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Itinerary Series: Water to Wine

Exploring Clarkdale's Culinary and Viticulture Delights

Welcome to the picturesque town of Clarkdale, Arizona, where natural beauty and culinary delights merge harmoniously. Join us on a delightful journey as we embark on a day filled with delectable treats, outdoor adventure, and a celebration of the finest local wines. From a charming breakfast at Violette's to kayaking along the serene Verde River and indulging in wine tastings, this itinerary promises an unforgettable experience. Come along and savor the flavors of Clarkdale!


Morning: A Flavorful Start

8:00 AM - Breakfast at Violette’s Bakery Cafe: Begin your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Violette's, the finest little French bakery in the Verde Valley. Here you will find the best French pastries outside of Europe. Get your croissant and coffee fix and check out the beautiful daily breakfast, brunch and lunch specials served all day in this outdoor cafe. Serving up classics such as Croque Monsieur, crepes, baguettes and Belgian waffle sandwiches. There is something to delight every palette here.


Open: Wednesday through Saturday from 8 AM to 2 PM

Location: 900 Main Street, Clarkdale, AZ

Phone: 928.821.6712



9:00 AM - Kayak Adventure with Clarkdale Kayak Co.: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Clarkdale as you embark on a tranquil kayak excursion with Clarkdale Kayak Co. Glide along the serene Verde River, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and local wildlife.


Paddle at your own pace and relish the peaceful ambiance. Hop in one of Clarkdale Kayak Company's top of the line, hard-shell kayaks and cruise down the scenic Verde River. These boats feature a sit-on-top design that makes them comfortable, stable and most of all, safe. Kayaking the Verde River is an absolute blast! It's a fun, interactive experience where you get to cool off and learn about the unique history of the Verde River.


Open: Daily from 8 AM to 5 PM

Location: 920 Main Street, Clarkdale, AZ

Phone: 800.478.4711

Reservations: Must book in advance by website or phone.




Afternoon: A Gastronomic and Viticultural Journey

12:30 PM - Lunch at El Toreo: Satisfy your appetite with a delightful Tex-Mex feast at El Toreo. Relish authentic flavors and indulge in a variety of Mexican specialties, from flavorful tacos to savory enchiladas. Patio seating is available and they also have a banquet room that can accommodate large groups.


Open: Monday through Thursday from 10 AM to 9 PM

Friday through Sunday from 10 AM till 10 PM

Location: 1481 West State Route 89A, Clarkdale, AZ

Phone: 928.634.5495



2:00 PM - Wine Tours at the Southwest Wine Center at Yavapai College: Embark on an educational wine journey at the Southwest Wine Center. Dedicated to educating the public about the art and science of growing wine grapes and winemaking, they offer a variety of student-crafted, award-winning wines produced at their estate vineyard and crafted at the on-site winery. When you visit their tasting room, you can expect to enjoy a flight of five student-crafted wines. Bottles of wine are available for purchase so that you can bring home a taste of the Verde Valley!


Open to the public: Thursday through Sunday from 12 PM to 6 PM.

Location: 601 Black Hills Drive, Building O, Clarkdale, AZ

Phone: 928.634.6566

Reservations: Required for all guests who wish to enjoy a flight. Reservations are for 1 hour and are limited to a maximum group of 6 people.


Walk-in guests can enjoy a glass or share a bottle on our outdoor patio.


Click here for more info and to schedule a reservation

3:30 PM - Bodega-Pierce Winery: Visit the tasting room at Bodega-Pierce Winery, a family-owned establishment that produces small-batch, handcrafted wines. Bodega Pierce is operated by two generations of award-winning Pierce Family winemakers with decades of international experience and accomplishments since 2010. Bodega Pierce highlights wine made exclusively from 18 different varietals grown at the family’s estate vineyard in the Willcox AVA. Bodega Pierce wines are designed to express the high desert terroir of the Willcox Bench that are found to be unsurpassed in producing spectacular world-class wines.


Open: Thursday through Sunday from 12 PM to 6 PM

Location: 1341 West State Route 89A, Clarkdale, AZ

Phone: 928.634.0301

Reservations: Reservations are recommended but not required.



5:00 PM - Chateau Tumbleweed: Conclude your tasting tour at Chateau Tumbleweed Tasting Room which offers a relaxed and fun setting with over a dozen different wines to try daily. Serving white, red, and rosé wines along with charcuterie plates featuring meats, cheeses, fresh and dried fruit, nuts and crackers. A large patio has panoramic views of the Verde Valley. Their 7,000 case winery is also located on-site and is viewable in their tasting room.


Open: Daily from 12 PM to 7 PM

Location: 1151 West State Route 89A, Clarkdale, AZ

Phone: 928.634.0443

Reservations: Parties of 6 or more should call ahead. Reservations encouraged on the weekends.




Evening: Reflection and Relaxation

6:30 PM - Stroll downtown and grab a bite: After a fulfilling day of kayaking and viticultural exploration, wind down with a stroll around Main Street and grab a light bite at Hermosillo Hot Dogs or Smelter Town Brewery. Relish the opportunity to reflect on the day's experiences as you take in the charming small town atmosphere.


Closing Thoughts: Cherishing Clarkdale's Treasures

As the day comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on the Water to Wine journey you've embarked upon. From a delightful breakfast at Violette's to kayaking along the serene Verde River and immersing yourself in the world of local wines, Clarkdale has unveiled its culinary and viticultural treasures. Whether you're a food enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or a wine connoisseur, this itinerary invites you to discover the heart and soul of Clarkdale, Arizona.


Please note that the timings and availability of activities may vary, so it's recommended to check in advance and make reservations as needed. Enjoy your unforgettable day in Clarkdale!

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