs: 6 Elevation Gain: 9,667’ Sprints: Mines Road, San Jose

Expected Outcome: Field sprint

The City of Stockton returns for its third stage start, near the waterfront and Stockton Arena. After a short circuit through town, the race route will wend its way through the city as it heads southwest toward Morgan Hill. This will not be a recovery day for some weary legs in the peloton – within 20 miles, the riders will face “the Wall” on Patterson Pass Road, the first of five climbs and 10,000’ of climbing.

Heading east of Livermore, the riders will turn onto Mines Road and toward the HC climb up Mt. Hamilton. Over the next 22 miles of climbing and descending, the racers will encounter two climbs with a total of 25 switchbacks and two very technical descents with another 25 hairpin turns. Local racers claim that descending Mt. Hamilton can be more challenging than the ascent. The race will then return to the eastern slopes of San Jose and into Morgan Hill, site of the 2018 time trial stage. Spectators will line the streets as they await the teams to tee up their sprinters for a classic field sprint to finish near the Morgan Hill Outdoor Sports Center.

STAGE 4 PRESENTED BY LEXUS – WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2019 – Raceway Laguna Seca to Morro Bay

132 miles / 212.5 km

KOMs: 3 Elevation Gain: 11,758’ Sprints: Hwy 1, San Simeon

Expected Outcome: Field sprint

It has been five years since a southbound route on Hwy 1. In 2017, a monstrous landslide dumped more than 1 million tons of dirt and rocks onto a .25 mile stretch of the iconic Hwy 1 south of Big Sur. This stage will be a celebration of a massive achievement by Caltrans to reopen the iconic coastal stretch.

After a short climb out of the start at Laguna Seca, the race will pass through Seaside, Monterey and Carmel. Hwy 1 typifies the beauty of the state and features a gentle rolling landscape that drivers may not register, but the cyclists will certainly feel the 11,758′ of climbing on this stage. Past Ragged Point, the course will flatten out for the second sprint of the day in San Simeon.

A fan-favorite, the Morro Bay finish will follow the route from 2017, where Peter Sagan won the sprint finish. After passing through Morro Bay State Park, riders will get their first glimpse of the iconic Morro Rock. A right turn off the Embarcadero, with Morro Rock over their shoulders, will put the racers onto a steep sprint to the finish on Harbor Street.

MEN’S STAGE 5 / WOMEN’S STAGE 1 PRESENTED BY LEXUS – THURSDAY, MAY 16, 2019 – M: Pismo Beach to Ventura / W: Ventura

M: 135.8 miles / 218.5 km W: 60 miles / 96.5 km

KOMs: 5 QOMs: 5 Elevation Gain: 9,681’ Elevation Gain: 4,885 Sprints: Orcutt, Ventura Sprints: Ventura

Expected Outcome: Field sprint

This stage will highlight the best of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties, which have long been the cornerstone of the Amgen Tour of California. The men’s race will return to Pismo Beach for its third race start. With the beach and refurbished pier as the backdrop, the race will head south on Hwy 1 through Grover Beach, Oceano and Guadalupe, with the first of two sprints in Orcutt. Within a few miles, the race will reach Foxen Canyon and the home of countless world-class vineyards and wineries. As the race leaves the vineyards and jumps onto Hwy 154 in Los Olivos, the riders will enter the feed zone to replenish some calories. Ahead lays the grueling category climb up San Marcos Pass. A wicked fast descent into Santa Barbara will put the race onto Hwy 192 and through the heart of the storm and fire damage from late 2017 and early 2018, where state, county and local agencies have worked tirelessly to repair roads and replace bridges.

After leaving Hwy 192, the stage’s final two categorized climbs lie ahead on Casitas Pass. The finish will be within a few miles once the cyclist enter Ventura, which hosted its first stage last year. Riders will contest the final sprint at the summit of a short 12% climb up Fero Drive. The final miles to the Ventura finish line will be intense as the teams set up their sprinters for a field sprint along the Pacific Ocean.

Meanwhile, the women will contest a relatively short but punchy day of racing with five QOMs. The out and back course starts and finishes in Ventura. The final 35 miles is the same route the men will use coming into Ventura for their Stage 5 finish later in the day.

