Author Thomas C. Wilmer
Award winning author and photographer Thomas Wilmer knows a thing or two about travel—he's been around the world four times and has logged more than two million miles over the course of his successful writing career. You'd never guess from Thomas Wilmer's website that he was dragged kicking and screaming to the Internet by friends and colleagues. I love this statement from his Contact Page:
Thomas C. Wilmer resides in Morro Bay, California, but travels the world extensively. The best way to catch up with him is by e-mail, unless he’s on the high seas or riding a camel or something, in which case he’ll get back to you as soon as he can.
Though he specializes in stories about international travel, Thomas Wilmer resides in Morro Bay, California, and has written two books about travel along the Golden State coast: Romancing the Coast: Romantic Getaways Along the California Coast and California Coast Getaways: Classic Resorts and Inns Along the Coast Between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Thomas Wilmer has also authored countless magazine and newspaper articles, and has a special gift for telling stories about the people and places he's encountered around the world.
Livermore Valley Wine Country
His latest book showcases one of California's oldest winemaking regions, the Livermore Valley. The Wine Seeker's Guide to Livermore Valley is the first exclusive guide to one of the San Francisco bay area's hidden gems. The book features more than forty wineries, including photographs and interviews with winery owners and winemakers. Also provided are directions, operating hours, and contact information for each participating Livermore Valley winery.
Although commercial vines had been planted as far back as the 1840s, the international 1889 Paris Exposition marked the debut of the Livermore wine region on the world scene. This landmark event featured over 8,300 wine exhibitors, including French houses like Lafite, Margaux, and Haut-Brion. In a significant win for American producers, Charles Wetmore of Livermore's Cresta Blanca Winery received the Grand Prize for his 1884 Sauvignon Blanc. The Valley has been a vibrant, wine-producing region ever since.
One of California's Oldest Wine Regions
Spanish Missionaries Planted the First Grapes in the 1760s
The Wine Seeker's Guide to Livermore Valley
by Thomas C. Wilmer
The Wine Seeker's Guide to Livermore Valley by Thomas C. Wilmer
The area's rich history is woven throughout the book, which includes interviews with winemakers on both ends of the spectrum. Tri-Valley Area wineries range from industry giants Wente and Concannon which produce nearly half a million cases annually—to small family-owned operations like Rodrigue Molyneaux Winery and Occasio Winery which produce 1,000.
In addition to area history and profiles about the local wineries, Thomas Wilmer offers a guidebook for the Tri-Valley Area, with information about restaurants, golf, local hiking trails, the Niles Canyon Railway, and other places of interest. Even for someone like myself who grew up in the area, this information-packed volume is the latest must-have resource for anyone who wants to celebrate and appreciate the uniqueness of this popular wine region. It's a great gift idea for anyone who shares a passion for the history and beauty of Livermore Valley.
Wine Tasting on the Rails
Niles Canyon Railway is actively planning new runs for 2026. Expect tastings from the Boisset Collection (Napa/Sonoma/France varietals with an ambassador-led presentation), charcuterie, and a souvenir glass. It’s ideal for wine seekers who want history, scenery, and sipping without the usual tasting-room shuffle.
Niles Canyon Railway is actively planning new runs for 2026. Expect tastings from the Boisset Collection (Napa/Sonoma/France varietals with an ambassador-led presentation), charcuterie, and a souvenir glass. It’s ideal for wine seekers who want history, scenery, and sipping without the usual tasting-room shuffle.
The California Coastline Has Many Stunning Venues
Popular Wedding Destinations Include Laguna Beach, Malibu, Half Moon Bay
Romancing the Coast
Romantic Getaways Along the California Coast
by Thomas C. Wilmer
Romancing the Coast: Romantic Getaways Along the California Coast by Thomas C. Wilmer
This practical travel guide profiles 68 handpicked getaways, stretching from Arcata in the north down to San Diego in the south. It covers everything from upscale urban hotels to cozy, rustic inns tucked into coastal canyons or perched by the Pacific. Each entry includes details on accommodations, nearby activities, dining options, spa services, historical notes, and suggestions for weddings or honeymoons. It balances luxury, like the San Ysidro Ranch where John and Jackie Kennedy honeymooned, with charming hideaways, making it accessible for different budgets and tastes.
John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier married on September 12, 1953 and chose to spend part of their honeymoon in California. The San Ysidro Ranch, a historic luxury hideaway in the foothills of Montecito (near Santa Barbara) offered both privacy and romance. Founded in 1893, the Ranch has long attracted celebrities and notable figures. This popular high-end destination perfectly embodies the "romancing the coast" theme—secluded yet scenic, blending California coastal beauty with celebrity history.
Rodrigue Molyneaux Winery
3053 Marina Avenue, Livermore 94550
Page Mill Winery
1960 South Livermore Avenue, Livermore 94550
Livermore California Red Wine Bottles
See the Livermore California Red Wine Bottles Collection
Livermore California Wine Country Bottles Winery Tasting Fun Pullover HoodieLivermore California Wine Country Bottles Winery Tasting Fun Tote Bag
Visit the Livermore Valley Wine Country
Livermore Valley Wine Country Shopping
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