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Sonoma County Wine Country
A Postcard from Sonoma County
Where to start? You can escape to the beach to go whale watching, or you may decide that you prefer a drive or hike through the valley, or along the Russian River. Antique shopping and day spas are also available to visitors you desire a more leisurely vacation, however hot air balloon rides and horseback riding are available to the outdoor enthusiast. The Sonoma County Wine Country has a little bit of everything, especially great wine and beautiful vineyards, all at your disposal when you visit this breathtaking region. The vacation escape of your dreams waits in the Sonoma County Wine Country!
 
About Sonoma Valley, California
Sonoma is often thought of as the "other" Wine Country, forever in the shadow of Napa Valley. This distinction offers residents of Sonoma the luxury of freedom from the crowded daily wine tours, yet still reaping the benefits of its luscious backcountry location. "The Valley of The Moon", Jack London's literary name for Sonoma Valley is just one hour north of San Francisco. This relaxing and livable wine town is preferable to Napa, if what you are looking for is a quiet get away or a beautiful country home.
"Slonoma", as the locals put it, is best known for its vineyards, but that's not all that the area has to offer. There are a number of other attractions, historical sites, and recreational opportunities. Among Sonoma's ten state parks are Annadel State Park, Jack London State Historic Park and the Sonoma Coast State Beach. There are twelve appellations in the county including Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Russian River Valley, Knights Valley, Chalk Hill, Green Valley, Sonoma Carneros, Sonoma Valley, Sonoma Mountain, Sonoma Coast and Northern Sonoma. The first six areas mentioned, located in the northwest part of Sonoma County, are all influenced by the Russian River and its tributaries. The Russian River runs through the heart of Sonoma and many beautiful cottages can be found on its banks. Among the many other natural resources that can be found in Sonoma are Mount St. Helena in Knights Valley, the 16 mile "Valley of the Moon" stretch and the wonderful interior of Sonoma, featuring cool forests of ancient redwoods.
The climate is soft and temperate, mild winters and sunny summers make Sonoma attractive during all four seasons. Within its borders are the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Mayacamas Mountains to the east, the San Pablo Bay towards the south, and to the north are the Geysers. This diverse environment has made real estate increasingly popular to those wishing to live amongst a varied and exciting region.
An Average Lifestyle in Sonoma
Compared to Napa, whose vineyards are often crowded and corporate, Sonoma offers families a more homespun living atmosphere. There are many original vineyard homes, most of which are family owned and passed down through generations. This quality of Sonoma makes it a warm and refreshing place to live. In the costal regions of Sonoma many people benefit from the sea, catching seafood or simply enjoying a sunny day on the beach. The culinary reputation of Sonoma is another element which adds to the peaceful and relaxing local atmosphere.
Things to Do in Sonoma
· Riverfront resorts, redwood parks, canoeing and kayaking, beaches
· Quiet back roads criss-cross Sonoma County, perfect for country drives and cycling
· Championship golf courses countywide, from the ocean to the mountains
· History: Mexican, Spanish, Russian, and Early Californian forts, missions, mansions
· More than 100 farms and specialty growers open to visitors and groups
· Water Sports: Lake Sonoma, ocean fishing charters, water-skiing, canoeing, kayaking
· Shopping: Premium factory outlets, antique stores, art galleries, craft boutiques, wine country gifts
· Outdoor Recreation: Hiking, biking, fishing, wildflower-carpeted state and regional parks, protected wetlands explored via boardwalk
· Spas: An eclectic collection of day and resort spas offering a range of treatment options from the traditional to the avant garde
· Art & culture: symphony, theater and headliner concerts, artist studios, galleries, walks, classes
· Adrenaline sports: mountain biking, skydiving, trapeze play, ropes courses, hot air ballooning, race car driving
Near-By Excursions
• Napa, San Francisco, Sausalito
Cultural Activities in Sonoma
• The Environmental Discovery Center of Sonoma County
• Sonoma Train Town's scale railroad
Location
One hour north of San Francisco
Distance to other major cities:
San Francisco : 50 Miles
Getting To Sonoma
Commercial flights into San Francisco, then a one-hour easy drive.
Weather in Sonoma
Mild coastal weather, with storms mostly December-February
Temperate Mediterranean-style weather
Population: 9,128; 30% over 65
Median Age, 2000: 37.5
Economics
Median Family Income: $36,784
Principle Industries: Wine, Culinary Arts
Higher Education
Sonoma State University
Helpful resources:
WineZone
Vacation properties and homes for sale in Sonoma County Wine Country, CA
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Jan: Sonoma Valley Olive Fest.
Apr: Art Op
Wine Tasting
Ballooning & Skydiving
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