Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/301701
40 BRAVA MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 /// HIT THE TRAIL /// > Enjoy delightful wine, delicious food and breathtaking scenery—no plane ticket to California necessary. Sip locally made wine while relaxing against a stunning backdrop as you fol- low the Great River Road Wine Trail from Minnesota through western Wisconsin into Iowa where lush river bluffs offer exceptional climate, unique grape varieties thrive and nine wineries craft signature vintages. ŀIS THREE TO ǠVEDˬY EXPEDITION combines elegant tasting rooms, match- less views and small-town charm. Taste one-of-a-kind vino from cold-hardy grapes like La Crescent and Frontenac Gris, or hard cider at Maiden Rock Win- ery and Cidery. Wineries anchor the trip, but quaint towns, attractions and seasonal festivals add color. Take in interpretive exhibits at the Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center in Prescott or the annual Stockholm Art Fair on July 19. Bring a map and cash, as rolling hills make for spotty GPS and some establish- ments don't accept plastic. Leave room in your trunk, as many wines can only be purchased at the vineyards. greatriver- ROˬDWINETRˬILORGq"NNˬŀOMˬS#ˬTES EAT The Stockholm Pie Company is famous for its fruit and cream pies, but offers quiche and sandwiches (if you insist on a proper meal before indulging in dessert). SLEEP The Tritsch House Bed and Breakfast in Alma is the perfect combination of antique charm and modern amenities, nestled against Mississippi River bluffs. The Fountain City Mo- tel offers comfortable and economical rooms. DO The Great Alma Fishing Float puts you directly on the river. Flip the orange sign to hail the ferry, and be whisked out to the float. Spend the day fishing or enjoy the view and rustic café. wigrr.com. CYCLING/ELROY-SPARTA This 32-mile Elroy-Sparta bike trail winds through three tunnels and five communities (equipped with restrooms, restaurants and lodging). The trail, on a converted rail bed, is easy riding—perfect for families. Be sure to bring a light for the tunnels. The Franklin Victorian Bed and Breakfast offers a shuttle service for guests. elroy-sparta-trail.com. –A.T.B. SAILING/DOOR AND BAYFIELD COUNTIES Let a captain sail you along Lake Michigan's cedar-covered shoreline with views of the limestone Ellison Bay Bluffs, the Sister Islands, coves and other serene sights. Or, shove off from Bayfield for one or several days to tour the 22 Apostle Islands, spot sea caves, survey bird life and learn about Lake Superior's ecosystem and rich history. saildoorcounty.com. superiorcharters.com. –Leslie Jernegan FAST DRIVING/ELKHART LAKE Feel the need for speed? Put it behind the wheel at Road America. Take the full-day group Racing Adventure Program where you'll speed along in a racecar and learn the physics of driving with professional driving coaches. It's hair-on-fire fun. Off the track, stay on the water at one of several Elkhart Lake resorts. roadamerica.com. elkhartlake.com. –Kate Bast TO TASTE THE VINE The Great River Road Wine Trail, Mississippi River PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHANNA WOLF