MEN’S STAGE 6 / WOMEN’S STAGE 2 PRESENTED BY VISIT CALIFORNIA – FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2019 – Ontario to Mt. Baldy: Queen Stage

M: 79.2 miles / 127.5 km W: 46 miles / 74 km

KOMs: 3 QOMs: 2

Elevation Gain: 14,040’ Elevation Gain: 8,416

Sprints: San Antonio Heights, Glendora Sprints: Glendora

Expected Outcome: Select group or individual

This stage has seen legends made and winners decided. After four consecutive stages averaging 130 miles per day, the riders would normally look forward to a 79-mile stage with only three climbs…but not with Mt. Baldy looming! This “Queen Stage” is compared to the epic stages of the European Grand Tours. It is very possible that the winner of the 2019 Amgen Tour of California will be decided on the final 15 switchbacks to the Mt. Baldy finish.

A return to the mountaintop finish that thrilled so many fans in 2011, 2012, 2015, and 2017, this is the top training ground for many Southern California racers. Only a handful have done the entire route, but after the 2017 race, this is now one of hottest Strava segments in the U.S.

This will be the fourth time the City of Ontario has hosted the men’s Mt. Baldy stage, and the first time the women will contest it. The race will begin at the Citizens Bank Arena. Because of the complexities of men’s and women’s races sharing an “out and back” course, the women will use a slightly different route to Mt. Baldy. The final 20.5 miles of their course is the same to reach the common finish.

This year’s route will head north into the cities of Rancho Cucamonga and Upland. From there, the riders will start an 11-mile climb to the Village of Mt. Baldy. After an acute left, the racers will face another mile of climbing up Glendora Ridge Road to the first of three monster KOMs. They will cover 12 miles of narrow and twisting roads that lead to a fast and technical descent down the backside of Glendora Mountain Road. Riders and fans alike can expect spectacular vistas throughout the Angeles National Forest. Another descent down East Fork will take the riders to Highway 39 and the town of Azusa. Heading east, they’ll race through the outskirts of Glendora.

A left turn onto the locally infamous Glendora Mountain Road (GMR) will invite the peloton to a grueling 9-mile climb to the second KOM of the day followed by 12 miles of a slight climb back to Mt. Baldy Village. A left turn back onto Mt. Baldy Road will see the race gain 1,000‘ in three miles, before the real climbing has even started! At Ice House Canyon, the route will make a hard left turn where the sign to the ski area points toward the sky. Over the next 2.5 miles, the riders will face 10 switchbacks on a road that is so steep the team busses cannot make it to the top. With 1.2 miles to go, the road will straighten out but still climb at 15%. At .25 miles to go, the route will make a hard left and the racers will face the final five switchbacks to the finish line.

MEN’S STAGE 7 / WOMEN’S STAGE 3 PRESENTED BY AMGEN – SATURDAY, MAY 18, 2019 – SANTA CLARITA to PASADENA

M: 87.6 miles / 141 km W: 71.8 miles / 115.5 km

KOMs: 2 QOMs: 1 Elevation Gain: 8,506’ Elevation Gain: 7,502 Sprints: Acton, Angeles Crest Highway Sprints: Acton

Expected Outcome: Field sprint

Santa Clarita and Pasadena have a storied tradition of hosting the Amgen Tour of California grand conclusion. While this may look like an easy stage on paper, there will be challenges from start to finish as teams protect their GC riders from attacks and set up their sprinters to win the stage. The race’s traditional start in Santa Clarita will be at the Town Center Mall. The route will then turn north out of the city on Soledad Canyon Road, through the Antelope Valley, to the first sprint of the day in Acton. Turing onto Aliso Canyon Road, the riders will work their way onto Angeles Forest Hwy and into the Angeles National Forest.

The first climb will come at Mill Creek Summit, then downhill and left onto Upper Big Tujunga to the final climb of the race at the intersection with Angeles Crest Highway. It will be downhill as the riders pass Redbox and Mt. Wilson. A quick dash through La Canada Flintridge will take the race down Rosemont Avenue to the famed Rose Bowl for the ultimate race finish.

This stage shares a common start and finish for the women and men, with two slight differences. Whereas the women will come straight up Angeles Forest Highway to Angeles Crest Highway, the men will turn on Upper Tujunga to add mileage and one final climb. The women conclude the day first, coming to the finish line and completing one lap. Just as they began the week with three Capitol circuits during Stage 1 in Sacramento, the men will blaze through three circuits of the Rose Bowl to conclude the race.

Following the awards ceremony, the Rose Bowl will be hosting the inaugural Rose Pedal open streets event, where attendees can cycle, run, or walk the closed course and participate in fitness activities for the remainder of the day.

