Tour opulent rooms, lavish gardens, and ornate pools.

Hearst Castle , the 28-year-long project of architect Julia Morgan for newspaper king William Randolph Hearst, is a testament to over-the-top architecture--and opulence. Saying that the swimming pools are ornate, the gardens lavish, and the art priceless is an understatement.

To walk through some of the 165 rooms, book one of four different tours (in spring, a special evening tour is added). Don't miss the indoor Roman Pool, decorated with gold tile and eight statues of Roman gods, goddesses, and heroes. If you're on the grounds at dusk, aim to catch the spectacular sunset view from the terrace near the outdoor Neptune Pool.

If you prefer the do-it-yourself approach, take a self-guided tour of the estate’s gardens and Neptune Pool, and stroll walkways and grounds at your own pace. Self-guided tour times start after regular guided tours have ended for the day and last until sunset. Helpful guides remain on site to answer any questions and give insights on sculptures, gardens, and landscape.

Sunlight and Water will transform eight tasting rooms, a restaurant, and a hotel in downtown Los Olivos into a Meandering Gallery experience showcasing Mark Robert Halper's portraits of 110 Santa Barbara County, California winemakers. The six month photographic exhibition will open to coincide with the debut release of his coffee-table book, Sunlight and Water: Celebrating the Winemakers of Santa Barbara County. Wine and art related events will continue through February of 2011. More than 15 events such as book signings, wine tastings, photography workshops, artist presentations and more are added to complement the exhibition. Check the website. The intimate portraits of Sunlight and Water celebrate the romance of wine country, the passion of the vintners, and the artistry of great wine.