The pastorally chic area of Northern California known as Wine Country is the ultimate ‘chosen land’ for high quality wine production in the United States. Though it wasn’t until the 1970s that the region was taken seriously as a major contender in the wine industry, today both Napa and Sonoma Valleys flourish with hundreds of internationally celebrated wineries.
Whether taking a day trip from San Francisco or spending a week relaxing at a quaint bed and breakfast overlooking a vineyard, a trip to Wine Country will be a rejuvenating plunge into great food, wine and California culture. The largest wine growing region is Napa Valley. Cities within the Valley, like Calistoga, Oakville, St. Helena and Napa itself boast small and large wineries such as: Sterling, Robert Mondavi, Beringer and the Hess Collection.
Sonoma County is another hugely popular region of Wine Country. Comprised of over 200,000 acres of varied terrain resting between the Mayacamas Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Sonoma has a dynamic wealth of vineyards and postcard-perfect scenery. Wine tasting is just one of the many activities featured here. Enjoy the Great Outdoors by playing a round of gold on an award-winning course, take a sunset hot air balloon ride over the rolling grape hills, spend the day at a farmer’s market or take a bike tour through the plush vineyards. For guests wanting to be pampered like only this area can; dozens of state-of-the-art spas await. There is also a strong arts scene, where local theaters, galleries and museums are popular attractions. In addition to Napa and Sonoma; Mendocino, Russian River Valley and Lake County are other plush viticultural regions that produce large quantities of wine.
With the natural synergy between locally grown wine, produce and artisanal foods; the cuisine of California’s Wine Country is unmatched. Top chefs from around the world flock here to create menus filled with sustainable and gourmet ingredients. From exclusive tasting menus at French Laundry or The Farmhouse Inn, to beautifully paired wine-inspired dishes at The Fig Café or Cuvee; there is a uniquely delicious meal waiting to be devoured.
The closest major airports are located in San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose and Sacramento. From there, travelers will have the option of renting a car or taking a shuttle or bus into the regions of Wine Country. Driving, walking and biking are the best ways to get around while in a town. Napa County has a public transportation authority (NCTPA) that runs several bus lines throughout the Napa Valley and neighboring towns.
Due to the diversity in terrain and proximity to the ocean, Wine Country encounters several microclimates, though the majority of the region is within the Mediterranean climate zone. The ideal times to visit are spring through autumn, though prices on hotels are slashed during the winter months.
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Inn At Sonoma
Hotel
This luxury 19 room inn is located in Sonoma, California at the epicenter of Wine Country. Guestrooms range from Queen to Deluxe King and each come with their own fireplace, plush bathrobes and private bath. Not only is there a bountiful breakfast buffet each morning, but there is complimentary afternoon wine and homemade cookies and snacks throughout the day. Other luxury amenities include a turn-down service, wireless internet and a rooftop hot tub.(more)
Zinfandel Inn
Hotel
This English Tudor mansion is in the St. Helena section of the Napa Valley wine region. With over 200 wineries and fabulous restaurants in the area, this luxurious inn is perfect for that sophisticated wine lover. Wine and champagne greet guests upon arrival and all rooms are furnished with fireplaces, whirlpool tubs and private balconies or decks. All stays come with a lavish homemade breakfast spread to start your day in beautiful Wine Country.(more)
Napa Valley Railway Inn
Hotel
In the small town of Yountville within the heart of Napa Valley lies this railway train-turned hotel. Each guestroom is a boxcar that was restored and furnished into cozy suites, adorned with antique armoires and full tiled bathrooms. This unique inn is walking distance to the center of town where there are several famous and delicious restaurants (both budget blowing and budget friendly). A privacy lovers dream; the rooms have no phone and there is no on-site staff, leaving you and your travel companion to fend for yourselves.(more)
Beltane Ranch
Hotel
The Beltane Ranch is a small, five guestroom bed and breakfast with private cottages in Glen Ellen, California, just north of Sonoma. The 105 acres of land it sits on is dotted with fruit trees, gardens, an olive orchard and vineyard that sells grapes to the local winemakers. A hearty and homemade breakfast is served each morning made from fresh and local ingredients, many from their own back yard. There is also an on-site tennis court and 20 vineyards within a five mile radius.(more)
Calistoga Inn
Hotel
Located in the heart of Wine Country, the Calistoga Inn can be considered the best deal in Napa Valley. This European style no frills Inn has the charm and spirit of the old frontier. Below the guestrooms is the restaurant and micro-brewery of the same name. Locals and visitors alike come here to have a great meal and listen to live music until the morning hours. Rates are low compared to other Wine Country hotels and inns, so the Calistoga is perfect for the traveler on any budget.(more)
Buena Vista Winery
Attraction
Buena Vista Winery, now called Buena Vista Carneros, is California’s oldest winery. Founded in Sonoma Valley in 1857 by Hungarian immigrant, Agoston Haraszthy, Buena Vista winery paved the way for the now over 400 wineries in Wine Country, California. Located just five minutes from Sonoma’s famous plaza square, visitors can tour the winery year-round. They offer public tours as well as tastings and private events. Buena Vista is noted for making four types of wine: Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay and Merlot.(more)
Balloons Above The Valley
Attraction
A unique and exiting way to tour Wine Country is by hot air balloon. With Balloons Above The Valley, guests can have a bird’s eye view of the Napa Valley wineries. The hour long flights silently float above the trees, hillsides, valleys and vineyards for a breathtaking view that can’t be found on the ground. Including in the flight is pickup and return service to your hotel, a narrated tour by professional and experienced pilots and a champagne brunch overlooking the Napa River.(more)
Wine Country Bikes
Attraction
Whether renting, going on a half day excursion or taking a multi-day tour, biking through Wine Country is a scenic and adventurous way to tour the area. Wine Country Bikes, located in Sonoma Valley offers bikers of all experience levels to rent their own bike or choose a group or guided tour throughout the vineyards and coastline. The single-day tour includes a casual ride to some popular vineyards and a scenic picnic lunch. For the more advanced biker, there are treks up rugged coastal ranges, as well as relaxing luxury B&B tours. Bikers are also welcome to custom-design their own.(more)
Platypus Tours
Attraction
Platypus Tours takes wine lovers on a limo bus tour of smaller, historic wineries in Sonoma and Napa Valley. At least four wineries are visited during the trip where guests learn about and taste some of the finest wine in the world. The tour also showcases an insider tip on some of the most affordable, yet tastiest wines that the area has to offer. The tour also includes a gourmet picnic lunch that is enjoyed at one of the wineries. Other specialty packages like historic and Hispanic tours are also available.(more)
Oxbow Public Market
Attraction
Oxbow Public Market, located along the river in the heart of Napa Valley is a fantastic closed market with a wide array of vendors selling fresh, locally grown foods, artisan cheeses and wines. There are several restaurants within the market as well, including a popular burger stand, gourmet Venezuelan cuisine and an oyster bar. The market also has the luxury of having a wine merchant who has an extensive selection of wines from the majority of vineyards in the area. Come on Tuesday nights where you can catch a live music happy hour.(more)