The journey
Over the past several decades, Sonoma County has developed a reputation among wine lovers as the fresh younger sibling to long-established Napa next door. But a visit here also means soaring redwood groves, the bohemian charms of the Russian River Valley, and 55 miles of wild Pacific coast – not to mention charming small towns, outstanding restaurants showcasing local produce, and scores of great boutiques and art galleries. Woven through it all is a sense of warm, easy welcome rooted in strong community vibes and generations of history as a progressive sanctuary. Stay at Farmhouse Inn, steps from the vineyards, an ideal base for days spent exploring Sonoma’s diverse landscape followed by languid evenings with fine wines and the innovative but accessible cuisine of the much-lauded Farmhouse Restaurant – a perfect expression of the region’s endless bounty.
Day 1
Say hello to Sonoma
Your private transfer from San Francisco International Airport takes you through the famously bohemian city, whose progressive, artsy vibes have long percolated northward to your destination. Once across the Golden Gate Bridge, you travel through Marin and Sonoma Counties, taking in the fertile landscapes that have made Sonoma’s extraordinary food and wine scenes possible. This is an abundant lard
Day 2
Ride through Sonoma’s great outdoors
Sonoma is as much a nature lover’s paradise as it is a wine mecca. Spend your morning on a two-hour private horseback tour beginning in Jack London State Historic Park, led by a seasoned wrangler. The route passes vineyards, oak woodlands, and redwood groves. In this part of California, coastal fog and cooling breezes drift in from the Pacific, creating ideal conditions for growing grapes, especia
Day 3
A unique vineyard tour and a dinner to remember
Get started by exploring the family-owned Passalacqua Winery, a specialist producer of small-lot, handcrafted wines, including Passalacqua Estate Cabernet Sauvignons and single-vineyard Zinfandels, under the guidance of seasoned vintner Jessica Boone. Head next to Capo Creek Winery, where owner and chef-winemaker Mary Roy hosts a four-course lunch paired with the estate’s best wines in a private g
Day 4
Giant redwoods, a bespoke wine tasting, and a gastronomic grand finale
Among Sonoma’s natural wonders is Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. Unlike the redwood groves in the Bay Area, this one was not logged in the 18th century, and many of its trees stand more than 300 feet tall. Your guide introduces you to the gentle giant affectionately known as Colonel Armstrong, estimated to be 1,400 years old, while also taking you through the ecology and history of the
Day 5
Bid farewell to Sonoma
After breakfast at Farmstand or in your room, check out of Farmhouse Inn for the transfer to San Francisco International Airport and your flight home.
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