Luxurious Wine Country Road Trip to Sonoma County

Wander Sonoma County Wine Country

Start your getaway in the beautiful town of Sonoma, where you’ can experience’ll find California’s first premium winery, Buena Vista. Founded in 1857, this legendary winery offers much to see and sample. Taste incredible wines in the tasting room or enjoy a picnic lunch on the beautiful grounds with a cheese and charcuterie board.

For another fascinating taste of history dating back to the 1800s, make your way to the Sonoma Plaza, which is full of inviting tasting rooms, amazing restaurants, one-of-a-kind shopping, and historic California landmarks.

Enjoy a refreshing sparkling flight at SIGH Champagne Bar, where you’ll find an array of quality Champagne and sparkling wines in a lively, comfortable atmosphere.

For a unique experience, head to Hanson of Sonoma Distillery, which specializes in crafting premium organic vodka and whiskey and enjoyable tasting experiences in a scenic setting. Taste their line of vodkas, or, may we suggest the martini and caviar pairing.

Indulge in Sonoma

At El Dorado Kitchen, enjoy California-inspired cuisine with a focus on the freshest farm- and ranch-raised ingredients. Executive Chef Armando Navarro’s inspired menu features seasonal ingredients complemented by a robust wine list and signature cocktails.

Wind down in a suite at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. This beautiful Sonoma County resort is nestled in a breathtaking setting that blends urban luxury with California comforts, all in the backdrop of scenic Sonoma County Wine County. Relish the beautifully landscaped grounds, stunning pool, and majestic redwood trees.

Start your day at Sante Restaurant at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn, which has earned a national reputation for outstanding food, evidenced by its AAA Four Diamond Award and Michelin designations. Dive into dishes like Brioche French Toast or seasonal Dungeness Crab Benedict.

Experience the inn’s famous Fairmont Spa for an impressive array of therapeutic spa services, restorative treatments, and rejuvenating soaks.

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

Head for vineyard views and a wine and food pairing at St. Francis Winery & Vineyards in Santa Rosa. Surrounded by the sprawling estate and vineyards, this multi-course experience features award-winning wines paired with a seasonal menu highlighting Sonoma County’s rich agricultural and culinary traditions.

Now its time for nearby Healdsburg, a wine and culinary epicenter at the juncture of three famous winegrowing regions: The Russian River, Dry Creek, and Alexander Valleys. Spend an afternoon exploring the charming town plaza surrounded by a mix of shops, restaurants, and downtown Healdsburg wine tasting rooms.

Stop into the numerous Healdsburg art galleries to browse and be inspired, like the Paul Mahder Gallery, featuring world-class contemporary art. While you peruse the gallery, taste the portfolio of wines from GrapeSeed.

For a memorable dinner, discover Valette Restaurant for Californian cuisine and wine in an upscale space. Here, an artisanal approach incorporates the local farm-fresh seasonal bounty of Sonoma County. One of the most popular selections is the “Trust Me” tasting menu, which is a chef-guided tour through four (or more) seasonal dishes.

Relax & Unwind

Retreat to a spacious, luxurious suite at the Farmhouse Inn, located just minutes away in the neighboring town of Forestville. The inn offers stylish comfort, attention to detail, and laid-back warmth. The Farmhouse Inn’s restaurant boasts a Michelin star and is a wonderful place to savor dinner or the two-course signature breakfast in the sun-drenched courtyard.

Another great lodging option is Vinarosa Resort & Spa in Santa Rosa. Here you’ll find a recently renovated private oasis, full of Sonoma County Wine Country charm and beautiful views. Enjoy some healthy pampering at the onsite The Spa at Vinarosa. Nearby, relish a romantic dinner in the vineyards at John Ash to top off an unforgettable day.

Up Up And Away

Rise and shine for a truly spectacular experience on a hot air balloon. Float above vineyards and rolling hills when you book a sunrise flight or another tour from one of these experienced providers: Santa Rosa Ballooning and Wine Country Balloons.

Celebrate with a post-flight breakfast at a local eatery and then embark go on your own Healdsburg winery tour. Start with a tasting from Roth Estate Winery, where they pour luxury Bordeaux varietals from Sonoma County’s best AVAs. Enjoy a wine cave tour or game of bocce ball on the outdoor court.

Make your way across the road to Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards & Winery for a tour of the spectacular 1,300-acre property, featuring vineyards, gardens, horse stables, and more. Don’t miss the wine and culinary pairing here, which incudes curated dishes featuring the estate’s own fresh herbs, fruits, and vegetables.

Sip at Lancaster Estate set on 53 acres of vineyards and the rich, volcanic soils and rolling hillsides of Alexander Valley. Lancaster Estate grows coveted Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Petite Verdot and Cabernet Franc, with excellent expression noticeable in each wine.

Wine and Dine

Cap off your culinary-inspired day at Dry Creek Kitchen on the delightful Healdsburg Plaza. Enjoy the refined dining room or sit al fresco on the vine-covered terrace. Experience Chef Charlie Palmer’s memorable take on Californian cuisine, served alongside incredible wines. Dry Creek Kitchen’s five-course tasting is the headliner, with delectable dishes that may include gnocchi with lamb ragù and the pastry chef’s lemon tart with pistachio sable.

Enjoy a nightcap at nearby Spoonbar, before retreating to the comforts of your overnight accommodations. Some nearby options include Hampton Inn & Suites or Holiday Inn Express in the charming town of Windsor.

Before for your journey home, take in one last mind and body spa treat. Relax at the Farmhouse Inn spa by the pool and slip into a state of zen with exclusive spa treatments that utilize ingredients grown in gardens on-site.

Not Ready to Go Home Yet?

If you’re craving more adventure in Sonoma County Wine Country, feed your mental and physical wellness with a helicopter ride to the Sonoma Coast aboard Helico Sonoma. Let your pilot showcase the most stunning views the West Coast has to offer, as you fly from Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa over Sonoma County’s expansive coastline.

Extend your stay at Timber Cove Resort in the breathtaking seaside town of Jenner. This secluded, romantic getaway spot offers rooms with fireplaces and stunning ocean views, perched above a private cove and bordered by majestic forests.