‘Winemaker’s Daughter’ inspires resort package

Relive the epic tale of Seattle-based Pulitzer Prize winning author Timothy Egan’s book, “The Winemaker’s Daughter.”

Run of the River Inn and Refuge in Leavenworth is in the center of “Winemaker’s Daughter” country. The Inn brings the story to life with special packages that include a signed copy of the book.

The package also include three nights at Run of the River in a suite including a king-size log-hewn bed, Jacuzzi surrounded by river rock, private fireplace and a porch complete with a swing, overlooking the Icicle River. Guest will also receive breakfast for two each morning, a local wine, fruit and cheese basket upon arrival and tastings at four wineries. The Inn also offers complimentary use of mountain bikes.

The package is available year round. Price varies.

For reservations or information about “The Winemaker’s Daughter” package, call 800-288-6491 or visit www.runoftheriver.com.

Have it your way

Your Way Road Trips is a new Web site offering regional sightseeing itineraries for road trip enthusiasts who want to hit the open road and see the sights without research or guesswork.

Itineraries consist of point-to-point segments and are easily modified or shortened to suit the user’s timetable and tastes. They originate and return to centrally located gateway cities, convenient to airports. Drivers are able to begin and end their road trips at other access points along the route.

Itineraries are extensive with easy-to-follow directions and detailed regional information. Each itinerary includes a route map, road log, and coordinated sightseeing guide in a handy two pocket jacket folder. Itineraries are grouped by region and sold in sets costing $35.

To preview itineraries of gateway cities, visit www.yourwayroadtrips.com.

California rail travel

Ride the rails of yesteryear this holiday season on a fully escorted, four-day trip from Los Angeles to the San Francisco Bay, leaving on Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Passengers on the restored vintage dome car will wine and dine on holiday fare as they travel the coast route to Oakland on Nov. 25 or Dec. 25.

After a day in San Francisco, they’ll visit Napa Valley and Sausalito.

The tour ends in Oakland with visits to the restored Paramount Theatre, Jack London Square and flights back to Southern California.

Cost: $1,099 per person, double occupancy ($190 single surcharge), includes three nights at the Hyatt Fisherman’s Wharf, eight meals, open bar on the train, tours, guides and all transportation, including return airfare and shuttles to Union Station.

Contact: AFC Tours &Cruises, San Diego; 800-369-3693 or www.afctours.com.

Yellowstone elk

Observe herds of elk in Yellowstone National Park on a six-day winter tour by bus, snow coach and snowshoe, departing Feb. 20.

The group will travel by bus from Salt Lake City to Jackson Hole, Wyo., leaving the following day for a three-night stay at Yellowstone’s Old Faithful Snow Lodge.

They’ll spend the first day in snow coaches, a type of bus on tank-style treads, touring the park. The second day is free for exploring on skis or snowshoes or relaxing at the lodge.

An optional excursion to National Elk Ridge is available.

Cost: $1,175 per person, double occupancy ($300 single surcharge), includes airfare from Los Angeles, ground transportation, five nights’ accommodation, most meals, guides and tips.

Contact: Main Street Tours, Torrance; 800-300-6246 or www.mainstreettours.com.

Travel deals

Take advantage of the early ski season in Jackson Hole, Wyo., and get 50 percent discounts on packages at two resorts. Spring Creek Ranch (800-443-6139, www.springcreekranch.com) has a $150 nightly rate for two, plus tax. The Wort Hotel (800-322-2727, www.worthotel.com) has a three-night package starting at $107 per person per night, including taxes. Both deals include lodging, breakfast and daily lift tickets. Promotions run from the start of ski season through Dec. 21 at the Wort Hotel and Dec. 24 at Spring Creek Ranch.

Travel classes, seminars

Rick Steves’ Europe Through the Back Door hosts free travel classes most Saturdays at 11 a.m. at the Edmonds Theater, 415 Main St., Edmonds.

Nov. 6 – Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Nov. 13 – Steves will host the all-day European Travel Festival, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Classes are free, reservations recommended. Call 425-771-8303 ext. 298 or visit www.ricksteves.com/seattle.

The Savvy Traveler offers free travel seminars at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. most Saturdays at 112 Fifth Ave. S., Edmonds.

Nov. 6 – Kenya and Tanzania.

Nov. 13 – 10 a.m. Tuscany and Umbria.

Nov. 13 – 1 p.m. Italian art for travelers.

Nov. 20 – Costa Rica.

Dec. 4 – Undiscovered China.

French for Travelers – 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, through Oct. 28, $6.