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The most wonderful time of the year can also be a wonderful time to get away. Go play in the snow. Or the sand. See a new city. Head for the hills. If you’re feeling like ’tis the season for a change of scenery, these six U.S. destinations could make sweet spots to celebrate when you’d rather not be home for the holidays.

Slip INTO HEALDSBURG, CALIFORNIA

California wine country provides lots of tasty ways to toast the holidays.

Oenophiles will want to base themselves in the Sonoma County gem of Healdsburg, about an hour’s drive north of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.

More than 75 wineries and tasting rooms call Healdsburg home, and many are within easy walking distance of downtown’s charming 19th century plaza.

Indulge in holiday tea service at Hotel Healdsburg before picking up some one-of-a-kind creations at the 22nd annual Gift Gallery at Healdsburg Center for the Arts. Sleep among the grapevines at the tranquil Montage Healdsburg, a 258-acre retreat with an expansive spa, two pools and activities celebrating both Hanukkah and Christmas.

Go to visitcalifornia.com and montage.com/healdsburg for more. A relaxing wine country retreat, Montage Healdsburg opened in 2021 with 130 guest rooms and suites, each with their own balcony.

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