Though Lake County doesn’t exude the chichi atmosphere of Napa or Sonoma, small sophisticated establishments—hotels, restaurants, and local produce sellers—are beginning to appear, especially in the towns around Clear Lake. One of the best is the Tallman Hotel in Upper Lake. This handsome wood structure, built in 1896 as a stagecoach stop between Sacramento and Mendocino, was restored over the past three years to create a lovely boutique hotel with fourteen-foot ceilings and private verandas. Some of the garden rooms come with an outdoor teak ofuro, a Japanese soaking tub. There’s also a pool and lounging area for guests. Right next door, the Blue Wing Saloon & Café is a relaxed place that dishes out California comfort food, local wines, and its own bottled sarsaparilla; don’t miss the tri-tip and the chocolate cake. Tasty! When you’re ready for some action, the Tallman has an arrangement with kayak outfitters Rubicon Adventures that will soon allow guests to explore nearby Rodman Slough, the largest heron rookery in the West.

Tallman Hotel, 9550 Main St., Upper Lake; 866-708-5253. Weekend rooms start at $129.
Blue Wing Saloon & Café, 9520 Main St., Upper Lake; 707-275-2233.