Wine country doesn’t get much better than Sonoma Valley, the heart and soul of Californian wine. Laid-back and welcoming, Sonoma is home to more than 500 vineyards, towering redwood forests and quaint farming towns with world-class restaurants, acclaimed galleries and delicious dry-climate wines.

Things to do

The pride and joy of the Sonoma isn’t a single vineyard or winery, but rather the Sonoma Plaza, a historic square spanning three hectares in the centre of town. Admire its grand 19th-century architecture, including the Mission Revival City Hall, before discovering the works of nationally respected artists at The Fairmont Gallery.

Soak up Sonoma's history while savouring fine wine at the plaza’s many tasting rooms, like Three Sticks Wines, a beautifully restored mudbrick adobe dating back to 1842. For farm-to-table cuisine, head to The Girl & The Fig, an antique bar with French country fare, aperitif and a garden patio.

Food and wine lovers will find solace at Jacuzzi Family Vineyards, built in the 1920s by Italian winemakers. Tour the cellar door and taste their award-winning prosecco and Primitivo in the rustic central piazza.

Impressive views of Sonoma Valley await on the five-kilometre Overlook Trail, but for a truly unique perspective, take a hike through Jack London State Historic Park to see oak woodlands rise above your head or venture to Sonoma Mountain for its magnificent panoramas. For a dose of culture, head to the Jack London Museum, where you can relive the legend’s famous literary accomplishments.


Getting around

Sonoma is one hours’ drive from San Francisco and San Francisco International Airport. The town is well served by public transport and there are plenty of companies offering chauffeured winery tours, while renting a car offers the most flexibility and convenience.