Portions of the route affected by adverse weather and natural events will be inspected up until race time, and race routes are subject to change to ensure fan and rider safety.

In addition to lining the race course, fans of all ages will once again have the opportunity to experience the race as a VIP from an all-inclusive hospitality tent or through once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. To learn more visit: https://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/vip-experiences. VIP Hospitality Passes for stage starts and finishes are available at: https://www.axs.com/amgen2019.

For questions, please contact [email protected].

For more information visit the Amgen Tour of California on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube orwww.amgentourofcalifornia.com.

2019 Amgen Tour of California route revealed The 2019 Amgen Tour of California will be the longest and most challenging in its 14-year history, with details announced today by AEG, owner and presenter of America’s only

#Amgen Tour of California #Grand Tour #Kristin Klein #Los Angeles #Peter Sagan #professional cyclists #road race #San Jose #san luis obispo #southern California #SRAM

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skinnervineyards5 · 2 years

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A Quick Guide On Planning Wine Tours Near Lake Tahoe

A trip to El Dorado County is incomplete without visiting vineyards, tasting exquisite wines, and purchasing a few bottles as souvenirs for relatives and friends. Perhaps you have wine tours near Lake Tahoe in mind but are intimidated by the thought of planning them because you have never been to wineries before. If so, it’s time to turn your dream of sipping a wine overlooking a vineyard into a reality. The following guide will help you plan a tour of vineyards and wineries.

Book in advance

Although there are many wineries near Lake Tahoe, you still want to ensure that you don’t face last-minute disappointments. Many wineries have limited availability, so booking in advance is wise, especially if you plan the tour during the busiest months of the year.

Create a list of wineries

Search for a winery near Folsom, and you will get dozens of names flashing on your screen. Since you can’t visit each of them during your trip to El Dorado County, creating a list of wineries you might be interested in is best. We suggest looking for wineries with historical sites where you can learn how a legacy has been preserved generation after generation.

Visit no more than three wineries a day

The last thing you want to do is create an itinerary that leaves little room for enjoyment. If you want to make the most of your vacation days and wine tours, keep your itinerary to two to three wineries. Many wine-makers love having conversations with their guests—telling them about the variety of grapes in their vineyards and the wine-making process—besides organizing wine-tasting events.

Book a ride

Arranging a ride is better than driving on your own when visiting a winery. After tasting multiple varieties of wines, getting drunk is expected. Before your visit, you can also connect with wineries to know if they provide hotel transfers. Even if they don’t, they will likely suggest a private car service for safe pick-ups and drop-offs.

Make the most out of your wine tours

Many wineries near Lake Tahoe offer unique dining experiences. Take advantage of their outdoor dining areas to enjoy gourmet foods and spectacular vineyard views while sipping wine.

Wine tours near Lake Tahoe and Folsom are fun and relaxing. Plan your vacation and make the most of your experiences.

#Lake Tahoe wine tours #Winery near Folsom

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wine-porn · 2 years

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Stellar Stuff

Packed with a Sierra Foothills-kinda blustry warm gamyness, this is quite a unique Grenache–but then aren’t they all? Sharp briar and a bit of alcohol control the nose, all packed onto grainy thick fruit. It’s definitely concentrated, but with plenty of interesting things going on in the background. Extremely savory in texture, it kicks *Southern Rhone* into a whole new California light. Tasting…

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#Apple Hill Wineries #Best labels #el dorado AVA #Eldorado AVA #Eldorado County #Grenache #Jones Family Estate #Lava cap #Lava Cap winery #Sierra Foothills #Stellar Jay #Stephen McConnell Wine Blog #Steve McConnell Wine Blog #wine1percent

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visit-eldorado · 8 months

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The Best Winery Restaurants in El Dorado County

El Dorado County is home to numerous wineries that offer exceptional gastronomic experiences. These winery restaurants showcase the region's finest wines alongside exquisite farm-to-table cuisine. Contact us today!

#Winery Restaurants

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gillespialfredoe01806ld · 6 years

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Top 10 Lake Towns of 2018: Fantasy Waterfront Retreats at Bargain-Basement Prices

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What makes a great lake town? A lovely, inspiring, and beckoning body of water? Check. A cool, relaxing vibe with plenty of splashy and nonsplashy extracurriculars? Check. Affordable and irresistible housing a short hop from the water? Yes, please!

