Sonoma County: Friendly Hospitality

I am completely smitten with Sonoma County. Charming and polite is probably the best way to sum up Sonoma, one of my favorite places in North America.

My first excursion to Sonoma was March 2008 for my honeymoon. We fell in love and recently planned another trip this past August. The scenery, the food, the people, the wine – it is all incredible.

Due to my love for this destination, and the hopelessly romantic scenery for a wedding, my next few posts will explore some of the best destinations throughout Sonoma – wine, lodging, food and recreation.

Whenever people think of wine country, Napa is the first to pop into their minds. Sonoma seems to be the best kept secret, and I’m hopeful that it will remain that way. I personally feel Napa Valley has too many mass-production vineyards, creating a commercial, stuffy ambiance. The distinct difference between Napa and Sonoma was evident within minutes of driving down the major highway lined with vineyards in Napa – Highway 29.

Sonoma, on the otherhand, has remained very rural and has a small town charm to each little community. The winemakers consider themselves farmers, and many of the vineyards once produced hops for beer or were orchards with an assortment of fruits blossoming across the countryside.

So Many Rooms from which to Choose

The lodging options are overwhelming. This was probably one of the toughest decisions – with so many neat places and so many gorgeous views, how do you choose? To top it off, many of the vineyards have guest suites on property. While most of these are limited to wine club members or VIP only, chances for finding a room on vineyard premises increases during the winter off season – an incredible overnight rate with a magical view.

If you find yourself having a tough time narrowing down the options, take a look at the broad categories and start with that selection first: (1) beds and breakfasts, (2) cottages and (3) resorts & spas.

Bed & Breakfast in Sonoma
The dozens of B&Bs throughout Sonoma County range from cottage charm to lavish spas. You can be sure, though, that most include homemade cookies and evening receptions with assorted cheeses and wine.

Below are two such B&Bs – Bella Villa Messina and the Healdsburg Inn – both located in the town of Healdsburg, but each with their own distinct style.

Resorts and Spas
The resorts and spas in Sonoma are wide in variety. Many of the inns throughout Sonoma offer an array of services – each a perfect destination for a wedding ceremony and reception. The Kenwood Inn and Spa is absolutely delightful, as evident by the pictures below.

Cottages
There are tens of dozens of cottages from which to choose. Cottages often have beautifully landscaped gardens and patios. With multiple rooms and the entertaining capabilities, a cottage is the perfect option for a family or group of friends. The bars and restaurants close early in Sonoma (9 – 10pm), so the ability to continue celebrating at your private cottage is truly ideal.

Some of these cottages are located in more remote areas amidst mountains and vineyards, while others are nestled in small, communities such as Sonoma or Santa Rosa. Below is one located in the city of Sonoma, Casa Sonoma.

With the bird’s eye view of lodging throughout Sonoma, I hope to have given you better direction as to what type of accomodations best fit your needs. Stay tuned for more Sonoma posts, including a look at some of my favorite small production wineries throughout the Russian River Valley and Dry Creek regions. Much more to come!