This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

Great Escape: Get Away Without Crossing a Bridge

If you can't getaway to San Francisco this next week, enjoy some of the flavor of the city closer to home in the Tri-Valley.

Don’t be rushed, don’t be interrupted. And don't be burdened with's San Francisco traffic or its, how shall we say, "eccentrics." You don't have to cross the bridge to bask in the city's delights. Instead, you can get a taste of San Francisco's pleasure on this side of the water just over in the Tri-Valley.

When you getaway to the Lavandu Wellness Studio, 7398 Main St., Pleasanton, it’s like finding a peaceful place in one of the Bay Area’s many natural hideaways. From 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. six days a week (closed Fri.), the studio offers therapeutic massages and facials that relieve the body and mind, and focus on nurturing the body’s own ability to unwind and thrive. Prices range from $45-$135, and when you schedule a 90-minute massage, a complimentary mini-facial is included.  Call Lavandu at  925-399-6959.

Leave Lavandu refreshed and take a short drive to Livermore and eat at an easy-to-find sandwich shop, , at 385 S. Livermore Ave.   The popular Mr. Pickles Sandwich Shop offers San Francisco style bread, freshly baked, and sandwiches made to your liking. And get a free cookie with your sandwich!

Find out what's happening in Union Citywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The , 7000 Tesla Road, Livermore, is owned by Earl and Linda Ault.  Since 1989 they have  produced quality wines from a Chenin Blanc vineyard  grafted Chenin Blanc to a mixture of Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.  Visit the tasting room 12 noon-4 p.m. Sat. and Sun. Contact Cedar Mountain Winery to purchase wines at 925-373-6636, or email the winery at cedarmtn@wt.net

Sleep soundly at the , 6680 Regional St.  The hotel offers overnight accommodation packages, with a pet friendly and convenient location.  Ask about the St. Patrick's Day Festival Package for Sat. and Sun. March 12, 13.  The package includes overnight accommodations in a queen room, two welcome beverages and a complimentary appetizer in the Ballybunion Bar and Grill, complimentary shuttle to the festival, Irish tea and shortbread cookies in the room and breakfast for two. The rate is $109 per night for double occupancy, plus taxes.

Find out what's happening in Union Citywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?