When the mercury starts soaring across the U.S., more folks get the urge to turn fantasies of shore living into reality. And why not? Lakefront housing tends to be less expensive and more accessible to a wider swath of the country than popular ocean beach towns. And—without delving into some kind of tortured Stones vs. Beatles, GOP vs. Dems, or ferret vs. capybara lifestyle debate—lake town living offers quite a few perks of its own.

That’s why the data team at realtor.com® set out on its annual quest to find the best lake towns in America. These are the places where there are plenty of well-priced and available homes, property values are rising (so snagging a home will be a good investment), and there are plenty of fun things to do on or around the water. And then we slathered on our sunscreen.

Do you want to live near a picturesque pond, or within striking distance of one of the majestic Great Lakes? The ambiance is dramatically different, and so are the housing prices.

“If you want to be on a larger body of water, you’re typically going to pay more. … You’ll have more fishing opportunities, boating opportunities, and recreational [and dining] opportunities,” says Jim Billig, president of Sportman’s Connection, which produces fishing lake guidebooks in 12 states. “The smaller lakes … are going to be more affordable.”

To figure out the top spots, we looked at home price appreciation from June 2015 to May 2018*, the percentage of vacation homes, the number of food and recreational establishments per capita, the number of outdoor activities per capita, and the number of realtor.com home listings that mention the word “lake” in more than 900 U.S. metropolitan and micropolitan areas. And we limited our selections to one place per state to ensure geographic diversity, and excluded areas where the median home list prices were above $600,000.

Now get ready to make a splash!

Top lake towns

Claire Widman

1. Branson, MO

Median home list price**: $217,500 2-year price appreciation: 17.6%

Riverboat on Lake Taneycomo in Branson, MO

Panoramic Images/Getty Images

For decades this southern Missouri town has steadily built its rep as a Midwestern country music mecca—it touts itself as “the live music show capital of the world.” But, more stealthily, it has also become one of the nation’s leading lake towns.

There are beaches, a full marina, and scuba diving in the 43,000 sparkling acres of Table Rock Lake, one of the area’s main attractions. Lake Taneycomo, a reservoir less than 10 miles from downtown, is considered one of the best trout fishing lakes in the country due to its unusually cool waters. And the oft-overlooked Bull Shoals Lake, about a two-hour drive east of Branson straddling the Missouri-Arkansas border in the Ozark Mountains, offers plenty of cabins, resorts, and RV parks for those who want to stay on the water.

For those who fall in love with the region, there are plenty of affordably priced homes for those who want to stay year-round or just for the season. Many are condos, although there are some waterfront houses ranging from four-bedrooms in the high $200,000s to the occasional mansion selling for a few million dollars.

Most of local real estate agent J.R. Boushehri‘s clients are baby boomers within a 300-mile radius seeking condos with a view they can stay in a few times a month and then rent out the rest of the time. The condos range anywhere from the mid-$50,000s up to $300,000, says Boushehri of Keller Williams Tri-Lake Realty.

“Whatever price range they’re looking for, there’s something out there,” he says.

2. Baraboo, WI

Median home list price: $234,950 2-year price appreciation: 31.5%

Devil’s Doorway in Baraboo, WI

baluzek/iStock

Once known as home to the Ringling Brothers Circus, this south-central Wisconsin town has a high percentage of homes boasting lake views. It’s no small wonder that John Muir, who grew up just north of the city, turned into one of the 20th century’s most famed naturalists.

While the city’s namesake, the Baraboo River, is the most obvious water attraction, there are plenty of lakes here (locals seldom tire of letting you know that Wisconsin has more of ’em than neighboring Minnesota). Devil’s Lake State Park attracts more than 1 million visitors annually who enjoy activities that range from lounging on glacial sand beaches, to rock climbing for all levels.

It’s also home to the International Crane Foundation, which claims to be the only place on the planet where visitors can see all 15 crane species.

“It’s just a beautiful area,” says Al Doering, owner of Baraboo Canoe & Kayak in nearby North Freedom, WI.

Folks who don’t mind not being directly on the water can find all sorts of bargains. There are standalone cottages, cabins, and even four-bedroom houses for under $225,000 that are just a walk or short drive away from Devil’s Lake.

3. Brainerd, MN

Median home list price: $289,950 2-year price appreciation: 18.3%

Fireworks over Gull Lake in Brainerd, MN

jferrer/iStock

Why settle for one lake when you can have more than 500? That’s right, there are that many lakes located within 25 miles of Brainerd, making it one of the most attractive destinations in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. There are all kinds of waterfront real estate options, and recreational opportunities ranging from canoeing to water skiing, to world-class tubing (BYOB).

