Local spa combines pampering, gourmet food, wine touring

As part of my adventure in pain relief, I stopped in for a soothing massage at La Papillon Day Spa early last week and, while there, I found out about a nifty package spa owner, LaVerne Mordus, created that combines wine tourism, gourmet food and pampering. And since today marks the beginning of National Tourism Week, I thought it an ideal time to mention it.

Here's how it works:

1. A limousine picks you up from La Papillon (yes, Francophiles, Mordus uses "la" instead of "le" to emphasize that the business is woman owned and operated) and whisks you off to our wine country back roads where you will tour and taste leisurely at  boutique wineries selected from among Ferrari-Carano, Bella Zichichi Family, Michel Schlumberger, Dry Creek, Lambert Bridge, Twomey, Rochioli Vineyards, Camellia and Rued.

2. During the tour, a gourmet, picnic lunch is provided by local deli and caterer, Sally Tomatoes. Sandwich choices include veggie, roast turkey, roast beef, corned beef or ham. Salads include Italian chicken, chicken Waldorf and balsamic roasted vegetable. Beverages are a variety of soft drinks and water.

3. The limousine returns you to La Papillon, where you end your day with a relaxing massage (Swedish, okazaki, deep tissue, acupressure and more) or facial.

This is a full-day experience priced at $300 per person or $550 per couple, including wine touring via limousine, lunch and spa treatment. This sounds like a superb deal for those who have retained their jobs during this recession; taking part would boost several local businesses, too. For reservations call 707-342-9192, or email laverne@lapapillon.com.

The accompanying slideshow offers four more pix of the spa.