Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle

Fall 2015

Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle Magazine

Issue link: http://read.dreamscapes.ca/i/569741

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DREAMSCAPES FALL 2015 16 T he 644-kilometre strip that runs through California's heartland is considered by some to be the greatest garden in the world. The rich, green valley is filled with farms, orchards, vineyards and farming communi- ties ranging from cities to small towns where a smile often leads to an invitation to see and taste the state's bounty. Balancing its historic Old Town and urban renaissance and museums, the state capital, Sacramento, reminds visitors of the breadth and wealth of the region's Gold Rush. The valley's larger cities—Modesto, Fresno, Stockton and Bakersfield—still retain a small-town friendliness that encourages visitors to slow down and look beyond the vast farmland. From the quiet, northernmost towns of Orland, Yuba City and Davis to Visalia, Tulare and Maricopa at the southern end of the valley, it's easy to feel at home and see what some call "the Other California." Two river valleys—the Sacramento and the San Joaquin—dominate the majority of the region, and the area's waterways are much more than a necessary element of farming. Migrating birds use the watery region for rest stops on their long journeys while humans enjoy opportunities for water sports and relaxation. By far, the best souvenir from a Central Valley visit is sampling the edible treasures of the region. From almonds and cherries to peaches and olives, there's never a need to go long between meals. And everything tastes best when it's close to the farm where it grew. WINE AND FARM STANDS Best known for big red wines, particularly old-vine Zinfandels, the Lodi American Viti- cultural Area was first approved in 1986. Over the past two decades, the number of Lodi-labelled wines has skyrocketed. Noted for its classic Mediterranean climate, this CALIFORNIA'S GREAT GARDEN CALIFORNIA'S CENTRAL VALLEY LIES SMACK BETWEEN THE SIERRA NEVADA MOUNTAINS AND NATIONAL PARKS TO THE EAST AND THE POPULAR COAST TO THE WEST. TOP: Producing nearly 75 per cent of all California wine grapes, the Central Valley is the state's largest wine region. In Sacramento, there are plenty of leafy parks where kids can scamper until the sun sets. California Travel and Tourism Commission BY JILL K. ROBINSON

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