Located just a short drive from Silicon Valley, Saratoga is the ultimate place to enjoy a relaxing getaway from the busy life. It's also home to several top attractions that will keep you entertained.
For the health tourism buff, you can indulge in a spa treatment at one of the many highly rated establishments around town. There are a few different types of treatments you can choose from, including forest bathing massages and oil relaxation massages.
Wine tasting is a great way to learn about the differences between different types of wines and gain an appreciation for what makes them unique. A lot can be learned in just a couple of hours, and it's fun to try out new wines that you may never have thought about before.
Several wineries in Saratoga offer wine tours. These are a great way to learn more about the grapes and the processes that go into making each wine.
Many wineries also have wine tasting rooms where you can sample wines from a variety of different regions. They're a great way to try something new and find a new favorite wine to add to your collection.
It's important to pace yourself at a wine tasting. Those tasting-size pours can quickly add up and can lead to overspending, so make sure you're ready for the event by coming with a plan ahead of time.
There are plenty of hiking trails in Saratoga, so it’s easy to find a route that suits your interests and level. Some of the best places to hike near Saratoga are in the city’s parks, but you can also escape into the surrounding mountains.
For instance, Sanborn County Park offers a number of scenic trails in the redwood forests west of Saratoga. A popular destination for both locals and visitors, the park has several scenic spots along the trails.
Another great hike is the Geyser Loop Trail, which can be accessed through Saratoga Spa State Park. This 4.7 mile hike is considered easy, but it does include some elevation gain.
The Geyser Loop is a favorite among locals, and you can see two of Saratoga’s most famous springs here. You can also spot plenty of wildlife on this trail, as well as enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
For a one of a kind experience, book yourself and a loved one on a horseback riding excursion. There are several places in Saratoga that offer this fun activity for everyone from the beginner to the expert.
For those with a love of horses, consider signing up for a horseback riding lesson at Different Times Equestrian Ventures in Hidden Spring Ranch. This facility is a multi-discipline training and lesson center that specializes in teaching all levels of riders how to ride.
Another great option for a trail ride is at Garrod Farms and Riding Stables in Saratoga. Founded in 1892, this family-owned and operated stable is located on a 110 acre estate that offers horseback riding year-round.
During the summer, the facility offers guided horseback rides to anyone 8 years old and up, or you can rent ponies for younger kids. The establishment also hosts wine-tasting events and organizes summer camps for children aged 8 to 15. Its most lauded horse-related offering is a one hour ride into Fremont Older Open Space, a 739 acre regional park.
If you're looking for a relaxing getaway in a small town surrounded by scenic mountain vistas and world-class restaurants, Saratoga is the place to go. It's a beautiful affluent residential community that is known for its wineries, restaurants, and attractions like Villa Montalvo, Mountain Winery, and Hakone Gardens.
Beaches are another popular tourist attraction in Saratoga that travelers flock to each year. There are many great beaches around the area, and some of them even offer pet friendly accommodations.
If you're looking for an escape from the hectic pace of Silicon Valley, then consider visiting one of these beach destinations in Saratoga. They're all within a short drive from the city.