If a private lake isn’t Minnesota nice enough for ya, this central Minnesota town has more on its plate than lutefisk. Brainerd is ranked highly for its number of dining establishments, including a few overlooking the water. And there’s a trio of nearby breweries—Gull Dam, Jack Pine, and Big Axe—within a short drive of town.

Real estate ranges from spacious four-bedroom houses with private docks on the larger, 500-plus-acre lakes that go for about $450,000 to smaller, two-bedroom cabins with shared beach access for about $200,000, says Chad Schwendeman, a local real estate broker at Exit Lakes Realty Premier. Luxury condos on the larger lakes can go for about $500,000.

Most of his clients are second-home buyers coming from the Twin Cities.

“On a Friday, they can head north two hours and they’re at their cabins,” Schwendeman says.

4. Traverse City, MI

Median home list price: $327,050 2-year price appreciation: 17.8%

Traverse City, MI

CT757fan/iStock

Even without accounting for its proximity to Lake Michigan, the second largest of the Great Lakes, Traverse City—known simply in many parts as “T.C.”—is one of the premier lake recreation destinations. It was ranked one of the best in the state, according to MidwestLiving, and the country, according to personal finance site WalletHub. It’s about four hours east, and worlds away, from Detroit.

Lake lovers here have plenty of home options, including one- or two-bedroom condos near the beach starting around $100,000, or four-bedroom, two-bathroom homes down the street from a lake for about $200,000.

Buyers with money to burn may prefer one of the Traverse City mansions, such as this 8,468-square-foot beauty with views of the water, a movie theater, wine cellar, and heated pool for just under $3 million.

The attractions don’t just revolve around Lake Michigan. The Boardman Lake is an official Blue Ribbon trout fishery (the designation is only for lakes with outstanding water quality, accessibility, and sustainable fish management).

Bonus: In late June and early July, Traverse City hosts the National Cherry Festival, an annual extravaganza that attracts more than a half-million visitors. The area is also home to roughly 30 wineries that have taken advantage of its grape-friendly latitude.

5. Gardnerville Ranchos, NV

Median home list price: $575,000 2-year price appreciation: 23.4%

Mansion on Lake Tahoe

realtor.com

The Gardnerville Ranchos metro area is the most expensive lake town on our list—for good reason. The county lines a good portion of Lake Tahoe, a popular destination for the rich, the famous, and just about everyone else. The area is also located on the El Dorado National Forest and boasts sweeping mountain and waterfront views. Bliss.

Recreationally speaking, Tahoe, which straddles the California-Nevada border, is the 800-pound gorilla that drives the region’s economy. It’s said that people come for the skiing but stay for the lake.

The area is particularly appealing to nearby California residents. They can escape high state taxes if they cross Lake Tahoe into Nevada and live in the cheaper state for six months and a day. There are few modest homes to be found (operative word: few). But there are plenty of breathtaking mansions going up, including this $47 million beauty with a guesthouse, stables, and a private pier.

6. Port Clinton, OH

Median home list price: $254,900 2-year price appreciation: 11.4%

Lake Erie from Port Clinton, OH

Douglas Sacha/Getty Images

When most of us think of a dreamy summer destination with quiet bays, beaches, and nearby islands that require a passport to visit (Canada, eh?), northern Ohio isn’t the first place that comes to mind. Yet Port Clinton, a small town with a population of just under 6,000 , is the epicenter of one of the better kept secrets among fans of lake recreation due to its prime location on one of the Great Lakes.

Located on a peninsula that juts into the western end of Lake Erie, Port Clinton sees its population swell in the high season as visitors descend on the mom-and-pop shops, restaurants, and antique stores in nearby towns. The area offers a half-dozen lakefront parks, as well as the three Bass islands and Kelley’s Island. The latter is a major tourism center served by ferries and a small public airport.

Real estate in the area is a real mix, with quite a few reasonably priced condos on the market. Buyers can snag one-bedroom condos right on Lake Erie for under $135,000, while modest beach houses can be found in the mid-$300,000 range. Buyers seeking to splurge can pick up this luxurious, five-bedroom, five-bathroom house on a bluff for $850,000.

