Smiling Dogs Ranch

Close to a dozen communities sit on or near the shores of Clear Lake. While it would take days to explore them all, we can suggest a few highlights in Lakeport, Kelseyville, Clearlake and Upper Lake. Start in Lakeport, on the lake’s northwest shore, travel counter-clockwise and make time for meals, wineries, brew pubs and other places you can enjoy with your canine companion. more »

While water activities are of course a big attraction in Lake County, more than 30 wineries, most with dog-friendly picnic areas and tasting rooms, welcome visitors in what is one of the fastest growing wine regions in the country. While the region is best known for its sauvignon blancs, petit sirahs and big reds are gaining well deserved cachet. The Lake County wine-growing region blanketing the eastern portion of the county is divided into seven AVAs (American Viticultural Areas), or appellations, each with its own sense of place. more »

Lake County is dominated by – you got it – one of the largest bodies of water in the state. But Clear Lake, a popular vacation destination, is just one piece of a diverse county that is coming on strong as a fast-growing wine region with laid-back (and dog-friendly) appeal.

The Lake County wine-growing region blanketing the eastern portion of the county is further divided into seven AVAs (American Viticultural Areas), or appellations, each with its own sense of place. While best known for its sauvignon blancs, petite sirahs and big reds like tempranillo and cabernet sauvignon are gaining well deserved cachet. more »