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Napa & Sonoma
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The twin valleys that constitute California’s most famous wine country are, together, the second most visited attraction in the state (only Disneyland is more popular). Though they’re just an hour’s drive northeast of San Francisco, the regions’ vine-covered hillsides—lush green in spring and summer, golden in fall—are reminiscent of Tuscany, and home to nearly 400 wineries (producing mostly Chardonnay, Pinot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot varietals). You could easily spend a week here flitting among tasting rooms, but that would mean forsaking some of the area’s other sensory pleasures—which include spas, idyllic sightseeing, and some of the country’s best locally sourced cuisine.
Don't Miss
- Getting out among the vines. Whether you rent a bicycle, take a farm tour, or join in a hands-on harvesting camp, experiencing the agriculture of wine can give you a deeper appreciation for it.
- Savoring the region’s culinary hot spots. Some of the world’s best restaurants are set unobtrusively among the grapevines here. With all the locally grown, organic, and sustainable produce grown here, even the vegetarian and fast-food options are above and beyond.
- Immersing yourself at a wine-country spa. Health and beauty sanctuaries abound here—and range from swanky vinotherapy sanctuaries to bubbling tubs of volcanic mud.
T+L Favorites
Where to Stay
Auberge du Soleil
The first modern boutique resort to open in Napa Valley—it turns 25 years old in 2010—is still on
... MoreWhere to Eat
What to Do
Artesa Vineyards & Winery
With its strikingly modern landscaping and architecture, this property at first looks more like a...
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Tips See All NAPA & SONOMA Tips
Tourist resources for Sonoma and Napa
For comprehensive listings of hotels, events, eateries, and activities in the area, check out the websites for the So... More
Wine-Tasting tips in Sonoma and Napa
With such a wealth of wineries to choose from, it’s essential to plan your day of wine tasting before setting out. Most winery tasting rooms are open each day between 10 a.m. and 4 or 5 p.m. (tastings... More
Getting around Sonoma and Napa
If you’re not taking part in a guided winery tour, rent a car. Most wineries are set along the main routes of Highway 12 and 121 and are clearly signposted; having your own transport will let you expl... More
Getting to Sonoma and Napa
San Francisco International and Oakland airports are each about a 1.5-hour drive from Sonoma (add another half hour for Napa). Horizon Air, however, now flies into the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County ... More
When to go to Sonoma and Napa
High season in wine country runs May through October, with wedding parties and wine lovers filling area hotels. Though the weather’s less predictable in March and April (rain is a definite possibility... More