Great Getaways: Sonoma County, California

More than 250 wineries in Sonoma County produce countless varietals including zinfandel, pinot noir, syrah, petite sirah, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and pinot gris. Although wine making in the region can be traced back to the 1820s, nearly half of today’s wineries are less than 20 years old. Wineries are usually open to the public, and picnicking on the grounds is a favorite tradition. Take a look at some featured grape growers, along with live Webcams in the vineyards.

In the city of Sonoma, grapes were first planted by Padre Jose Altimira, founder of the Mission San Francisco Solano. The mission was built to convert the native Miwok, Pomo and Wintun people to Christianity. Today, the adobe mission and other historical buildings and sites lend a romantic air to the town. The Sonoma Plaza town square, is the largest of its kind in California.

Great wine demands great food. A hardy culinary tradition in Sonoma is reflected in the county’s restaurants featuring star chefs, many of whom have trained at the famed Culinary Institute of America in nearby Napa County. Much of the produce served in restaurants is grown locally and sold at small Sonoma farms. Olive oil is a specialty in the county, and can be bought directly from local olive growers. The Sonoma County Culinary Guild showcases some of the area’s best cuisine.

Outdoor lovers have much to do Sonoma County. It claims one of the nation’s only pygmy forests, where trees grow only in miniature due to soil variances. Other sights include the Valley of the Moon along Highway 12, from Santa Rosa east to Sonoma. Native Americans say the moon rose and set many times a night in this valley between two mountain ranges. The county also hosts 760 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline. The series of beaches along Highway 101 are dramatic and easily viewed from the road or hiking paths. Goat Rock, a volcanic formation, is one of the most visited beaches.

In the most densely forested section of the county—along the Russian River watershed — several small villages offer gay-friendly accommodations. Included are hotels that host same-sex commitment ceremonies. The town of Guerneville is a hub for clubs, cafes and restaurants frequented by LGBT visitors.

For those who like their wine paired with independent and international films, the Sonoma Valley Film Festival is an annual fête not to be missed. Held in April, the festival is known for discovering independent films that otherwise wouldn’t have a domestic audience. Each film is kicked off with a wine and food tasting.