Cobblestones, Scones and Valentino

Let the ride take you...

Our cultural tour of Historic Long Grove, High Tea With Gerri, and a wine appreciation seminar at Valentino Vineyards will have your group raising eyebrows, pinkies and toasts all in one day!

• Hear how Historic Long Grove was established by German farmers in 1838, and learn about its rich history from a docent during a 45-minute walking tour or presentation, depending on the mobility of your group. Learn about local scandals, ties to Hollywood, a macabre story or two and the role Long Grove played during Prohibition

• Lunch will bring you to a unique experience where your hostess, Gerri, dressed in Victorian attire, welcomes groups to an authentic English High Tea. Enjoy an opportunity to converse over several courses, including gourmet sandwiches, Gerri's scones, seasonal indulgences, an array of petite pastries, and of course, her freshly brewed signature tea served in antique china.

• Spend your afternoon with the vines & wines of Valentino Vineyards. Yes, a real Rudy Valentino lives in Lake County and produces award winning wines. Learn how 25 different varieties of grapes are grown, crushed, fermented and barrel aged on their twenty acre estate, and experience the passion Rudy has for his craft. Sample and shop for your favorites to bring home.

This suggested itinerary makes for a lovely day trip and should you wish to linger in the culture of Lake County, may we entice you to stay longer? Your group can check into the beautiful Lincolnshire Marriott Resort, where a welcome reception with their locally brewed honey beer and bee hive truffles can be arranged. Then become immersed in the nautical theme of their King's Wharf Restaurant and see a Broadway musical at the Marriott Theatre.

Before heading home the next day, continue with a tour of the Genesee Theatre, a restored 1920's movie palace or the Sanfilippo Estate, also known as Place de la Musique.

However you choose to piece together your tour, your knowledgeable Lake County coordinator Jayne Nordstrom will be on hand to assist you.