Things to Do In Wine Country: An Adventurers Guide to the Napa and Sonoma Region

Things to Do In Wine Country: An Adventurer’s Guide to the Napa and Sonoma Region

 

California’s wine country is renowned worldwide for its exquisite vineyards and award-winning wines.  But I’ll be honest, as a very active person, it’s not my ideal vacation.  Sitting at the spa all morning, wine tasting all afternoon, and then, eating truly incredible foods from Michelin-star restaurants…I know, something’s wrong with me.

However, nestled in the heart of Northern California, wine country offers an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts AND adventure-seekers alike!  In this blog post, we will take you on a virtual tour of this idyllic region and we’ve included a few ways you can stay active while visiting!

In addition, we’ll be highlighting the best places to stay and restaurants to indulge in!

 

Getting Around Napa and Sonoma County

 

Traveling to California’s Wine Country is relatively easy as its conveniently located just north of San Francisco. If you are flying into wine country, you can pick from the following:

• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• Oakland International Airport (OAK)
• Or, if coming by private jet, both Sonoma and Napa have small regional airports!

 

You will need to rent a car to get around, and you may want to consider designating a sober driver each day.  Or if you have a larger budget, you can hire a driver or book a winery tour!  However, you can’t be as spontaneous with your adventures without a car.

 

Top 5 Places to Stay in Wine Country:

 

There are dozens of small hotels, B&B’s and of course AirBnB rentals in wine country.  However, to avoid having to drive everywhere, pick one that’s within walking distance to shops, restaurants, and a grocery store.  Or rent bikes for your stay!  More on this in a bit.

Our favorite area to stay is near Sonoma Plaza, located in the heart of Sonoma.  This historic plaza, built in the 1830s, offers a charming setting with its tree-lined streets, shops, and restaurants.  Nearby you’ll also find the beautiful Sonoma Mission and Sonoma State Historic Park.  In addition, Sonoma Plaza is the perfect place to begin hikes, bike rides, or a trail run!

Another option is to book your stay at a resort that has everything you’ll need right onsite!  Here are a few of the most exclusive accommodations in Napa Valley and Sonoma:

 

1. The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa:

This luxurious resort in Sonoma offers a blend of elegance and relaxation, the world-class Willow Stream spa with geothermal pools, a championship golf course, and stunning views of the Sonoma Valley.  And it’s not too far from Sonoma Plaza!

 

2. Meadowood Napa Valley Resort:

Tucked away in the lush forests of St. Helena, the Meadowood offers a secluded and luxurious retreat. The resort features exquisite accommodations, Michelin-starred dining, and a host of recreational activities such as hiking, tennis, and spa treatments. In addition, this is also a favorite spot of many celebrities.  Derek Jeter and Hannah Davis were recently married here!

 

3. Solage, an Auberge Resort & Spa:

Located in Calistoga, this contemporary resort boasts stylish accommodations and a gorgeous spa.  You can also take advantage of the resort’s complimentary bikes to explore the surrounding vineyards and charming town.  And yes, more celebrity spottings here, including the Kardashians.  And lastly with Chef Gustavo Rios’ Baja-inspired creations, Picobar and Solbar are not to be missed!

 

4. Bardessono

Situated in Yountville, Badessono is the epitome of “green luxury”.  Winner of many awards, you’ll find a deep commitment to conservation and renewable energy.  And with the spa suites, you’ll never want to leave!

 

5. Auberge Du Soleil:

Set amidst rolling vineyards and breathtaking landscapes, this Napa Valley gem conjures up the French countryside.  Add in Robert Curry at the helm of his Michelin-starred restaurant (15 years in a row) and the adults-only atmosphere, it’s a great way to escape the everyday!

 

Things to Do in Wine Country Other Than Drinking Wine:

 

We all have our favorite wineries and vineyards we’ll want to visit, but what active things can you do in wine country?  Here’s lots of ideas to keep you busy in between wine tastings:

 

1. Rent a Bike or Book a Bike Tour

Take advantage of the region’s natural beauty by exploring the numerous biking trails. From quiet vineyard roads to steep hilly sections, there are options for all skill levels.  Keep in mind, most of the roads throughout Napa Valley and Sonoma do not have a bike lane.  In addition, they are quite narrow.  And the speed limits on the bigger roads are set at 40-50mph. 

However, if you do choose to rent a bike, shops in the area include:

• Wine Country Cyclery
• Spoke Folk Cyclery
• Calistoga Bike Shop

 

If you’d feel more comfortable traveling with a group, and a guide that knows the best roads to ride, and the best vineyards to visit by bike, book a tour!  A few to check out include Napa Valley Bike Tours or Sonoma Valley Bike Tours (both also rent bikes).

 

2. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

For something different, try a hot air balloon ride to soar above the vineyards and enjoy breathtaking views of California’s wine country. Try Balloons Above the Valley to experience the beauty of wine country and create a truly unforgettable experience.

 

3. Go for a Hike or Trail Run

Discover the natural beauty of Sonoma and Napa Valley through its scenic hiking and biking trails. Check out Sonoma County Regional Parks for ideas!  In addition, the small little farm roads that wind up the hillsides in both Sonoma and Napa Valley are perfect for runs.

There are a few state parks just a short drive from wine country.  Here you can run amongst the towering redwood trees, jog through the peaceful trails, and give yourself a chance to reconnect with nature.  These are a few we like, and you can always check out the California State Parks website for more details:

• Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
• Jack London State Historic Park
• Bothe-Napa Valley State Park
• Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

 

4. Horseback Riding in Sonoma Valley

Embark on a horseback riding adventure through the vineyards and rolling hills of wine country!  Sonoma Valley Stables can help you book a ride, take a lesson, and will introduce you to their horses!

