Sonoma Valley is a paradise that makes for an amazing getaway. It’s known for its art galleries and the colonial-era plaza.
Sonoma Valley is the perfect wine country escape. Located just 40 miles north of San Francisco nestled in the picturesque Valley of the Moon, Sonoma is a place to live like none other with distinctive Sonoma valley homes for sale. In fact, Sonoma is so special that in April, 2011, Forbes Magazine released its list of “America’s Prettiest Towns” – and Sonoma ranked among the top 10. This is the second national award for Sonoma this year as the National Trust for Historic Preservation included Sonoma on its list of “America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations”.
Like a town in Tuscany, life in Sonoma revolves around the Plaza, the largest town square in California. It’s the perfect spot for getting a feel for the local flavor—and fresh goods at the Tuesday Farmer’s Market. El Dorado Kitchen, voted ‘The Best Restaurant in Sonoma’, blends sophisticated urban style with relaxed wine-country dining. The Girl & the Fig is a local favorite all year-long—but especially in warm weather with it’s inviting patio. Nearby Café Le Haye epitomizes Sonoma charm and gourmet offerings.
Home to more than 40 premium wineries, discover some of the world’s top-rated wines on the back roads of Sonoma. A few favorites include: Buena Vista (fabulous wine assortment), Chateau St. Jean (great chardonnay); Ledson Castle (77 different bottlings with some fantastic reds); and Gundlach Bundschu (known as Gun Bun for its whimsy, brilliant vintages and an outdoor stage where Shakespeare is performed).
Sonoma is an ideal getaway location for pampering and relaxation. The Kenwood Inn & Spa, just voted the best U.S. resort in the reader’s poll of Conde Nast Traveler magazine, cannot be beat. Or grab a fellow chef and hone your gourmet cooking skills at Ramekins—select from dozens of cooking classes or special guest chef demos. Head toward Glen Ellen and Kenwood and you’ll discover a local favorite—the Oak Hill Farm (known as the Red Barn) with plenty of fresh produce and handmade treasures. If cool art is on your agenda, the Sonoma Valley Museum on Broadway is a great starting point.
A drive between Napa and Sonoma is your path to The Petrified Forest—a memorable “back in time” trek for young and old. Ready for some memorable hikes? Take in the breathtaking views from the Overlook Trail or the outer loop in Bartholomew Park, both simple hikes close to the Town Square are an ideal way to start (or end) the day. With so many places to explore and enjoy, you’ll soon discover that Sonoma is truly a place like none other – a special taste of paradise.