Do you surf?
North Cali has some incredible spots, secluded, lighter crowds… and the coastline is stunning. I’d highly recommend Shelter Cove as a place to visit, even if you don’t surf, The King Range National Conservation area and coastline and the Sinkyone Wilderness park there. If you’re not big into hiking there is lots of dope off-roading in the redwoods and mountains there.
Here’s a guide to one of the 4x4 routes from shelter cove there.
https://www.overlandtrailguides.com/amp/lost-coast-adventure-route
Also Anderson River Valley just south of there is less well known compared to Napa but also far less touristy and has some real gem vineyards and wineries.
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I’ve tried a few good Barbarescos lately, but Barolo is the bee’s knees for me.