7. Coeur d’Alene, ID

Median home list price: $393,750 2-year price appreciation: 24.7%

Coeur d’Alene, ID

csfotoimages/iStock

Located at the far end of the Bitterroot Mountains in Idaho’s northern panhandle, Coeur d’Alene is more than a lake town. It’s an outdoor paradise surrounded by mountains, rivers, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife. It’s also a convenient 38-minute drive from Spokane, WA, a major travel hub. That may be why this small town where everyone knows your name and boasts little to no traffic is attracting so many ex-Californians, according to the website Livability.

Residents and visitors have their choice of three major lakes—Lake Pend Oreille, Lake Coeur d’Alene, and Priest Lake—each with abundant opportunities for boating, swimming, and first-rate frolicking.

The cost of living here is slightly higher than the national average (just look at this $3.25 million three-bed, four-bath, waterfront condo with every amenity imaginable), but it’s still considerably cheaper than big Western cities such as Denver, Portland, Seattle, and San Francisco.

Buyers who are amenable to living near but not on the water can find plenty of deals, including this charming, two-bedroom, one-bath home for $165,000.

8. Sonora, CA

Median home list price: $349,200 2-year price appreciation: 16.8%

Washington Street in Sonora, CA

Google Maps

The gold rush that defined the early days of this Central California town played out long ago. It’s been replaced by geographical gold: Sonora is the closest city to Yosemite, the crown jewel of the national parks system. Although the park is best known for massive granite cliffs like El Capitan, there’s no shortage of lakes inside and outside the park.

“It’s a small community,” says Heidi Bettis, a local real estate agent at Coldwell Banker Segerstrom. “But if you’re an outdoors person, it’s the best place to be.”

Many of Bettis’ clients are from the San Francisco Bay Area, who buy second homes throughout Tuolumne County, where Sonora is located. The environment and climate, which features about 260 days of sunshine a year, have been key in attracting retirees and economic refugees fleeing the high costs of San Francisco, about three hours away.

“You can buy a million-dollar cabin or you can get a little, tiny, 700-square-foot cabin for $200,000,” Bettis says.

9. Sevierville, TN

Median home list price: $252,500 2-year price appreciation: 24.2%

Douglas Lake, near Sevierville, TN

BullpenAl/iStock

Neighboring Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge can have their swarms of tourists. Friendly Sevierville, a more under-the-radar vacation spot and hometown of country legend Dolly Parton, will take the anglers and lake fans. (It’s about 30 minutes east of Knoxville.)

“Lakefront real estate in our area is pretty variable,” says Ron Laughlin, a local real estate agent at Century 21 MVP. They range from 2,000-square-foot cabins on the water built in the 1970s on several acres that go for between $300,000 and $350,000 to 5,000-square-foot, more modern homes than can fetch $2 million. “There’s a few real high-baller homes, but not that many.”

Douglas Lake, barely a 20-minute drive from downtown, attracts 1.7 million visitors annually. They are drawn to the lake’s boating and reputation as one of the best lakes in the nation for largemouth bass and crappie fishing.

10. Spirit Lake, IA

Median home list price: $296,900 2-year price appreciation: 3.2%

Orleans Beach on Spirit Lake, IA

Michael S. Lewis/Getty Images

Those who love to fish may want to hightail it to Spirit Lake. The Northern Iowa region has a well-earned rep as a great place to catch pike and muskellunge. Spirit Lake, which shares a tiny part of its namesake with neighboring Minnesota, is surrounded by a quartet of lakes, including the east and west sides of Lake Okoboji. It’s also home to the Berkley fishing tackle company, launched in 1937 by a 16-year-old paper delivery boy who used backyard chicken feathers and the family dog’s hair to craft hand-tied flies for vacationing anglers.

“We’re a resort town. Memorial Day to Labor Day, that’s when everybody makes hay. The lakes get a tremendous amount of use,” says Aaron Jones, a real estate broker at Re/Max Lakes Realty. “Outside of that time frame, we’re just a small town.”

Most of the buyers are looking for second homes, ranging from $300,000 to well above $5 million, that sit vacant in the off-season. They typically hail from the Midwest within a 300-mile radius of Spirit Lake, Jones says.

“We still have a lot of fishing cabins that were built in the early 1900s. They’re little two-bedroom, one-bath cabins that now can sell for half a million bucks,” Jones says. You just can’t deny the allure of lakefront land.

* To come up with home price appreciation, we looked at home list prices over the 12-month period of June 2015 through May 2016, and compared them with the June 2017 through May 2018 period.

** Median home prices as of June 1, 2018

The post Top 10 Lake Towns of 2018: Fantasy Waterfront Retreats at Bargain-Basement Prices appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

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