When most people think of Sonoma, world-class wine is usually the first thing that comes to mind—and for good reason. But what we love most about living here (and hosting guests at The Wolf & Horseshoe) is everything that exists beyond the tasting room.
What many visitors don’t realize is just how vast Sonoma County is. With over 1,700 square miles, stretching from vineyard-covered valleys to redwood forests and all the way to the rugged Pacific coastline, it offers an incredible range of experiences within a single destination.
Sonoma is a place where food comes from nearby fields, days are shaped by the outdoors, and small towns still feel deeply rooted in community. Whether you’re here for your first visit or returning for a slower, more immersive stay, there’s so much to experience beyond the glass.
Here are a few of our favorite ways to enjoy Sonoma Wine Country.
Explore the Outdoors
One of the greatest gifts of Sonoma is how easily nature fits into everyday life. Rolling hills, redwood forests, rivers, and a dramatic coastline are all within easy reach—and we love helping our guests take advantage of it.
Some of our favorite ways to get outside:
- Hiking local trails like Overlook Trail or in Jack London State Historic Park, especially in the quieter mornings
- Biking around the Sonoma Plaza or e-biking through the countryside near Healdsburg
- Kayaking or canoeing along the Russian River
- Wandering among towering redwoods at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
- Exploring the rugged beauty of Sonoma Coast State Park
- Soar above Napa and Sonoma’s Finest Vineyards with a hot air balloon ride over Carneros
Whether you’re craving adventure or simply a quiet walk surrounded by nature, Sonoma’s landscape has a way of encouraging you to slow down and reconnect.
Discover Local Food & Farm Culture
Sonoma’s farm-to-table culture is every bit as special as its wine. Local farmers markets, roadside stands, artisan producers, and chef-driven restaurants make it easy to eat seasonally and thoughtfully here.
On the hosting side, we love sharing:
- What’s coming off the land—walnuts, stone fruit, olive oil, and vegetables straight from The Wolf & Horseshoe
- Stops at places like Flatbed Farm for beautiful local produce
- The year-round Friday Farmers Market in town and the Tuesday night Summer farmers market in the plaza
- Some of our favorite Restaurants that truly cook with the seasons, including Glen Ellen Star and Valley
Food here feels personal. It’s grown nearby, prepared simply, and meant to be enjoyed slowly—often around a shared table.
VISIT CHARMING TOWNS & HIDDEN GEMS
Beyond the vineyards (and just three miles from our own charming Sonoma Plaza), Sonoma County is full of character-rich towns worth exploring.
We love sending guests out to wander places like:
- Guerneville
- Sebastopol
- Occidental
- Healdsburg
- Bodega Bay
One of our favorite day trips is a slow, grazing journey to the coast:
- Oysters along the way from Bodega Bay Oyster Company
- Freshly baked, wood-fired bread from Wildflour Bread
- A must-have crab sandwich once you arrive in Bodega Bay
- A coastal hike with sweeping ocean views and endless beaches
It’s the kind of day that unfolds naturally—one stop leading to the next.
If you’re drawn to the Russian River area, we often suggest extending your stay and visiting The Wolf & Horseshoe Cabin, our cozy retreat just one mile from downtown Guerneville.
RELAX & RECHARGE
Of course, some of the best Sonoma moments happen when you don’t go anywhere at all.
Guests often tell us their favorite memories include:
- Morning coffee outside, watching the light change over the land
- Private, in-house massage sessions with one of our trusted local practitioners
- A quiet spa day nearby at The Lodge or The Fairmont
- Sunset evenings in the backyard at The Wolf & Horseshoe, glass in hand, nowhere else to be
Sonoma has a way of reminding you that rest is not something to earn—it’s something to enjoy.
Beyond the Tasting Room
Whether wine is the focus of your visit or simply part of a much bigger experience, Sonoma offers endless ways to connect—with nature, food, and the rhythm of the seasons.
We’re always happy to help guests plan a stay that reflects how they want to spend their time here. Reach out anytime for recommendations or to start shaping your perfect Sonoma getaway.
Rusti & Martin