 

5. Zip Line Tours in Wine Country

Need an adrenaline rush?  Try out the thrilling zip line tour amidst the vineyards at Sonoma Canopy Tours!

 

6. Go Canoeing or Kayaking on the Russian River

Paddle along the scenic Russian River, surrounded by vineyards and lush landscapes with Russian River Adventures!  Rather just go it on your own?  Head for Monte Rio Beach on the Russian River, a popular spot in the summertime!

 

7. Play a Round of Golf or Take a Lesson

Try one of the beautiful golf courses in wine country, such as the Silverado Resort and Spa in Napa Valley or the Sonoma Golf Club.  If you’re new to the sport, or intimidated to play a full round, perhaps try the driving range or take a lesson?

 

 

8. Go for a Swim or Soak in the Hot Springs

 

Besides the usual spa day, why not indulge in the healing powers of the natural hot springs throughout Calistoga?  There are several spots in Calistoga to relax in mineral-rich waters and experience ultimate bliss.  Here are a few you could try:

• Calistoga Spa Hot Springs
• UpValley Inn & Hot Springs
• Indian Springs Calistoga

 

To swim laps or just cool off in the afternoons, book an Airbnb or VRBO rental with a pool and jacuzzi!  And make sure the pool and jacuzzi will be heated during your stay- there’s often an extra charge for this!  However, if you’d rather book a hotel or resort with a pool instead, here are some more of wine country’s best:

• Francis Ford Coppola Winery: Two beautiful pools & lots of private cabins for day use!
• The Solage Resort & Spa hosts summer pool parties!
• The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa has received awards for its Willow Stream Spa, complete with geothermal pools!

Don’t forget Monte Rio Beach on the Russian River, a must-stop for those who want to swim, kayak, canoe or rent a boat!

 

9. Explore the Castles and Architecture of Wine Country

 

While many of the vineyards have French-styled chateaus, there are also a few that have unique, medieval-style architecture.  Here are a few Napa Valley wineries that are worth the visit just to wander around the grounds:

• Chateau Montelena Winery: Known for its role in the famous 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting, Chateau Montelena offers a historic setting and exceptional wines.
• Buena Vista Winery: The oldest commercial winery in California, established in 1857 by Agoston Haraszthy, a Hungarian immigrant often referred to as the “Father of California Viticulture.”
• Castello di Amorosa: Take a guided tour of Castello di Amorosa to explore the castle’s impressive architecture and enjoy its exquisite wines.

 

10. Plan a Farm Visit

 

I think because I grew up in New York City, farm animals were something I was never really exposed to on a regular basis.  Except at the petting zoo.  So I have somewhat of an obsession with visiting baby goats, alpacas, llamas, sheep, and dairy cows.  I’ve booked more farm stays than you might imagine!

If you too want to learn more about the working farms of Napa and Sonoma Valley, and perhaps book a farm tour, here are a few nearby:

• Redwood Hill Farm: A goat dairy in Sebastopol.
• McClelland’s Dairy: A dairy farm near Petaluma.
• Tara Firma Farms: A regenerative farm in Petaluma.
• Connolly Ranch: An educational farm in Napa that connects kids and families to farm life!

 

Top 10 Restaurants in Wine Country:

 

Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, here are some of the top restaurants in wine country.  Many of these gems showcase local, seasonal ingredients sourced from their own gardens.  It should go without saying that each restaurant has a very impressive wine list.  Keep in mind, you will need to make a reservation, sometimes months in advance, to get a table at some of the more popular establishments!

 

1. The Girl & The Fig (Sonoma Plaza): French-inspired cuisine with a California twist.
2. The French Laundry (Yountville): A three-star Michelin restaurant by renowned chef Thomas Keller.
3. Glen Ellen Star (Glen Ellen): A cozy restaurant with a wood-fired oven that serves creative, seasonal dishes.
4. SingleThread (Healdsburg): A three-star Michelin restaurant inspired by Japanese kaiseki cuisine.
5. Bouchon (Yountville, Napa Valley): Classic French bistro fare at a beautiful Thomas Keller establishment.
6. The Restaurant at Meadowood (St. Helena): A three-Michelin-starred restaurant with exquisite tasting menus.
7. Valette (Healdsburg): Modern American cuisine.  Be sure to try their signature dish, “Piggy Bank.”
8. Mustards Grill (Napa Valley): A local favorite, American cuisine with a California flair.
9. Redd Wood (Yountville): Modern Italian cuisine. Wood-fired pizzas and house-made pastas.
10. El Dorado Kitchen (Sonoma Plaza): Located in the historic El Dorado Hotel.

 

For those who want to experience a little food from each of the best Napa restaurants, and throw in some shopping, try the Oxbow Public Market in Downtown Napa!

Things to Do in Wine Country Wrap-Up

 

So by now, you’ve figured out that there are lots of things you can do in wine country besides drinking wine.  And, Sonoma and Napa are just two of the many idyllic towns in wine country!  The entire region provides an enchanting destination for wine lovers and travelers seeking a taste of California’s natural beauty, gourmet cuisine, and unparalleled hospitality!

For more travel tips in California, check out some of our other blogs:

• Road Trip Through Big Sur
• Biking on Catalina Island
• Camping in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon
• Visiting Joshua Tree National Park

 

Thanks for reading and happy trip planning to wine country!

 

Meredith McConvill, Top Rope Media