A Taste of The Canadian Lifestyle in Northern California

Ever since we moved to the Bay Area seven years ago (!) we have been searching for a specific something to fill a void. It's not that there is a lack of things to do here, between Lake Tahoe, the wine country, the coastal drives and the hiking & cycling options we manage to keep plenty busy. But Canadian cottage life is something that is hard to replace no matter how much you try.

It could be that after eight months of hibernation during blustery winters, Canadians exaggerate the enjoyment they derive from a summer day at the cottage. But having put my snow shovel away for good, I can attest to the fact that a day on the lake, whether spent water skiing in the sunshine or curled up with a book listening to the rain, is one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy a holiday. This past weekend we finally found a cure for the cottage blues.

US Thanksgiving is one of my favourite holidays of the year. For four days the entire country comes to a halt and we have the opportunity to explore without crowds and without family obligations (no offense mom & dad). One year was a drive down the coast, another was rock climbing in Joshua Tree, another was Disneyland (which was shockingly busy on Thanksgiving day!).

This year we rented a cottage on Clear Lake, a little known paradise about an hour north of Sonoma. It is actually the largest natural lake in California, surrounded by several little towns, traditionally filled with trailer parks and campgrounds, and home to the widely known Konocti Resort & Spa where popular outdoor concerts are held throughout the summer.

The cottage we rented was small but cozy, highlighted by an enormous deck that jetted out over the lake, with all the amenities you would need to enjoy a lazy weekend: a comfy couch, a well-equipped kitchen, a satellite TV, and a great fireplace. Although we did venture out for some cycling through wine country, a hike in the national park and some wine tasting, we also caught up on some great old movies and the entire first season of Weeds (which just might be worth getting Showtime for -- I'm hooked!).

At the risk of having this gem exposed, I would highly recommend a weekend at Clear Lake. We found our cottage, which was in the town of Lakeport, through VRBO. There's not much by way of high-end hotels or restaurants here, but if you are looking for a more 'established' experience you can check out the Konocti Resort & Spa. The Ceago Winery, which was opened by the Fetzer family when their non-compete from the sale of Fetzer Wines to Jack Daniels expired in 2004, is an absolute treasure on the North shore of the lake. Tastings are held in their beautiful Mediterranean-style villa and plans are in the works for a gourmet restaurant and resort facility with hotel rooms and casitas on the property.

Travel Recommendations & Advice from Local Experts